13 Vacation Alternatives to Europe That U.S. Travelers Should Consider

In the summer of 2024, the average roundtrip flight from the United States to Europe cost $918. Many European vacations are fully booked well in advance of the peak travel seasons. Instead of traveling to Europe, consider these 13 alternatives that may be less crowded and more affordable.

Puerto Rico Instead of Spain

Consider visiting Puerto Rico for a taste of Spain without the long flight. Just a quick trip from mainland America (under 5 hours from Dallas), visitors can experience a rich cultural heritage influenced by Spanish settlers, which is evident in everything from their dialect to their culinary delights. Plus, United States citizens do not need a passport to travel there.

Stay at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico in Rio Grande for cultural immersion and relaxation. This expansive resort, set along the famed sandy shores of Puerto Rico and framed by the El Yunque rainforest, offers luxurious accommodations, a lagoon-style pool, and two 18-hole championship golf courses designed by Tom Kite. With an impressive selection of 17 food and beverage outlets, including a prime steakhouse, Hibachi, and classic Puerto Rican cuisine, visitors do not need to leave the resort.

Enjoy unique experiences like a starlit picnic dinner at the highest point on the property, complimentary Pan Sobao room service breakfast, and relaxing in the Sip and Sway Hammock Garden. The resort’s private beach offers a range of non-motorized water sports, while several oceanfront pools, including Puerto Rico’s largest lagoon-style pool, provide perfect spots for play and relaxation. With its full-service spa and indoor Top Golf suite offering various virtual sports, the hotel caters to a wide range of interests and preferences.

Add a touch of paradise to your Puerto Rico getaway with a stay at the iconic Caribe Hilton in San Juan. Set on a lush 17-acre tropical peninsula, this landmark resort has been welcoming guests since 1949, offering a unique blend of luxury and local heritage. Families will love the range of activities designed for all ages. Feed koi fish in the tranquil gardens, take part in a resort scavenger hunt, and dive into a world of aqua sports with options like scuba diving and Sea Trekking. The iconic resort is also the birthplace of the piña colada—enjoy one (virgin or traditional) at their famed Caribar for an authentic taste of Puerto Rican history.

For active travelers, the Caribe Hilton offers everything from tennis and aqua aerobics to daily yoga sessions, and the multi-tiered pool complex features a secluded beach with a floating platform.

The resort’s central location means that historic Old San Juan, Condado Beach, and Fortín del Escambrón are just a short stroll or quick Uber ride away. At Caribe Hilton, visitors experience a luxurious blend of relaxation and adventure.

Aruba Instead of Amsterdam

Aruba is known for its stunning beaches, rich history spanning thousands of years, and vibrant Dutch influence. The island hosts numerous annual events and festivals, such as the Soul Beach Music Festival and Carnival.

Conveniently located on Palm Beach, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is the perfect base for exploring everything the island has to offer. Just a short ride from the hotel, explore the capital city of Oranjestad with its Dutch architecture, colorful buildings, local shops, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Families can check out caves once inhabited by the Arawak Indians while snorkeling and scuba diving tours explore impressive shipwreck sites underwater.

Antigua, Guatemala Instead of Paris

With a Paris-like feel, lose yourself in charming cobblestone streets, enchanting passageways, and captivating historic sites in Antigua, Guatemala. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Antigua’s gothic architecture, well-preserved colonial buildings, and magnificent churches are reminiscent of the architectural splendor of Paris.

Visitors can foster a deeper connection to the local culture by exploring the winding streets, vibrant markets, and lush courtyard gardens.

Just outside the city, Villa Bokéh, a luxurious hacienda, features 15 rooms, and a 6-acre garden oasis, with a picturesque backdrop of the Agua Volcano. It’s a serene, perfect place to indulge and admire the beauty of the tranquil lagoon, hidden gardens, and charming plazas.

Richmond, Virginia Instead of The Colosseum

Richmond, VA, one of the oldest cities in the United States, is not only known for historically being at the forefront of the Civil War but also for its current burgeoning art and culinary scenes. Walk along the streets to discover the many independent shops and galleries.

At night, visit The Park, a one-of-a-kind entertainment hub featuring attractions such as mini golf, bowling, and self-pour taps at one of the state’s largest bars.

Mexico’s Cenotes Instead of an Italian Grotto

With quick and affordable direct flights from almost every major US city, Cancun is a popular vacation destination for travelers seeking an escape from reality. Cancun offers picturesque ocean views and easy access to Yucatan’s incredible attractions, like the colonial city of Valladolid and the ruins of Chitzen Itza.

During the day, guests at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa can enjoy thrilling watersports, swim with whale sharks, take day trips to Island Mujeres, and sip a glass of the 150 unique twists of the classic margarita at the resort.

At night, the Cancun strip comes alive with vibrant spots like the iconic Coco Bongo, featuring dazzling Vegas-style performances with showgirls and musicians. They also have impersonators performing as legendary superstars. Keep the party going with Miami-style nightclubs with pulsating music from DJs, vibrant light shows, and photo-worthy tequila cocktails.

The Bahamas Instead of The Greek Islands

Escape to the secluded South Andros Island in the Bahamas and discover a destination reminiscent of the Greek Islands. On this tranquil island, Aptly nicknamed “The Sleeping Giant,” Caerula Mar Club offers the perfect destination for pure relaxation.

South Andros is one of the largest islands in the Bahamas, with slightly over 2,000 residents. An hour-long flight from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, with its own international customs, makes getting there a breeze.

Once there, guests can enjoy an uncrowded paradise with the world’s third-largest barrier reef, mystical blue-hole ocean caves, and over 90 miles of pristine beaches. The untouched beaches and blissful sounds of nature make it feel like a true escape.

Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit Instead of Portugal

Feel a Portuguese charm in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, where the white sand beach meets lush jungle. Enjoy the safe haven at W Punta de Mita for adventure, relaxation, delicious cuisine, cocktails, and unforgettable experiences.

For adrenaline lovers, the resort’s beachside WAVE Surf Shop offers private and group surf lessons taught by local experts with a lifetime of surfing experience.

When not catching waves, guests can unwind in the recently renovated oceanfront suites with private plunge pools and bathrooms, giving the sensation of outdoor showering.

The AWAY spa offers locally inspired treatments for rejuvenation, while the revamped adults-only pool deck, WET TOO, provides relaxation accompanied by mezcal cocktails.

Napa Valley, California Instead of Bordeaux in France

Experience the ambiance of the wine-growing region of southern France without leaving the United States. At The Meritage Resort & Spa, among the sprawling vineyards and rolling golden hills of Napa Valley, visitors can get their dose of top-notch vino and world-class luxury.

This premier vineyard property is the gateway to Napa Valley activities such as hot air balloon rides, luxury shopping, bike tours, culinary experiences, and over 400 wineries and 90 tasting rooms. Guests staying at the resort and spa can enjoy the on-site tasting rooms, elevated dining options, a locally-sourced artisanal market, relaxing pools, and Spa Terra within a 22,000-square-foot Napa Estate Cave.

Northern California is experiencing a historic super bloom of colorful wildflowers due to the record-breaking rainfall. The flowers lighting up the rolling hills provide an unprecedented level of beauty.

St. Maarten Instead of The Beaches of Europe

For a tropical vacation that blends European charm with Caribbean warmth, skip the French Riviera and head to St. Maarten. This Dutch Caribbean island offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration, all within a quick flight from the U.S. (just about three hours from Miami). Whether you’re lounging on beaches or enjoying a delicious roadside snack, St. Maarten offers a dynamic, multicultural experience that rivals any European destination.

St. Maarten is a unique destination with a rich blend of cultures. Explore the color-laden capital, Philipsburg, where you can shop for high-end jewelry, sample local seafood, or take in the lively arts scene. Don’t miss a visit to Maho Beach, where you can watch planes land over the beach or venture into the hills to discover the world’s steepest zipline.

Known for its warm, welcoming people, St. Maarten offers visitors a chance to experience true Caribbean hospitality. The locals, with their mix of cultures and nationalities, greet each other with smiles and friendly “good afternoons,” creating an inviting atmosphere that extends to all visitors. While you’re on the island, make sure to stop by a “lolo”—a roadside eatery where you can savor authentic Caribbean dishes served straight from the heart.

St. Maarten’s central location also makes it a perfect jumping-off point to explore nearby islands like Anguilla, St. Barths, and Saba.

Cabo Instead of Ibiza

Head to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, to get the ambiance of Ibiza without traveling far. The newest luxury property, Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa, offers the perfect blend of beach and desert elegance with luxurious accommodations, Mexican cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.

Start the day on the shores of Medanco Beach, relaxing and taking in the stunning views of El Arco, Cabo’s famous landmark. Spend the afternoon at the Corazón Beach Club, the largest beach club on Medano Beach, with private cabanas, a full-service bar and restaurant, and a resident DJ.

At night, there’s no shortage of options for dining and entertainment. Explore downtown for authentic Mexican bites, followed by party-hopping through Cabo’s lively nightlife. End the night on a high note at Rooftop 360, the highest terrace in town for dancing under the stars alongside locals and visitors.

Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Instead of Venice

Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale offers a taste of Venice with its beautiful, navigable waterways spanning 165 miles. The scenic seaside walk along Las Olas Blvd combines Fort Lauderdale’s nautical charm and homegrown flair.

Often referred to as the “Venice of America,” the city has stunning views of the intercoastal waterways that wind around incredible galleries, award-winning art museums, charming shops, and delicious dining all along Las Olas Blvd. Along this lovely stretch, the nautically inspired Hyatt Centric Las Olas is perfect for exploring art galleries and restaurants or enjoying a romantic sunset stroll.

Puerto Vallarta Instead of Prague

Instead of making a long trek to a Czech wellness resort, consider the closer The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, located on a former palm tree farm. In one of the world’s friendliest cities, the wellness oasis for all ages provides an escape from the hustle and bustle in tranquil surroundings.

Relax among 600 palm trees, a private beach, and a world-class spa, and enjoy diverse dining options on the property, including health-conscious and plant-based options. Book a private seaside picnic at sunset with the soft sounds of crashing waves.

Unwind with seaside meditation and yoga, relax in the sauna and Westin’s signature Heavenly® Beds, or get fit at the state-of-the-art WORKOUT® fitness studio.

Curaçao Instead of The Netherlands

Get a taste of the Netherlands on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. With untouched turquoise waters and vibrant architecture, Curaçao blends influences from 55 diverse cultures. The island allows travelers to explore the culture and the warm Caribbean waters.

In the cultural hub of Willemstad, a UNESCO world heritage site, streets come alive with colorful Dutch architecture, larger-than-life murals, and live music around every corner.

With thriving marine ecosystems, vibrant reefs, underwater caves, and 65 diving sites, Curaçao is a scuba diver’s paradise.

At night, unwind at a chic beach club and sip on a refreshing drink while watching the sunset.

Instead of buying expensive flights and spending long travel days getting to Europe, consider visiting one of these 13 travel alternatives to Europe. Experience the culture, history, and architecture with a European feel in a closer-to-home, less crowded, and less expensive destination.