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Travel Waffle

The rise of the 'destination dupe' trend means many travellers are swapping Europe's busiest tourist hotspots in favour of lesser-known destinations. With peak holiday season upon us, these hidden gem alternatives offer a similar atmosphere and experience with a more relaxed pace and less crowds. To help holidaymakers discover their next getaway, travel experts at eShores have revealed the underrated European destinations that offer all the appeal of some of the continent's most popular holiday spots. 6 popular European destinations and the underrated alternatives worth visiting: Paris Paris remains one of Europe's most visited destinations thanks to its famous landmarks, rich history and renowned food scenes. However, travellers often encounter large crowds and long queues, especially during peak travel periods. Destination dupe: Toulouse Known as 'The Pink City' thanks to its distinctive terracotta architecture, Toulouse offers much of the charm and romance associated with Paris. Visitors can combine elegant boulevards, bustling café culture and beautiful riverside views with a more relaxed atmosphere. Wander historic streets, enjoy local markets and dine al fresco along the Garonne River. London London is packed with iconic landmarks, cultural attractions and a vibrant nightlife scene. But, its popularity means many visitors can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the pace and scale of the capital. Destination dupe: Manchester For travellers looking for a UK city break with culture, history and a vibrant atmosphere, Manchester is a fantastic alternative to London. Known for its iconic music heritage, impressive Victorian architecture and thriving food and nightlife scene, the city offers plenty to discover without the scale and pace of the capital. Visitors can explore world-class museums, browse independent shops in the Northern Quarter and enjoy everything from live music venues to renowned sporting attractions. Rome Rome remains one of Europe's most iconic city-break destinations. However, its global appeal means many of its most famous attractions can become extremely busy. While these attractions are must-sees, some visitors find the crowds and queues can make it harder to fully soak up the city's atmosphere. Destination dupe: Verona For travellers looking to experience Italy's culture and romance without the intensity of Rome's busiest tourist areas, Verona is a charming alternative. Best known as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the city offers beautiful piazzas, Roman architecture and a rich cultural heritage, all within a compact and walkable centre. Athens Athens' popularity and extreme heat during summer months can mean key attractions, such as the Acropolis, become particularly busy and uncomfortable. This is a concern, especially when exploring the city's historic sites and steep streets. Destination dupe: Thessaloniki For travellers looking for a Greek city break filled with history, culture and Mediterranean charm, Thessaloniki is an excellent alternative. Set on the shores of the Thermaic Gulf, Greece's second-largest city is known for its rich Byzantine heritage, vibrant waterfront and thriving food scene. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks, wander through colourful neighbourhoods and enjoy bustling cafés and tavernas while taking in sea views along the city's famous promenade. Lisbon Lisbon has become one of Europe's most sought-after city-break destinations in recent years. However, its growing popularity means visitors can encounter crowded viewpoints and busy attractions during peak travel periods. The city's famously steep hills can also make exploring on foot more challenging, particularly during the warmer summer months. Destination dupe: Coimbra For travellers looking for the history, culture and colourful streets that make Lisbon so popular, Coimbra offers a quieter and more authentic alternative. Home to one of Europe's oldest universities, the city is packed with historic architecture, charming alleyways and traditional Portuguese character. Visitors can explore centuries-old libraries before wandering along the Mondego River without the crowds often found in the capital. Vienna Renowned for its grand palaces and rich musical heritage, Vienna has long been considered one of Europe's most elegant city-break destinations. While the city offers an abundance of historyand world-class museums, some visitors find that the most well-known areas can feel crowded and heavily geared towards tourism. Destination dupe: Graz The city of Graz offers a charming alternative with a more relaxed atmosphere. Austria's second-largest city is known for its beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Renaissance courtyards and colourful buildings create a similar sense of grandeur to the capital. Visitors can enjoy a thriving food scene, explore independent boutiques and galleries, and take in panoramic views from the iconic Schlossberg Hill. Gavin Lapidus, Company Director, at eShores comments: "While iconic destinations like Paris, Rome and Lisbon remain popular for good reason, many travellers are starting to look beyond the obvious choices in search of more authentic and less crowded experiences. The rise of destination dupes reflects a growing desire to experience the culture and atmosphere of a place without the queues, inflated prices and packed tourist hotspots that often come with the most famous cities. What's particularly appealing about these alternative destinations is that they're not compromises. Cities such as Toulouse, Verona and Graz offer their own unique character while delivering much of what travellers love about their more famous counterparts. These lesser-known destinations often allow visitors to experience a place at a more relaxed pace and connect more closely with the local culture." For more information on eShores, and how they can help you plan and book your dream holiday, visit https://www.eshores.co.uk/

