Staycation dupes that are just like being abroad - without the cost or hassle

We've got a list of UK doppelgänger destinations that you can visit without breaking the bank or dealing with the inconvenience of international travel, perfect for the sunny months ahead
If you're the kind of person who loves travelling, but more often than not are brought back to reality by the soaring costs and inconvenience of international travel, this is your lucky day.
Why, you ask?
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Because there's a solution to your travel woes. Gone are the days where you have to spend thousands of pounds to reach that one remote island off the coast of Italy. Those stunning vistas — or at least really close copies — can now be explored right here at your doorstep in the UK.
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Yep, we've got a list of UK doppelgänger destinations you can visit without breaking the bank or going through all the hassle.
Iceland vs The Isle of Skye in Scotland
While Iceland may have an unmatched dramatic mountainous landscape bedecked with over 10,000 waterfalls — Scotland's very own Isle of Skye is not one to be left behind. Boasting striking landscapes dominated by waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and dramatic coastlines, Isle of Skye is the answer to your Icelandic prayers.
Skye's famed Fairy Pools are an eye-catching stand-in for Iceland's Godafoss waterfall, as can clearly be seen in the pictures above. Skye's Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing feel almost otherworldly, much like Iceland's iconic
Vatnajökull National Park and the Golden Circle. Both destinations offer a charm deeply submerged in local legend and fantastical folklore, except one is much, much closer to home.
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Mont-Saint-Michel in France vs Saint Michael's Mount in Cornwall
While both are iconic tidal islands that are dedicated to St Michael and have a shared history, a trip to one will (figuratively) make you go for broke, whereas visiting the other will still leave some funds leftover for groceries.
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Crowned as one of 'France's most stunning sites' by the local tourist board, Mont-Saint-Michel attracts thousands of tourists every year, whereas its UK counterpart offers a quieter, more tranquil experience, making it the perfect alternative for those wanting to experience the stunning sight without the crowds.
The two spots are often confused for one another, however Normandy's Mont-Saint-Michel was built between the 11th and 16th century, whereas the construction of the Cornish wonder began in 1135.
Amalfi Coast Italy vs St Ives Cornwall
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While most of us may be familiar with Italy's famous Amalfi Coast, not too many others might know about UK's very own St Ives in Cornwall. The two spots share an alluring similarity that's hard to miss.
Both are sun-soaked coastal towns which have pastel-coloured buildings perched on scenic cliffs that overlook azure waters. Boats (luxury and otherwise) can always be found dotting the harbours of both the Italian and British locales.
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Portugal's Albandeira Arch
Dorset's very own natural wonder, Durdle Door, so closely resembles Portugal's Algarve that it's almost eerie. The Algarve, known for its rugged cliffs and picturesque quaint sandy coves, has an almost exact replica in Dorset's natural limestone arch.
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The two spots share a breathtaking similarity that can clearly be seen in their dramatic rock formations and the crystal-clear blue waters surrounding them. While Algarve offers a decidedly gorgeous Mediterranean feel, Durdle Door — where the waters of the English Channel meet the dramatic cliffs of Dorset — puts forth a distinctly British charm in a similarly exquisite landscape.
Norway's Fjords vs Loch Torridon in Scotland
Loch Torridon in the Scottish Highlands mirrors the awe-inspiring fjords of Norway — without putting you out of pocket. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the Scottish lake reflect the same majestic, rugged beauty seen in famous Norwegian fjords like Geirangerfjord or Nærøyfjord.
Both locations are a haven for nature lovers, with Loch Torridon home to a bounty of marine life including seals, dolphins, and even whales (if you're lucky). Abundant wildlife, incredible opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring, along with a sense of serenity and remoteness make the two spots outrageously similar.

