Looking for the perfect Parisian dupe without the crowds?
You're better off shifting your schedule to the low-season rather than changing your destination.
Paris always has been one of the world's most iconic and well-traveled cities (and for good reason).
However, if you have already visited Paris and are looking for somewhere new with a little bit of that je ne sais quoi consider our guide as your starting point. We have curated 9 inspiring destinations that highlight the many aspects of Paris travelers adore.
Discover destinations where inspiring architecture greet you at every corner, where romantic strolls by the river are savoredm and those where the culinary, art and cultural scenes rival even the City of Light.
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Colmar, France
Colmar offers visitors the romantic charm of a fairytale village. It features cobbled streets, historic half-wooden homes lining its canals and award-winning restaurants and cafes to choose from. Compared to Paris, it offers a quaint environment where tourists are fewer and the opportunity to authentically engage with locals feels easy.
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When to plan your travel: The best times to visit Colmar are between mid-May to mid-September, during its warmest and sunniest period of the year. The city typically cools off in the evenings, offering a milder climate compared to Paris or other European cities during summer months.
Click here to learn more about luxury travel in Colmar.
Barcelona, Spain
Inspiring architecture, renowned cuisine and storied culture are just a few aspects that make Barcelona similar to Paris. Unlike Paris, however, Barcelona offers easy access to the Mediterranean sea with beaches surrounding the city that create the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Spend your morning exploring historic sites like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and Casa Batlló before taking a quick ride to the over 2 miles of sun-soaked beaches.
- When to plan your travel: Visit Barcelona from April to June for good warm weather, fewer crowds, and abundant activities. Visit from June to August for the full Mediterranean summer experience perfect for long relaxing beach days paired with a cold glass of Cava or Sangria.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury Barcelona journey.
Vienna, Austria
If you're looking for a city with a rich cultural scene, grand architecture and a historic romantic architecture, plan a few days to explore Vienna. Visitors can explore the The Schönbrunn Palace and Hofburg Palace which are often compared to Versailles, without needing to leave the city. Often described as a cleaner and more compact version of the French capital, Vienna offers a less crowded environment for enjoying art, music, architecture and café culture.
- When to plan your travel: Plan your visit during the shoulder season (from April - May or September - October) to enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds for a relaxing visit. For a magical Christmas experience, visit Vienna during December, when traditional Christmas markets are on full display and offer unique experiences.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury Austrian adventure.

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Like Paris, Dubrovnik has become a city for couples seeking a romantic atmosphere with its inspiring sites, storied history, and Adriatic Coastline. Known as the "Jewel of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik is encircled by iconic stone walls where cobbled streets and baroque buildings create a charming ambiance. For travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, visiting Dubrovnik is a must.
- When to plan your travel: For sunny warm weather and fewer crowds visit from April - May or September - October. These months typically offer warm enough weather for a holiday balanced between beach days and city excursions without the influx of tourists that arrive on cruise ships during the summer.
Click here to get inspired for your romantic Dubrovnik escape.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is often referred to the "Paris of the East", due to its sweeping views, iconic architecture and centrally located river that offers travelers a different perspective of seeing the city. Embark on a leisurely river cruise on the Danube for incredible views of Budapest's architectural gems such as the riverside Parliament Building, the castle district and the many bridges that connect the city.
- When to plan your travel: Two of the best months to visit Budapest are May and September. May in Budapest is a magical time where the trees are in bloom, the weather is mild and visitors can experience the Budapest Spring Festival. September brings warm sunny days with excellent wine festivals to attend with fewer crowds than the summer.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury Budapest holiday.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the few cities in Europe that truly rivals Paris' art and cultural scene. Visitors are invited to explore world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum and experience the city's picturesque streets lined with iconic Dutch architecture. Amsterdam's famed canals, lively atmosphere, and bustling cafés provide a romantic and enriching atmosphere for untethered exploration.
- When to plan your travel: The best times of year to visit Amsterdam are during April to May for the famed tulip bloom and pleasant weather as well as during September to October for fall foliage, crisp weather and fewer tourists. Visit during December to witness the charm of Amsterdam's Christmas markets complete with ice-skating.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury Amsterdam journey.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires has been nicknamed "The Paris of South America" for its striking European-inspired architecture, world-class fashion scene and renowned museums. The city boasts wide boulevards inspired by Champs-Élysées with cozy cafés on nearly every corner. Buenos Aires is a walkable city with plenty of parks and opportunities to stroll by its riverbanks.
- When to plan your travel: September through December is the perfect time to visit for sightseeing, blooms, and mild weather. Buenos Aires is in the Southern Hemisphere, which makes September through December its spring. From October to November, travelers can witness the bloom of over 8000 roses across 93 different species in Parque 3 de Febrero. Spring also brings a jazz festival and a museum festival for travelers invested in experiencing the city's authentic culture.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury Buenos Aires adventure.
New York City, USA
New York City and Paris offer visitors the chance to experience the magical urban energy that emanates from being present in a major global cultural hub. Like Paris, NYC is famously walkable, serves as global art capital and boasts world-class dining alongside cultural diversity. Whether you want to experience the charm of a Broadway show, explore the iconic architecture or indulge in a meal at one of the world's best restaurants, New York City has no shortage of experiences waiting.
- When to plan your travel: Spring and fall are the best times to visit New York City. T he mild weather is perfect for walking, there are fewer crowds, and the parks are adorned with delicate blossoms or vivid foliage.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury New York City holiday.
Hanoi, Vietnam
From its French colonial architecture to wide tree-lined boulevards and prominent café culture, Hanoi is often nicknamed "The Paris of Asia". Visitors can anticipate a city with exceptional walkability, a romantic atmosphere and charming French architecture. Hanoi features slow-placed atmospheres such as Hoan Kiem lake and the iconic French quarter.
- When to plan your travel: September through November is typically considered the most beautiful time to visit Hanoi. The weather is mild with low humidity and clear skies, creating the perfect climate for exploration and enjoyment.
Click here to get inspired for your luxury Hanoi journey.
Are you ready to travel? Start planning your vacation with Keytours Vacations, your expert in personalized travel experiences.
Choose Keytours Vacations and make your next vacation one to remember. Browse from one of our many customizable itineraries or contact a Personalized Travel Expert to get started.
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