Our guide to forget about Paris in Europe and alternative places to visit in Europe.
While Paris is undeniably one of the most iconic cities in Europe, there are countless other breathtaking and culturally rich destinations across the continent that offer a unique charm, stunning architecture, and fascinating history.
If you’re looking for something different or want to avoid the bustling crowds of the French capital, consider exploring these lesser-known yet equally captivating European cities.
Each of these cities offers a unique charm and a rich cultural experience, making them fantastic alternatives to Paris. Whether you’re looking for medieval romance, vibrant nightlife, or stunning landscapes, these destinations are sure to provide an unforgettable European adventure!
Here’s a travel guide to alternative European cities that you should consider visiting instead of Paris.
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
Quick & Easy Tips
Book midweek flights and off-season stays: Most underrated European cities shine during spring and fall when prices drop and crowds thin out. Booking your trip for shoulder season can save hundreds in airfare and accommodation.
Explore regional rail and buses: Countries like Poland, Portugal, and Hungary have excellent public transport, and it’s far cheaper than high-speed train travel between major cities like Paris and Rome.
Eat local, not international: Skip the tourist-priced restaurants and opt for local taverns, markets, and bakeries. A three-course meal in cities like Valencia or Ljubljana can cost less than a single glass of wine in Paris.
Use underrated home base cities: Stay in budget-friendly cities like Porto or Kraków and take day trips to nearby gems. You’ll get more for your money while seeing more of the region.
Don’t follow Instagram—follow locals: Social media loves to recycle the same famous spots, but locals can guide you to hidden beaches, cool neighborhoods, and food scenes untouched by mass tourism.
Suggesting that travelers “forget Paris” is bound to ruffle feathers. After all, Paris is iconic for a reason: timeless beauty, world-class museums, and an irresistible romantic aura. But it’s also overcrowded, overpriced, and, at times, underwhelming for first-time travelers who expect the magic of a movie and get the stress of long queues and tourist fatigue. That doesn’t make Paris any less worthy—it just means that travelers deserve to know they have options.
There’s also a growing tension between “hidden gem” culture and overtourism. Once these alternative cities are featured in travel blogs or social media, they risk becoming the very places travelers are trying to avoid. Locals in places like Dubrovnik, Porto, and Prague are increasingly vocal about the impact of tourism on housing, prices, and quality of life. So while escaping Paris might feel rebellious, it’s also important to travel responsibly and support cities without overwhelming them.
The deeper truth is this: many travelers are chasing a feeling, not a location. And you don’t need to be in Paris to find cobblestone alleys, historic cafés, or unforgettable sunsets over Gothic rooftops. If you’re willing to break free from the usual itinerary, Europe will surprise you—with more charm and fewer crowds than you ever expected.
Alternatives Places To Visit In Europe
1. Prague, Czech Republic
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Prague, often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” offers a fairytale atmosphere, magnificent Gothic and Baroque architecture, and vibrant cultural life at a fraction of Paris’s cost. With its romantic charm, stunning river views, and fascinating history, Prague is a captivating city that rivals the allure of Paris.
Top Attractions:
Prague Castle: The largest ancient castle in the world, offering stunning views of the city.
Charles Bridge: A beautiful, historic bridge lined with statues, perfect for a sunset stroll.
Old Town Square: Home to the Astronomical Clock, medieval churches, and charming cafes.
Vyšehrad: An ancient fort with beautiful gardens and panoramic city views.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November) for mild weather and fewer tourists.
2. Bruges, Belgium
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Bruges, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” is a picturesque medieval city filled with canals, cobblestone streets, and stunning Gothic architecture. It offers a magical atmosphere, especially during the holidays, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a quaint and romantic escape.
Top Attractions:
The Belfry of Bruges: Climb the 366 steps of this medieval bell tower for a panoramic view of the city.
The Canals of Bruges: Take a boat tour along the canals to experience the city from a different perspective.
Market Square (Markt): The heart of Bruges, surrounded by beautiful guild houses and the iconic Belfry.
Basilica of the Holy Blood: A stunning church that houses a revered relic of Christ’s blood.
Best Time to Visit: April to October for good weather or December for the Christmas markets.
3. Vienna, Austria
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Vienna, the City of Music, is an elegant European capital known for its imperial palaces, world-class museums, and vibrant music scene. With its opulent architecture, café culture, and classical heritage, Vienna exudes a regal charm that rivals the sophistication of Paris.
Top Attractions:
Schönbrunn Palace: The former summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs, with beautiful gardens.
Hofburg Palace: A magnificent palace complex housing museums, the Spanish Riding School, and the Imperial Apartments.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral: An iconic Gothic cathedral with stunning views from its tower.
Vienna State Opera: Attend a world-class opera performance for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Best Time to Visit: April to October for sightseeing or December for the magical Christmas markets.
