The Destination Dupes closer to home

Discover world-class destinations on your doorstep in Northern Ireland.

The ‘dupe’ trend has been welcomed across TikTok feeds, with over 5.9 billion views for affordable alternatives, but did you know that Destination Dupes are set to dominate the world of travel as a new trend for 2024?

The phenomenon reveals that travellers are uncovering alternative places that are a little unexpected, great value for money, avoid the crowds and still deliver the holiday vibes we all dream of. 

We have looked at some global holiday favourites and found local alternatives and counterparts that allow you to enjoy similar exciting experiences much closer to home, at a fraction of the cost and many less than two hours from Dublin.

Here's some of our favourites!

St George’s Market, Belfast (dupe for Time Out Market, Lisbon, Portugal)

(l-r - St. George's Market, Belfast and Time Out Market, Lisbon)

Time Out Market in Lisbon champions the very best of the city’s traders, restaurants and artists. St George’s Market in Belfast does exactly the same. Thanks to its fresh, local produce, live music and electric atmosphere, St George’s Market was named the UK’s Best Large Indoor Market at the NABMA Great British Market Awards last year. Open Friday through Sunday, this market is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions and is an essential destination for visitors of all ages.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy, County Antrim (dupe for Dachstein Skywalk, Austria)

(l-r - Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, County Antrim and Dachstein Skywalk, Austria)

Thrill seekers longing to venture to dizzying heights and cross narrow footbridges for perfect panoramic views need look no further than Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge along the Causeway Coastal Route. Much like the Dachstein Sky Walk in Austria, don’t look down, as you traverse this narrow rope bridge, blowing in the breeze and hanging high above the Atlantic Ocean. First erected by salmon fishermen more than 350 years ago, thousands of people now cross the bridge each year.

The MAC, Belfast (dupe for Tate Modern, London) 

(l-r - The MAC, Belfast and Tate Modern, London)

Why waste time queuing at the Tate Modern when you can satisfy your cultural cravings with a road trip to Belfast and experience the eclectic programme of international art exhibitions, live theatre and dance on offer at The MAC? Jam-packed with diverse and extraordinary things to see and do, this award-winning, accessible cultural hub, based in Belfast’s iconic Cathedral Quarter is a fantastic space that can be enjoyed by all ages and interests. 

Finn Lough Forest Domes, County Fermanagh (dupe for Ridgeback Lodge, Canada)

(l-r - Finn Lough Forest Domes, County Fermanagh and Ridgeback Lodge, Canada. Image courtesy of Ridgeback Lodge)

People travel far and wide to experience spectacular night-time stargazing in bubble domes, like those on offer at Ridgeback Lodge in Canada but why go so far when the same experience and spectacular views is just up the road? Finn Lough in County Fermanagh serves up uninterrupted views of the starry skies from a luxury bubble dome while its hot and cold therapy treatment cabins will leave you feeling renewed after your private audience with nature.

Marble Arch Caves, County Fermanagh (dupe for Hida Cave, Japan)

(l-r - Marble Arch Caves, County Fermanagh and Hida Cave, Japan)

If you’re longing to experience the natural beauty of the limestone Hida Cave in Japan why not visit Northern Ireland’s very own limestone caves in County Fermanagh. Delve deep beneath the lush green fields above and marvel at the labyrinth of waterfalls and lofty chambers that make up the Marble Arch Caves. Take a guided tour and try the first-of-its kind VR experience to get a cutting edge ‘deep time’ understanding of the cave system’s 340-million-year history. 

Mourne Wall, Mourne Mountains, County Down (dupe for the Great Wall of China)

(l-r - Mourne Wall, Mourne Mountains, County Down and The Great Wall of China)

While the Great Wall of China can be seen from space, adventurers need not travel that far to walk alongside a feat of human engineering that traverses valleys and mountains. Instead, travel to the Mourne Mountains in County Down and marvel at the ingenuity of the Mourne Wall. The wall passes over 14 of the 15 mountains it scales and, if you’re lucky, you might bump into one of the fifth generation stone masons repairing it using the same techniques their grandfather used to build it.

Morelli’s, Portstewart (dupe for Florence, Italy)

(l-r - Morelli's, Portstewart and Florence, Italy)

While Florentine innovator Bernardo Buontalenti may be recognised as the inventor of gelato, a flight to Florence isn’t required to enjoy some authentic Italian ice-cream and incredible scenery. Instead step into award-winning Morelli’s in Portstewart to experience an amazing array of ice creams, sundaes, delicious cakes and pastries as well as a full hot and cold menu. Morelli’s is the perfect stop-off along the Causeway Coastal Route for a sweet treat and jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Thank you for joining us on this journey exploring the fascinating destination dupes in Northern Ireland. We hope that this blog has provided you with valuable insights into the remarkable sights that bear a striking resemblance to famous locations from around the world. Northern Ireland is truly a treasure trove of stunning landscapes and captivating landmarks. Whether you're a traveller seeking adventure, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking to be inspired, these destination dupes offer a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Let us know your favourites #MyGiantAdventure.