Looking for where to go for your summer in Europe? This guide covers the best summer destinations in Europe, as well as beaches, culture, and adventure. Top spots like Dubrovnik, the Algarve, and the Greek Islands. Europe has a mix of popular summer hotspots and hidden gems for all kinds of travelers, from beach lovers to adventure seekers.
Top Destinations for a Summer Vacation in Europe
Europe’s top summer destinations offer a delightful mix of sunny weather, rich cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re sipping wine under the Mediterranean sun or exploring picturesque villages, these destinations promise to make your summer vacation truly memorable.
Here are some of the best summer destinations in Europe that should be on your travel radar.
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, aka the Pearl of the Adriatic, is a destination with stunning beaches and an old town that really stands out. The ancient city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are the backdrop to your summer.
As you walk through Dubrovnik’s narrow streets, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time, especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, as the city was the filming location for King’s Landing. The beaches along the Adriatic Sea are perfect for sunbathing and dipping.
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2. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve in Portugal is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and fishing villages. This region has relaxation and adventure in spades, making it one of the top summer spots in Europe. Whether you’re exploring the coastline, water sports, or eating local food, the Algarve will be the summer of a lifetime. Don’t miss the Benagil Cave, which is a natural wonder you can only access by boat.
One of the most common ways to get to the Algarve is by air. Faro Airport (FAO) serves as the main gateway into Portugal from Europe and other countries around the world. The airport is located near Faro Beach, which offers stunning views and plenty of activities for travelers who want to explore after their flight arrives. From Faro Airport, visitors can take buses or taxis that will transport them directly to their hotel or transfer them onto public transportation such as trains and buses that will take them further inland.
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3. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination with its villages and Mediterranean views. This coastal gem has towns perched on cliffs, with stunning scenery around every corner. We spent our days wandering the streets, eating gelato, and visiting the Amalfi Cathedral. The nearby Path of the Gods hiking trail is something you should not miss. The views are incredible.
The Amalfi Coast is a sensory overload. The colors of the towns, the scent of the lemon groves, and the sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs is magic. Whether you’re eating al fresco with a view or lounging on one of the beaches, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.
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4. Greek Islands
The Greek Islands are a summer paradise, with clear waters, beautiful beaches, and rich culture. Island hopping is the way to go here; you can visit multiple islands on one trip. Mykonos is for the party people, while Santorini and Crete are for people interested in something more relaxed or into a more cultural experience.
Each island has its own charm, from the white buildings of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Crete. Enjoy Greek food, visit villages, and enjoy the Mediterranean views. The Greek Islands are one of our favorite summer destinations.
5. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a city that has art, culture, and beach life. Famous for its Mediterranean vibe and Gaudi’s architecture, this city is a visual feast. Walk through the markets, relax on the city beaches, and eat tapas. The city has a lively atmosphere and nightlife, so it’s a top summer spot.
You can get a taste of Barcelona’s culture by taking a tapas cooking class. And if you’re here in mid-July, don’t miss one of the summer festivals, Sónar or Primavera Sound. Barcelona has something for every kind of traveler.
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Hidden Gems: Underrated Summer Getaways
While the usual summer hotspots are always popular, Europe has many hidden gems that offer a peaceful experience away from the crowds.
These under-the-radar summer getaways are perfect for those who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations that are just as beautiful and full of culture.
6. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
The Bay of Kotor is a fjord-like inlet in Montenegro that has stunning views and a mix of cultural experiences. The medieval Old Town of Kotor is perfect for wandering through narrow pedestrian streets and finding historical landmarks. For the adventurous, a hike up to the Kotor Fortress has stunning views of the bay.
The Bay of Kotor feels like going back in time. The steep cliffs and calm waters create a dramatic and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a summer escape. The best times to visit are April, May, September, and October, when the weather is nice, and the crowds are small.
If you are planning to land directly at the coast, the Tivat Airport, near the Boka Bay is the most convenient route. Also, Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia, that is 15 minutes away from the Croatia-Montenegro border, could be your optimal choice, especially if you want to explore both countries’ coastlines.
7. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, is a charming and lively city during the summer months. The city offers a perfect blend of old-town charm and modern metropolis vibes, making it ideal for exploration.
Stroll through the picturesque streets, visit notable landmarks like Ljubljana Castle and Triple Bridge, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that the city offers.
To get to Ljubljana, visitors can fly into Ljubljana Jože Pucnik Airport (LJU), which sits about 15 miles north of the city center. Rental cars and taxis are readily available at the airport, or travelers can take an Avtobusna Postaja Ljubljana bus from the airport to central Ljubljana.
10. Iceland
Iceland is a land of fire and ice, with volcanic landscapes, geysers, and hot springs. In the summer, the country is alive with 24 hours of daylight, so there’s plenty of time for adventure. Hiking, horseback riding, and whale watching are popular activities, so it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
Iceland is a land of fire and ice, with volcanic landscapes, geysers, and hot springs. In the summer, the country is alive with 24 hours of daylight, so there’s plenty of time for adventure. Hiking, horseback riding, and whale watching are popular activities, so it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
Iceland is best explored by caravanning, so you can go at your own pace and discover the hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re soaking in the Blue Lagoon or gazing at the waterfalls, Iceland is the ultimate summer adventure.
11. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled in Slovenia is a pretty spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, it has kayaking, hiking, and cycling.
The serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make Lake Bled an ideal destination for a peaceful yet adventurous summer getaway.
Cultural and Historical Hotspots
Europe is a treasure trove of cultural and historical hotspots for history lovers and culture vultures. From ancient ruins to cities that buzz, these places have stories to tell and experiences to immerse you in.
12. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a city where the East meets the West and history meets the modern. The iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace are must-sees that will take you back in time. Istanbul is a top destination for history lovers at any time of the year.
Walking through the bustling bazaars, tasting the Turkish delights, and seeing the Bosphorus are just a few of the experiences that will await you in this amazing city. We have visited on several occasions and always find a new reason to fall in love with Istanbul. Old and new blend together for an unforgettable summer.
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13. Rome, Italy
Rome is an open-air museum, so it’s a city full of history and cultural heritage. You can visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon; all of them will give you a glimpse of the city’s glorious past. The narrow streets and the people are part of the charm, so, despite it being very crowded, it’s a top summer destination for us.
No trip to Rome is complete without eating authentic Italian food. From pasta to pizza to gelato, the city’s food will make your taste buds happy. Rome has history, culture, and food, which is the perfect combination for any European summer.
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14. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a city that will hook you with its history and architecture. We first visited back in 2011 and loved everything about it. From Gothic to Baroque, the buildings are a mix of all types of architecture. We enjoyed walking the narrow cobblestone streets, enjoying classical concerts, and soaking up the nightlife. The squares and cafes are buzzing, and Prague is a must-see for a cultural summer.
Also Prague has many historical landmarks to prove its rich past. The Prague Castle, one of the biggest ancient castles in the world, has stunning views of the city and a deep dive into Czech Republic’s history. The Charles Bridge with baroque statues is perfect for a walk, especially at sunrise or sunset when the views are magic.
Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square, a medieval masterpiece that puts on a show every hour. For art lovers, the city has plenty of museums and galleries, including the National Gallery and the Museum of Decorative Arts, to name a few, with a wide range of art from different periods.
Plan Your Trip To Prague Here
15. French Riviera, France
The French Riviera, also known as Côte d’Azur, is glamorous and luxurious. This beautiful coastal region has sun drenched beaches, nightlife and boutiques. In Nice you can walk along the Promenade des Anglais, relax on the beaches and bike ride with the Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop. The French Riviera has a vibrant cultural scene and al fresco dining opportunities making it a top destination for summer vacations.
Nearby are charming medieval villages like Gourdon and Sainte Agnes, which have views and history. Gourdon is known as the Eagle’s Nest and has breathtaking views over the valley. The French Riviera has natural beauty and luxury, so it’s the perfect summer holiday destination.
16. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are five colorful villages that we fell head over heels in love with. Imagine pastel-coloured buildings tumbling down hills and views of the sea that make you pinch yourself. We spent our days wandering through the narrow cobbled streets, lounging on the beautiful beaches and soaking up the Mediterranean magic in each village.