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Daily Mirror

an hour ago

• Daily Mirror

'Hefty fine' warning for Brits visiting Greek island over strict driving rule

British tourists flying over to one of the popular Greek island of Santorini this summer have been issued a stark driving rule, as experts reveal a simple mistake could leave you with a 'hefty fine' UK holidaymakers heading to one of the most desirable Greek islands could get stung with a 'hefty' fine when hiring a car. Despite a surprising slump in visitor numbers and growing cries from fed-up locals, millions of selfie-stick-waving tourists will still flock to Santorini this year - enticed by blue-domed buildings, pristine beaches, and Instagram-worthy sunsets. Measuring just 29.4 square miles, the tiny island is ideal for those comfortable with hiring a car. ‌ It's a great way to explore all of the island's nooks and crannies and escape from the coach-load of cruise passengers that get herded in everything morning. You can check out stunning vineyards over at Venetsanos Winery, spend the day at the iconic red beach, or have dinner in Fira, the capital famed for its whitewashed buildings and buzzing atmosphere. ‌ There are a slew of hire car companies on the island, meaning prices can get competitively low. Still, it is worth booking in advance to secure a bargain, especially if you're travelling during the peak period. Make sure you go with a reputable vendor to afford being ripped off too. Experts over at Lonely Planet, who advise hiring a car through your accommodation provider, say having your own vehicle can give you 'full freedom' to explore the island - but warns there are certain 'drawbacks'. "The relatively short drives along the island's diminutive road network can be harrowing due to narrow lanes, cliffside plunges and incessant peak season traffic," they explained. "Parking is also stressful in Fira and at the beaches. Expect hefty fines if you decide to leave your car in an unapproved spot. A good strategy is to rent a car for just a day or two of exploration, thus saving yourself from the attendant hassles at other times." Parking in clearly-designated spaces - that may incur a small fee - is your best practice. You can always ask your hotel for recommended parking spots, or check Google reviews if you're unsure. According to reports, parking violations come with a fine of up to €80 (approximately £68.39), so it's never really worth the risk. ‌ "I have hired a car in Santorini and this evening got a parking ticket and my number plates taken away," one tourist wrote on Facebook back in 2023. "I know I have to pay a fine at [the] post office in Thera but how do I get the number plates back?" If anything like this happens to you whilst away, contact the company you rented your car from. It is still your responsibility to pay the fine, but staff may be able to help explain the process - and get your number plates back. Cycling is another popular way of navigating Santorini, which is a great way to avoid any steep fines. However, prepare for your thighs to burn as the island is filled with harsh inclines and twisty roads. "Add in drivers maniacally speeding to make up for time spent stalled in traffic and the challenges multiply," Lonely Planet added. "Still, you can easily rent a bike on the island from multiple sources. Ask about e-bikes, which are becoming more available in Santorini, unless the many hills fit into your training scheme for the Tour de France." *You can fly directly to Santorini from London, Newcastle, and Edinburgh. Return fares cost as little as £56 in July, based on Skyscanner listings.

Scottish Sun

4 hours ago

• Scottish Sun

I explored the tiny European country with underground cities and little-known islands

