Get ready to see some of the best summer destinations in Europe! We’re about to dive deep into Europe’s heart, exploring the best of what the European summer months of June, July, and August are in store.
Some of the summer designations to look forward to are Timisoara, Romania, the untouched country of Latvia, the beautiful blue Adriatic of Montenegro, and the Isles of Greece!
So, buckle up, and trust me, by the end of this article, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and fly off to one of the best summer European destinations!
Best Summer Destinations in Europe
Provence France
Provence is one of the best European destinations in summer, in the south of France. From mid-June to August, the Provence region has warm weather, with temperatures that stay in the 70s and 80s.
Here’s what makes a Provencal summer so much fun:
- Lavender Fields: One of the most popular sights is the picturesque purple lavender fields, especially the ones in the Plateau de Valensole area.
- Festivals: The summer is marked with plenty of local events, music concerts, and traditional celebrations.
Popular cities near Provence to visit:
- Provence and Marseille: These towns in France have both historic charm and city life.
- The Coast of France: The coast of France stretches from Cassis to Cannes to Menton. These areas offer a bit cooler weather and stunning Mediterranean views.
Getting to Provence is easy peasy:
- By Air: The Marseille Provence Airport services flights from many European cities.
- By Train or Car: Alternatively, you can take a train or follow our France road trip itinerary.
Iceland – Midnight Sun
Next up for the best places to vacation in Europe during the summer is Iceland! The land of fire and ice turns into a magical transformation during the summertime. Plan your visit from mid-May to mid-July, when the glow of the Midnight Sun happens. The sun never fully sets, but it casts a mesmerizing twilight that lights up the night sky.
During this time, Iceland turns into a 24-hour playground. The Iceland waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss become even more magical under the glow of the Midnight Sun.
The magic is further amplified by the Midnight Sun Festival. This is a three-day event around the summer solstice in June. This festival has both local and international artists performing under the never-setting sun.
Getting to this Nordic wonderland is easier than you might think. There are frequent flights that connect Iceland with many European cities, and travel from the United States is easy too! Upon arrival, consider staying in one of these Luxury hotels in Iceland, for a perfect trip.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
The Dalmatian Coast in Croatia is a Mediterranean gem that is one of the best summer holiday destinations in Europe. Croatia has hot summers, and the region is at its most alive during July and August.
The coast is home to many beautiful islands. Brač, one of the most popular, attracts people from all over the world with its stunning beaches and charming small towns. Hvar Island is another beautiful island on the Dalmatian Coast, known for its sunny weather, beaches, and exciting nightlife.
And we can’t leave out Dubrovnik, AKA the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. This is one of the highlights of the Dalmatian Coast. This walled city is rich in history and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, and you can take a Game of Thrones tour in the old town!
Amalfi Coast
Despite being crowded and hot, visits to the Amalfi Coast are still one of the best summer vacations in Europe! You will love the beautifully colored homes, refreshing Amalfi coast beaches, and the lively Italian vibes.
If you are looking for where to stay on the Amalfi coast, here is a list of the most popular cities to visit!
- Positano: Stroll steep cobbled streets, shop at local boutiques, and relax at the famous Spiaggia Grande beach.
- Ravello: Visit Villa Rufolo’s gardens, and plan to attend the Ravello Festival for music and arts.
- Amalfi: Explore the epic Cathedral of St. Andrew, and shops selling local products.
- Atrani: Visit Atrani for a meal at a seaside restaurant, and relax on the beach, it is much less crowded.
- Minori and Maiori: Relax at the sandy beaches and visit Minori’s Roman marina.
Algarve, Portugal
From June to August, the Algarve is a seaside paradise with over 200 days of sunshine a year! It’s no surprise that people from every corner of the world flock here it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe in the summer.
But the Algarve isn’t just about the beaches, it’s also a hiker’s dream with coastal trails that wind over the seaside cliffs. Here are a few cities to plan on visiting on your trip the Algarve region of Portugal!
- Faro: The capital of the Algarve, Faro, has an old, marina, green parks, and a very lively nightlife.
- Lagos: is best known for stunning beaches like Praia Dona Ana, Lagos also offers dolphin-watching tours. The best beach here is the Ponta da Piedade. This is where the famous heart beach is inside the collection of rock formations on the coastline.
- Albufeira: This is a resort city that is famous for its young nightlife and beautiful beaches like Praia da Oura and Praia dos Pescadores! Be sure to visit the old town with its cobbled streets and traditional white-washed Portuguese squares.
- Tavira: This is an ancient Moorish town where you can explore the Tavira Castle, Roman Bridge, and local seafood at oceanfront restaurants.
