Searching for the best places to visit in Europe in summer for the ultimate getaway? Keep reading!
There is no better place to enjoy an adventure-filled summer than in Europe! During the summer months, the entire continent is full of amazing things to do and see, offering something unique for every type of traveller. From beaches to old towns to hidden gems, Europe is a true treasure in summer and the best place in the world to visit for this season. There are some cities in Europe you just can’t miss during the summer months for an adventure you will never forget.
Here are the 15 best places to visit in Europe in summer!
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15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in Summer
Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Montenegro is the ultimate European summer destination for travellers of all kinds. It is one of Europe’s best hidden gems that is growing in popularity year by year. In addition to being one of the cheapest countries in Europe, it is also one of the most beautiful. You can easily enjoy a more lux holiday on a budget while still admiring all the beautiful mountains, beaches, and old towns.
Although there are many beautiful cities and towns in Montenegro the best for a summer holiday is Herceg Novi. This is a small town located near the Croatian border that promises a wonderful stay. It is located in a great place so you can easily travel to other cities in Montenegro and travel across the border to Croatia and Bosnia with ease. With so many things to do in Herceg Novi, this is surely one of the best places to spend Europe in summer.
Split, Croatia
Instead of going to the hyper-popular and super busy Dubrovnik, head to Split, Croatia. Split is a stunning coastal city in Croatia that offers the same beauty and history as Dubrovnik but is much less busy and touristy. There are still plenty of people here eager to enjoy the many beaches, old architecture and more. This is one of the best places to spend Europe in summer for the ultimate warm, vibrant, and unexpected vacation.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
If you are seeking a summer getaway that is more romantic and classy, then a visit to the Amalfi Coast is in order. The Amalfi Coast is a stunning coastal stretch of land in Italy that is world-famous for its breathtaking views and attractions. There are various towns in the Amalfi Coast that are worth visiting from Sorrento to Amalfi and more. However, the best for the most lust-worthy summer getaway is Positano.
Positano is one of the most beautiful villages in not only Italy but perhaps globally. With some of the best and most photographed views in the world, it is a must-visit in the summer for the picture-perfect Italian getaway. There are a ton of things to do in Positano and the surrounding Amalfi Coast towns that will keep you entertained for weeks.
Corfu, Greece
Nothing beats Greece in the summer. The bright blue water, stunning beaches, friendly crowds, and a plethora of amazing attractions make it the perfect place to set up a base for a few weeks to enjoy the hot summer sun. Amongst all the great places in Greece, one of the top summer destinations is Corfu. This is a small island at the top of Greece near Albania with tons of exciting things to do and see. It is also in close proximity to other great islands so you can enjoy more than just one!
Algarve, Portugal
The magical Algarve region of Portugal is the ideal summer in Europe destination for those seeking something full of adventure yet relaxing. The Algarve is home to some of Portugal’s best beaches and most amazing natural attractions. This makes it one of the top destinations for people seeking a relaxing beachfront getaway, that can also sprinkle in some excitement.
There are many great towns to visit in the Algarve all with their own unique perks. The two best options are Lagos and Albuferia – depending on your preferences. Lagos is more expensive and touristy but has some of the best attractions in the Algarve. While Albuferiea has great beaches and fun nightlife but has fewer top attractions.
Milos, Greece
Island hopping in Greece is a bucket list adventure for sure! The best time to do this is in the summer during on-season when all the ferries and boat tours are running and hopping between islands is at its easiest.
Many people head to Santorini, Greece which is a great start for your island-hopping adventures, but the top island to visit in Greece during summer is Milos! Milos is an otherworldly island with stunning beaches and a landscape you will find only on the Moon.
Valletta, Malta
Heading to one of Europes best-hidden gems, Malta, is perfect for travellers looking to enjoy a less touristy and more authentic summer getaway. Europe during the summer months is incredibly busy and finding beautiful places with few tourists is a challenge.
Although Malta still welcomes many people it is far less busy than other countries during this season. Head to Valletta, Malta for blue water beaches, old buildings and an authentic getaway in one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam in the summer is unbeatable. When the sun is shining, the air is warm and the canals are filled with boats partying and singing – it is as close to euphoria as it gets. Although Amsterdam is not the ideal place for swimming and beaches, it is perfect if you are looking for more mild temperatures and a young, vibrant atmosphere.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily is just about as far south as you can get for a hot and beautiful summer in Europe. If you are seeking a magical Italian getaway that is a little more off the beaten track then a visit to Sicily is in order. The plethora of beaches, delicious food, and rugged landscapes are enough to make anyone fall in love. This is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer that is not typically on everyone’s radar making it all the more special.
French Rivera, France
The French Rivera can seem intimidating at first due to its reputation as a luxury travel destination made for the rich and famous, but this is not entirely true. There are many places that are very expensive like Saint Tropez and Monaco but others that are very affordable! Despite being more affordable they are every bit as beautiful and worthy of your Europe in summer getaway.
Balearic Islands, Spain
The Balearic Islands in Spain are made up of Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca. These three islands are absolutely buzzing in the summer months and are some of the best places to visit in Europe in summer you are wanting an adventure-packed getaway full of partying, beaches, and a young crowd. You can pick one island and stay there or hop between the three for the full Balearic experience.
Villages of Switzerland
Switzerland is beyond charming all year round and in the summer when the mountains are full of lush green grass and the hikes are all open and accessible its charm is only amplified. This is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer if you are looking to enjoy the outdoors and want to see and experience some of the most naturally beautiful sights in Europe.
Albanian Riveria, Albania
If you are looking for the ultimate hidden gem travel destination in Europe in summer look no further than Albania. This lovely country has been overlooked for years and is an up-and-coming summer travel destination. The Albania Riveria has all the same beautiful blue water beaches that you will find in Croatia and Greece, but with far fewer tourists and lower prices! Head to Ksamil for the perfect beachfront holiday.
Nessebar, Bulgaria
There is nothing better than heading to a new country and experiencing a whirlwind adventure getaway that very few others get to experience. If you are drawn to unknown gems in Europe then a visit to Nessebar in Bulgaria is a must. Nessebar is an old small city with ancient cobblestone streets and a big comfortable beach. This is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer that offers something unique and your own.
Reykavik, Iceland
Visiting Iceland in the summer months is ideal if you want to spend the majority of your time outside exploring without enduring the cold. The summer months offer more daylight, lush terrains and the ability to get around without worrying about poor weather conditions. Iceland is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer for those seeking adventure and exploration above all.
There are so many amazing places to visit in Europe in summer. Finding the one that best fits your travel wants and needs is the hardest part.
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Love,
SSW
I thought I was well travelled! Your post highlights just how much more I have to explore.
I love so many of these destinations. I have visited a few and others are on my bucket list. I agree about Malta. It is a hidden treasure and I was so glad to have found it.
So beautiful! I love all the suggestions you make here, and there are so many places I never would have thought to visit in Europe. There really is so much diversity – Iceland is my new favorite bucket list place.
The Albanian Riviera is so underrated! I remember visiting that area a few years ago – the water was so clean and clear (perfect for swimming!) and cocktails on a rented beach chair were so affordable I couldn’t believe it when the staff first told me the prices!
There are so many places to visit in Europe – which to choose? Thanks for the inspiration.