15 Historic U.S. Cities That Feel Like Europe (2024)

St. Augustine is called America's Oldest City, and it's full of Spanish influence, from the architecture to the cuisine. Don't miss Villa Zorayda Musuem, an estate inspired by the 12th-century Moorish Alhambra Palace in Granda that's full of swoon-worthy antiquities. If you're looking for Minorcan-inspired flavors, don't miss out on dinner at Michael's before heading back to your Spanish Colonial digs at Casa Monica Resort & Spa.

While the vineyards in Napa's wine country have more French influence than Italian, this gorgeous region of Northern California evokes idyllic afternoons spent under the Tuscan sun. Spend the day tasting and admiring the views at Andretti Winery and V. Sattui before finishing with widely acclaimed, farm-to-table Italian cuisine at Bottega. Hotel Villagio is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Tuscan-like beauty for a long weekend.

Alfresco dining, one-of-a-kind views, star-studded beaches, and its Mediterranean climate has earned Santa Barbara the nickname "The American Riviera." A stay at the Martyn Lawrence Bullard–designed Hotel Californian is a fabulous respite at the end of a busy day that also offers a can't-miss Mediterranean-style brunch. There's also plenty of California-style French fare to be had, like gluten-free baked goods at Lilac Pâtisserie and locally sourced dishes from Bouchon.

French influence abounds in Louisiana's capital city, and it's the perfect place to get lost for a weekend. The French Market is an open-air street market in Jackson Square that's full of one-of-a-kind treasures to admire. If you're not afraid of the crowds, Antoine's is a must for fine French-Creole dining before a nightcap at Maison de la Luz. Better yet, stop by Café du Monde for midnight beignets en route to the hotel.

This charming mountain town in northeast Georgia is bursting with Bavarian charm and outdoor adventure. Valhalla Resort Hotel is the perfect Alpine respite for indulging in spa and golf activities, while the festive downtown offers fine, authentic German fare at Bodensee and plenty of taverns for celebrating an authentic Oktoberfest.

Nestled inside the White Mountain National Forest, Vail is the perfect retreat for ski bunnies craving a taste of Alpine life. Sonnenalp is the perfect resort to immerse yourself in European mountain charm and boasts fine Swiss fare. The equally festive downtown features rustic, Alpine dining at Alpenrose and a legendary breakfast at The Little Diner.

Nantucket is reminiscent of Yorkshire's cozy, coastal beach towns, as both are rich in history, charming architecture, and unspoiled coastline. Book your stay at Greydon House, an idyllic bed-and-breakfast set in an immaculately restored Colonial estate, that's within biking distance of many attractions. Make sure to find time to explore the town's strong artisan community between beach-hopping, and enjoy some classic pub fare at The Rose and Crown.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of California's gems, seated along the cliffs of the Central Coast. Here, old-world architecture, alfresco dining, and a strong art scene thrive among a dramatic seaside backdrop. Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach offers the Italian glamour you're looking for, while Il Tegamino provides all the Italian flavors at their finest.

While Boston fought hard to separate itself from British rule in the 18th century, the city undeniably reflects the charm and culture of London. Brick colonial homes along cobblestone streets, unique cuisine, and host of some of the world's greatest educational institutions offer a little taste of the city from home. The Boston Public Garden was the first public botanical garden in the U.S. and is full of Victorian influences, while Sarma's upscale Mediterranean flavors reflect London's global cuisine. Kick up your heels after an afternoon of shopping at the XV Beacon, a luxury hotel that oozes Gilded Age glam for the modern age.

America's capital city is full of Parisian elements, thanks to French architect and urban planner Pierre Charles L'Enfant, who designed it. Like Paris, D.C. is bursting with history, horticulture, and haute cuisine. Le Diplomate is a restaurant even the French ambassador finds lovely to dine at while Primrose is a Parisian-esque wine bar for the best Pét-nat after a busy day of sight-seeing.

Like Lisbon, Savannah is full of culture, charm, and beauty without all the pretension that usually accompanies it. Start your stay by booking a room at The Drayton Hotel in Savannah's historic district, which offers some of the best city views from the rooftop bar. Admire the ornate architecture—and co*cktails—at The Artillery, and check out the Southeastern U.S.'s first public art museum, Telfair Musuems, which offers an excellent selection of American and European art.

Vibrant nightlife, world-renowned cuisine, and sun-drenched beaches define both Charleston and the French coastal town. Revel in the seaside glamour of Hotel Bennett, which boasts fabulous French cuisine and a floor-to-ceiling pink co*cktail bar. Fat Hen offers Lowcountry-inspired French fare in a cozy setting while Félix co*cktails et Cuisine is the co*cktail bar to see and be seen in The Holy City.

This small town in the Santa Ynez Valley is an idyllic spot to enjoy a weekend of Danish culture, architecture, and eats. Cheese connoisseurs will adore Cailloux Cheese Shop, which specializes in European-style offerings, while oenophiles will be amazed by the wide variety of wineries in such a small town. Solvang Restaurant offers visitors a little taste of Copenhagen from California, but your best bet for the full Danish experience is during the town's cultural events and festivals, like Solvang Danish Days in September. And be sure to book your stay at the chicly festive Mirabelle Inn, a luxurious European experience.

Seated on the banks of Lake Champlain, Burlington is full of delightful shopping, world-renowned food, and iconic local breweries. This college town is both historic and hip, offering hints of downtown Dublin charm at every corner. Church Street Marketplace is the prime spot to drink and dine with acclaimed restaurants like Honey Road and Ri Ra Irish Pub for live music. It's worth staying 20 minutes out of town at Shelburne Inn if you're also seeking the tranquility of the Irish countryside. The inn resides on a beloved teaching farm next to a spectacular restaurant with fresh-from-the-farm fare.

They don't call it The Emerald Coast for nothing. Alys Beach's jewel-toned waters; stark-white Mediterranean architecture; impeccable seafood; and luxuriously laid-back vibe make it feel like an exclusive sector of the Greek Isles. Book one of Alys Beach's jaw-dropping vacation properties for an extra-comfortable stay and proximity to the area's best food and shops. Score glamorous oceanside seafood at George's or Caliza Restaurant, and head to nearby Seaside to enjoy the sounds, sights, and flavors of local street vendors and food trucks.