Each of the five villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—has its own special charm and attractions. Monterosso al Mare has big sandy beaches and lemon trees, so it’s perfect for sunbathing and chilling out. Vernazza has a tiny harbor and colorful houses and is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Corniglia is perched on top of a hill and has the most stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. It is the only village without direct access to the sea, so it adds a bit of an extra challenge to your exploration.
You’ll never want to go home.
From Florence, you can get to the Cinque Terre in about 2 hours, either by car or train.From Milan, you can drive to the Cinque Terre in a little under 3 hours, or get there by train in 3.5 hours.
Trains are the easiest way to get to and around Cinque Terre. Trenitalia has direct connections to La Spezia from Rome, Florence, and Pisa (the closest airport). Once in Cinque Terre, the Cinque Terre Express train runs between La Spezia and Levanto in Sestri Levante, stopping at each village.
17. Balearic Islands, Spain
Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca are three of our top choices for the summer holidays. Majorca is a dream with its clear blue waters, white sandy coves and stunning natural spots like Sierra de Tramontana. The island has a lively nightlife, great food and beautiful beaches so it’s the perfect destination in the summer season.
One of my favorite things to do is island hopping in the Balearics. Each island has its own vibe. Whether you’re partying in Ibiza, chilling on Menorca’s beaches, or soaking up Majorca’s natural beauty, you can see why these made the list.
Majorca is the biggest island and a heaven for nature lovers and adventure seekers like us. You can hike the rugged trails of Sierra de Tramontana, visit the historic Bellver Castle, or explore the famous Caves of Drach. And there’s so many water sports to try out, from snorkelling in clear blue waters to sailing along the coast. You won’t leave these islands without having the time of your life.
Sustainable Travel in Europe
Sustainable travel means being aware and having a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Europe has many opportunities to practice sustainable travel, from choosing eco-friendly accommodation to using sustainable transport and supporting local businesses.
Here are some tips to make your European trip more sustainable.
Eco Accommodation
Look for eco accommodations that use renewable energy and reduce waste. Many hotels are now turning off lights and air con when not in use. Staying at these places makes your trip more sustainable and supports businesses that care for the planet.
Choosing eco accommodation means your holiday has a positive impact on the environment. These places often have a great vibe and delicious food, so you can enjoy and be sustainable.
Sustainable Transport
Reduce your carbon footprint while traveling by using sustainable transport. Many European cities have great public transport systems, including buses, trams, and trains. Public transport reduces carbon emissions and lets you experience the city like a local.
Cycling is becoming more popular in European cities and is another sustainable transport option. Many cities have bike rental services and bike paths, so you can explore the city on two wheels.
Walking tours are a way to discover a city’s history and culture while having a low-impact travel experience.
Support Local Communities
Supporting local communities during your travels is key to their cultural and economic well being. Choose local accommodation, eat at local restaurants and participate in community events so your travel dollars go to the local economy. Make conscious choices to preserve the character and culture of the places you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top destinations for a summer vacation in Europe?
If you’re looking for a summer getaway in Europe, check out Dubrovnik, the Algarve, the Amalfi Coast, the Greek Islands, and Barcelona. Each spot has beautiful beaches, amazing culture, and something special to offer!
What are some hidden gems in Europe for a summer getaway?
Check out the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, Ljubljana in Slovenia, and the stunning Lofoten Islands in Norway for a chill summer getaway. These spots are perfect for beautiful views and a break from the crowds!
Which European destinations are ideal for adventure seekers?
For adventure seekers, Interlaken in Switzerland, Iceland, and Lake Bled in Slovenia are top picks, offering amazing opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and paragliding. Let’s get your adrenaline flowing!
What are some coastal escapes in Europe for a relaxing summer vacation?
For a chill summer vibe, check out the French Riviera, Cinque Terre, or the Balearic Islands; they’ve got gorgeous beaches and charming towns to relax in.
How can I travel sustainably in Europe?
Traveling sustainably in Europe is easy! Just opt for eco-friendly accommodations, rely on public transport or bikes, and spend your money at locally-owned businesses.
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