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There's no need to cross the ocean to experience the Continent's charms. Just point your car toward these European-influenced cities -- all in North America.

Jetting off to Europe can be a pricey proposition. But if you're a frustrated Europhile on a budget, don't despair. These North American destinations offer the atmosphere of the Old World -- think charming sidewalk cafes, ancient architectural gems, and markets bursting with colorful sights and sounds -- at a price most anyone can afford.

Instead of Germany ... Fredericksburg, Texas
Founded by German settlers in 1846, this Texas Hill Country town has Bavarian charm to spare, plus cozy bed-and-breakfast inns, spas and wineries. You'll feel the Old World vibe in local biergartens and in gingerbread-bedecked restaurants such as Der Lindenbaum and the Old German Bakery. A stroll through the historic district takes you past quaint "Sunday Houses," tiny dwellings built by German pioneers who lived in rural areas during the week and came into town on weekends to shop, worship and visit. Bonus: In springtime, Fredericksburg's hillsides are blanketed with wildflowers.

Instead of The Netherlands ... Holland, Michigan
This pretty town is best known for its world-famous Tulip Time festival, held each May. The festival draws more than 750,000 people to see displays featuring 6 million tulips in bloom! But Holland, nestled on the banks of Lake Michigan, boasts quaint Dutch charm throughout the year. In fact, its downtown is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You'll see gable-roofed buildings built by the city's first Dutch settlers, and you'll find restaurants, shops and galleries offering a variety of Dutch treats such as hand-carved wooden shoes and Delft china. Don't leave without a visit to Windmill Island for a look at an authentic 12-story, 240-year-old Dutch windmill. The island also features a hand-painted antique carousel, an Amsterdam street organ and summer-long klompen dance performances.

Instead of Greece ... Tarpon Springs, Florida
Greek immigrants came to this coastal community in the early 1900s, often making a living by diving for sponges. Today, Tarpon Springs has the highest concentration of Greek-Americans in the United States. The Greek Orthodox feast of the Epiphany on January 6 is the largest such celebration in the United States. Dozens of Greek boys mark it by diving into Spring Bayou to retrieve a special cross; traditionally, the diver who brings up the cross is blessed with good luck. Year-round, there's plenty of action on the docks, where you can watch a sponge-diving display, visit the sponge museum and take a cruise on the Anclote River. After a pleasant day, enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the area's numerous Greek restaurants. Local favorites include Hella's Restaurant & Bakery and Mama's Greek Cuisine.

Instead of Paris ... Quebec City, Quebec
Nearly 400 years old, Quebec City ranked sixth among the most popular travel destinations in the world by National Geographic Traveler. Although it's just north of Maine, this Canadian gem feels very European -- especially since about 95 percent of its 660,000 residents are French-speaking. If you love Paris, you'll be hopelessly smitten with Old Quebec, the famous walled part of the city, where the streets are lined with boutiques and cafes, and horse-drawn carriages amble past serenading musicians. Do as the French (Canadians) do and walk everywhere: Stroll along the St. Lawrence River and up to the stunning Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, perched on a bluff; window-shop along rue Petit-Champlain, North America's oldest market street; and explore the antiques row of rue Saint-Paul.

Instead of Poland ... Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, home to 1.8 million Poles, is the second-largest Polish community in the world; only Warsaw has more residents of Polish descent! Start at the Polish Museum of America on Milwaukee Avenue, in the city's northwest corner. The museum, one of the oldest and largest ethnic museums in the country, has three floors of Polish art, books and historic and cultural artifacts. Be sure to browse the museum gift shop, where you'll find imported specialty items such as Polish dolls and amber jewelry. Next, stroll Milwaukee Avenue, chockablock with Polish restaurants, bakeries and sausage shops. Bring your appetite to longtime favorite Czerwone Jabluszko restaurant for the best (and cheapest) Polish dishes you'll find this side of the Atlantic. Other highlights include the St. John Cantius Church, where traditional Polish Mass is celebrated, and the Copernicus Foundation, with year-round theater performances, festivals and special events, including the popular Taste of Polonia festival held each fall.

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