Go to: Cinque Terre, Italy

Instead of: The French Riviera

The multicolored coastal town of Cinque Terre, Italy, offers a beautiful alternative to costly destinations in the French Riveria. The French Riviera calls to travelers who want private beaches and refinement.

But places like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco are outside the budget for many of us. Luckily, a trip to this budget-friendly vacation alternative in Italy offers similar ocean views, stunning beaches, and incredible dining opportunities without the bulky price tags you’ll find in the south of France.

In Cinque Terre, you can put on a bathing suit and enjoy the accessible public beaches, which aren’t too crowded. The vibe here is laid-back and slow-paced. So you’ll have plenty of time to unwind while eating fresh seafood and pesto at local restaurants.