Looking for a budget-friendly vacation that feels just as magical as your dream destination? You’re not alone. Travelers today are getting creative - swapping iconic (and sometimes already seen) travel hotspots for equally stunning but more affordable alternatives, known as “destination dupes.”
At AAA, our trusted travel advisors help members plan smart, save money, and experience the world without compromising on charm, culture, or adventure. If you're trying to travel on a budget but still want an unforgettable experience, here are five of our favorite destination dupes - and why they’re perfect stand-ins for their famous counterparts.
Quebec City > Paris, France
Why it’s a great dupe for Paris:
Quebec City offers Old World romance with French-speaking locals, cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés, and classic European charm — all without the cost or flight time of heading to France. Wander through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or cozy up at a local patisserie. It’s one of the best affordable international destinations for U.S. travelers.
Bonus: No transatlantic jet lag and far fewer crowds.
Insider Tip: Travel during the winter and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark holiday movie.
Portugal > Italy
Why it’s a smart Italy alternative:
Portugal features dramatic coastlines, rich history, medieval towns, and unforgettable cuisine - just like Italy, but with lower prices and less tourism congestion. Explore the hills of Lisbon, cruise the Douro River and sample the region’s famed wines, or unwind in the Algarve’s beach towns (known as the Portuguese Riviera) for a fraction of the price of Positano.
AAA Travel Tip: Portugal consistently ranks as one of the most budget-friendly European countries for food, wine, and accommodations.
Asheville, North Carolina > Swiss Alps
Why this U.S. gem is a top mountain getaway:
If you're drawn to the Swiss Alps but want a mountain escape in the U.S., Asheville is a perfect substitute. With its charming downtown, access to Blue Ridge hiking trails, and European-style estates like the Biltmore, this North Carolina favorite offers big views without the big spend.
Ideal for: Outdoor lovers, romantic retreats, and scenic road trips.
Puerto Rico > Hawaii
Why it's a tropical dupe worth booking:
Want a lush island paradise without flying halfway across the Pacific? Puerto Rico brings you sandy beaches, rainforests, historic cities, and surf culture - with no passport required for U.S. citizens. It’s one of the top alternatives to Hawaii for East Coast travelers seeking tropical bliss without the steep costs.
Insider Tip: U.S. dollars, phone plans, and insurance work just like home - making it one of the easiest tropical trips to plan.
Lake George, NY > Lake Como, Italy
Why this lake escape is the ultimate local alternative:
Lake George delivers old-school charm, lakeside resorts, mountain views, and endless outdoor activities - all reminiscent of Italy’s Lake Como. But unlike Como, it’s accessible by car for most Northeastern travelers and comes without the Euro price tag.
Great for: Family getaways, summer escapes, and nostalgic vibes with a side of adventure.
Ready to Book Your Dream Dupe?
You don’t have to break the bank to travel big. AAA Travel Advisors can help you find the perfect budget travel destinations and design custom itineraries based on your travel style and goals.
Contact your local AAA Travel Advisor to start planning your affordable dream vacation today.
Bonus: 5 More Destination Dupes by Travel Style
Looking to match your travel style with the perfect destination? Check out these bonus expert picks from AAA Travel Advisors:
Adventure/Active Travel
Chilean Patagonia > New Zealand
With jaw-dropping landscapes, glacier hikes, and world-class trekking routes like Torres del Paine, Patagonia delivers all the adrenaline and dramatic scenery of New Zealand, for a lower cost.
Solo Travel
Ljubljana, Slovenia > Amsterdam
Slovenia’s capital is safe, walkable, scenic, and filled with riverside cafés, offering all the solo travel charm of Amsterdam without the crowds or high hotel rates.
Culinary Travel
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam > Tokyo
Street food reigns supreme in this bustling city, with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and culinary tours that rival Japan’s food scene at a fraction of the cost.
Family Travel
Dublin, Ireland > London
Dublin delivers kid-friendly museums, castles, parks, and English-speaking ease - with friendlier price tags and a more relaxed, walkable pace for families.
Cruising & Guided Travel
Adriatic Cruise (Croatia & Montenegro) > Mediterranean Cruise
Sail past medieval towns, sunny beaches, and UNESCO sites on a small-ship Adriatic itinerary that offers similar beauty and history as Italy or Greece, but with fewer crowds and more affordable port stops.
