Beautiful beaches, barely visible between the masses of crowds gathering during the peak season, plus extortionate prices for flights and hotels, are enough to put holidaymakers off even the most dreamy destinations.
For this reason, many keen travellers are looking for cheaper and less-crowded alternatives to the more popular locations.
Thankfully, Airbnb has revealed its ‘Dupe-It List’ for 2026, showcasing some of the holiday swaps expected to happen this year.
Complete with similar amazing views, culture, local cuisine and landmarks – they come without the price tag and crowds of more popular spots.
Swap Santorini for Altea
The ‘Santorini of Spain’ can be found in Altea, a historic coastal town located nine miles away from bustling Benidorm.
Boasting characterful cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings, the peaceful spot is increasingly catching the interest of holidaymakers.
The ‘Santorini of Spain’ can be found in Altea, a historic coastal town located nine miles away from bustling Benidorm
With endless sea views and charming accommodation options, Altea has many of the picture-perfect aspects of Santorini but with less busy streets and cheaper places to stay.
Airbnb recommends heading there between May and June for the best experience, and priced up a rental home for under £200 per night.
Ditch Marbella for Denia
If Marbella is your dream destination, you could also find the same vibrancy in Denia, Spain.
If Marbella appeals to you, Denia (pictured), also in Spain, offers the same vibrancy and scenery
The charming port city along the Costa Blanca coast is not short of tapas-fuelled evenings or picturesque architecture to meander around – just like Marbella.
June to September is the best time to visit, according to Airbnb.
Trade Phuket for Koh Yao Noi
When heading to Thailand, many travellers visit the more popular islands like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Yao Noi, in Thailand, is a hidden gem that is being noticed by Brits for its crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs and peaceful beaches
But Koh Yao Noi is a hidden gem that is being noticed by Brits for its crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs and peaceful beaches.
Airbnb offers an entire rental home, Jasmine Villa, on its site for around £82 a night in November.
Bin USA for Europe
The Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors with its impressive viewpoints and hiking routes.
A hidden gem located in Slovenia, Tolmin boasts turquoise rivers, deep gorges, and alpine valley – very similar to America’s Grand Canyon
But, holidaymakers who want to avoid the long and expensive flight to America can find something much closer to home in Europe.
A hidden gem located in Slovenia, Tolmin is nestled in the Julian Alps and boasts turquoise rivers, deep gorges, and alpine valley – perfect for long walks with stunning views.
It’s much less crowded than the Grand Canyon and offers the same experience of exploration.
Swap the Caribbean for Scotland
Instead of the typically popular Isle of Skye or Mull, Airbnb recommends heading to Barra for sandy beaches and blue waters
If you’re looking to travel even less but are seeking a taste of the Caribbean, the Isle of Barra is a stunning Outer Hebrides gem.
Instead of the typically popular Isle of Skye or Mull, Airbnb recommends heading to Barra for sandy beaches and blue waters.
The island is also home to the world’s only scheduled runway beach – Traigh Mhor beach.
Ditch Rome for Genoa
Just last year, there were reports of unbearable crowds clogging up famed sites in Rome, with hordes of tourists filling streets and attractions.
Genoa, Italy has a labyrinthine of streets to explore and a vibrant waterfront
If you’d like to avoid the gaggle, head to Genoa in Italy instead.
The history packed spot has a labyrinthine of streets to explore and a vibrant waterfront.
It is similar to Rome with its culture and scenery but comes without the crowds and marked-up prices.
September to October is the best time to visit and Airbnb recommends a ‘Romantic and bohemian apartment’ for just £261 for two nights in October.
