Europe Isn’t Cheap Anymore—Are Americans Over It? Why Some Travelers Are Skipping Europe Entirely This Year (And Where They’re Going Instead)

For decades, Europe has been the crown jewel of American travel dreams—summer in Paris, island-hopping in Greece, pasta in Rome, pub crawls in Dublin. With its blend of history, culture, food, and style, it’s long been considered the ultimate bucket-list experience.

But in 2025 and beyond, something is shifting.

As flights surge, hotel prices climb, and the euro strengthens, many American travelers are asking:
Is Europe even worth it anymore?

This year, a noticeable trend is emerging: a growing number of Americans are choosing to skip Europe altogether—seeking alternative destinations that offer better value, fewer crowds, and equally rich experiences.

So what’s behind this move away from the continent once considered “mandatory” for global travelers? And if not Europe, where are savvy travelers going instead?

Let’s unpack the reality, explore alternatives, and help you plan your next international adventure without breaking the bank.

Read Here European Things that terrify Americans and American Habits that make Europeans Cringe

Read here how to pack for Europe and Best eSIM for Europe

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki

Europe Is More Expensive Than Ever in 2025

Let’s start with the numbers:

Average Costs Are Soaring

Round-trip flights from the U.S. to Western Europe now average $900–$1,400, even in shoulder seasons.

Hotel rates in cities like London, Amsterdam, and Paris have increased by 20–35% over the past two years.

Dining out in major European capitals is comparable to New York or San Francisco.

Rental cars, public transport, and attraction tickets are significantly more expensive due to inflation and demand.

Hidden Fees and Tourist Taxes

Cities across Europe are implementing:

Daily tourist taxes (up to €10 per night in some cities)

Timed-entry fees for popular attractions

Permit fees for certain beaches and natural parks

While these are often reinvested into sustainability and infrastructure, they can add hundreds of dollars to a trip.

What’s Fueling the Shift Away From Europe?

1. Revenge Travel Saturation

Post-pandemic “revenge travel” saw Americans flood Europe in record numbers in 2022–2023. As a result:

Prices skyrocketed

Destinations like Venice, Santorini, and Dubrovnik became overcrowded

Travelers felt like they were paying more for less space and serenity

Many are now asking, “Why compete with a crowd and pay a premium for it?”

2. Social Media Burnout

Let’s face it—some destinations have become victims of their own popularity. When everyone on Instagram has posted the same shot in Positano or Paris, the magic can wear off.

Travelers are looking for less curated, more authentic adventures.

3. Political and Social Tensions

While Europe remains safe overall, some travelers are concerned about:

Labor strikes affecting transit

Rising anti-tourism sentiment in places like Barcelona and Amsterdam

Complex visa rules for longer stays (ETIAS will begin in 2025)

4. The Euro Isn’t Favoring the Dollar

With the euro regaining strength, American travelers are getting less bang for their buck than in previous years. A meal that once felt affordable now feels like a splurge.

So, Where Are Americans Going Instead?

Here are some trending alternatives to Europe that offer adventure, culture, and better value for 2024–2025:

Mexico (Beyond Cancun)

Colonial cities like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, and San Miguel de Allende are exploding in popularity

Affordable luxury stays, vibrant food scenes, and rich indigenous culture

Lower cost of living, easy flights, no currency shock

Bonus: No jet lag and strong digital nomad communities

Colombia

Medellín and Cartagena are emerging as top-tier travel hubs

Mountains, beaches, coffee farms—and far fewer crowds than Spain or Italy

Fantastic value for money and a rapidly growing infrastructure

Morocco

From Marrakech to the Sahara to Chefchaouen’s blue alleys, Morocco offers diversity and depth

Great for cultural immersion, artisan shopping, and adventure travel

Better affordability than Southern Europe, with equal charm

Argentina

Patagonia, Buenos Aires, Mendoza wine country—all for a fraction of European prices

U.S. dollar stretches far due to favorable exchange rates

Great option for those craving “European vibes” in a Latin American setting

Thailand

Always a budget-friendly favorite, with increasing infrastructure for luxury and wellness travel

Historic temples, street food, beaches, and cultural depth

Strong value even for long-term stays

Indonesia (Especially Bali and Java)

Still a favorite among spiritual seekers and digital nomads

Rich culture and unbeatable hospitality

Far cheaper than the Amalfi Coast, with comparable natural beauty

What You’re Missing by Avoiding Europe (And Why You Still Might Go)

Let’s not forget—Europe remains spectacular for many reasons:

World-class museums, historic architecture, and cultural heritage

Incredible train systems and interconnectivity

Culinary experiences that are still unmatched

A sense of romance and nostalgia that’s hard to replicate

But if you choose Europe in 2025, do it smarter, not just by default.

How to Do Europe Affordably (If You Still Want to Go)

1. Choose Secondary Cities and Countries

Skip Paris for Lyon, Venice for Bologna, or Barcelona for Valencia. In Eastern Europe, try:

Albania over Croatia

Slovakia over Austria

Bulgaria over Greece

These places offer similar vibes with half the crowds and cost.

2. Visit During Shoulder or Off-Seasons

Travel in May, early June, or October. Avoid summer holidays when prices surge and cities overflow.

3. Use Budget Airlines Strategically

Once in Europe, flights between countries can be as low as €20. Look at Ryanair, EasyJet, or Vueling—but be mindful of baggage restrictions.

4. Embrace Slow Travel

Stay longer in one place instead of hopping around. Weekly or monthly rentals can save hundreds—and you’ll experience deeper local culture.

5. Eat Like a Local

Skip hotel breakfasts and tourist restaurants. Instead, eat:

At open-air markets

From street vendors or local cafés

Where locals eat—not where menus are in 5 languages

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Skipping Europe—It’s About Expanding Possibilities

Europe isn’t “over.” But it’s no longer the default budget-friendly adventure it once was.

In 2025, Americans are increasingly exploring new corners of the globe, driven by curiosity, cost, and cultural authenticity.

And that’s a good thing.

Because the point of travel isn’t just to check off famous sites. It’s to grow, connect, and explore—whether that’s in Seville or Salta, Naples or Nairobi.

So ask yourself:

Are you going to Europe because it’s where you want to go?

Or just because it’s where everyone else is going?

If it’s the former, go with intention.

If it’s the latter—consider that the world is bigger than the Eiffel Tower.