Planning your European summer getaway, but asking yourself, which European country is best for the summer? Well, that really depends on what you’re looking for. Some people want to live their French Riviera fantasy and spend a week sipping cocktails by the sea, and others prefer to strap on their walking shoes and see literally ALL the history.
We’ve done the research for you – by visiting most of these beautiful places for ourselves and scouring the internet for the rest. Our team brings the expertise, and we’d laid it out for you so you can focus on having the best European summer ever!
21 Best Summer Destinations in Europe To Live Your Your Best Life
Whether you’re looking for a European beach retreat or a classic European city to explore, here’s a list of the best summer destinations in Europe to help you find your perfect match!
Surf & Turf Destinations
Like your traditional surf and turf dinner, these European destinations give you a little bit of both land and sea. You can spend the day swimming or exploring a beautiful city, travelers’ choice!
1. Copenhagen
Nestled within Denmark’s coastal islands, Copenhagen is a wonderland of sweeping waterways and vibrant architecture. Get ready to set sail in the harbor, explore botanical gardens, and fill up on as much smørrebrød (an open-faced sandwich) as you please. For the history buffs, check out the atmospheric Rosenborg Castle, once home to Scandinavian kings!
This city is filled with swimming spots, including an old industrial harbor that’s kept surprisingly clean. For something more scenic, the Kastrup Sea Bath offers awesome views of Saltholm Island and Sweden. It’s free, and it’s open all year round!
Copenhagen is super walkable, which allows you to see more of the city and less of the inside of a car or bus. You can easily rent a bike to get around even quicker! Best of all, the sun here stays out until 11pm, giving you maximum time to squeeze as many things as possible into your day.
Stay right in the city center at the Phoenix Copenhagen, located right next to the Royal Palace. It’s absolutely gorgeous and won’t break the bank.
2. Porto
Porto can be pretty foggy, which is nice during the summer because it helps to keep the heat at bay. This is perfect for enjoying one of Porto’s many river cruises. The classic Six Bridges cruise follows the route of the “Rabello Boats,” wooden cargo boats that were used to transport people down the River Douro for centuries.
The city is filled with famous streets known for their beautiful architecture and endless shopping. Rua Galerías de París is known for offering the best night out. Once a hub for Porto’s art galleries, you’ll mainly find bars and nightclubs galore. For a more relaxed option, Cedofeita Street is lined with traditional stores and ample brunch options.
As the night comes to a close, watch the sunset at Jardim do Morro, which offers a gorgeous view of the horizon. It’s located right across the river in the city of Gaia. While you’re there, you can pick up a few glasses (or a whole bottle) of Portugal’s best Port wine!
Right in the middle of the historic strip is PortoBay Flores, easily one of Porto’s most stunning hotel options. This place screams luxury and puts you within walking distance of tons of attractions.
3. Palermo
Whether you’re looking for some historic culture or a hot girl beach moment (or both), Palermo might be the place for you. It’s among the best summer European destinations because of its climate, ambiance, and wealth of activities.
Want to add some Old World elegance to your island getaway? Palermo is home to Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house. Attend an opera, ballet, or symphony to get a taste of what made the city such a hotspot for European royals for decades!
It may not be spooky season, but Palermo even has something for the girls who love a little Halloween in their summer. The Capuchin Catacombs are home to the world’s most beautiful mummy, called little Rosalia. This macabre spectacle houses 8,000 other mummified members of noble families, clergymen, and a ton of other people.
The Grand Hotel et Des Palmes is the perfect mix of old European glamor and Mediterranean flair. Located near the Politeama Garibaldi Theater, the hotel has attracted a slew of composers, writers, musicians, princes, and artists across generations. It’s a living symbol of Art Nouveau design, both in its architecture and decoration.
For Rich History and Amazing Architecture
You’ll find both of these things all over Europe, but if you want a sore neck from looking up all day, these are it!
4. Barcelona
Barcelona is a certified dreamscape during the summer months, one of the Mediterranean’s most enchanting cities. There’s close to 3 miles of beautiful beaches accessible through the city. So no matter whether you’re interested in shopping, clubbing, or sightseeing, you’ll always be within walking (or a very short driving) distance from the coast!
