By 2025, tourists are not only going farther but also doing it more intelligently. With global tourism bouncing back and the cost of travel on the rise, the latest trend captivating the globe-trotting community is the rise of “destination dupes”—locations that offer similar charm, scenery, and culture to popular destinations, but with fewer crowds, and smaller price tags, and a fresh sense of discovery.
Whether it’s a picturesque town with Amalfi Coast vibes or a Southeast Asian haven that echoes the beauty of Bali, destination dupes are redefining wanderlust in 2025. Travelers want the Instagram-worthy experience—but without the lines, inflated costs, or overtourism fatigue. And thanks to social media and AI-powered travel planners, these hidden gems are no longer so hidden.
Let’s dive into what destination dupes are, why they’re trending, and which ones you should have on your 2025 travel radar.
What Are Destination Dupes?
“Destination dupes” are affordable, less crowded alternatives to over-touristed or luxury destinations. They mimic the landscape, aesthetic, vibe, or experience of famous travel spots, but offer:
- Lower travel and accommodation costs
- More authentic, local culture
- Easier access and flexibility
- Sustainable tourism potential
Think of it as choosing the road less traveled—but with the same wow factor.
For example:
- Instead of Santorini, travelers are heading to Paros or Naxos in Greece.
- Instead of Venice, many are discovering Annecy in France.
- Instead of Iceland, people are heading to the Faroe Islands for that dramatic, windswept look.
In 2025, travelers are more adventurous, more budget-conscious, and more sustainability-focused than ever before, making dupes the perfect solution.
Why Are Destination Dupes Booming in 2025?
1. Overtourism Fatigue
Popular cities like Venice, Paris, and Bali are overwhelmed. Travelers are seeking quieter, more intimate experiences—and locals are asking for relief from the sheer influx of tourists. In response, people are proactively choosing lesser-known but equally stunning spots.
2. Rising Travel Costs
With inflation, airfare fluctuations, and increasing hotel prices in prime areas, travelers want more value for their money. Dupes offer the same scenic or cultural appeal at a fraction of the cost.
3. Social Media Virality
TikTok and Instagram are filled with influencers and digital nomads uncovering “hidden gems” and comparing dupes side-by-side with their famous counterparts. Globally popular hashtags include #destinationdupe, #travelonabudget, and #hiddenplaces2025.
4. Sustainability and Responsible Travel
More travelers care about the environmental impact of their trips. Visiting lesser-known destinations supports local economies, reduces strain on ecosystems, and spreads tourism benefits more evenly.
Top Destination Dupes to Explore in 2025
🔹 Dupe for Santorini, Greece ➝ Paros or Milos
Although Santorini is a wonderful place, it is expensive, crowded, and completely booked months in advance. In 2025, Paros and Milos offer charming white-washed villages, vibrant sunsets, and Aegean allure—minus the crowds. Milos in particular is gaining fame for its moon-like beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
🔹 Dupe for Bali, Indonesia ➝ Lombok or Sri Lanka
Bali remains popular, but overtourism has dulled its serenity. In 2025, more spacious and genuine spiritual retreats, surf culture, rice terraces, and yoga havens can be found on Sri Lanka’s southern coast and on Lombok, Bali’s neighbor.
🔹 Dupe for Venice, Italy ➝ Annecy, France
Craving canals, cobbled streets, and lakeside beauty? Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps,” offers a similar fairytale aesthetic with mountain views, French charm, and fewer selfie sticks.
🔹 Trick for Iceland ➝ Lofoten, Norway or the Faroe Islands
Iceland’s natural beauty is no secret anymore. The Faroe Islands and Lofoten offer equally jaw-dropping cliffs, fjords, and northern lights—with a more remote, untouched feel that adventurous travelers crave in 2025.
🔹 Dupe for Kyoto, Japan ➝ Kanazawa or Takayama
While Kyoto remains a bucket-list spot, Kanazawa has beautiful geisha districts, samurai architecture, and serene gardens. Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps, boasts old-world charm and peaceful vibes.
🔹 Dupe for Maldives ➝ Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Instead of pricey overwater villas in the Maldives, head to Raja Ampat—home to some of the most biodiverse coral reefs in the world. In 2025, eco-resorts here are redefining luxury in nature, at lower costs and with lower carbon footprints.
🔹 Dupe for Swiss Alps ➝ Julian Alps, Slovenia
Want alpine beauty without Swiss prices? Slovenia’s Julian Alps, particularly around Lake Bled and Triglav National Park, offer dramatic peaks, clear lakes, and fairy-tale castles—ideal for nature lovers.
How to Choose the Right Dupe
In 2025, consider the following to identify your perfect destination dupe:
- What do I want to feel? (Relaxed, adventurous, romantic, inspired?)
- What aesthetic do I love? (Tropical, alpine, historic, cultural?)
- Do I want a slower pace or an active itinerary?
- What’s my budget?
- Do I prefer authenticity over luxury—or vice versa?
Then, use AI-powered travel apps or platforms like Google Travel, Hopper, or Kayak Explore to compare lesser-known destinations based on flight prices, visa ease, weather, and reviews.
Tips for Exploring Destination Dupes
- Go in shoulder seasons
You’ll enjoy better prices, weather, and fewer tourists. The best months are frequently May, June, September, and October. - Stay longer, explore deeper
Spend more time in fewer places. Immerse yourself in local food, language, and daily rhythms. - Support local businesses
Select lodgings managed by families, eat at mom-and-pop eateries, and schedule tours with knowledgeable locals. - Capture with intention
While photos are great, take time to experience the moment beyond the lens. Many dupes offer immersive experiences you won’t find in busy tourist zones. - Be respectful and responsible
Less-traveled places may have delicate ecosystems or cultural sensitivities. Research beforehand and follow local customs.
The Future of Travel: Personalized, Peaceful, and Purposeful
The destination dupe trend is more than a passing fad—it reflects a deeper shift in traveler values. In 2025, people crave more than just “checking boxes” or following influencer itineraries. They want:
- Connection over consumption
- Discovery over repetition
- Intention overindulgence
Destination dupes allow modern explorers to rewrite their travel stories—choosing unique paths while still embracing beauty, culture, and wonder.
As global travel becomes more conscious and curated, the “best destinations” may not be the most famous—but rather, the most meaningful, mindful, and memorable.
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Final Thoughts: Your Next Adventure Awaits—Somewhere Unexpected
The world is vast, and its most magical corners aren’t always where the crowds are. In 2025, discovering a great destination dupe could lead to your most unforgettable travel experience yet—one that’s budget-smart, crowd-free, and soul-satisfying.
So next time you plan a trip, ask yourself: Is there a destination dupe out there that’s calling your name?
Because in the world of travel today, different is the new desirable.