As the sun set over Ta' Cicivetta farm, we were prepared a feast of traditional dishes Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) REACHING for my umpteenth honey and date fritter, I joked that I would have to use the hotel gym after our incredible meal. But my host clutched her pearls and gasped: 'No, no. You have to forget about the gym in Malta, my love.' Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 The colourful, quaint cafes in Valetta's old town in Malta Credit: Getty 4 The Azure Window on the Maltese island of Gozo Credit: Getty Malta derives its name from the Greek word meaning 'place of honey' — fitting, for somewhere I was quickly realising might be Europe's most underrated culinary utopia. And with underground cities, little-known islands and mysterious temples, I would soon discover this wasn't the only surprise Malta had in store. As the sun set over Ta' Cicivetta farm, we were prepared a feast of traditional dishes, all using ingredients sourced from the garden we stood in. This tiny Mediterranean country is smaller than the Isle of Wight, which goes some way in explaining why its food goes under many people's radars; the limited land area means Maltese produce is barely exported, so you have to try it at source. In one dinner, we could taste the different cultures that have called Malta home over the centuries — Italian in the ricotta parcels and focaccia, Arabian in the date-based sweets and bigilla (a hummus-like dip made from beans), Spanish in the bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled in olive oil. Equally intriguing, however, was how easy it is to come across a full English on this faraway archipelago. The British stopped ruling Malta in 1964, but they left behind a love for this breakfast along with other cultural footprints such as UK plugs, driving on the left and speaking English (an official language here alongside Maltese). I got used to the unexpected sight of red telephone boxes on the streets of cities like Mdina, an ancient fortress which otherwise looked like something out of Game Of Thrones. Mdina's winding lanes and picturesque plazas were actually used as King's Landing in the HBO series, and our guide, Audrey, would occasionally hold up a scene on her phone to prove it. But Malta has seen real battles that make Starks vs Lannisters look like a tea party. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival The country was heavily bombed during the Second World War, forcing people to seek refuge in tunnels under the capital, Valletta, built 400 years earlier by knights defending the city against the Ottomans. We had already been given an introduction to Malta's fascinating past at Odyssey — an immersive history experience complete with special effects and rides — now, prepped with head-torches and hard hats, we explored this amazing subterranean network on a tour with Heritage Malta. Visitors walking Valletta's grand streets and enjoying €4 Aperol spritzes in its squares seemed to have no idea what lay beneath their feet — understandable, as the city's ground-level attractions are impressive enough. These include the 16th-century cathedral (home to one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings, The Beheading of St John the Baptist), the Upper Barrakka Gardens with sweeping views over the harbour, and the stunning Grandmaster's Palace, all within walking distance of each other. In fact, pretty much all distances on this island are extremely manageable, especially from where we stayed in St. Julian's. It's a great base for exploring Malta by car, and a stay at the Hyatt Regency there makes coming back after a day of activities almost as appealing as heading out. 4 Tuck into a feast of traditional dishes at the Hyatt Credit: Hyatt 4 The Sun's Nuria Cremer-Vazquez loved the island Credit: Nuria The luxury hotel has pristine sea-view rooms with balconies, as well as a heated rooftop pool, spa facilities and a gym (for anyone who does wish to burn off those honey and date fritters). Its rooms are also triple-glazed so, despite St. Julian's being Malta's nightlife capital, we didn't have to worry about our five-star sleep being disturbed by revellers. Awe-inspiring A short drive from the hotel is the port of Cirkewwa, the jumping-off point for visiting Malta's sister islands, Gozo and Comino, and we were lucky enough to have Audrey — a proud Gozitan — showing us around her home isle. Gozo is an unassuming patch of land with a smaller population than Dover, yet it is home to the awe-inspiring Ggantija temples — megalithic structures that are older than the pyramids. Its vibrant capital, Victoria, is another must-visit, and on a clear day you can even see Sicily from the ramparts of the city. There is plenty to do beyond sightseeing. At Il-Wileg restaurant, you can try your hand at making the authentic Gozitan cheese, which is served all over Malta, under the watchful eye of a local chef — or you can take an idyllic tuk-tuk ride around the island. We rounded off our day trip with a memorable dinner at L-Istorja, set inside the lavish Kempinski Hotel. It serves the rich tapestry of Maltese cuisine with a gourmet twist but without the fine-dining cost — so you might as well order the gold-leaf-coated gnocchi and knock back a few Gozitan wines. Gozo has much of what makes Malta so special — stunning citadels, mind-blowing food, budget-friendly prices, and glittering turquoise sea — though it has noticeably fewer tourists, giving it a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-track feel. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs less than €5, and you only pay on the return journey. Technically, if you chose to stay, the journey would be free — and you could certainly be forgiven for never wanting to leave.

