5 destination dupes for 'a more relaxed feel and better value' holiday this year

Sarra Gray
Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:42:39 +0000

With holidaymakers eager to book their 2026 getaway, more people want the same experiences they get at popular travel destinations, but with lower costs and a more relaxed pace.

For culture, stunning scenery and unique experiences without as many crowds, travel experts have shared the top affordable holiday dupes.

Shanghai as an alternative to Tokyo

Shanghai is a small city growing in popularity, and it is easy to see why it makes a great alternative to Japan for an Asian holiday.

The experts said: "Shanghai is emerging as one to watch for 2026. It offers that same mix of tradition and modern life, from gardens and temples to a striking skyline and fantastic food.

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"It is also a very manageable city, with a reliable metro and plenty of organised tours, which makes it well-suited to solo travellers, couples or friends looking for a long-haul trip that feels easy to navigate. Return flights from the UK start from £332*, with onward travel across the city easily managed via its metro network."

Puglia as an alternative to Santorini

Puglia has all the charm of Santorini, with holidaymakers able to relax on picturesque beaches and enjoy local cheeses and wines.

The experts said: "Puglia offers the same whitewashed charm and coastal views as Santorini, but with a more relaxed feel and better value. Towns like Monopoli and Polignano a Mare are easy to explore and ideal for a slower-paced break.

"According to Omio booking data, Monopoli has seen bookings rise by 141 per cent on year, highlighting growing demand for lesser-known. Return flights from the UK start from £20*, and onward travel across Puglia can be easily booked via Omio."

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Innsbruck as an alternative to the Swiss Alps

Innsbruck is a vibrant city known as the Heart of the Alps. You can find lower prices and fewer tourists than in other Alpine destinations, but it remains a top choice for winter sports.

The experts said: "Innsbruck gives you those dramatic alpine views without the Swiss price tag. It is compact and easy to get around, with both the old town and mountains close by, making it a comfortable option for a relaxed trip with light activity.

"Return flights from the UK start from £19*, with onward rail travel to nearby alpine areas easily booked via Omio."

Valencia as an alternative to Barcelona

Like in Barcelona, holidaymakers will find a mix of Spanish city charm and golden beaches. The experts said: "Valencia has the same mix of beach, culture and food as Barcelona, but feels calmer and more affordable. It is clean, easy to navigate and offers a more relaxed pace, which suits a comfortable city break.

"This reflects a wider trend across Spain, where cities such as Salamanca have seen bookings rise by 168 per cent year on year as travellers look beyond Madrid and Barcelona. Return flights from the UK start from £22*, and onward travel across Spain can be easily booked via Omio."

Ghent as an alternative to Venice

Ghent is a real hidden gem in Belgium. Visitors can wander down canals or take in the medieval architecture, while enjoying a quiet but lively atmosphere.

The experts said: "Ghent offers canal-lined streets and historic architecture similar to Venice, but with a more relaxed and less crowded feel. It has a strong cultural scene, great food and a more local atmosphere, making it a good option for a waterside city break without the higher prices.

"Cities like Ghent have also seen steady growth in demand, with bookings up 55 per cent year on year. Return trains from London via Eurostar start from £94*."

*prices correct at time of writing