Last updated on August 2nd, 2024 at 01:14 am
With the cost of international travel from the United States skyrocketing recently, a European vacation may seem like a farfetched dream. But what if you could experience Europe in Texas? Well, you can!
The Lone Star State is chock-full of towns and cities that bear resemblance to destinations in Europe. In this travel guide we share unique ways to experience a European-inspired adventure right here in Texas, no passport required!
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission, at no cost to you, when you make a purchase through the links. Read our complete disclaimer here, and Amazon Affiliate disclosure here.
Each of the following Texas towns offers a unique blend of Texan hospitality and European flair.
Experience Europe in Texas: France
Admire the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas
France is one of the most visited European countries, with the Eiffel Tower in Paris being one of its most notable attractions.
Comparatively, Paris, a small town in East Texas, has its own Eiffel Tower replica, adorned with a giant red cowboy hat. It is an iconic Texan twist on the Parisian landmark.
Our first time visiting Paris was epic, to say the least! It was a Europe trip (well, close enough) that we did not know we needed.
The Ultimate Guide to the Eiffel Tower in Texas
Check out our detailed guide to the Eiffel Tower in Texas.
Exciting Things to Do in Paris, Texas
For a small Texas town, Paris sure packs a punch as far as activities are concerned! Check out our Guide to Exciting Things to Do in Paris, Texas.
Immerse Yourself in French Heritage in Castroville
For a truly unique French experience, head to Castroville, just 20 miles west of San Antonio, in South Texas. This quaint town showcases its Alsatian heritage through architecture and cuisine.
Alsatian heritage refers to the cultural traditions, customs, language, and history of people from the Alsace region, located in northeastern France along the border with Germany.
Indulge in French Cuisine at La Parisienne in Frisco
La Parisienne offers a French cafe/bistro experience in North Texas. The cuisine and overall setting make for the perfect Parisian ambiance.
Check out our La Parisienne Guide for more details.
Experience Europe in Texas: Croatia
Explore a Croatian-inspired Village at Adriatica in McKinney
Developers designed Adriatica Village to resemble a Croatian village, specifically drawing inspiration from the coastal town of Supetar on the island of Brač.
The village is surrounded by a lake, offering beautiful waterfront views and creating a serene environment reminiscent of European coastal towns.
The cobblestone streets, stone buildings, and picturesque harbor give Adriatica Village a distinctly European feel.
Check out our Adriatica Village Travel Guide to learn more about this Mediterranean-inspired gem.
Experience Europe in Texas: Italy
Go Gondola Cruising at Mandalay Canal in Las Colinas
Las Colinas is a thriving community within the city of Irving in North Texas. It is known for the Mandalay Canal, a European-inspired waterway.
Gondola rides on the canal are a great activity providing an experience reminiscent of Venice.
Discover Texas Wine Country with European Flair in Florence
Florence is located about 40 miles north of Austin in Williamson County. The Vineyard at Florence is a notable attraction, offering a taste of European charm with its winery, restaurant, and boutique resort.
Experience Europe in Texas: Germany
Soak in German Culture in the Texas Hill Country
Immerse yourself in German culture in Fredericksburg. Visitors know it for its wineries, charming Main Street, and German-inspired architecture.
At Fredericksburg, you can sample German cuisine, visit local attractions, and enjoy the town’s festive Oktoberfest celebrations.
Immerse Yourself in History in New Braunfels
German immigrants to Texas founded New Braunfels. The city has largely preserved its German heritage, as the historic downtown area demonstrates with its German architecture. Walking tours often highlight these architectural gems and provide insights into the town’s German roots.
Additionally, New Braunfels is known for events such as Wurstfest, an annual celebration of German culture and music festival held in November.
Attend Germanfest in Muenster
Muenster, a German-inspired town in North Texas, attracts visitors with its Germanfest, authentic German restaurants, and quaint downtown area.
Experience Europe in Texas: Czech Republic
Discover the Czech Heritage Capital of Texas
West, Texas, is a small town 70 miles from the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex. It is known as the Czech Heritage Capital of Texas, with about 75% of the town’s population being of Czech heritage.
West is also famous for its delicious kolaches and klobasniky.
Experience Europe in Texas: Ireland
Attend a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Dublin, Texas
Experience a touch of Ireland in Dublin, a small Texas town. Dublin fully embraces its Irish connection with an annual lively and highly anticipated St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
The town is also home of Dublin Bottling Works, famous for bottling Dr Pepper for over 100 years.
Experience Europe in Texas: Netherlands
Step Into Netherlands in Nederland
Dutch settlers founded Nederland in Texas. When you visit, explore attractions like the Dutch Windmill Museum and La Maison Acadienne.
Experience Europe in Texas: England
Explore Texas’ Version of Stonehenge
Stonehenge II in Ingram, Texas, is a quirky nod to the United Kingdom. This art installation is a scaled-down replica of the famous English monument, complete with Easter Island head statues.
Experience Europe in Texas: Sweden
Visit a Historic Church in New Sweden
Located just northeast of Manor in Travis County, New Sweden offers a glimpse of Scandinavian heritage.
The beautiful New Sweden Lutheran Church, established by pioneers from the Swedish province of Småland in 1873, is a must-visit.
Texas Towns and Cities with European Names
The following Texas towns and cities only have European names but no further cultural connection.
- Athens, Texas, is known as the black-eyed pea capital of the world and was once considered the original home of the hamburger.
- Naples, Texas, is a small town known for its annual watermelon festival.
- Schulenburg, Texas, has a collection of beautifully decorated churches known as the Painted Churches.
- New Berlin, Texas’ name is a nod to its German namesake.
- Italy, Texas, is referred to as the Biggest Little Town in Texas.
- Holland, Texas, got the Dutch name Holland when applying for a post office, as “Mountain Home” was already taken by another community.
- Geneva, Texas, is the oldest continuously occupied town in East Texas.
- Vienna, Texas, is a rural community known for its small town charm.
- Moscow, Texas, is an unincorporated community in Polk County, sharing its name with the Russian capital.
- London, Texas, is associated with a mysterious artifact called the London Hammer.
Final Thoughts About Where to Experience Europe in Texas
In conclusion, this guide proves that you don’t need to cross an ocean to experience Europe – it’s all right here in Texas! From Fredericksburg’s German heritage to the Czech influence in West, you’ll find echoes of various European cultures.
While it may not replace epic road trips across actual European countries, your journey through Texas’ European-inspired destinations can still be a great time.
So, the next time you yearn for a European getaway but can’t make the overseas trip, remember that a Texas-sized adventure awaits. The spirit of European exploration thrives in unexpected corners of the Lone Star State, essentially bridging the gap between two continents.
Happy Travels!
For more insights into travel, subscribe to our email list. Also, follow us on Instagram and Facebook for real-time updates on destinations and tips for making your travels truly exceptional.
P.S. If you found this post helpful or want to save it for later, please pin it on Pinterest. Thank you!
