Who hasn’t dreamt of a true European summer adventure? After all, there are so many places to visit on the old continent. We have already discussed places to see in Central and Eastern Europe, yet we didn’t look at them from a summer perspective. This is why we encourage you to read this article – here you will find out what are the best summer vacation destinations in Europe!

The best European summer travel destinations

Summer is the time of vacations for a reason – it’s hot, it’s sunny, and it’s possible to enjoy nature to the fullest. Thus, while sightseeing is still partially an option, summer vacations usually involve sunbathing, swimming, going to the sea or ocean. So, it should not be a surprise that our list of the best European vacation destinations starts with swimming spots.

Andalusia

Andalusia is first on the list. This southern region of Spain is well-known for its beautiful beaches. What is more, the region has reasonable prices, which makes it a much better place for swimming and sunbathing than Italy or France. And if you get bored at the beach, you may still opt for a tour of Seville or Granada. The fact that you can combine natural beaches with sightseeing into an affordable tour is what makes this region one of the best European summer vacation destinations.

Greece

Greece is one of the top summer destinations for Europeans. No wonder – the country is known for breathtaking beaches and many historical monuments. Thus, Greece is a perfect option for those who want to sightsee while still having the opportunity to sunbathe and swim. You might opt for one of their Islands, such as Crete or Santorini, or pick one of the most popular cities, such as Athens.

top summer vacation destinations

Iceland

While Iceland is a small country, and not the warmest one, it is still a good summer vacation destination. The island is well known for its beautiful scenery, active volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls. In summer, the temperatures are bearable, so it is a great period to visit this country. Try hiring a bus – have a driver take you around the country and admire the magnificent landscapes.

Venice

Italy has many wonderful spots to spend your days off at. However, it’s the uniqueness of Venice that makes it one of the top summer vacation destinations. The town is well-known for its canals and elegant restaurants. If you are planning to propose to your better half, this might be an ideal place. Take your partner on a private gondola ride and create an unforgettable experience.

Croatia

If you are going to Europe and you dream of beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, Croatia is the best summer destination for you. While the status of the country as a great summer spot is becoming more and more visible, this is still one of the best hidden-gem travel destinations. Apart from the great seashore, Croatia is also known for its magnificent medieval cities and delicious cuisine. If you are planning a road trip around Europe, you definitely should stay in this country for at least a couple of days.

The takeaway

Europe has many places worth visiting during the summer. Spanish Andalusia, Greece, Iceland, Venice, or Croatia are just a few of the top summer destinations in Europe. There are many more places to discover on the old continent. If you want to look for hidden gems, try social mapping apps – look at the maps prepared by the users and find places worth visiting that are not on our list. Who knows, maybe you’ll find even more beautiful places that hardly anyone knows about?