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Santorini’s legendary whitewashed views and Sydney’s iconic harbourfront have competition – savvy travellers are swapping tried-and-true favourites for ‘destination dupes’. From Paros to Palermo, discover new destinations and prepare to make some updates to your bucket list.
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Hobart (the Stockholm of the south)
Waterfront charm, a thriving arts scene and breathtaking natural landscapes – the Tasmanian capital is Australia’s answer to Scandinavia. Nestled between the River Derwent and Mount Wellington, Hobart blends colonial history with cutting-edge culture. The world-renowned Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) rivals Stockholm’s contemporary art offerings, while Salamanca Place and Battery Point showcase the city’s heritage. Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh-caught rock lobster and oysters straight from the Southern Ocean. Beyond the city, Tasmania’s rugged wilderness awaits, with Bruny Island, Freycinet National Park and Cradle Mountain offering secluded luxury escapes.
More destination dupes for Stockholm:
- Helsinki, Finland – A Nordic capital with a stunning waterfront, sleek design and a thriving cafe culture.
- Copenhagen, Denmark – A bike-friendly city with charming canals, world-class museums and a renowned food scene.
- Gothenburg, Sweden – A laid-back coastal city with a vibrant arts scene, historic districts and some of Sweden’s best seafood, set against a stunning archipelago backdrop.
Ningaloo Reef (the Great Barrier Reef’s lesser-known cousin)
Dreaming of the Great Barrier Reef but craving a quieter, more untouched paradise? Ningaloo Reef is the ultimate alternative. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed marine wonder off Western Australia’s coast boasts vibrant coral gardens, gin-clear waters and a cast of marine life that includes whale sharks, manta rays and sea turtles. Unlike its famous Queensland counterpart, Ningaloo offers the rare privilege of stepping straight from the beach into an underwater wonderland – no boat required.
More destination dupes for the Great Barrier Reef:
- Belize Barrier Reef, Belize – The second-largest reef system in the world, offering world-class diving, stunning atolls and abundant marine life, including manatees and sea turtles.
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia – A remote and pristine archipelago known for its incredible biodiversity, dramatic limestone islands and some of the best diving in the world.
- Andros Barrier Reef, Bahamas – A hidden Caribbean gem with the third-largest reef system on Earth, featuring spectacular blue holes, thriving coral gardens and diverse marine species.
Masai Mara (Kruger without the crowds)
Kruger National Park may be South Africa’s most famous safari destination, but the Masai Mara National Reserve offers a wilder, more exclusive experience. Rolling golden plains stretch as far as the eye can see, home to the Big Five and the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration. Private game drives take travellers into the heart of the action, while luxury lodges and tented camps deliver five-star comfort under an endless African sky.
More destination dupes for Kruger National Park:
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – A vast, untamed wilderness offering classic African safari experiences, from endless grasslands to predator-packed game drives.
- Etosha National Park, Namibia – A unique safari destination with dramatic salt pans, floodlit waterholes and thriving populations of elephants, lions and rhinos.
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – A secluded and less crowded alternative known for walking safaris, lush riverine landscapes and exceptional leopard sightings.
Cartagena (Rio de Janeiro’s colonial-Caribbean twin)
For those drawn to Rio’s rhythm, Cartagena is the Caribbean alternative you didn’t know you needed. A city drenched in colour, history and Latin spirit, it boasts a UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled city, world-class dining and sultry salsa bars that rival Rio’s nightlife. White-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters stretch from Bocagrande to the Rosario Islands.
More destination dupes for Rio de Janeiro:
- Cape Town, South Africa – A stunning coastal city with dramatic mountains, world-class beaches and a buzzing cultural and food scene.
- Barcelona, Spain – A dynamic city blending beach life, historic charm and a thriving arts scene, with Gaudí’s architecture adding a unique flair.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina – A passionate city with a rich culture, tango rhythms and grand architecture, with a buzzing arts and dining scene.
Lombok (Bali without the crowds)
Bali’s beauty minus the hustle, Lombok offers unspoiled beaches, world-class surfing and lush jungles. The Gili Islands boast powder-soft sand and turquoise waters teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkelling and diving. For adventurers, Mount Rinjani’s breathtaking hikes rival Bali’s volcanic Mount Batur and iconic rice terraces. High-end travellers can unwind in private pool villas, secluded wellness retreats and eco-luxury resorts, all while soaking in the same warm Indonesian hospitality at a slower, more serene pace.
