Fall Travel: 7 European Destinations That Feel Like Paris but Are Much More Affordable

If you’re thinking of a fall trip and have an entire “Emily in Paris”fantasy playing out in your head, you might want to hit pause. While the Netflix show might be filled with charming river cruises down the Seine and plate upon plate of escargot, it doesn’t mention the price tags associated with them. If you dream of Europe in the autumn but without spending your entire savings account, there are some top-tier destinations you might want to check out. 

GOBankingRates talked to travel and lifestyle experts to find out where to go in Europe for Parisian charm without spending all that cash. After all, a night at a Parisian hotel can cost you upwards of $250 and you’re not made of Euros! 

Here are seven European destinations that feel like Paris but are much more affordable. 

Grace Moser, CEO and founder of Chasing Foxes, enthusiastically recommended Porto as a top alternative to Paris.

“It’s an incredibly beautiful city with small shops that look like they’re straight out of a child’s storybook,” she said.

As you wander the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter tiled churches, welcoming eateries and breathtaking views of the city and river below.

Moser highlighted the city’s culinary scene: “The food scene is incredible! There are plenty of affordable restaurants and fun bakeries where you can get a pastry or try their famous pastel de nata with a coffee.” 

Jane Iskra, a destination wedding photographer at ISKRA Photography, added, “Porto is… vibrant and alive. Its riverside setting, iconic bridges, and traditional wine cellars create a romantic atmosphere.”

She recommended visiting the colorful Ribeira district, walking along the Douro river and taking in the views from the Dom Luís I Bridge. As far as price is concerned, you can find an adorable hotel room in a good area for as little as $50 a night!

For those who can’t resist the allure of France, consider Reims as a budget-friendly alternative to Paris.

Denisa Caldova, content manager at Daytrip, explained, “If you were planning on Paris, you’d probably sip a glass of bubbly at some point, so why not toast to each other in Champagne?”

Reims offers a perfect blend of history and indulgence.

“Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Reims has plenty to keep the culture-curious travelers busy during the day,” Caldova shared. “Then there are the many prestigious champagne houses based in the city, which offer tours of their facilities — including a walk through the chalk tunnels where champagne gets its fizz.”

And what do rooms cost in Reims? Well, you can stay in a chic hotel in the city center for as little as $97 per night. Oui, please!

For a unique European experience, Tracy Lamourie, frequent traveler and founder and managing director at Lamourie Media, suggested Malta.

“A short boat ride from Sicily, the Maltese islands have 6,000 years of history, some of the oldest structures humans ever built, incredible food, and it’s 30% or so cheaper than North America,” she shared.

Malta offers something for everyone.

“There’s also a science center and waterpark and aquarium and games centers for the kids, club life in St Julian’s for young people, and tranquil quiet Gozo for the older ones,” Lamourie said.

She also highlighted Malta’s safety, low crime rate and popularity as a film location for major productions like “Jurassic Park” and “Game of Thrones.” Even cooler? Hip hotels go for as little as $83 per night!

Iskra loves Bilbao for its fun combination of modern and traditional.

“It’s well-known for its stunning modern architecture and vibrant arts scene, still preserving rich Basque traditions,” she shared.

The must-see attraction?

“The Guggenheim Museum is a masterpiece of modern design and a must-visit for art lovers,” Iskra said.

She also suggested exploring the Casco Viejo with its charming narrow streets and historic buildings. As far as where to rest your weary head at night, cute hotels in central locations can start out as little as $80 per night. 

Another Spanish gem, San Sebastián, offers the ideal combo of natural beauty and cultural richness. Iskra describeed it as “the perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, ideal for a romantic getaway.”

She recommended spending time at La Concha Beach, “one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches,” and climbing Mount Urgull for panoramic city views. You can get a gorgeous hotel room for as little as $100 a night, too!

Iskra also adores Lisbon as an affordable alternative to Paris.

“Lisbon is a city of stunning views (it’s built on the hills by the Atlantic Ocean), historic trams, and vibrant neighborhoods,” she shared. And you get all that for around $70 per night for a choice hotel in a great location.

For the full Lisbon experience, she suggested riding the historic Tram 28 through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and exploring the Alfama district, “full of local food (which is unbelievably affordable) and traditional Fado music.”

Last but not least, Iskra likes Bruges as a Parisian alternative. She described it as the “Venice of the north,” and sayid it has a “medieval charm, with picturesque canals, unique architecture, and a unique atmosphere of the place situated by the North Sea.”

To make the most of your visit, she recommended climbing the Belfry of Bruges for stunning city views, exploring the peaceful Begijnhof and taking a boat tour along the canals to fully appreciate the city’s spirit. You can find a lovely hotel in a good location for as little as $78 per night, too!