4. Budapest, Hungary
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Budapest is a city of grand boulevards, thermal baths, and dramatic views over the Danube River. Known as the “Paris of the East,” it offers stunning architecture, historic thermal baths, and a lively atmosphere—all at a more affordable price than Paris.
Top Attractions:
Buda Castle: A historic castle complex with beautiful views over the Danube and Pest.
Fisherman’s Bastion: A neo-Gothic terrace offering panoramic views of the city and the river.
Széchenyi Thermal Baths: Relax in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths.
Hungarian Parliament Building: A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, set right on the river.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for good weather and outdoor activities.
5. Florence, Italy
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city of timeless beauty, filled with world-class art, magnificent churches, and exquisite Tuscan cuisine. Its compact size and stunning architecture make it a wonderful destination for art and history lovers looking for a city with a romantic ambiance similar to Paris.
Top Attractions:
Florence Cathedral (Duomo): Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views.
Uffizi Gallery: Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge lined with jewelry shops.
Boboli Gardens: Explore these beautiful Renaissance gardens behind the Pitti Palace.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
6. Lisbon, Portugal
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Lisbon, with its sun-kissed hills, beautiful tiled facades, and vibrant neighborhoods, is a city that offers a unique charm and character. The city’s colorful streets, historic trams, and breathtaking viewpoints make it a more relaxed and sunny alternative to Paris.
Top Attractions:
Belém Tower: A stunning fortress on the banks of the Tagus River.
Alfama District: Wander through the narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
Jerónimos Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Manueline architecture.
Tram 28: Take this historic tram for a scenic ride through the city’s neighborhoods.
Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November for good weather and fewer tourists.
7. Edinburgh, Scotland
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Edinburgh, with its medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, and dramatic castle perched on a rocky crag, is one of Europe’s most atmospheric cities. It’s perfect for those who love history, literature, and stunning scenery.
Top Attractions:
Edinburgh Castle: A historic fortress with stunning views over the city.
Royal Mile: The main street in the Old Town, lined with historic sites and charming shops.
Arthur’s Seat: Hike to the top of this extinct volcano for breathtaking views.
Holyrood Palace: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
Best Time to Visit: May to September or December for the festive atmosphere and Christmas markets.
8. Seville, Spain
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Seville is a city of flamenco, Moorish palaces, and vibrant street life. Its lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage make it a wonderful alternative to Paris for those seeking a warmer, sunnier destination.
Top Attractions:
Alcázar of Seville: A breathtaking Moorish palace with lush gardens.
Seville Cathedral and La Giralda: The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, with stunning views from the bell tower.
Plaza de España: A grand square surrounded by beautiful tilework and a canal.
Barrio Santa Cruz: A charming neighborhood filled with narrow alleys and hidden courtyards.
Best Time to Visit: March to May during the Feria de Abril for a festive atmosphere and perfect weather.
9. Krakow, Poland
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Krakow is a city of medieval squares, vibrant culture, and haunting history. Its picturesque Old Town, Jewish Quarter, and stunning castle make it a hidden gem for those looking to explore a city rich in history and atmosphere.
Top Attractions:
Wawel Castle: A royal castle complex with beautiful courtyards and gardens.
Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): One of the largest medieval squares in Europe.
Kazimierz District: The historic Jewish Quarter filled with cafes, galleries, and nightlife.
Wieliczka Salt Mine: A UNESCO World Heritage site with underground chapels and sculptures.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and outdoor events.
10. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Why Visit Instead of Paris: Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning coastal city surrounded by medieval walls and set against the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. Its beautiful Old Town, charming streets, and stunning views make it a great alternative for those seeking a mix of history and seaside relaxation.
Top Attractions:
City Walls: Walk along the ancient walls for panoramic views of the city and sea.
Old Town: Wander through the marble streets filled with historic buildings and churches.
Mount Srđ: Take the cable car up for breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
Lokrum Island: A peaceful island just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for sunny weather and beach activities.
Final Thoughts
Paris will always be Paris. But the rest of Europe isn’t just waiting in its shadow—it’s bursting with beauty, personality, and cultural richness that often comes at a fraction of the cost. Cities like Tallinn, Ghent, Granada, and Bratislava aren’t just cheaper alternatives—they’re destinations in their own right, offering everything from medieval architecture to avant-garde cuisine.
Travelers today are increasingly seeking authenticity, value, and less crowded experiences. And that’s where these underrated cities shine. You won’t have the Eiffel Tower in your selfies, but you may just have something better: spontaneous moments, genuine connections, and the feeling of discovering a place before it becomes a headline.
So, don’t skip Paris forever—but do give the rest of Europe a chance to surprise you. Sometimes, the best memories are made in the places you never planned to visit.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.