Paris is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. Whether you tour the ancient cathedrals or the iconic structure of the Eiffel Tower, sip on café serré as you shop at urbane boutiques along the tiny streets in Le Marais or walk in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh through the cobbled paths of Montmartre – there’s no end to the gorgeous gems you’ll discover in the city.
While France may be the most visited country on earth, it comes as no surprise that a record number of tourists have dawned upon its capital in recent years. If you love Paris as much as we do, but are looking for alternative (less tourist-packed) cities to travel to that encompass all of the best elements of La Ville Lumière, check out these 10 recommendations:
Montreal, Quebec
Dubbed “North America’s Paris,” this quaint French city is filled with historical architecture, ancient cathedrals and restaurants that possess a stunning blend of modern and traditional European décor. Take a stroll through Old Montreal’s narrow cobblestone streets and you’ll discover charming Parisian-like shops and charming cafes – you’ll swear you’re in Europe.
Vienna, Austria
If you’re a fan of Paris’s stunning architecture, you’ll have to check out the beautiful buildings in Vienna. Take a stroll along the Danube River and you’ll see everything from intricate Baroque-era monuments to minimalist ornamentation. If gothic churches are more your style, make sure to check out St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The church is more than 700 years old and a beloved landmark of Austria.
Riga, Latvia
Similar to Paris, Riga is considered a cultural phenomenon – it’s home to many museums, concert halls and art nouveau-influenced architecture. Stroll through the Old Town entertainment district and take in the bars and nightclubs at Livu Square.
Budapest, Hungary
Dubbed “Paris of the East”, you’ll fall in love the city’s charming cafes, laid-back vibe and stunning architecture. Make sure to check out the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the first bridge that connected Pest to Buda via the Danube River.
Beirut, Lebanon
Before Lebanon’s Civil War, Beirut was once known as ‘Paris of the Middle East’. The city is slowly reclaiming its original status due to its picturesque seaside surroundings, quaint restaurants and luxurious hotels. Check out Hamra Street, once known as Beirut’s version of the Champs-Élysées in the 1990s. Today, you’ll discover cafes and restos that not only offer delicious Lebanese food, but platforms for art and cultural events.
Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City is about a three-hour drive from Montreal; but once you stroll through the city’s cobblestone roads and gaze upon its historical French architecture, you’ll feel like you’re in a Parisian enclave (possibly heaven). Bring your walking shoes and check out the shops and bistros that line Quartier Petit Champlain – this artesian paradise is one of the oldest commercial districts in North America, and offers a dreamy aura reminiscent of the streets of Paris.
Melbourne, Australia
Certain parts of Melbourne can be likened to a Parisian paradise, down under. For some Insta-worthy photos, take a stroll down the Yarra River Pedestrian Footbridge – it closely resembles Paris’s Pont de l’Archeveché. Next, check out the “Paris End” of Collins Street; it was a popular home to artists, writers and musicians during the first half of the 20th century. Today you’ll find everything from high-end shops and Victorian-era buildings to chic open-air sidewalk cafes.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is widely known as “Little Paris” or “Paris of The South” mainly due to French influence on the city’s vast architecture and cuisine. French colonialists founded New Orleans in 1718, but its cultural heritage can still be felt throughout the city today – stroll down Bourbon Street and you’ll discover Parisian-inspired restos with a Louisiana twist.
Rome, Italy
Just like Paris, Rome is a prime city to visit when it comes to historical art, ancient architecture and iconic churches. Check out St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and you’ll discover breathtaking masterpieces, such as Michelangelo’s Pietà.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Unofficially dubbed “The Paris of South America,” the city’s cobbled boulevards, heritage buildings and open-air bodegones are a culture-hub of Parisian dreams. Check out Plaza de Mayo and you’ll see some gorgeous colonial sites that date back to the 1500s.
Which Parisian-like city do you plan to visit next?
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