There are some cities that arouse great curiosity in tourists - who then, when they get there, can be disappointed. Or panic: the city is "full of people". It's just crowded.

Although the panic can start earlier, when you see how much it costs to sleep there, or how much it costs to travel there.

To avoid such confusion (and to save money), but without leaving the country you want to visit, Get Your Guide has come up with a list of 8 suggestions.

France

Don't visit Paris, go to Lyon. France's third largest city is the capital of gastronomy. One tenth of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has several museums worth visiting (and they're cheaper than in Paris). It rains less and summers are a little hotter than in the capital.

Spain

Leave Barcelona and head for Valencia. The energy is more relaxed in the City of Arts and Sciences. Food-wise: it's the birthplace of the famous paella. The historic center mixes Roman, Moorish and Spanish architecture. And with beaches with plenty of space for everyone.

Croatia/Montenegro

Dubrovnik, which became famous for being the setting for countless scenes in Game of Thrones, can be replaced by Kotor. The charm of yesteryear is still there, as is the seaside beauty. The experience is more intimate. But it has a historic center with labyrinths and stunning beaches. Kotor also has lots of cats - even a Cat Museum.

USA

New York would be the obvious destination. But Philadelphia is a good option: as the birthplace of the nation, it is full of historically unparalleled sites. There are special spaces dedicated to movies. Those who like to eat will be well catered for - and more than just cheesesteaks or pretzels. For hiking, there's the largest landscape park in the world.

Netherlands/Germany

Forget Amsterdam and head for Hamburg. The German city even has more canals than the Dutch and Venice combined. It's a city turned towards the sea and warehouses. It was Europe's main commercial center. There's a memorable concert hall, one of Europe's most important art museums and a lively nightlife.

Japan

Not Tokyo, Kyoto. Here is a more authentic view of Japan's rich history and culture. A cultural treasure trove. Revelations about a fascinating, mysterious and misunderstood past. Many transformative experiences and meditation - there are over 2,000 temples and shrines. A haven of tranquillity.

Mexico/Belize

It would be easy to opt for the beaches of Tulum or Cancún, but nearby is Belize. The country has the second largest coral reef in the world; a diver's paradise. Belize's beaches are much quieter than those in Mexico. Plus rainforests and stunning mountains. Street food and flavors from different regions and cultures.

Italy/Belgium

Finally, Venice is out of the way and we're off to Bruges. Several suggestions. A maze of picturesque canals and ancient streets. A winding staircase with 366 steps. A romantic boat trip along the canals.