"Hollywood's desert of choice is in Europe"
World Famous
Sahara Desert
Morocco
Endless golden dunes, camel treks, and starlit nights in the world's largest hot desert.
“Good enough for Lawrence of Arabia, good enough for you”
European Alternative
Tabernas Desert
Spain
Europe's only true desert! Filmed as a stand-in for the Sahara, Wild West, and even Mars. Sergio Leone shot his spaghetti westerns here. Wild, empty, and surreal.
The True Cost
Average prices from London
World
Sahara Desert
flight
Europe
Tabernas Desert
train
€0
True price saved
True price reflects hidden social and ecological costs such as CO₂ and air pollution.
666kg
Less CO₂
94%
Emission reduction
Prices are market averages, not lowest fares. Hidden costs based on CE Delft external-cost factors.
Ready to go?
Estimates from London, adjusted for current fuel prices
Sahara Desert
by flight · 3,822km
Tabernas Desert
by train · 1,617km
from €210
Search trains & buses →via Trainline
Save 666kg CO₂ vs flying
Or combine train, bus & ferry
Compare all transport options via Omio
Or travel further on one pass
Interrail Pass from €283 youth / €369 adult
Sahara Desert
Tabernas Desert
Why These Two?
Both offer vast, arid desert landscapes with golden-brown terrain stretching to the horizon. Hollywood agrees - they used Tabernas as the Sahara.
Travelling to Sahara Desert
By flight · 3,200 km
CO₂: 595 kg
Travelling to Tabernas Desert
By train · 1,700 km
CO₂: 48 kg(92% less)
More Like This
Similar alternatives
Got a suggestion?
Know a pair we're missing?
A famous destination you'd swap for a European one, or a hidden gem that deserves the spotlight. Send it our way.
Email us at travelalternative.eu@gmail.comStay inspired
New alternatives, every month
Get fresh destination pairs, travel tips, and deals delivered to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy. We respect your data.
Photo · Sahara Desert by Unsplash · Tabernas Desert by Unsplash