More destination dupes for Bali:
- Phuket, Thailand – A tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, luxury resorts and cultural landmarks.
- Siargao, Philippines – A laid-back island known for its pristine beaches, epic surf breaks and growing wellness and yoga scene.
- Sri Lanka’s South Coast – Golden beaches, lush tea plantations and ancient temples, offering a rich cultural experience alongside tropical relaxation.
Taipei (the second Seoul)
Hot on the South Korean capital’s heels, Taipei offer a thrilling blend of ancient history and cutting-edge modernity, bustling markets and a fantastic foodie scene. Get your culture fix in Taiwan’s capital at the intriguing National Palace Museum and Longshan Temple, then fast-forward to the future atop the staggering Taipei 101 skyscraper. Tuck into a local specialty, ‘stinky tofu’, at the night markets and whizz across the city on efficient and affordable public transport to rival the best.
More destination dupes for Seoul:
- Osaka, Japan: A vibrant urban atmosphere with rich cultural heritage, modern architecture and renowned street food scenes.
- Shanghai, China: A bustling metropolis blending historical sites with futuristic skylines.
- Busan, South Korea: South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its beautiful beaches, hot springs and seafood markets.
Pattaya (Bangkok buzz – with beaches)
With ornate temples and vibrant nightlife, the resort city of Pattaya gives Bangkok a run for its money. The Sanctuary of Truth Museum and Big Buddha Temple brilliantly showcase traditional Thai architecture, while the bright lights of Walking Street entice you to dance the night away. The best part? Pattaya’s beautiful beaches offer respite from the city buzz, something Thailand’s capital can’t compete with.
More destination dupes for Bangkok:
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: A city that never sleeps, offering bustling markets, French colonial architecture and a vibrant street food culture.
- Manila, Philippines: A sprawling metropolis combining Spanish colonial architecture with modern malls and lively nightlife.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand: A cultural hub in northern Thailand, known for its historic temples, night bazaars and mountainous landscapes.
Paros (as sweet as Santorini)
Whitewashed buildings crowned by cobalt domes, hidden coves, crystal-clear waters and labyrinthine streets – everything Santorini has, Paros matches. This Aegean island gem offers chic cocktail bars, beautiful buildings (the Church of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapiliani is a must-see) and watersports in abundance, making it a pitch-perfect Cycladic destination.
More destination dupes for Santorini:
- Amalfi Coast, Italy: Famous for its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages and Mediterranean vistas.
- Athens, Greece: A historic capital of Europe, known for ancient landmarks like the Parthenon and Acropolis.
- Naxos, Greece: The largest of the Cyclades islands, featuring beautiful beaches, ancient ruins and traditional villages.
Curaçao (as dreamy as Sint Maarten)
A sizzling mix of Caribbean charm and Dutch influence makes the island of Curaçao a dream dupe for Sint Maarten. Colonial architecture in pleasant pastel hues and the sparkling blue sea provide a picturesque backdrop for fusion dining, a lively arts scene and warm local hospitality. From pristine coral reefs to the ancient Hato Caves formations, this is an island of untold natural beauty.
More destination dupes for Sint Maarten:
- Cape Verde, Africa: An archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, known for its Creole Portuguese-African culture, music and numerous beaches.
- Canary Islands, Spain: A Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa, known for its black and white sand beaches and year-round warm climate.
- Aruba: A Dutch Caribbean island renowned for its white sandy beaches, clear waters and vibrant local culture.
Perth (stepping into Sydney’s spotlight)
While nothing can replace Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Opera House, Perth encapsulates a similar spirit to New South Wales’ beloved capital. Find that same harmonious blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty with strolls across Kings Park, Botanic Garden, Elizabeth Quay and a plethora of local beaches. Head to Fremantle for its renowned foodie scene and coffee culture, and tick off iconic sights like the Bell Tower and Perth Mint.
More destination dupes for Sydney:
- Cape Town, South Africa: A stunning coastal city with breathtaking landscapes, a vibrant waterfront and iconic natural landmarks like Table Mountain.
- San Francisco, USA: A dynamic harbour city with a famous bridge, waterfront dining and a mix of urban buzz and nature.