Turkish Riviera
If you’re daydreaming about taking one of the cheap destinations in Europe in summer, let me steer you towards the Turkish Riviera. This is the southwestern Turkey region and this gem, also known as the Turquoise Coast, is a slice of paradise that not many people know about.
Check out why Turkey is on the list of the best European summer holiday destinations!
- Crystal Clear Waters: The Riviera isn’t called the Turquoise Coast for nothing! These beautiful waters make every beach day a real escape.
- Cooling Winds: Worried about the summer heat? Don’t be! The winds that come across the coast add a refreshing breeze in the afternoons.
- Nightlife As the sun sets in Turkey the Riviera streets light up. There are trendy clubs in Bodrum and the town of Antalya has epic nightlife in the old town!
- Beaches: There is a beach that perfect for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of the beaches in Bodrum, İztuzu, lively Fethiye shores, or secluded Patara beachfront you will find the perfect beach to relax in Turkey!
Ireland
Summer is the best time to visit Ireland! This is when you will have the longest days of the year! The sun doesn’t set until late into the evening, and when it does it casts a golden glow on the epic landscapes. The temperatures in Ireland hover between a comfortable 60°F/15°C to 70°F/20°C.
And while you may get some of the famous Irish rain, it’s all part of the charm that keeps the Emerald Isle so beautifully green.
Here are three of the most popular cities in Ireland to visit during the summer:
1. Dublin: This capital of Ireland has the old-world charm plus all the modern touches you need. Explore the historic Trinity College, and enjoy a pint of two at the renowned Temple Bar! If you are visiting in June, then you have to check out the literature during the Bloomsday Festival, which is a celebration of James Joyce’s masterpiece, Ulysses.
2. Galway: Up next is Glaways which is known as the ‘City of Tribes’. Plus, Galway is a cultural delight from the Galway International Arts Festival in July to the beautiful Connemara, this city will steal your heart.
3. Ring of Kerry: Prepare to be awestruck by this road trip in Ireland. You will pass by the sweeping views at Moll’s Gap, ancient Skellig Michael. If your summer vacation includes visiting Ireland in June, the Puck Fair is also an unforgettable experience!
Albanian Riviera
Next up is one of the best summer holiday destinations in Europe, now we are in Albania! And the summers in the Albanian Riviera are the stuff of dreams. Your days will be filled with endless sunshine, and beach days on the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
The temperatures in Albania, stay at a perfect 70°F/21°C to 85°F/29°C. This is the perfect weather for beach hopping, exploring the ancient castles, and trying the local cuisine.
And let’s not forget the nightlife! As the sun sets, the Riviera comes alive with local musicians and everyone steps out to enjoy the nights of a Mediterranean summer.
Here are three must-visit spots on the Albanian Riviera in the summer:
1. Vlorë: This busy city is where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet each other. Spend your days wandering through the Independence Monument. Or relax on the sandy beaches!
2. Ksamil: Just a short drive from Saranda, Ksamil has crystal-clear waters, and the beaches are less crowded. You have to visit the nearby Butrint National Park as well. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins.
3. Llogara National Park: If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, this park has excellent hiking, paragliding, and some of the prettiest views of the coastline!
Cinque Terre
Next up is one of the very best summer destinations in Europe! The beautiful Cinque Terre, visiting here is like stepping into a painting, where the sunny colorful houses built into the rugged cliffs, come to life!
During the summertime the temperatures in Cinque Terre are perfect, that stay right around 70°F/21°C to 85°F/29°C!
Here are three must-visit spots and activities that will make your summer in Cinque Terre unforgettable.
1. Monterosso al Mare: is the largest of the five villages and has the best beach in Cinque Terre. Plan to attend the Festival of Lemon (Festa del Limone) in May, (not quite summer) but this is where you can enjoy everything lemon-related!
2. Vernazza: This charming fishing village is perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots. You have to climb up to Doria Castle for the best coastline views. In Vernazza during July, the locals celebrate Santa Margherita di Antiochia with a festive fireworks display over the harbor.
3. Hiking the Trails: Cinque Terre is famous for the hikes linking the five villages together. Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and more importantly the crowds. Remember to pack plenty of water and your camera on your hike!
Andalucia Spain
Up next on our list of unforgettable summer holidays in Europe, we head to Espana or Spain. This is a place where the sun shines on the cobblestone streets until late in the evening.
Here, the sun shines at a hot 30°C (86°F! But to escape the heat the locals have mastered the art of the siesta. This is where they take a midday nap to escape the heat.
