A trip to Europe is always a great travel idea, but if your aspirations far exceed your budget, you can experience the European flair right here in America if you know where to look. Centuries of immigration and inspiration from countries across Europe have helped to give some American cities a distinctive look and feel that stems from overseas, so stash the passport and head to these stateside destinations if you want an American travel experience that can make you feel like you’re in Europe.
If you love Lisbon, Portugal, go to San Francisco, California
San Francisco can double for many cities in Europe, but you’ll certainly do a double take if you’re a fan of Lisbon. The cities have many things in common including great local seafood, cable cars, and iconic bridges, and they both have a welcoming vibe that any traveler can appreciate.
If you love Paris, France, go to New Orleans, Louisiana
France meets the American South in New Orleans, a city that is famous for its stunning architecture, Cajun and Creole cuisine, live music, and world-class art. New Orleans has all the class and romance of Paris while also possessing a unique flavor that is all its own.
If you love Copenhagen, Denmark go to Solvang, California
Solvang is a small community in Santa Barbara, California, and not only does it look Danish, it practically IS Danish. From an iconic windmill and traditional Danish architecture to restaurants serving aebleskiver, a pancake ball native to Denmark, a trip to Solvang is like being in Europe without ever leaving California.
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If you love Rome, Italy, go to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
No, Philly doesn’t have its own version of the Colosseum, but if you want to marvel in an American city with a rich history and well-preserved architecture, this is the place to start. Philadelphia many have British colonial and German roots, but if you adore Rome for its historic landmarks, this city can deliver its own version.
If you love the Greek Isles, go to Tarpon Springs, Florida
One in 10 residents of the small Florida town called Tarpon Springs has Greek roots, and the city has the largest concentration of Greek immigrants anywhere in the United States. A trip to this beach town offers the flavors and style of Greece without the price tag required to go to Europe, and the countless Greek restaurants will make you think you’re vacationing in the Mediterranean.
If you love Dublin, Ireland go to Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s rich Irish immigrant heritage has made the city look and feel a lot like Dublin, so if you want to cozy up in a pub or wander through charming streets with cobblestone roads, Boston is a wallet-friendly alternative.