- Auckland, New Zealand: A harbour city with a strong sailing culture, nearby islands and a relaxed yet cosmopolitan vibe.
Palermo (as good as Lisbon)
Travellers seeking a city with classic European charm will find plenty to love in Palermo. Sicily’s capital enchants with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre and landmarks like Palermo Cathedral, Baroque Quattro Canti square and the Norman Palace. Swap Portuguese pastel de nata for Sicilian street food at Ballaro and Vucciria markets, and join the passeggiata tradition, which sees locals taking an evening stroll, stopping to socialise along the way.
More destination dupes for Lisbon:
- Valparaíso, Chile: A colourful port city with steep streets, street art-covered buildings and a rich maritime heritage.
- Istanbul, Turkey: A city that blends European and Middle Eastern influences, with waterfront views, historic neighbourhoods and a thriving cafe culture.
- Melbourne, Australia: A cosmopolitan city with a strong coffee scene, street art-filled laneways and a mix of historic and modern architecture.
Liverpool (less hectic than London)
Birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool boasts a music and arts scene that will leave even London’s most diehard lovers impressed. Tap along to the beat of the city with live music at the Cavern Club or join the roar of the crowds during a football (soccer) match at Anfield. Culture vultures can dive into exhibitions at Tate Liverpool, the Maritime Museum and the Museum of Liverpool. If it’s food you’re after, the city’s vast restaurant scene can easily compete with London’s variety.
More destination dupes for London:
- New York City, USA: The Big Apple – a global hub for arts and culture, offering iconic landmarks, diverse neighbourhoods and a vibrant urban experience.
- Toronto, Canada: A multicultural city known for its dynamic arts scene, towering skyscrapers and diverse culinary offerings.
- Manchester, England: Renowned for its rich industrial heritage, music scene and sporting history, providing a lively urban atmosphere.
Québec City (just as good as Geneva)
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Québec City is every inch as sophisticated as the Swiss home of the United Nations. Find French-Canadian elegance along cobbled streets and at the iconic Chateau Frontenac, which offers breathtaking views of the city and Saint Lawrence River. Travel back in time as you explore the Old Town’s fortified walls, Place Royale and historic Quartier Petit Champlain, home to quaint boutiques and French bistros.
More destination dupes for Geneva:
- Zurich, Switzerland: A chic Swiss city with a stunning lake, upscale shopping and a thriving arts and cultural scene.
- Vienna, Austria: A refined European capital with grand architecture, world-class museums and a reputation for elegance and high quality of life.
- Vancouver, Canada: A waterfront city with breathtaking mountain views, a vibrant culinary and craft beer scene and a dazzling selection of outdoor adventures.
Sapporo (the zig to Zermatt’s zag)
Swap the Swiss Alps for Sapporo’s snow-capped peaks and experience ski season with a Japanese maritime twist. Come for the famous annual snow festival in February and watch the city transform into a winter wonderland of ice sculptures. Those who dig the apres more than the ski can sip Sapporo’s legendary local beer and try freshly caught seafood at the local markets.
More destination dupes for Zermatt:
- Aspen, USA: A premier ski destination in Colorado, known for its upscale amenities, challenging slopes and vibrant après-ski scene.
- Banff, Canada: Set within the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning mountain scenery, world-class skiing and a charming atmosphere.
- Niseko, Japan: Famous for its powder snow, extensive ski resorts and relaxing hot springs, providing a unique winter sports experience.
Memphis (the new Nashville)
It might not be Tennessee’s official ‘Music City’ but Memphis carries a soulful sound with deeper roots than the boot-scootin’ beats of country-loving Nashville. Get in touch with the birthplace of blues, soul and rock’n’roll as you follow in the footsteps of legendary artists like Elvis Presley at Graceland and Sun Studio. From live music on Beale Street to a poignant insight into Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and death at the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis leaves a lingering impression.
More destination dupes for Nashville:
- New Orleans, USA: A cultural hotspot with a rich musical history, vibrant nightlife and a fusion of Southern and Creole flavours.
- Austin, USA: A city known for its live music scene, eclectic culture and vibrant mix of blues, rock and country influences.
- Havana, Cuba: A city where music fills the streets, with a soulful atmosphere, rich history and a blend of Afro-Cuban and jazz influences.
Featured image: Curaçao.