Europe’s best-kept travel secrets: the hidden gems replacing tourist hotspots

September 12, 2026 Guest Writer 0

The rise of the ‘destination dupe’ trend means many travellers are swapping Europe’s busiest tourist hotspots in favour of lesser-known destinations.  With peak holiday season […]

Top countries for night safaris revealed

Top countries for night safaris revealed

September 10, 2026 Guest Writer 0

‘Noctourism’ has emerged as a growing travel trend in recent years, with travellers increasingly seeking nature-based experiences after dark. New travel research also suggests many […]

These are the 10 best parks to visit in London

These are the 10 best parks to visit in London

September 8, 2026 Guest Writer 0

With summer about to go there is still so much to see, Londoners and visitors alike are set to make the most of the capital’s […]

The hidden cruise cost first-time solo travellers almost always miss — and it can nearly double your holiday price

The hidden cruise cost first-time solo travellers almost always miss — and it can nearly double your holiday price

September 8, 2026 Guest Writer 0

Cruise holidays are one of the easiest ways to see the world, with all-inclusive amenities, endless buffets and the chance to visit multiple destinations without […]

Southampton International Boat Show on 18-27th September

Southampton International Boat Show on 18-27th September

September 8, 2026 Guest Writer 0

The Southampton Boat Show, the UK’s ultimate marine festival, is back for its 57th edition in Mayflower Park. Running from Friday 18 – Sunday 27 September 2026, the event promises ten action-packed days of boating, water sports and entertainment on […]

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The Best Gap Year Destinations for UK Students in 2026

September 5, 2026 Guest Writer 0

With gap year season fast approaching, students are once again weighing up where to go – but this year, budget is doing more of the […]

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The UK’s Best Staycation Destinations for a Relaxing Heatwave Escape

August 30, 2026 Guest Writer 0

Whether travelling as a family, with friends or as a couple, finding somewhere peaceful to unwind is often high on the priority list. To reveal […]

Don't set off on a family road trip this summer without making these five car checks first

Don’t set off on a family road trip this summer without making these five car checks first

August 28, 2026 Guest Writer 0

Experts are warning that a few simple checks before leaving home could help drivers avoid unnecessary breakdowns and keep families safe on some of the […]

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UK’s most sought-after coastal campsites

August 27, 2026 Guest Writer 0

As more Brits choose to holiday closer to home, interest in camping breaks is growing. Nearly one in five (19%) are opting for domestic holidays over international […]

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Adventure travel brand for 18-30’s reveals name change and major rebrand

August 27, 2026 Guest Writer 0

A leading travel specialist for 18-30’s has undergone a major rebrand and name change, reflecting changing youth travel trends. Founded in 2011, Gap 360 is […]

Most UK drivers pack their holiday car wrong — and it could void their insurance

Most UK drivers pack their holiday car wrong — and it could void their insurance

August 25, 2026 Guest Writer 0

New research from Dick Lovett is warning UK drivers heading out on the road over the school summer holidays that overpacking their cars could leave them facing […]

Whitstable Beaches rank among London's top 3 best-value coastal escapes

Whitstable Beaches rank among London’s top 3 best-value coastal escapes

August 22, 2026 Guest Writer 0

With summer approaching, students across the UK, including many international students new to life here, are preparing for a well-earned break from lectures and city […]

5 sanity-saving tips for travelling with kids

5 sanity-saving tips for travelling with kids

August 10, 2026 Guest Writer 0

With summer getaways fast approaching, for many parents, long queues, airport delays and mid-journey meltdowns may leave them overwhelmed before they even reach their destination.   In fact, one contributor to a public Mumsnet discussion […]

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