Ask anyone about their idea of a dream trip, and they’ll likely describe bucket-list places they've seen in movies or photos shared on social media. Unfortunately, navigating the endless lines of tourists at these destinations makes one wonder if the hassle was worth the experience. Not to mention that scoring a booking to these countries without draining your savings has become quite a challenge lately.
What if we told you there was another way to get your money’s worth without the headache? Thanks to a new trend that’s redefining travel, you can now enjoy holidays just the way you want. Destination dupes are set to be the biggest travel trend in 2025, with travellers looking for all the charm and none of the stress of popular hotspots.
But what exactly are destination dupes, and how do they help you? Let's find out.
What are Destination Dupes?
Put simply, destination dupes are alternatives that tick all the boxes of your ideal destination without the hassles that come with visiting overly popular places. Instead of waiting in lines in crowded tourist spots, you can go to quieter (and sometimes less expensive) places with a similar vibe.
But remember, these destination dupes are not upgrades; they're alternatives. They provide a similar cultural feel without all the tourists. However, you must consider why you wanted to visit the original place. Each country has reasons for its fame, and a dupe might not replicate every aspect of the original. Before you book, think about what draws you to the original destination to ensure your alternative choice will meet your expectations.
Now that we've understood the concept, here’s our list of the top destination dupes that could satisfy your travel itch in 2025 and beyond.
Budapest instead of Barcelona
Millions of tourists flock to Barcelona every year to bask in its golden beaches and take in its architecture. If you want to experience Barcelona’s famous gothic architecture but can't stand the long queues, why not do your wallet a favour and visit Budapest instead? While Budapest doesn’t offer beaches, it delivers charm and character, much like Barcelona, but without overcrowded tourist spots and overpriced facilities. Both cities are known for their historic streets and architectural sights, but Budapest allows you to enjoy this without the high costs and massive crowds typical of Barcelona. Straddling the Danube River, Budapest is made up of the three cities of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, and its cityscape is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some attractions you can visit:
Hungarian Parliament Building: Sitting proudly along the Danube River, this building’s Gothic Revival architecture might remind you of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. In addition to being the centre of Hungary’s politics, it’s an absolute treat for the eyes.
Gellert Bath and Spa: Budapest is famous for its thermal springs, making it the perfect place for a spa experience. We recommend Gellert Bath in the heart of the city for its variety of thermal pools, an open-air wave pool, and a Finnish sauna.
Danube Promenade: Take a stroll along this scenic walkway for breathtaking views of key landmarks such as the Buda Castle and the Liberty Statue. Lined with charming cafes and quirky sculptures, it’s perfect for a riverside meal.
St. Stephen's Basilica: The largest church in Budapest, this basilica houses Hungary’s most sacred relic: the mummified right hand of St. Stephen. Don’t forget to climb to the dome for a panoramic view of the city.
Royal Palace: On the Buda side of the river, the historical Royal Palace houses the Hungarian National Gallery and numerous exhibitions. It has been rebuilt several times, with each renovation adding a layer of grandeur to its structure.
Ruszwurm: This oldest confectionery in Hungary is the perfect spot to enjoy traditional Hungarian pastries and a cup of coffee in a quaint, historic setting.
Hospital in the Rock Museum: Set in a former wartime hospital beneath the castle, this one-of-a-kind museum takes you back in time to the city’s wartime history with wax figures and original medical equipment.
Funicular Railway and Bus 16: Take the historic funicular railway or hop on bus 16 for a fun way to reach the Royal Palace. If you’re up for a bit of exercise, a walk up to the palace is shorter than it appears, and it’s a great way to capture some picturesque moments.
If you’re wondering how many Avios points for a flight are needed, you can fly to Budapest from London with off-peak Economy return seats for 23,500 Avios plus £1. Off-peak Economy return seats from London to Barcelona are also available for the same price of 23,500 Avios plus £1.
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Cyprus instead of Mykonos
If you love Mykonos’s relaxed beach vibes but can’t stand the crowds, check out Cyprus. This island packs a lot into its small size, including stunning beaches, history, and fantastic food. Here are some places we recommend:
Tombs of the Kings: Located near the sea in Paphos, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses ancient tombs dating back to between 323 and 31 BCE.
Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa: Built on the foundations of older churches from as early as the 4th century, this 13th-century church in Paphos is known for its beautiful mosaic floors. It's a peaceful spot that's free to visit and offers a deep connection to the island's Christian heritage.
Kato Paphos Archaeological Park: This open-air museum in Paphos showcases layers of history from ancient to Ottoman times.
Byzantine churches in the Troödos Mountains: These unassuming churches are actually sites of immense historical importance. They might look simple on the outside, but step inside, and you’ll find stunning frescoes dating back to the 11th century. Recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites, they’re a must-visit for anyone interested in the region's artistic heritage.
Cape Greco National Forest Park and Troödos National Forest Park: These parks provide trails through pine forests, wildflower meadows, rocky cliffs, and secluded beaches. Ideal for family outings or solo adventures, they’re a great way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
Zenobia Wreck: off the coast of Larnaka, the Zenobia Wreck is a bucket-list dive for serious enthusiasts. Sunk in 1980, this site is now a thriving artificial reef teeming with marine life. Dive down to explore the ship and even catch a glimpse of the trucks still tucked away in its cargo hold.
