7 destinations where you can travel like a celeb without breaking the bank
Yacht-filled party hot spots like Ibiza, the coveted coastline of Cannes or the private tranquillity of Italy's Lake Como -- celebrities tend to flock to expensive, high-end European destinations to spend money in style.
Unlike celebs, though, the average traveler can't always afford the fanciest hotels in the priciest destinations.
However, there are workarounds.
Traveling in the off-season or using points and miles to stay at a luxury hotel can make dreamy celebrity-style vacations a reality. However, when it comes to traveling like a celebrity, it's actually more about the destination than anything else. By tweaking your desired getaway location, you may be able to rent that boat, afford a serious hotel splurge and generally feel like a celebrity version of yourself during your next vacation.
Here's where you should go to travel like a celebrity in and around Europe without breaking the bank.
1. Kos, Greece
If you wish you were an A-lister partying in Mykonos or honeymooning in Santorini, choose a Greek Island for your next vacation. Just choose a more affordable one to stretch those funds further. We recommend the island of Kos, known for its fancy nightlife and pristine beaches. Plus, low-cost carriers EasyJet and Tui fly to the island from London nonstop for those that want to arrive cost-effectively.
Once there, sip white wine and admire a glowing sunset dipping into the sea, lounge on private white sands or live it up after hours at the club. Even the coolest hotels on the island, such as the boho-chic, adults-only OKU Kos are still under a few hundred pounds, even during the summer's high season.
2. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech isn't just for celebrities. Traditional travelers can easily afford a beautiful Moroccan abode to stay in, snapping enviable Instagram shots in the bustling souks or on rooftops overlooking the dusty Moroccan streets with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains in the distance.
The pricey La Mamounia hotel, frequented by celebs like Khloé Kardashian, Gwyneth Paltrow and even the wannabe heiress Anna Sorokin, might be out of budget. However, there are plenty of boutique riads with private, floral courtyards and idyllic pools apt for even budget travelers. Try out TPG favorite Riad BE. Also, enjoying a private Hamman experience is accessible to all travelers, with different spots around the city offering this traditional Moroccan replenishing spa service.
3. Sardinia, Italy
While many celebrities cruise their yachts through Porto Cervo along the cosmopolitan Costa Smeralda on Sardinia's east side, the island has much to offer travelers who visit the islands sans mega yachts.
The charming town of Alghero is perfect for visitors hoping for delicious and affordable Italian food and lodging. It's home to plenty of sandy beaches and various cultural attractions, too. Plus, there are a number of beautiful villages throughout the island -- from epic views from the hilltop village of Castelsardo to the vibrant colors of Bosa. For those who wish they could make it to the Caribbean, the fine white sands and crystal waters of Sardinia's Maddalena Islands feel like paradise.
4. Tarifa, Spain
Forego the pricier islands of Formentera and Ibiza, where you can spot celebs parking their yachts or sipping cocktails at beach clubs, for an equally sexy, boho-chic vacation along the windswept sands of Tarifa. Located on the southern tip of Spain, this Andalusian beach town attracts surfers and travelers in search of blissed-out beaches and a chill nightlife scene for a fraction of the price you'd pay in the Balearic Islands.
Beyond just enjoying the 'scene,' the old historical center is particularly quaint for a sunset stroll. Those visiting in summer and fall may catch sight of various whale breeds that migrate through the Atlantic. From stunning sunsets on the rooftop of the Kook Hotel to leisurely sipping cava to house beats on one of Tarifa's many beach clubs, soak in Tarifa's stylish and relaxing vibes, celebrity-style.
5. The Italian Alps
Want a fancy ski trip in St. Moritz, Switzerland, like Kate Moss or Joe Jonas? Consider the Italian Alps instead. They offer plenty of powdery snow, towering white peaks and apres-ski in style at a much lower price than the Swiss slopes. From popular ski areas like the Dolomites, the Val d'Aosta or Val Gardena, there's no shortage of skiing action in the Italian Alps all winter long.
Visiting the Italian Alps in summer can be just as magical, though. Celebrities tend to flock to the pricier Italian Lake District (Lake Como is a favorite of George Clooney), but areas such as Trentino or South Tyrol offer that same rural rejuvenation without breaking the bank, including plenty of alternative lakes backed by snow-capped mountains.
6. Madrid, Spain
A luxury hotel boom lures celebrities and beyond to the historic Spanish capital of Madrid. The near $1,000-per-night prices of newly-opened spots like the Edition Madrid, the Four Seasons Madrid, the Mandarian Oriental Ritz Madrid and the Rosewood Villa Magna Madrid may be out of reach for the non-celebrity traveler. However, the bar prices, aimed to attract local Madrileños, are surprisingly affordable. Sip glass of Spanish wine for $4 at many of these hotel bars. Plus, Madrid offers endless options to both celebrities and regular travelers -- including incredible art museums, an up-and-coming dining scene and affordable and iconic nightlife.
When it comes to hotels, the aforementioned Edition does offer points availability, assuming you're willing to fork over at least 85,000 Bonvoy points per night. Don't worry, though. More affordable points options allow points-rich travelers to stay around the city for less at spots like the Hyatt Centric (starting at 20,000 Hyatt points per night) or the Westin Palace (starting at 40,000 Bonvoy points per night).
7. The Algarve, Portugal
Looking to rent a gorgeous getaway villa at an affordable price? Portugal's Algarve is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in all of Europe – celebrity-approved sands at rock bottom prices. So, skip the expensive sands at Cannes and consider a home rental. Villas along the French Riviera that sleep eight average around $800-$1,000 per night, but equally gorgeous villas are available in the Algarve for a fraction of that -- even beachfront ones, too, according to summer Airbnb listings.
Besides the awe-inspiring sunsets at Cabo San Vincent, nearby mountain ranges and some of the most golden sand in Europe, Portugal's southern coast is perfect for travelers who desire a luxury experience for a budget price. Also, for any points-rich Algarve visitors, consider Pine Cliffs, one of the fanciest resorts in southern Portugal with seven outdoor pools, or the brand-new, uber-trendy W Algarve (both properties start at 50,000 Bonvoy points per night).
Bottom line
Average travelers can still enjoy celebrity-style vacation experiences, especially if they dip into their stash of points or select affordable -- but still beautiful -- destinations. After all, beauty and charm are for everyone, not just celebrities. There are many destinations in and around Europe where your dollars stretch further and offer you luxury experiences on a budget.
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| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.