European vacations decline — Americans travel to these US cities instead

The ETC’s findings are based on a survey of 7,087 long-haul travelers from various countries. This sudden downturn now implies a question: Where do they intend to go instead?

A decline in European travel

The ETC report, published in partnership with Eurail BV, found only 18% of American travelers say they will visit Europe, a significant drop from 28% last year. While a majority of those polled plan to travel long-haul this year, just 44% of global travelers emphasized having a European vacation, compared to 49% in 2024.

“The decline in U.S. travel sentiment towards Europe reflects broader economic pressures, political uncertainty and evolving consumer preferences,” says Eduardo Santander, chief executive officer of the European Travel Commission, in the report.

People adapt their travel plans as Europe drives Americans — and global travelers in general — away due to rising costs. And these cities in the United States will give you a European vacation without the sky-high prices.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Hailed as among the top cities in the U.S. by Condé Nast Travel in 2013, Carmel-by-the-Sea is dotted with Greek restaurants, Irish pubs and German and Swiss-style architecture. This charming California town is just 1 square mile, which offers a walkable European vacation without the expensive transportation costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has an impressive array of restaurants and wines, with eateries that feature a range of international, regional and local cuisines. Head to Casanova for a French-Italian dining experience and choose from their 2,200 wine bottle selection to complement your meals. If you crave European country dishes, La Bicyclette offers an all-day menu and nearly every item is prepared in their wood fire ovens. After a satisfying day of exploration, unwind at Carmel Beach for a Santorini-like sunset.

St. Augustine, Florida

The coastal city of St. Augustine in Florida is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States. Founded by the Spaniards in 1565, the European influence can be seen in its architecture and city layout. The Historic District has well-preserved Spanish-style buildings with red-tiled floors, stucco walls and ornate balconies.

The Casillo de San Marcos is a massive 17th-century Spanish fort made of coquina stone that reflects Spain’s influence on the city. It was built to protect Florida and the Atlantic trade route, and is now the oldest masonry fortification on the continent, interpreting more than 450 years of cultural intersections. Aside from its rich history, St. Augustine is also home to Spanish flavors, with restaurants serving dishes like paella, tapas and sangria. Columbia Restaurant offers award-winning Spanish and Cuban cuisine, with recipes like ropa vieja and Spanish bean soup.

Plenty of cheap or free activities are available to keep the whole family entertained in this Spanish-inspired city. From free strolls along St. George Street filled with crafts from local artists to a tour of St. Augustine History Museum for only $8, vacationers can get a taste of Europe without breaking the bank.

Pella, Iowa

Thanks to the immigrants who came to Iowa in the 1840s and built a town in the farm country, the American city of Pella makes visitors feel like they’re on a European vacation. Pella has an atmosphere reminiscent of the Netherlands with its unique Dutch-style architecture, the beautiful Tulip Time Festival and enormous Dutch windmills. Don’t miss the Dutch bakeries and the must-visit Pella Historical Museums for the complete feel of Pella’s Dutch heritage.

According to Expedia, the cheapest roundtrip flight to Pella this 2025 starts at $63, while one-way tickets start at $24. March is the most affordable time to travel to Pella, but ensure to book a month in advance to secure cheap tickets and always be prepared for flight delays.

Boston, Massachusetts

As New England’s largest city and the capital of Massachusetts, Boston holds on to its roots as one of the early homes of British settlers. Founded in the 1600s, Boston boasts architecture influenced by early English and European migrants. Famous landmarks, such as Faneuil Hall, Boston Common and the Freedom Trail, will give you a feel of Europe — for free. From the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to an abundance of Irish pubs like the Dubliner and Emmets, Boston offers a European vacation with a touch of Americana.

Leavenworth, Washington

Bavarian-inspired buildings, eateries with an abundance of beer, farmer’s bread and breathtaking mountain scenery — one might mistake Leavenworth for a small town in Germany. Following the rerouting of railroads in 1920 and the challenge of tourism, the leaders of Leavenworth turned it into a complete Bavarian experience to attract tourists around the world.

Travelers can hike, bike or raft in the Wenatchee River during warmer months, participate in Oktoberfest festivities in the fall or join snow sports and watch the Christmas lights in winter. Leavenworth is a great getaway for families and couples, where they can enjoy wellness and relaxation in the Posthotel or revel in classic German fare, like schnitzel and sauerkraut with sausage, in Andreas Keller Restaurant.

Expedia advises to book in December, January or February for cheaper vacation packages, perfect for budget-friendly breaks. With a well-planned itinerary, everyone can tick off Leavenworth attractions in a few days, making their trip worth every penny.

A European vacation for less

As European travel costs rise due to various factors such as political and economic pressures, people turn to cheaper alternatives like these U.S. cities. Though it all comes down to consumer preference, travelers can now have the same cultural experience while avoiding hefty price tags.

Zuzana Paar, creator of Amazing Travel Life, is a seasoned traveler and writer who has explored 62 countries and lived in St. Lucia, Dubai, Vienna, Doha and Slovakia. Her work has been featured in Fox News, NY Daily News, MSN and more; she has also appeared live on the Chicago WGN Bob Sirott Radio Show. When she’s not discovering new destinations, she shares travel tips and insider insights to help others experience the world in a unique and unforgettable way.

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