Old Harbour in Kyrenia (Girne): Surrounded by historical castles showcasing Roman and Ottoman influences, the old harbour in Kyrenia features the ruins of a 16th-century church and an old mosque, all set in a charming, slightly rundown harbour.
According to our Avios Calculator, you can get off-peak Economy return seats from London to Cyprus (Paphos or Larnaca) for 27,500 plus £1 and off-peak Economy return seats from London and Mykonos also for 27,500 plus £1.
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Montreal instead of Brussels
The European city that gave us the iconic comic character of Tintin might be on your wishlist due to its comic book history. However, if you can't make it to Brussels, why not hop on over to Montreal, the French-Canadian city that’s like a slice of Europe without the crowds? Some places worth visiting include:
Boulevard St-Laurent: Montreal’s shopping and food scene come alive along Boulevard St-Laurent. Stop by St-Viateur for a classic Montréal-style sweet bagel, or grab a legendary smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz's Deli. It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, and taste the city’s most iconic eats.
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Montréal Biodôme, Planetarium, Insectarium, and Botanical Garden: These family-friendly attractions are clustered together, so they’re convenient to visit in a single trip. At the Biodôme, you can wander through different ecosystems, while the Planetarium lets you lose yourself in the stars. With the Insectarium and Botanical Garden just steps away, it’s easy to pack all these experiences together.
La Ronde Amusement Park: Ideal for thrill-seekers, La Ronde provides a range of exciting rides and attractions. It's a favourite spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience adrenaline-pumping activities.
Underground City (RÉSO): This expansive underground network becomes the perfect escape during Montreal's chilly winters. Stretching over 32 kilometres, RÉSO is a fascinating subterranean complex filled with shops, eateries, and offices.
As for BA reward seats, off-peak Premium Economy return seats from London to Montreal cost 85,000 Avios plus £305, while Business Class costs 160,000 Avios plus £375. Off-peak Economy return seats from London to Brussels cost 18,500 plus £1. You’ll clearly spend Avios at a higher rate to fly to Montreal, so if you don't have the balance, you'll need to stick to Brussels. However, the Montreal redemption provides better value for your Avios redemption per £1 when you compare the cash fare, especially for Business Class flights.
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St. Lucia instead of Bora Bora
Bora Bora’s famous cobalt-blue waters and overwater bungalows make it difficult to leave to explore other attractions on the island. However, the island can be quite crowded and expensive due to its popularity. An excellent alternative is St. Lucia, a Caribbean island that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves for its mountains, coastal coves, and lush jungles. Here are some attractions worth visiting:
Hiking the Pitons: The island's twin volcanic peaks, Gros Piton, and Petit Piton, are a must for adventurous hikers. Gros Piton, the taller of the two, is a tough climb but rewards you with jaw-dropping views at the top. Petit Piton might be smaller, but don’t let that fool you — it’s a steep trek that keeps you on your toes from start to finish.
Sunset Cruises: A sunset cruise around St. Lucia is perfect for a touch of romance. With breathtaking coastal views, Caribbean cocktails in hand, and gentle music setting the mood, it’s the perfect way to wind down the day. For something extra special, a private cruise makes the experience even more intimate for couples.
Chocolate Heritage: Explore St. Lucia's cacao heritage at the Rabot Hotel on a historic cocoa farm. The island features chocolate-infused dining experiences, spa treatments, and heritage tours that demonstrate traditional chocolate-making processes, including the unique cocoa-rina dance used to polish cacao beans.
Sulphur Springs Spa: Known as the world's only drive-in volcano, Sulphur Springs is a unique spa experience housing therapeutic mud baths touted for their health benefits. These baths help detoxify the body and soothe ailments such as joint pains and skin conditions.
Aerial Tram at Rainforest Adventures: Get a bird’s-eye view of St. Lucia’s lush rainforest with an aerial tram ride at Rainforest Adventures. You’ll be accompanied by a guide who’ll point out the incredible plants and wildlife hidden in the canopy as you glide above the treetops.
As for BA reward seats, off-peak Premium Economy return seats from London to St Lucia cost 95,000 Avios plus £355. Business Class seats cost 180,000 Avios plus £475. You can't get an Avios redemption to Bora Bora, so you'd need to do this using cash fare.
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Buenos Aires instead of Paris
Paris is often romanticised in films and books — and for good reason. Its stunning attractions, excellent restaurants, and impressive art have truly earned it its reputation as the City of Light.
If you want the same but with more elbow room, why not visit the "Paris of South America?" The capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires, has a similar energy, best witnessed in its dance halls. Here are some places worth visiting in the city:
Cementerio de la Recoleta: One of the most famous cemeteries in Buenos Aires, this site is often compared to Paris's Père Lachaise. Its ornate mausoleums and intricate tombs feel more like an open-air museum than a burial ground.
