Goodbye to overtourism: 10 alternatives to Europe’s most popular travel destinations

Contents:

• 1. Instead of Venice: Chioggia, nestled between canals and the lagoon
• 2. Instead of Barcelona: Tarragona on the Catalan coast
• 3. Instead of Amsterdam: Utrecht by quieter canals
• 4. Instead of Paris: Lyon between riverbanks and traboules
• 5. Instead of Vienna: Graz, between the Schlossberg and the River Mur
• 6. Instead of London: Bristol, with its harbour and creative scene
• 7. Instead of Mykonos: Tinos, with its villages and marble
• 8. Instead of Cinque Terre: Lerici and the Gulf of Poets
• 9. Instead of the Amalfi Coast: Castellabate in Cilento
• 10. Instead of the Canary Islands: the Azores in the green Atlantic

1. Instead of Venice: Chioggia, nestled between canals and the lagoon

Chioggia is sometimes referred to as ‘Little Venice’, but the town at the southern end of the Venetian lagoon is far more than just a miniature version of its famous neighbour. Along the Canale Vena, colourful façades are reflected in the water; narrow bridges connect the islands; and everyday life unfolds on the Corso del Popolo. Instead of gondolas, the scene is dominated by fishing boats and bragozzi, the traditional, colourfully painted sailing boats.

Chioggia is at its liveliest at the fish market between Piazzetta Granaio and the Canale Vena. Anyone strolling past here in the morning will experience a town whose connection to the lagoon feels entirely authentic. From there, it’s just a short walk to the medieval clock tower of Sant’Andrea, to Piazzetta Vigo and on to Sottomarina, where a long sandy beach rounds off the city break. Sardines in saor, fresh fish and Radicchio di Chioggia bring the region to life on the plate too.

A stylish base is the Hotel Grande Italia, housed in an Art Nouveau building on Piazzetta Vigo. For over a hundred years, the hotel has looked out directly onto the lagoon – central enough for strolls through the old town and pleasantly removed from the hustle and bustle of Venice. Chioggia is at its most beautiful from April to June, as well as in September and October. During these months, you can easily combine a visit to the market, the canals and the beach without the summer heat dictating your daily routine.

The most beautiful moment in Chioggia: walking across the Vigo Bridge in the early evening, when the boats are returning and the light over the lagoon slowly softens.

2. Instead of Barcelona: Tarragona on the Catalan coast

Barcelona combines architecture, beaches and Catalan city life – a mix that Tarragona also offers, albeit on a more compact scale. The city lies about an hour’s train journey south of the metropolis and visibly carries its history into the present: the Roman amphitheatre opens out onto the sea, parts of the ancient circus extend right up to the foot of the old town, and from the city walls the view stretches over the rooftops and the coast.

In the Part Alta, honey-coloured stone façades, small squares and narrow streets lined with cafés alternate. A few steps further on, the Rambla Nova leads to the Balcó del Mediterrani, whilst golden beaches begin below the town. Tarragona is therefore particularly well-suited to travellers who wish to combine culture with days at the beach without having to commute between districts that are far apart. A culinary speciality is romesco, a rich sauce made from roasted tomatoes, nuts and peppers, traditionally served with fish and seafood.

The Hotel Núria is just a few minutes’ walk from Platja de l’Arrabassada. The rooms, refurbished in 2025, are bright and decorated in a Mediterranean style, with many featuring a balcony or terrace. A swimming pool and the peaceful location near the sea make the hotel particularly appealing to travellers who wish to combine days at the beach with sightseeing. The old town is about a 20-minute walk away or can be reached easily by bus. May, June, September and October are ideal for quiet days in the city; in the height of summer, it’s best to plan sightseeing trips for the morning and late afternoon.

The best moment in Tarragona: after an early visit to the amphitheatre, stand at the Balcó del Mediterrani and watch the first bathers make their way towards the sea.