Here are three summer cities in Andalucía Spain that you can’t miss:
1. Seville: is in the heart of the Andalucia. Here you have to walk through the pretty gardens of the Alcázar palace. Then lose yourself in the labyrinthine Santa Cruz neighborhood, or enjoy a nighttime walk on the Guadalquivir River. Make sure to mark your calendars during August when Seville comes alive with the Feria de Agosto. This is a week-long celebration of music, flamenco, and local dishes.
2. Costa del Sol: has sandy beaches that meet crystal clear waters. Here you can swim in the refreshing Mediterranean, savor the catch-of-the-day in Málaga, or soak up the sun at the Puerto Banus marina.
3. Córdoba: Will have you daydreaming of the Moorish times. As you explore Córdoba you will notice stunning castles, mosques, cathedrals, and beautiful architecture around every corner. The most popular summer event is the Festival de los Patios in May.
The Greek Isles
The Greek Isles are always a good idea if you are thinking of new summer vacation ideas in Europe! There are over 6,000 Greek islands, but only about 200 are inhabited. The summertime is the most popular time to visit, but the islands still have an irresistible charm!
To get around the Greek Isles consider island hopping! The ferries are popular, affordable, and very convenient.
Here are some must-visit islands for your Greek summer adventure:
1. Santorini: is where you will find the iconic blue-domed churches and colorful sunsets. Santorini is a vision straight out of the postcards. This is the most popular island to visit for Greece honeymoons, but despite the crowds, it is worth the hype.
2. Mykonos: is best known for its epic party nightlife. Mykonos is the place to go if you’re looking to party on the beach until the sun comes up! When you’re not dancing the night away, unwind at one of the island’s beautiful beaches or explore the historic town of Chora.
3. Crete: Is the largest Greek island, and the only island that is self-stainable. Crete offers a wonderful mix of experiences. You can check out the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, hike the Samaria Gorge, and you have to savor the delicious Cretan cuisine.
4. Paros: This small island is the gem of the Cyclades region of waters. Paros has extremely stunning beaches and small but vibrant villages. Make sure to visit the Church of 100 Doors in Parikia and the fishing village of Naoussa when visiting Paros, it is one of the best summer destinations in Europe
Bay Of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor is also in the Mediterranean. Here the sun shines everything with a warm, golden glow.
The Bay of Kotor is on the edge of bay in the medieval Old Town of Kotor is the real jewel of Montenegro. Getting to Kotor is all a part of the adventure! The prettiest route to get here is by sea, with regular ferry services from different points along the Adriatic coast.
During the summer, Kotor has plenty of festivals to check out. The biggest is the Kotor Festival of Theatre for Children in July. Another one to check out is the Boka Nights festival in August. This is when there is a parade of decorated boats and the night ends with a big fireworks display.
Here are some must-visit spots for your summer adventure in the Bay of Kotor:
1. The Old Town: Explore the labyrinth of narrow streets, visit the stunning St. Tryphon Cathedral, and Maritime Museum, and don’t forget to climb the ancient Town Walls for a breathtaking view of the bay.
2. Perast: is a charming town just a short drive from Kotor. Perast is home to epic baroque architecture and two small islands, Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George.
4. Lovćen National Park: If you’re up for an adventure, take a day trip to Lovćen National Park. Hike up to the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš for a panoramic view of Montenegro.
Sardinia
Sardinia has some of the best beaches in Italy! It is on the beautiful Mediterranean with a turquoise sea, that shines bright in the summer months! Sardinia has long days full of sunshine with temperatures often hitting 30°C (86°F).
Summer in Sardinia is a time for celebration. There are fun festivals like the Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari with traditional costumes, horse races, and local folk dances. And let’s not forget the nightly entertainment in Pula, there are spots perfect for families, couples, and friends!
To get to Sardinia you will catch a flight to Cagliari, Olbia, or Alghero airports. Once there, you can catch a ferry to Sardinia!
Here are a few spots for your Sardinian summer trip:
1. Costa Smeralda: is known as the ‘Emerald Coast’. Here you will find luxury hotels, stunning sandy beaches, and exciting nightlife.
2. Cagliari: is the historic capital city of the island. Here you can explore the medieval Castello district, relax on Poetto Beach, and try Sardinian dishes at a trattoria overlooking the sea.
3. Alghero: This is another picturesque town on the coast with Catalan roots. Alghero also has beautiful beaches, an old town to explore, and Neptune’s Grotto.
4. Maddalena Archipelago: Take a boat trip to this group of islands known for their beautiful beaches and extra clear waters. It’s a great place for snorkeling, swimming, and sailing.