La Bombonera: Home to the Boca Juniors football club, this stadium is a temple of passion in Buenos Aires. Attend a match, especially a superclasico against River Plate, to experience the city’s deep-rooted football culture.
Milongas: To truly connect with the spirit of Buenos Aires, visit a milonga or tango club. Places like La Catedral in Almagro and Milonga La Glorieta in Belgrano are great for dancing or just watching performances over a glass of wine.
Vinotecas: Buenos Aires is also a gateway to Argentina's celebrated wines, especially the malbecs from Mendoza. Boutiques such as Lo de Joaquín Alberdi in Palermo and Vinotango in San Telmo are perfect for tasting and appreciating these fine wines.
Street Art Tours: The city's streets are a living, breathing art gallery! Local and international artists have transformed ordinary walls into extraordinary masterpieces. Join a guided street art tour through colourful neighbourhoods such as La Boca and Palermo to discover hidden gems and learn about the city's thriving art scene.
Café Culture: Much like Paris, Buenos Aires has a rich café culture. Spots like Como en Casa in Recoleta and Café Bar Roma in La Boca are ideal for enjoying a cortado in a slice-of-life setting.
Off-peak Premium Economy return BA reward seats from London to Buenos Aires cost 110,000 Avios plus £455. Business Class tickets cost 220,000 Avios plus £625. Off-peak Economy return seats from London to Paris cost 18,500 plus £1. It's clearly more expensive to fly to Buenos Aires, so if you don't have the balance, you'll need to stick to Paris. However, a Buenos Aires redemption provides better value of Avios per £1 spent when you compare cash fare, especially the Business Class redemption.
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Slovenia instead of Switzerland
For those drawn to Switzerland's alpine landscapes, Slovenia’s postcard-perfect towns and equally breathtaking mountains are a great alternative. While Switzerland flaunts its luxurious resorts and polished towns, Slovenia provides a more down-to-earth charm with its Julian Alps, the tranquil Lake Bled, and the quaint streets of Ljubljana. Plus, Slovenia’s compact size means you can easily jump from alpine hikes to vineyard tours without spending half your holiday in transit. Don’t forget to check out these places:
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Julian Alps and Triglav National Park: The Julian Alps provide spectacular hiking opportunities. The Juliana Trail is accessible and scenic, which means both novice and experienced hikers can hike through its alpine lakes, such as Bled and Bohinj.
Ljubljana: Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is especially lively during the weekly Open Kitchen event, where you can grab delicious local street food for a perfect picnic. The city's architecture is heavily influenced by Jože Plečnik and features stunning designs such as the Triple Bridge and elegant touches at the Central Market.
Posavje Region: Posavje is dotted with medieval castles such as Sevnica and Mokrice. This region also invites visitors to indulge in chocolate tastings and wine tours, especially in the charming Bizeljsko-Sremič Wine District.
Karst Region: Adventurers will find the Karst Region’s Postojna and Škocjan caves irresistible. You can take a train ride through Postojna Cave’s extensive tunnel network, while the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves provide dramatic underground tours featuring a bridge over the Reka River.
Old Vine House in Maribor: Wine lovers should not miss the chance to visit Maribor, home to the world’s oldest-producing vine.
Bohinj Railway: Take a memorable ride on the Bohinj Railway for a scenic journey through the Alpine landscape. The route starts in Bohinjska Bistrica and stretches to Nova Gorica on the Italian border.
In terms of how many Avios points for a flight you need, off-peak Premium Economy return seats from London to Slovenia cost 23,500 Avios plus £1. Off-peak Economy return seats from London to Switzerland (Basel, Geneva, Zurich) cost 18,500 plus £1.
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Chicago instead of New York City
New York City is a world leader in culture, arts, and business. However, due to its popularity, major attractions can get crowded. For a more relaxed experience, exploring the outer boroughs can make your visit quieter but equally rewarding.
On the other hand, Chicago really holds its own as a busy city with a slightly slower pace than New York. It's got an incredible lakefront, towering skyscrapers, and a kind of Midwestern charm that feels more laid-back. Here are some Chicago attractions not to be missed:
Field Museum: This museum hosts a range of impressive exhibits, including the Titanosaur — the largest dinosaur ever discovered — and SUE, the most complete T.rex fossil.
Art Institute of Chicago: Houses the most collections of Impressionist art outside the Louvre.
DuSable Black History Museum and Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: Visit these for in-depth explorations of African American history and groundbreaking scientific achievements.
Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium: Perfect for families and science enthusiasts alike, these attractions provide a closer look at marine biology and astronomy with state-of-the-art exhibits and presentations.
Willis Tower and 360 CHICAGO: The Willis Tower Skydeck and the TILT experience at 360 CHICAGO are must-visits for breathtaking perspectives of Chicago’s skyline.
Outdoor Activities: The Chicago Riverwalk and the Lakefront Trail are perfect for leisurely strolls with scenic views.
As per our Avios Calculator, off-peak Premium Economy return seats from London to Chicago cost 85,000 Avios plus £305. Business Class cost 160,000 Avios plus £375. Alternatively, off-peak Economy return seats from London to New York City cost 85,000 Avios plus £305, while Business Class seats cost 160,000 Avios plus £375.
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