The Sun

5 hours ago

• The Sun

I explored the tiny European country with underground cities and little-known islands

REACHING for my umpteenth honey and date fritter, I joked that I would have to use the hotel gym after our incredible meal. But my host clutched her pearls and gasped: 'No, no. You have to forget about the gym in Malta, my love.' 4 4 Malta derives its name from the Greek word meaning 'place of honey' — fitting, for somewhere I was quickly realising might be Europe's most underrated culinary utopia. And with underground cities, little-known islands and mysterious temples, I would soon discover this wasn't the only surprise Malta had in store. As the sun set over Ta' Cicivetta farm, we were prepared a feast of traditional dishes, all using ingredients sourced from the garden we stood in. This tiny Mediterranean country is smaller than the Isle of Wight, which goes some way in explaining why its food goes under many people's radars; the limited land area means Maltese produce is barely exported, so you have to try it at source. In one dinner, we could taste the different cultures that have called Malta home over the centuries — Italian in the ricotta parcels and focaccia, Arabian in the date-based sweets and bigilla (a hummus-like dip made from beans), Spanish in the bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled in olive oil. Equally intriguing, however, was how easy it is to come across a full English on this faraway archipelago. The British stopped ruling Malta in 1964, but they left behind a love for this breakfast along with other cultural footprints such as UK plugs, driving on the left and speaking English (an official language here alongside Maltese). I got used to the unexpected sight of red telephone boxes on the streets of cities like Mdina, an ancient fortress which otherwise looked like something out of Game Of Thrones. Mdina's winding lanes and picturesque plazas were actually used as King's Landing in the HBO series, and our guide, Audrey, would occasionally hold up a scene on her phone to prove it. But Malta has seen real battles that make Starks vs Lannisters look like a tea party. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival The country was heavily bombed during the Second World War, forcing people to seek refuge in tunnels under the capital, Valletta, built 400 years earlier by knights defending the city against the Ottomans. We had already been given an introduction to Malta's fascinating past at Odyssey — an immersive history experience complete with special effects and rides — now, prepped with head-torches and hard hats, we explored this amazing subterranean network on a tour with Heritage Malta. Visitors walking Valletta's grand streets and enjoying €4 Aperol spritzes in its squares seemed to have no idea what lay beneath their feet — understandable, as the city's ground-level attractions are impressive enough. These include the 16th-century cathedral (home to one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings, The Beheading of St John the Baptist), the Upper Barrakka Gardens with sweeping views over the harbour, and the stunning Grandmaster's Palace, all within walking distance of each other. In fact, pretty much all distances on this island are extremely manageable, especially from where we stayed in St. Julian's. It's a great base for exploring Malta by car, and a stay at the Hyatt Regency there makes coming back after a day of activities almost as appealing as heading out. 4 4 The luxury hotel has pristine sea-view rooms with balconies, as well as a heated rooftop pool, spa facilities and a gym (for anyone who does wish to burn off those honey and date fritters). Its rooms are also triple-glazed so, despite St. Julian's being Malta's nightlife capital, we didn't have to worry about our five-star sleep being disturbed by revellers. Awe-inspiring A short drive from the hotel is the port of Cirkewwa, the jumping-off point for visiting Malta's sister islands, Gozo and Comino, and we were lucky enough to have Audrey — a proud Gozitan — showing us around her home isle. Gozo is an unassuming patch of land with a smaller population than Dover, yet it is home to the awe-inspiring Ggantija temples — megalithic structures that are older than the pyramids. Its vibrant capital, Victoria, is another must-visit, and on a clear day you can even see Sicily from the ramparts of the city. There is plenty to do beyond sightseeing. At Il-Wileg restaurant, you can try your hand at making the authentic Gozitan cheese, which is served all over Malta, under the watchful eye of a local chef — or you can take an idyllic tuk-tuk ride around the island. We rounded off our day trip with a memorable dinner at L-Istorja, set inside the lavish Kempinski Hotel. It serves the rich tapestry of Maltese cuisine with a gourmet twist but without the fine-dining cost — so you might as well order the gold-leaf-coated gnocchi and knock back a few Gozitan wines. Gozo has much of what makes Malta so special — stunning citadels, mind-blowing food, budget-friendly prices, and glittering turquoise sea — though it has noticeably fewer tourists, giving it a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-track feel. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs less than €5, and you only pay on the return journey. Technically, if you chose to stay, the journey would be free — and you could certainly be forgiven for never wanting to leave.