3. Instead of Amsterdam: Utrecht, with its quieter canals

Anyone who loves Amsterdam for its canals, brick-built houses and cycling culture will find Utrecht a distinctive alternative. The Oudegracht runs right through the heart of the historic centre, but its two-storey banks are unique: The former shipyard cellars right by the water now house cafés, small shops and restaurants. Above them lie streets and squares where life in this university city maintains its pleasant, everyday rhythm.

The cathedral tower serves as a landmark almost everywhere. Around Cathedral Square, the DOMunder and the remains of the Roman Limes tell of the city’s long history, whilst the Rietveld Schröder House showcases Utrecht’s modern side. Those seeking a bit more peace and quiet can follow the leafy Singelring, visit the cathedral’s cloister or cycle out to Kasteel de Haar. 

The Mother Goose Hotel is situated on the Ganzenmarkt, right in the heart of the historic centre. This individually designed boutique hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to head straight for the canals in the morning and have restaurants and cafés on their doorstep in the evening. April to June and September to early November are particularly pleasant times to visit. Amsterdam is well worth a visit as part of a longer trip – but Utrecht should be planned not just as a place to stay overnight, but as a destination in its own right.

The best moment in Utrecht: sitting on one of the terraces right by the water in the evening, whilst bikes whizz past overhead and small boats glide silently along the Oudegracht below.

4. Instead of Paris: Lyon, between the riverbanks and the traboules

Paris combines major museums, elegant façades, lively neighbourhoods and a rich culture of fine dining. Lyon offers a similarly varied city break, without feeling like a smaller version of the capital. The grand squares of the Presqu’île lie between the Rhône and the Saône, whilst the Renaissance-era streets of Vieux Lyon stretch out at the foot of Fourvière Hill.

Hidden traboules wind through courtyards and between rows of houses; in Croix-Rousse, much reminds visitors of the history of silk weaving; and from Fourvière Hill, the view stretches far across the city. The Musée des Confluences at the tip of the peninsula offers a fascinating contrast. Lyon is also a destination in its own right for food lovers: in traditional bouchons, at markets and in the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, it becomes clear why the city enjoys such a special reputation in France.

The Fourvière Hôtel is situated in a former monastery above the old town. The historic cloister, a peaceful garden and its proximity to the basilica make the hotel an atmospheric base from which Vieux Lyon can be reached via steps or by funicular. April to June and September and October are particularly pleasant months to visit. Around major events such as the Festival of Lights in December, Lyon also gets considerably busier.

The most beautiful moment in Lyon: walking down from Fourvière Hill in the late afternoon and lingering by the Saône until the façades of Vieux Lyon are reflected in the water as it grows still.

5. Instead of Vienna: Graz, between the Schlossberg and the River Mur

Vienna captivates visitors with its imperial architecture, coffee-house culture and major museums, but the city can feel particularly bustling, especially around its most famous sights. Graz combines Austrian urban culture with shorter distances and a more relaxed pace. Behind the colourful façades of the old town, Renaissance courtyards and narrow passageways open up, whilst the clock tower on the Schlossberg watches over the red rooftops.

The Styrian capital thrives on its contrasts. Just a few steps from the Hauptplatz, the Landhaus and the cathedral, the futuristic Kunsthaus and the Murinsel add a modern touch. Those with a little more time to spare can visit Eggenberg Palace or stroll through the Kaiser-Josef-Markt and Lendplatz. This is also where the region’s culinary side comes to the fore – with seasonal vegetables, Käferbohnen and the characteristic Styrian pumpkin seed oil.

At the foot of the Schlossberg lies the Schlossberghotel – Das Kunsthotel. Contemporary artworks, antiques and historic walls characterise this individually designed hotel; the old town, the River Mur and the path up to the Schlossberg are practically on your doorstep. Graz is particularly pleasant from April to June, as well as in September and October. Autumn is also a great time for excursions to the wine-growing region surrounding the city, whilst the central squares come alive during the Advent season.

The most beautiful moment in Graz: climbing the Schlossberg in the late afternoon and lingering by the clock tower until the warm light sweeps across the red roofs and the city begins to glow down by the River Mur.

