5 Alternative Destinations to Scratch the Same Itch
Get in on the ground floor of these travel destinations to avoid long lines, crowds, and high prices. Remember, some cities become the ‘face’ of a country, but not always because they have the most to offer. They develop a lot of activities and restaurants around tourism so often these are priced higher, potentially of questionable quality, and you won’t find a local in sight.
When I travel I want to interact with locals, do as they do, see their city as they see it. I like to eat where they eat, shop where they shop, and then explore on my own without being pushed and shoved through a sea of other tourists. Try these cities next time and I’ll do you one better - I’ll even help you plan it!
Aveiro, Portugal
Only a 45 minute drive from Porto for your wine!
While Portugal is far from unnoticed, they haven’t yet had an official over tourism issue like Italy or France. Aveiro is excellent because you’ll find less crowds but a Venice-type feel with its canals and famous Nouveau architecture. Additionally, your money definitely goes far in Portugal currently and the euro is almost one-to-one for those operating on the US dollar.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Do you want to meet the locals of Mexico?
Mexico city is fabulous, but Oaxaca is a relaxing surf-town with enchanting sights and quality food. You want to go during dry season (late October to Early May) as it can also get crowded during Día de Muertos. Very pedestrian friendly so you’ll definitely get your steps in.
Utrecht, The Netherlands
Looking for good food and good times for all ages?
Amsterdam is amazing, but have you heard of Utrecht? Utrecht is about 40 minutes from Amsterdam and you still get The Netherlands charm with canals, Dutch architecture, and historic museums. Utrecht is definitely underutilized and probably my first stop when I’m back in town.
Rennes, France
Brittany’s golden child
I don’t know about you all, but I love small towns. Large crowds stress me out, and Rennes has the cloudy, novel-like beauty of Brittany with the art-deco style architecture we all know and love. Everything is walkable, and any chance I get to see how locals live is where I need to be.
Genoa, Italy
We love an Italian city, but we don’t love crowds
Genoa is very north-west Italy, and only an hour train ride across the border to the French Riviera. I went to Genoa a few years ago and I loved it! It was definitely a bit too hot for me in August, I wouldn’t recommend it, but it had beach and food and shopping; everything I need.
Genoa also gave me an authentic Italian experience. You can really get language practice and cultural authenticity here without a mountain of tourists.
Thank you to:
Holland.com
The Ultimate Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico (Things to do in 2023) in Bon Traveler
Rennes Travel Guide - Discover Brittany’s Historic Capital
Aveiro - Guide to Porto
Travel + Leisure, Guide to Visiting Genoa Italy
for the photos