With growing reluctance to visit the United States, Europe offers many destinations that capture the same charm and adventure. From beaches to deserts, mountains to cities, travelers can enjoy experiences reminiscent of classic American holidays without leaving the continent.
Portugal’s Santa Cruz rivals California’s coast for surf and sunshine. With nearly 300 sunny days a year, excellent waves, and wide sandy beaches, this small town along the Costa de Prata delivers a Golden State experience. Former fishing village streets, a quaint beachside turret, and local eateries give visitors a true taste of Portugal. Surf schools and chic accommodations like Noah Surf House and Villa Galega make staying easy. Eleven pollution-free beaches provide safe swimming and serene walks, while local seafood and wines offer a culinary alternative to California favorites.
For cabin retreats, Finland’s mökki cottages offer an American-style escape. These lakeside cabins provide a connection to nature, perfect for summer fishing or winter skiing and ice swimming. Many cottages are available for rent through platforms such as Lomarengas, allowing visitors to experience Finnish wilderness, complete with saunas, off-grid living, and foraging under the “everyman’s rights” law.
Hiking enthusiasts can swap the Appalachian Trail for Europe’s E1 path. Stretching over 4,400 miles from Norway to Italy, the trail’s Scandinavian section offers Arctic Circle wilderness, river crossings, and snowfields. Well-placed mountain huts ensure safety while keeping the sense of adventure alive. Walkers enjoy remote scenery, traversing mountains, forests, and coastal regions.
Urban travelers can trade New York City for Berlin. This cultural hub combines vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and lush green spaces. Berlin’s techno scene is edgier and more experimental than New York’s, and local restaurants provide diverse cuisine with affordable options. Iconic sites like Museum Island, the Neue Nationalgalerie, and the Hamburger Bahnhof rival New York’s major attractions. With lower population density and fewer tourists, visitors enjoy easier access to sights and events.
Montenegro’s Tara River Canyon is Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon. At 1,300 meters deep, it offers dramatic cliffs and glacial landscapes ideal for rafting, hiking, and adventure sports. Nearby Đurđevića Tara Bridge and viewpoints provide sweeping vistas, while campsites and chalets offer budget-friendly stays with stunning scenery.
For desert landscapes, Spain’s Tabernas desert mirrors the Mojave. Its dry riverbeds, arid mountains, and rock formations provide a western feel. Guided horseback rides, camping at original movie sets, and western-style log cabins let visitors experience the classic cowboy atmosphere in Europe.
Romania’s Carpathian Mountains rival Yellowstone with wild forests and wildlife. Brown bears, wolves, lynx, and bison roam freely in this protected area. Small cabins like Bunea hide allow visitors to observe animals closely while staying immersed in nature. Conservation efforts aim to create Europe’s largest forest reserve, preserving these landscapes for generations.
Seafood lovers can find an alternative to New England in Normandy and Brittany. Fresh oysters, crab, and shellfish are available directly from local markets. Family-run restaurants offer casual, authentic experiences along the coast, with scenic views and freshly caught seafood prepared in traditional styles.
Italy’s Marano Lagoon is a European substitute for the Florida Everglades. Interconnected lagoons, canals, and river deltas provide canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching opportunities. Rustic local cuisine, including fresh fish and seafood, complements the tranquil surroundings. Traditional fishing huts remain active along the water, giving an authentic glimpse of life on the lagoon.
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way rivals California’s Highway 1 for coastal drives. This 1,600-mile route features cliffs, beaches, and ocean views along the Atlantic coast. Dramatic landscapes like the Dingle Peninsula, Slieve League cliffs, and the Blaskets offer adventurous driving, scenic stops, and historic sites. Hidden coves, early Christian monuments, and quaint villages ensure exploration at every turn.
European holiday alternatives deliver adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness comparable to the United States. From surfing to hiking, urban exploration to wilderness retreats, travelers can enjoy iconic experiences without leaving the continent.