6. Instead of London: Bristol, with its harbour and creative scene

London captivates with its culture, neighbourhoods and almost limitless possibilities, but can feel overwhelming, particularly around its famous landmarks. Bristol is much more compact and combines British city life with a distinctive creative scene. Instead of royal monuments, the cityscape is characterised by a historic harbour, former warehouses, colourful houses and a constant stream of new art in public spaces.

On the Harbourside, museums, galleries and the SS Great Britain, the iconic museum ship, are all within easy reach of one another; small ferries turn the harbour basin itself into a transport route. In Stokes Croft and Bedminster, street art is part of the city’s identity, whilst Clifton showcases a more elegant side with its Georgian houses, independent shops and the famous suspension bridge over the Avon Gorge. Those who enjoy markets and local cuisine will find plenty of places to visit around St Nicholas Market and in the repurposed harbour buildings.

The Artist Residence Bristol combines a Georgian townhouse with a former shoe factory on Portland Square. Exposed brick walls, vintage furniture and art reflect Bristol’s unconventional character. May, June, September and early October are ideal months for a city break. However, on weekends when major festivals are taking place, things get noticeably livelier at the harbour and in Clifton.

The best moment in Bristol: walking across the Clifton Suspension Bridge in the evening and watching as the light softens over the Avon Gorge and the city slowly begins to glow.

7. Instead of Mykonos: Tinos, with its villages and marble

Tinos is just a short ferry ride away from Mykonos, yet in many places it feels like a different world. The island also boasts the typical white houses, deep-blue sea and wind-sculpted landscapes. But instead of beach clubs and nightlife, the focus here is on villages, crafts and cuisine. A network of ancient paths stretching over 150 kilometres connects valleys, chapels, beaches and the ornately decorated dovecotes, which are among the island’s landmarks.

In Pyrgos, in the north of the island, the long tradition of marble sculpture is on display – from door frames and fountains to small, artfully crafted everyday objects. Volax is nestled amongst round granite boulders, whilst Kardiani stretches out in terraces across a green hillside. In the tavernas, capers, artichokes, local cheese and louza – an air-dried pork speciality – feature on the menu. Anyone visiting Mykonos primarily for its famous party scene will find little of that on Tinos. For hiking, villages, good food and a understated Cycladic aesthetic, however, the island is a particularly suitable alternative.

The Aeolis Tinos Suites are situated above the coast near Triantaros and combine Cycladic stone architecture with sweeping views across the Aegean Sea. From here, the villages are easy to explore – ideally by hire car. The best months to visit are May, June, September and early October. Around 15 August, when Tinos celebrates one of Greece’s most important pilgrimage festivals, the island gets considerably busier.

The best moment on Tinos: strolling through the marble-paved streets of Pyrgos in the late afternoon and enjoying a coffee in the village square under the plane trees, as the day-trippers slowly make their way on.

8. Instead of the Cinque Terre: Lerici and the Gulf of Poets

The Cinque Terre is synonymous with colourful houses, steep coastlines and walking trails with sea views. A quieter side of Liguria can be found around Lerici on the Gulf of Poets. Instead of five world-famous villages, travellers can expect a gently curving bay dotted with small harbour towns, bathing spots and promenades. Lerici is an ideal base: a castle overlooks the harbour, promenades run along the bay to San Terenzo, and small boats connect the town with Portovenere and other coastal destinations.

Tellaro, nestled against the cliffs to the east of Lerici, is particularly atmospheric. Colourful houses cluster above the water, narrow stairways lead down to the sea, and from the Church of San Giorgio, the view opens out across the bay. Those wishing to explore the coast on foot can hike through olive groves and Mediterranean vegetation up to Montemarcello. From the water, Fiascherino, Tellaro and the rocky coastline can be seen from yet another perspective. It can get busy here too on weekends in the height of summer. May, June, September and October are therefore the more pleasant months to visit.

