Non, merci! Don’t fancy France amid the riots? These brilliant European destinations are perfect alternatives

France has long been the go-to destination for Britons seeking a romantic city break, a sun-drenched Riviera escape or a leisurely tour of world-class vineyards.But with riots sweeping parts of the country, some holidaymakers may be thinking twice about their French getaway.The unrest began with...

Ghanamma

October 19, 2026Ghana

By ERIN DEBORAH WAKS, TRAVEL WRITER 14:26 19 Oct 2026, updated 15:00 19 Oct 2026

France has long been the go-to destination for Britons seeking a romantic city break, a sun-drenched Riviera escape or a leisurely tour of world-class vineyards.

But with riots sweeping parts of the country, some holidaymakers may be thinking twice about their French getaway.

The unrest began with largely peaceful demonstrations over the cost-of-living crisis, education standards and President Emmanuel Macron’s government. Since then, scenes of escalating disorder have spread across the country, with France’s interior minister admitting that police had ‘lost control’ in some cities.

So, if France is suddenly looking less appealing, where should you go instead?

The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice Parisian charm, Riviera glamour or exceptional wine to find a worthy alternative.

From a Baltic capital nicknamed the ‘Paris of the North’ to an Italian hideaway beloved by the jet set and spectacular vineyards tucked away in the Spanish countryside, Europe is brimming with destinations ready to step into France’s shoes.

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic weekend away, a chic coastal retreat or a wine-tasting adventure, these brilliant alternatives deserve a place on your holiday wish list.

It’s for good reason that British novelist Graham Greene dubbed Riga the ‘Paris of the North’.

The capital of Latvia is both grand and cosy – imposing buildings such as the House of the Black Heads give it real gravitas, while pretty restaurants and quiet streets add an intimate sense of charm.

Art at the Riga Bourse and Art Nouveau quarter, food in the city centre and history in the Old Town make this city everything you could want from a European city break – not to mention there are plenty of shops and an authentic market to explore.

There’s also a serious historical side to uncover, with landmarks such as the Ghetto Museum and Museum of Occupation of Latvia.

In Budapest, pretty streets welcome visitors in, and popular tourist attractions in central areas add to the city’s appeal.

With an impressive architectural style, it is reminiscent of Paris – but without the mammoth price tag.

Head to Rákóczi tér, located near the Palace District in Budapest, which has recently been named one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods.

The 19th-century market hall is a key attraction here – described by visitors as ‘non-touristy’, ‘lovely’ and, as one guest said, filled with both ‘authentic traditional Hungarian food… [and] new tamen and Korean street food options’.

It’s also home to the popular Rákóczi Square, one of the city’s greenest spots.

Szechenyi Thermal Bath is also one of Budapest’s biggest attractions, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each month who flock to bathe in its steaming 38C (100F) waters.

If Paris is too expensive for you – and you want to avoid the riots – opt for Antwerp, which has similar style, historic architecture and grand boulevards with a less crowded atmosphere.

The fashion, culture and art scene is comparable, and you can visit popular shopping streets such as Schuttershofstraat, as well as plenty of boutiques and museums.

Swap croissants and patisseries for Antwerp’s signature hand-shaped cookies, local chocolates and moules-frites.

A charming seaside village, Portofino has remained an enduring favourite among the jet-set for over a century.

Located on the Italian Riviera and described as one of Italy’s ‘natural jewels’, Portofino is framed by lush green hills and the clear Ligurian sea, with a population in the winter of just 350.

Portofino has close ties to Elizabeth Taylor; Richard Burton proposed to the actress here at the Hotel Splendido, and Taylor also honeymooned here on a grand total of four occasions.

Perhaps the most stunning town on the Montenegrin coast, Kotor is, in many ways, better than the French Riviera.

The Unesco World Heritage Site is situated below Mount Lovcen on the shore of the Bay of Kotor.

The historic centre is well preserved, filled with a labyrinth of narrow streets, broad squares, small churches and cafes and bars.

Oh-so-chic Cascais, just over an hour from Portuguese capital Lisbon on the train, is a perfect beach getaway.

The upscale seaside town is home to gorgeous boutique shops, great restaurants and a laid-back vibe – although you wouldn’t be hard-pressed to find residents strolling around with a Chanel handbag in tow.

‘The beach is directly by the railway station Estoril. You walk 100metres and then you are at a beautiful beach with fine sand, and clean but cold water,’ one Tripadvisor review explained.

It added: ‘On the west end there are flat rocks and a nice view of Cascais, especially at sunset. On the east end of the beach you find a sea swimming pool for those who feel uncomfortable swimming in the open sea.’

Up next is Ribeira Sacra, a deeply dramatic region filled with canyon walls, stunning views along the Miño river and cliffside trails – and a great alternative to France’s Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne regions.

Mencía grapes thrive here, offering aromatic reds shaped by altitude and the soils.

This untouched Galicia region is a far cry from busier, better-known vineyards in Spain, and is great for those seeking a real immersion in nature.

This year’s winner of best wineland has been praised as Europe’s most promising cool-climate wine region: Štajerska in Slovenia.

Exploring Štajerska will lead you through historic towns, family estates and aged cellars, taking you on a journey passing by the world’s oldest vine – and the birthplace of Slovenian sparkling wine.

The region encompasses smaller areas such as Maribor, Ptuj, Jeruzalem Slovenija, Haloze, Slovenske gorice, Ravno polje and Pohorje, each with their own diverse stories to tell and wines to taste.

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