Europe in my Backyard: North America's Most European Cities

Going on a European vacation is something many of us dream of. If we’ve never been, it’s on our bucket list. And often it’s those of us who have already traveled to Europe that want to hop on a trans-Atlantic flight even more! We know how good a croissant tastes sitting outside a cafe in Paris, how ripe lemons pop against the bright blue sky of the Amalfi Coast, and how satisfying it feels to wander cobblestone streets anywhere, with no clear plan in place.

What if you could get that quintessential European vacation feeling closer to home? There are towns and cities in North America that make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe...if you know where to go.

Five Places to Find Europe in North America

Leavenworth, Washington fully embraces the Bavarian look and feel of its city. With regular festivals like Ale Fest and Maifest, it seems like there are always things to celebrate; making you feel like returning to visit again.

While Leavenworth has no direct connection to Bavaria, you can still find German beer along Front Street. The Nutcracker Museum boasts thousands of nutcrackers, some of which are centuries old. Leavenworth is a fun place to get away to year-round as there is a nearby ski resort for winter trips, and plenty of other outdoor activities to partake in during warmer months.

Visit nearby wineries on the Private tour to Leavenworth from Seattle with wine tasting.The city of Fredericksberg has a direct connection to Germany, with its rich history, which includes German settlers setting up homesteads and opening up stores along the town's main street.

Learn about this history as you visit the historic stores and check out the Wildseed Farm, where you can find many types of wildflower seeds to purchase, during the Wildflowers and Backroads tour. Your guide Sue incorporates history, culture, food, and flowers in this tour.Québec City was founded in the 17th century and was the capital of New France. This capital city of the province of Québec is the only completely-garrison-walled city north of Mexico.

The UNESCO world heritage Old Québec City area has enough history, culture, art, charm and French food to make you feel like you’ve travelled to France. Guide Djany will show you all the must-see spots and take you to a local restaurant during her Classic Quebec City Walking Tour.The British influence can be seen in the city of Victoria, capital of the province of British Columbia. Named after Queen Victoria in the 1800s, Victoria boasts beautiful English gardens, historic castles and homes and has traditional English tea service available.

The Heritage Tour of Victoria delivered by guide Sandra allows visitors to explore the historic highlights of downtown Victoria and also includes visits to national historic sites just outside the city.The city of New Orleans, Louisiana was settled by the French in the early 1700s. Walking around the city you can feel like you’ve been transported in time and space as you listen to the music and smell the food as you walk down the street. Mardi Gras is a particularly lively time to be in New Orleans.

You can visit 19th Century tombs, take a look at historic houses, and enjoy local cuisine during the Garden District Private Walking Tour delivered by guide Michaela.Not far from Santa Barbara lies the quaint, Danish-inspired village of Solvang. This town bills itself as "a little slice of Denmark in southern California". Founded in 1911 by Danish immigrants, it maintains strong ties with Denmark, and has even seen several visits from Danish royalty.

Get here in the morning to savour an incredible Danish pastry, at one of the town's many authentic Danish bakeries. Stroll through the village to admire the old world European architecture, then explore some of the many (over 120!) beautiful vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley, on your Solvang and Wine Tasting Tour.