Barcelona offers a super unique opportunity to beat the heat, boasting the world’s first ice bar on the beach. Sip on some beverages in a cooler environment, where you’ll be given winter clothes to wear while you enjoy an ice sculpture ambience.
Running from late June until early August, the city’s open-air cinema festival shows productions all summer long right next to the Montjuïc castle. If you want to double dip on your artistic culture, Barcelona’s El Grec Theater Festival also lasts throughout all of July!
The Hotel Casa Fuster combines Old World charm with exquisite modern comforts. Featuring a nightclub of its own and a rooftop terrace, this hotel will help you get the most out of your Barcelona experience.
5. Dublin
The capital of the aptly named Emerald Isle, Dublin is a brilliant combination of natural beauty, lively people, and rich history.
Dance the night away to the sounds of merriment and fiddle music at one of Dublin’s classic pubs. The Temple Bar is arguably the city’s best, if not the best in the entire country. The interior is cozy yet vibrant, perfect for those who enjoy exciting nightlife but with a chill, charming twist.
The Irish are famous for their storytelling (I’m looking at you, Hozier), so don’t miss the opportunity to hear about some of the country’s most loved tales. There are entire walking tours dedicated to Ireland’s mythology and folklore, from fairies to leprechauns to ancient warriors.
As a medieval manuscript girlie myself, I can’t write about Dublin without mentioning the Book of Kells. It’s 1,200 years old, and Trinity College offers an immersive 360 experience dedicated to teaching travelers about its astounding history.
You’d be hard pressed to find a prettier and more convenient lodging option than The Shelbourne. It’s centrally located and features four restaurants, two bars, and a spa.
6. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik in Croatia is a stellar option for the girlies who want to live their classic European summer dreams but without having to take on the massive crowds of Santorini. The area is often described as being plucked out of a fairytale, and for good reason. Where else can you visit a museum entirely dedicated to showcasing some of the world’s most famous love stories?
You don’t have to go broke to get a taste of the Baroque – compared to other parts of Europe, Croatia is a very affordable travel option. From towering cathedrals to stunning church fronts, Dubrovnik is the picture of historical Mediterranean perfection. For girls who are more into those Gothic Renaissance vibes, the 15th-century Rector’s Palace is a total must-see.
If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Game of Thrones world of Westeros (haven’t we all), Dubrovnik may be the closest you can get to stepping through your TV screen. The city offers cruises that depart from Dubrovnik and travel to nearby coastal Croatian cities, all of which were used as sites while filming the show! Let me know if you catch a glimpse of a dragon or two.
The Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel is perfect for travelers who want to take it slow or get adventurous. There’s an in-house spa, sauna, children’s play area, and even a theater, but it also puts you super close to water sports like scuba diving and parasailing.
7. Bern
Even though Bern is the capital of Switzerland, it doesn’t always get as much love as other European capitals like Paris or London. And I have no idea why! Between the beautifully preserved medieval city center and the first Lindt chocolate factory, Bern is a hub for some of the country’s most charming industries.
Have you ever heard of underground shopping? I hadn’t either, but Bern is filled with hidden tunnels that lead underneath the city where you can find all sorts of boutiques, bars, and cafes. For the girls like me who can’t seem to spend five minutes in the sun without burning to a crisp, this is a fantastic option!
When you imagine a quaint European town with little homes looking over a winding river, Bern should be one of the first places that comes to mind. Though the whole area is extremely walkable, there are trams available for when your feet start to feel like they might need a vacation too.
The Bristol is a great hotel option if you’re looking to combine classic comforts with modern room designs. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel offers a buffet breakfast, a bar, and super close proximity to a train station.
8. Lyon
Largely agreed to be France’s most underrated city (and also its third-largest), Lyon has an exquisitely rich history. It’s not every day you can travel to a city whose legacy stretches back to 43 BC during the peak of the Roman Empire!
