8 U.S. Cities That Feel Just Like Europe (But Cost Way Less to Visit)

A European vacation is a bucket list item for pretty much everyone. From iconic sights and museums to out-of-this-world cuisine, the continent has plenty to offer. But let’s face it: plane tickets to European destinations are expensive, and the flights can feel agonizing.

Fortunately, there are American cities with comparable offerings that allow you to save money on travel — all while feeling like you’ve been swept across the Atlantic. Here are 10 to add to your bucket list.

Editor’s Note: Pricing is based on estimates from Google Flights and reputable, well-rated listings on Airbnb close to city centers for the first week of March 2025.

Flight round-trip from New York City: $113 ($475)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: $~139 (~$141)

The Irish influence in Boston is undeniable. It’s evident in the rich history, ubiquitous Irish pubs, and wide availability of delicious Irish food.

And, of course, there’s the proud population of Irish descendants to celebrate with. So take the hundreds you’ll save on the flight and raise a glass!

Flight round-trip from New York City: $168 ($750)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$85 ($~107)

With affordable breweries on seemingly every corner and centuries of influence from German immigrants, Milwaukee is one of the most German cities in the U.S. It boasts one of the biggest German festivals, too, with all the bratwurst and strudel you can eat.

A stop at the Bavarian Bierhaus is a must, where “it’s Oktoberfest every day.”

Flight round-trip from New York City: $249 ($401)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$84 ($~100)

From Hollywood to the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, Los Angeles has so much to offer. Like London, it’s a financial center with stunning architecture, a diverse population, and abundant cuisine where it’s impossible to get bored.

Unlike London, it’s not all the way across the pond, ergo, it’s a more affordable destination.

Flight round-trip from New York City: $265 ($521)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$85 (~$104)

Both Philadelphia and Glasgow are hubs for stunning Art Deco architecture, incredible art scenes, and enriching cultural attractions. They’re also easy-to-navigate grids, though getting to and staying in Philly is cheaper.

The resemblance is so uncanny that the 2013 movie "World War Z" was shot in Glasgow to stand in for Philly.

Flight round-trip from New York City: $277 ($405)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$60 ($91)

Seriously bike-friendly and beautifully bohemian, Portland emanates Amsterdam energy — just trade the tulips for roses. 

This proudly weird city serves up local coffee, delicious food, and recreational libations aplenty — no long, expensive flight across the ocean needed.

Portland is also a very welcoming city, like Amsterdam, so you can completely be yourself.

Flight round-trip from New York City: $237 to Jacksonville ($642)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$64 ($~65)

A beautiful port city with stunning beaches, an actual fortress, and delicious Spanish cuisine? You can definitely find that in Málaga, but it’s cheaper and easier to discover in St. Augustine.

The “oldest city in America” also has a super walkable downtown with quaint shops and brick-laid streets, just like the Spanish city.

Flight round-trip from New York City: $208 to Tampa ($997)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$99 (~$186)

Want to visit Greece without leaving the country? Not far from Tampa is the coastal town of Tarpon Springs, which is largely influenced by Greek culture. 

Known for its iconic sponge docks and abundant Greek restaurants, immigrants from Greece originally settled here to run the docks. You’ll often hear Greek spoken in public spaces.

Huge savings on flight and cheaper lodgings mean you can experience Aegean vibes without spending nearly as much cash.

Flight round-trip from New York City: $237 ($378)

Airbnb price for one night starting at: ~$78 (~$87)

Washington D.C. has a lot in common with the City of Love. They’re both major capitals divided by a river that have gorgeous gothic Cathedrals, world-class museums, and seriously rich histories.

Once again, you can take the hundreds you’ll save to enjoy some of the most iconic sites in America.

Travel to Europe is exciting and life-changing, but it almost always means booking an expensive flight. Avoid the slog over the Atlantic — and that expensive plane ticket — by visiting affordable destinations in the U.S. that are full of European charm and appeal.

Save even more by using your best travel credit card on your trip, which is sure to compound the savings with points and rewards. That’s definitely what we call a bonus.