Above the centre of Lerici lies the Doria Park Hotel, with views across the gulf. The harbour is just a few minutes’ walk away via the steps, and many rooms have balconies overlooking the bay – ideal for travellers who want to leave their car behind and get about on foot or by boat. Culinary highlights of the region include mussels from the gulf, focaccia and pasta dishes served with pesto.

The best moment in Lerici: setting off from Lerici towards Tellaro in the morning and catching glimpses of the Gulf along the way.

9. Instead of the Amalfi Coast: Castellabate in Cilento

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its steep slopes, pastel-coloured villages and spectacular views. Anyone wishing to experience this southern Italian blend of sea, mountain villages and Mediterranean cuisine in a quieter atmosphere will find a charming alternative further south in Cilento. Perched above the coast lies the medieval town of Castellabate; down by the sea, the villages of Santa Maria and San Marco stretch out amongst olive groves, beaches and small harbours.

From the Belvedere di San Costabile, the view stretches over the rooftops to the coast. In Santa Maria, the promenade winds past cafés and small beaches, whilst the harbour at San Marco is a good starting point for boat trips into the marine protected area. The path to Punta Licosa is particularly beautiful and can be reached on foot, by bike or by boat. Paestum, with its Greek temples, is also well worth a visit. Buffalo mozzarella, white figs from the Cilento and the simple, vegetable-rich cuisine give the region a distinctive culinary character.

The historic Palazzo Belmonte is set in a spacious park right by the sea in Santa Maria di Castellabate. This former noble residence combines Mediterranean-style rooms, mature trees and private access to the coast – accommodation that suits the region’s tranquil character. May, June, September and early October are particularly suitable; in July and August, the beaches of Cilento also attract many Italian holidaymakers.

The best moment in Castellabate: setting off early in the morning from Ogliastro Marina towards Punta Licosa and stopping off at one of the small coves along the way for a swim in the clear water.

10. Instead of the Canary Islands: the Azores in the green Atlantic

The Canary Islands are renowned for their black volcanic beaches, a mild climate all year round and a well-developed holiday infrastructure. Those who prefer to experience the Atlantic from quiet footpaths, green crater slopes and rugged coastlines will find a completely different island atmosphere in the Azores. This Portuguese archipelago comprises nine islands and surprises visitors with a lush landscape of hydrangeas, willows, volcanic lakes and hot springs.

São Miguel is an ideal choice for a first visit. In the Caldeira of Sete Cidades, two lakes lie within a massive volcanic crater; at Furnas, steam and mineral-rich water rise from the earth; and around the Lagoa do Fogo, walking trails wind through dense greenery. Whale-watching, natural thermal pools and small coastal villages can easily be combined into a longer island tour. As the weather can change quickly even in summer, a rain jacket and flexible daily plans are essential.

On the west coast of São Miguel, the SENSI Azores Nature and SPA lies secluded amongst vast fields and the Atlantic Ocean. The former farmhouse has been carefully restored and combines historic natural stone with stylish, minimalist design. The hotel also stands out for its culinary offerings: the MôMô restaurant serves seasonal dishes made with produce from local farms, vegetables grown in the fertile volcanic soil and freshly caught fish. Sete Cidades and the warm marine spring at Ferraria are easily accessible from here. May to October usually offer the best conditions for walks and excursions, although even during this period the islands are not cloudless every day.

The most beautiful moment in the Azores: standing at the Vista do Rei viewpoint early in the morning and waiting for the clouds over the crater to part, revealing the view of the lakes of Sete Cidades.

Conclusion: Alternatives to popular destinations are by no means second-best options: Chioggia, Tinos, São Miguel or the Cilento each have their own history and offer plenty of reasons to visit that go far beyond simply having fewer visitors. However, overtourism cannot be solved simply by choosing a new destination, as even an insider’s tip can become the next overcrowded attraction. Those who stay for several nights, travel outside the peak season and make the most of local offerings are travelling more mindfully – and often discover places and experiences that linger in the memory long after the most famous views have been seen.