12 Expensive Hotspots to Skip in 2025 (and What to See Instead)

Dreaming of your next great escape but dreading the price tag? In 2025, many popular destinations are more crowded and costly than ever, making it harder to truly relax. But there’s good news, you don’t have to follow the tourist herd or break the bank to enjoy breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. This guide gives you 12 smart swaps for overpriced hotspots, helping you skip the stress while still capturing all the wonder. Think fewer lines, lower prices, and just as much magic without sacrificing your dream getaway.

1. Skip Santorini, Go Instead to Milos, Greece

Santorini may be stunning, but in 2025, it’s more crowded and overpriced than ever. If you’re craving sun-soaked Greek charm without the noise, Milos is your dream escape. This under-the-radar island boasts surreal rock formations, quiet fishing villages, and turquoise waters without the tourist crush. You can watch golden sunsets from the beach, explore hidden coves by boat, and dine on fresh seafood in peaceful harbors, all while enjoying authentic Cycladic beauty for a much friendlier price.

2. Skip Venice, Go Instead to Ljubljana, Slovenia

Venice’s canals and romance are timeless but in 2025, its narrow streets overflow with crowds, and those gondola rides come with a steep price. If you want storybook charm without the stress, Ljubljana is your perfect swap. This Slovenian capital offers leafy riverbanks, pastel architecture, and café-lined bridges that feel just as magical. Wander it’s walkable old town, enjoy riverside dinners without the markup, and soak in the charm of a city that feels both peaceful and full of life.

3. Skip Reykjavik, Go Instead to Tromsø, Norway

Iceland’s stunning landscapes have drawn massive crowds and soaring prices. In 2025, even a short visit can stretch your budget thin. For the same Arctic wonder without the financial sting, head to Tromsø. Nestled in Norway’s far north, this cozy town offers dazzling northern lights, dramatic fjords, and a rich Sami culture. You can dog sled, visit icy peaks, and soak in the quiet beauty of the Arctic, all while enjoying a more relaxed, affordable, and authentic Nordic experience.

4. Skip Paris, Go Instead to Lyon, France

Paris will always have its allure but in 2025, long lines, high prices, and packed attractions can dampen the magic. For a French escape that’s just as romantic and even more flavorful, try Lyon. Nestled between two rivers, this elegant city blends old-world charm. Explore cobbled streets, dine at cozy Bouchon’s, and enjoy world-class cuisine without the tourist crush. Lyon offers all the beauty and soul of France, minus the crowds and sky-high costs.

5. Skip The Amalfi Coast, Go Instead to Puglia, Italy

The Amalfi Coast dazzles with dramatic cliffs and pastel towns but in 2025, it also brings packed roads, luxury prices, and crowded viewpoints. Puglia, tucked into Italy’s sunny heel, offers a quieter, more budget-friendly slice of southern charm. Stroll through whitewashed villages like Ostuni, lounge on uncrowded Adriatic beaches, and savor farm-to-table meals under ancient olive trees. It’s an authentic Italian escape filled with beauty, warmth, and space to breathe.

6. Skip Dubrovnik, Go Instead to Kotor, Montenegro

Dubrovnik’s medieval walls and Adriatic beauty are legendary, but so are the crowds and rising costs, especially during cruise season. For a quieter, more affordable alternative, head to Kotor. Tucked between mountains and sea, Kotor offers similar red-roofed charm, fortified city walls, and stunning bay views without the tourist crush. Wander its maze-like Old Town, hike up to the fortress for breathtaking vistas, and enjoy fresh seafood along the waterfront all at a fraction of Dubrovnik’s prices.

7. Skip Maui, Go Instead to The Azores, Portugal

Maui remains breathtaking, but skyrocketing prices and ongoing recovery efforts make it a challenging choice in 2025. For a tropical escape that’s just as lush and far more affordable, head to the Azores. This Portuguese island chain is packed with volcanic lakes, crater-side hikes, and thermal springs, all set in a serene Atlantic landscape. With fewer tourists and lower costs, the Azores deliver island magic, wild beauty, and eco-friendly adventure without the Maui price tag.

8. Skip Tokyo, Go Instead to Fukuoka, Japan

Tokyo dazzles with lights, crowds, and sky-high prices but Japan has more to offer beyond its busiest city. Fukuoka, on the southern island of Kyushu, blends city life with a relaxed pace. You’ll find historic temples, seaside parks, and one of Japan’s best food scenes especially if you love ramen. With lower prices, fewer crowds, and a welcoming atmosphere, Fukuoka delivers the culture, cuisine, and character of Japan without the Tokyo overwhelm.

9. Skip Bali, Go Instead to Lombok, Indonesia

Bali’s popularity has brought with it traffic jams, inflated prices, and crowded beaches, making it harder to find the serenity travelers once sought. Just a short ferry ride away, Lombok offers a more peaceful alternative. Think uncrowded surf spots, jungle-covered hills, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil villages. With its laid-back charm and untouched beauty, Lombok delivers the tropical escape you’re dreaming of without the chaos or the cost of Bali.

10. Skip Zurich, Go Instead to Innsbruck, Austria

Zurich dazzles with luxury shopping and pristine streets, but its sky-high costs can put a dent in your travel plans. Innsbruck, tucked into Austria’s scenic Alps, offers a stunning alpine experience for a fraction of the price. Enjoy skiing in winter, hiking in summer, and stroll through a pastel-toned Old Town with mountain views all year round. With its rich history, outdoor adventure, and budget-friendlier vibe, Innsbruck is a smart and beautiful alternative.

11. Skip New York City, Go Instead to Philadelphia, USA

New York may sparkle with Broadway lights and famous landmarks, but the steep prices and constant crowds can quickly wear you down. Philadelphia offers more affordable alternative without skimping on culture. Explore historic gems like Independence Hall and city’s dynamic food scene (yes, more than just cheesesteaks!), and enjoy top-tier museums and public art all in a walkable, welcoming setting. Philly delivers big-city charm with a friendlier price tag and fewer lines.

12. Skip London, Go Instead to Edinburgh, Scotland

London dazzles with world-famous sights but it’s hotel rates, transit costs, and crowds can make it feel overwhelming. Edinburgh, on the other hand, delivers timeless charm without the premium price. Wander cobbled streets through the medieval Old Town, explore Edinburgh Castle perched on its volcanic crag, and soak in panoramic views from Arthur’s Seat. The city’s artistic soul, historic pubs, and walkable layout make it a perfect destination for travelers craving culture, history, and calm on a smaller budget.