6 Places To Travel To That Are Like These Vacation Hot Spots but Cheaper
Written by
Cara Danielle Brown
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
For many, dream vacations sound a little something like eating buttery croissants in Paris, snorkeling in the beautiful waters of Hawaii or riding a double-decker bus down the streets of London. Until the prices of vacationing in these famous hot spots become apparent, that is.
After all, going into debt is bound to drag the rest and relaxation right out of that fantasy getaway.
So why not opt for more affordable alternatives to some popular and expensive vacation hot spots that offer similar experiences? Here are six that should do the trick.
Also see four ways to get the best deals on travel in 2025 by planning now.
Tayrona Park, Colombia
As an alternative to the popular vacation destination St. Barthélemy, commonly referred to as St. Barts, consider Tayrona Park. Located in Magdalena, Colombia, Tayrona Park is a budget-friendly alternative.
“Both destinations boast stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and a mix of luxury and nature, but Tayrona offers a similar experience at a fraction of the price,” said Courtney Lynn Muro of Muted Flamboyant.
Per Muro, in St. Barts, high-end resorts can run $1,000 per night, meals go for around $50 to $100 per person and private boat tours start at $500. Tayrona, by contrast, offers eco-lodges at $20 to $80 per night, fresh seafood for around $10 to $20 per person and self-guided boat tours for roughly $50.
Malta
An island country in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta is a nice alternative to Santorini, Greece.
“Malta’s crystalline waters, historic architecture and coastal restaurants create an equally memorable Mediterranean experience,” said Dean Rotchin, CEO and founder of BlackJet.
And with a similar climate and cultural richness, Malta is all the more appealing at a fraction of the price. According to Rotchin, while Santorini can cost roughly $4,000 to $5,000 per person for a week (all-in), Malta delivers comparable beauty for around $2,000 to $2,500.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Instead of London, head north to Edinburgh.
“London’s majestic appeal comes with a price tag of $4,500 to $5,500 per person weekly, but Edinburgh provides a remarkable alternative at $2,500 to $3,000,” Rotchin said. “With a castle of its own that rivals London’s Tower and the same rich literary and cultural legacy, Scotland’s capital enthralls tourists.”
Per Rotchin, with lodging costing $150 to $200 per night as opposed to London’s $300 to $400, Edinburgh offers visitors similar historical sites with stunning gardens, neoclassical buildings and even a medieval Old Town. And let’s not forget its vibrant pub culture — cheers!
Bacalar, Mexico
Tulum is a popular Mexican destination, but it comes with a hefty price tag. As an alternative, consider Bacalar.
A town in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Bacalar is home to Mexico’s Lagoon of Seven Colors, “a gorgeous freshwater lagoon perfect for swimming and water sports,” said Annie Blay, founder of Your Friend the Nomad. “Like Tulum, Bacalar has several cenotes, which are stunning natural sinkholes perfect for swimming.”
Less than three hours south of Tulum, Bacalar is a much cheaper and far less crowded alternative, which attracts a similar boho wellness clientele. According to Blay, a room at a waterfront hotel in Bacalar can go for around $100 a night during the off season, and a room at a budget-friendly hotel can go for a mere $50 a night.
Puerto Rico
Located approximately 1,000 miles southeast of Miami, Puerto Rico offers a similar island paradise vibe to Hawaii — at a much cheaper price.
And getting there may be cheaper too. “Flights from the mainland typically cost 30% to 40% less than trips to Hawaii,” Rotchin said.
With its volcanic terrain, rich culture, gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming, Puerto Rico’s price tag of roughly $1,800 to $2,300 weekly per person is a compelling alternative to Hawaii’s $3,500 to $4,500, per Rotchin.
Québec City, Canada
Instead of heading to Paris, consider Québec City.
“Québec City captures the essence of French culture with its cobblestone streets, charming cafes and European architecture,” Rotchin said. “You’ll immerse yourself in French language and French culture while enjoying excellent French cuisine at significantly lower prices.”
In fact, according to data from Numbeo, restaurant prices in Québec City are 11.5% cheaper than restaurant prices in Paris. Finally, according to Rotchin, accommodations in Québec City can run just $150 to $200 per night as opposed to Paris, which runs anywhere from $300 to $400 per night.
More From GOBankingRates