5. Barumini: Explore Sardinia’s local history at the UNESCO Su Nuraxi archaeological site in Barumini. you cannot miss the mysterious towers that date back to the Bronze Age.
Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Herceg Novi in Montenegro is a European city where the mountains seem to run into the Adriatic Sea. In the summer, Herceg Novi comes to live with local festivals. The most famous is the Mimosa Festival! This is where they celebrate the arrival of spring with music, art, and flower displays. (Not the breakfast mixed drink Mimosas!
Herceg Novi is just an hour’s drive away from Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia! The Tivat Airport in Montenegro is also nearby.
Here are some must-visit spots for your Herceg Novi summer adventure:
1. Old Town: Walk through the labyrinthine old streets, admire houses made of stone, and visit the historic Clock Tower and Forte Mare fortress for the best views of the bay.
2. Beaches: Montenegro has pebble beaches like Žalo and concrete terraces at Corovic Beach. There are endless options for a swimming dip in the Adriatic.
4. Promenade Pet Danica: stretches along the coast for several miles. This busty promenade has cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s a perfect place for a chill afternoon exploring.
5. Blue Grotto: You will have to take a boat trip to the magical Blue Grotto. This a natural cave where the sunlight shines in and makes the cave and nearby water a bright blue!
Timișoara, Romania
Welcome to Timișoara, Romania! This is one of the cheap places to visit in Europe during summer! It has lovely been known as ‘Little Vienna’.
Spend your summer days strolling through beautifully restored buildings, sipping European coffee in town squares, and feeling the city’s youthful energy.
During the summer the town of Timișoara has plenty of festivals. The most famous is the JazzTM festival, where artists perform in Union Square and a few pop-up stages scattered around the city.
Timișoara has the Traian Vuia International Airport, with plenty of flights from major European cities.
Here are some must-visit spots for your Timișoara summer adventure:
1. Union Square (Piata Unirii): This stunning square is where you will find the colorful baroque buildings and is also home to St George’s Church. Grab yourself a cold gelato and spend the day dazing at the lovely architecture!
2. Art Museum: is housed in the Baroque Palace and the museum has a very impressive collection of Romanian and European art pieces.
3. Roses Park (Parcul Rozelor): is located along the Bega River, and this park is a summer favorite for locals. You might even catch a few concerts during the summer theater performances!
Latvia
Welcome to Latvia, one of the popular summer vacation destinations in Europe, more specifically, Northern Europe! Latvia is best known for its natural beauty, rich history, and colorful architecture.
Summer in Latvia is also a time for celebration. From music and art festivals in Riga to traditional Midsummer festivities (Jāņi) across the country, there’s always something happening!
Getting to Latvia is straightforward. The country’s capital, Riga, is well-connected by air with regular flights from major European cities. The most popular things to do are to spend the summer days exploring natural parks, visiting castles, and having lazy days on the beaches.
Here are some must-visit spots for your Latvian summer adventure:
1. Riga’s Art Nouveau: Enjoy the local coffee shops in Riga’s Old Town and check out the famous House of Black Heads. The city is also full of art nouveau architecture to see.
2. Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk: Check out the boardwalk located in the Kemeri National Park it’s a perfect place to see the untouched beauty that is Latvia.
3. Āraiši Lake Fortress Archaeological Park: Step back in time at this reconstructed ancient castle. It is located on an island in the middle of Lake Āraiši, so a quick boat ride is required.
Tips For Visiting Europe In Summer
Dress the Part
Europe’s weather can be tricky. Pack light layers to be prepared for anything! And keep in mind that many religious areas require women to dress modestly. Try to keep a scarf or shawl handy to cover your shoulders and knees.
Embrace the Crowds
Summer is the busiest season in Europe for tourism, so you have to expect some company on your trip. Don’t let this deter you, it’s all part of the charm! Take this opportunity to make new friends from around the world. Be patient while exploring, ordering at restaurants, and waiting to pay. Most European restaurants are very go-with-the-flow.
Book in Advance
This one’s is simple. Most of the popular attractions will get booked out and prices skyrocket during the summertime. So, you must book your flights, tours, and hotels as soon as you can! Your wallet will thank you later!
Stay Hydrated
With all the exploring and excitement, it’s easy to forget about drinking water. Carry a water bottle with you at all times. A lot of European cities have public drinking fountains where you can refill it. And some of the best summer destinations in Europe on this list you can drink the tap water!
Get off the Beaten Track
Don’t just stick to the usual tourist traps and tours. Take your time and dig a little deeper to discover the hidden gems that each location. Try the local cuisine, learn a few phrases in the native language, and try to truly immerse yourself in the new culture. Being respectful in a foreign country goes a long way!
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