"If social media is anything to go by, it feels like everyone is heading to Italy this summer. My feed is full of influencers and acquaintances alike posting snaps of chilled Aperol spritzes, winding cobblestone streets, and views overlooking the Amalfi Coast. But if your budget looks anything like mine, it can be hard to justify bankrolling a trip to Italy right now, especially given the current cost of living. However, keeping your summer expenses in check doesn’t have to mean forgoing an Italian girl summer—or even skipping travel altogether. All you need is the right destination dupes that’ll allow you to embrace Italian culture without destroying your bank account.
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A bucket-list trip to tourist hot spots like Rome, Florence, or Positano may not be in the cards this summer, but looking outside of those destinations (both within Italy and beyond) can give you a similar experience for much less. Keep scrolling for the 10 best destination dupes for an Italian girl summer on a budget.
1. Ponza, Italy
Ponza is a small island nestled off the coast of central Italy and makes a fabulous detour destination if you’re flying into Rome. Often referred to as “Capri without the tourists,” this island boasts the same stunning ocean views, small beaches with natural grottos, and rocky coastline for a fraction of the price. Ponza’s laid-back atmosphere is a stark contrast to Capri’s inherent upscale vibe, and it’s perfect for visitors who want to soak up authentic Italian culture.
2. Napa Valley, California
Tuscany’s picturesque countryside, vineyards, and olive groves make it a dream destination for many foodies and wine lovers. Unfortunately, planning a Tuscan getaway during peak season isn’t cheap, but taking a trip to Napa Valley, California, can provide a similar idyllic experience for less. If you already live on the West Coast, make it a road trip so you can skip the flights and dedicate more of your travel budget to exploring the area’s many vineyards and wineries. Like Tuscany, Napa Valley also boasts a Mediterranean climate and a landscape of rolling hills, so if you squint, you might just believe you’re in Italy.
3. Lake Maggiore, Italy
Lake Como has become popular with celebrities and luxury travelers alike over the last few years—and its hefty price point shows it. Luckily for us more budget-minded folks, Lake Maggiore is the perfect substitute. The second largest lake in Italy, Lake Maggiore sits at the foot of the Alps with its northernmost point stretching into Switzerland. Thanks to its sparkling water views and stunning backdrop of mountains, it’s an idyllic spot for a relaxing vacation. Spend your days strolling through lakeside gardens, sampling local cuisine, and enjoying a slice of Italian lakeside life without the crowds.
4. Saranda, Albania
If you’re looking for a seaside escape that won’t break the bank, Albania is a delightfully underrated European destination. The country is situated just north of Greece on Europe’s Balkan Peninsula and is lush with natural beauty. Visit the coastal town of Saranda near the southern tip of the country for unparalleled views of the Ionian Sea and hills dotted with olive groves. Located along the Albanian Riviera, it captures the same Mediterranean charm that Italy’s Amalfi Coast is known for—albeit for way less. Not only are the dining options generally inexpensive, but accommodation options also range from hostels to luxurious hotels and everything in between; there are plenty of choices to fit every traveler’s needs and budget.
5. Lucca, Italy
If you’re dying to visit Italy for the history and culture but don’t have the budget for a busy destination like Florence, consider Lucca as a nearby (and less touristy) alternative. Like Florence, this city is also located in the Tuscany region of the country, and its architecture, with its red-tiled roofs and sun-baked stone buildings, boasts much of the same charm. However, Lucca is smaller and less crowded, so visitors can enjoy strolling its historic city walls, lively piazzas, and beautiful Romanesque churches stress-free.
6. Aveiro, Portugal
Although not quite as popular as Italy, Portugal is a much more affordable destination dupe that offers just as much to see and do. For Italian vibes on a budget, consider a trip to Aveiro, located just a short train ride south of Porto. The city is lovingly called “the Venice of Portugal” thanks to its extensive network of canals, and the best way to see the sights is through a moliceiro boat ride. Formerly used for transportation and seaweed harvesting, these traditional colorful boats mimic the gondolas of Venice and will allow you to soak up all the history, culture, and architecture Aveiro has to offer.
7. Levanto, Italy
If visiting the Cinque Terre is on your bucket list but outside of your budget, the seaside town of Levanto, Italy, makes a perfect alternative. Similar to the Cinque Terre, this quaint village is situated on the Italian Riviera’s rugged coastline and adorned with pastel-colored buildings to boot. As you can imagine, the dining is delectable; visitors can enjoy seafood specialties and Ligurian cuisine at one of the town’s many magnificent restaurants. Better yet, Levanto has an exquisite beach town vibe that the villages of Cinque Terre lack. Spend your afternoons lounging on the beach before taking a dip in the crystalline water.
8. New York City, New York
New York City is the quintessential summer getaway for fashion lovers who can’t swing a trip to Milan this year. With countless luxury stores, vintage shops, and one-of-a-kind boutiques, its diverse shopping scene rivals that of Italy’s fashion capital. Check out the designer shops along the city’s renowned Fifth Avenue before heading down to Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood, where you can explore the trendy clothing stores along Mulberry Street. When you need to refuel, you’ll find no shortage of options—this iconic New York neighborhood is the perfect spot to indulge in some of the best Italian cuisine you can get stateside.
9. Naples, Italy
Naples is one of the best destination dupes for travelers who want the same culinary and historical experience Rome is known for, but with fewer crowds. The city’s vibrant energy is infectious, and its bustling markets and narrow, shop-lined streets offer plenty to see, smell, and taste. Since Naples is the birthplace of pizza (locals will tell you Neapolitan pizza is the best in the world), be sure to stop for a taste of this culinary delicacy. The city also offers lots of history and culture to explore, with world-class museums, historic sites, and the famed Mount Vesuvius just a short train ride away.
10. Cape Coral, Florida
Known as the “Venice of America,” Cape Coral boasts a similar romantic vibe and slow-paced waterfront lifestyle minus the international flight. The city has 400 canals (more than anywhere else in the world) and offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the water, from boat tours to kayak rentals to sandy beaches. Off the water, Cape Coral’s plethora of restaurants, shopping options, and scenic parks make it an ideal destination for a laid-back summer getaway.
Arianna Reardon, Contributing Writer
Arianna is a freelance writer and journalist, and the self-proclaimed hot and dirty martini queen. At The Everygirl, Arianna uses her authenticity and relatability to empower, inspire, and motivate women everywhere. Whether she’s writing about sex and relationships, career and finance, beauty and fashion, wellness, or home and living, Arianna’s passion shines through in all her work.