Lyon is bursting at the seams with museums, gorgeous architecture for some truly eye-catching Insta photos, and even amphitheaters used by the Romans themselves. If you visit between May and July, definitely make time for the Nuits de Fourvière, one of Europe’s largest summer arts festivals! Shows are held in the Grand Theater, the oldest Roman structure of its kind in France.
Make sure you come to Lyon on an empty stomach… There is SO much to try, and it’s all worth it. The city is the gastronomic capital of France, and for good reason. There are enough salads, sausages, and decadent tarts to make even the most seasoned food-loving girlie want to come back for seconds, or thirds, or fourths!
The Villa Florentine has some truly spectacular room choices with an exceptionally gorgeous view of Sicily. You don’t even have to leave the premises to get a taste of immaculate French cuisine at the well-loved Les Terrasses de Lyon restaurant. There’s also a poolside bar, a spa and facial service, and close proximity to basically everything you could ever want to see in Palermo.
9. Vienna
Vienna gets a bad rap for being expensive, but once you leave the touristy squares, you’ll find that things are actually surprisingly affordable. It’s one of the best summer destinations Europe has.
If you’ve ever seen pictures of that one building in Vienna and been blown away by how beautiful it is, chances are it was St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You can take a tour of the interior or even just bring a little picnic to enjoy from the outside – it’s not every day that you can have coffee and pastries with this kind of scenery.
There’s also a Hotel Bristol in Vienna, and this one is truly one of a kind. The rooms look like Marie Antoinette herself would have stayed there – my jaw dropped when I saw them. It’s also connected to a shopping center and is close to the Hofburg Imperial Palace, the Vienna State Opera, and public transportation.
For The Foodies
Again, you can get good food no matter where you are, but here are some unexpected foodie European destinations you need to add to your itinerary!
10. Stockholm
Winter kinda sucks in Scandinavia, so summer is the best time to visit the otherwise beautiful Sweden. Surround yourself with colorful historic towns and gorgeous royal palaces, all best viewed from the city’s scenic outlooks!
Foodies will want for nothing in Stockholm, especially when it comes to the meatballs. Try some for yourself at Den Gyldene Freden, a restaurant housed in a medieval basement that’s now owned by the Academy that selects the Nobel Prize in literature. After that, music lovers have to visit the ABBA Museum, seeing as Stockholm is the birthplace of the iconic 70s band.
If you’re traveling with kids, you can’t miss Junibacken, a children’s museum that allows kids to dress up and play in an interactive storybook land. If your little travel buddy is as big into history (and petting zoos!) as I was at that age, the Skansen Open-Air Museum might be worth checking out too. With so many options for grown-ups and little ones alike, Stockholm is one of the best European summer destinations for families.
Located near the Stockholm Viking Terminal, Hotel Rival is known as the city’s most colorful hotel. Travelers have left glowing reviews about the friendly staff and fantastic in-house breakfast.
11. Paris
Paris’ reputation as a perfect summer destination precedes itself, but there are still plenty of things to do that I’m sure you haven’t heard of yet! Of course, there are tons of gorgeous markets with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, crafts, and all the charming French fixings. You might want to bring a giant wicker tote bag as your carry-on for the flight, just in case you want to buy literally ALL the souvenirs.
If you’re a seaside girl like me but don’t have time to escape the city for a day or two, Paris has you covered! Between July 9th and August 21st, the Paris plages (French for “beach”) will pop up all around the Seine River, like a little beach-away-from-the-beach.
On July 14th, the whole city will be abuzz to celebrate Bastille Day, the anniversary of when Parisians stormed the Bastille in 1789 during the French Revolution. Best seen from a balcony or apartment overlooking the Champs-Élysées, the day’s festivities will include a massive parade and a firework show in front of the Eiffel Tower. The historian in me has been DYING to attend this event in person, so think of us history girlies when you see it for yourself!
Paris’ city center is a hub of activity all summer long, so it’s a good idea to find a hotel that puts you in the middle of the action. The Hôtel Edouard 7 Paris Opéra is a super unique option. Many of the rooms directly face the Palais Garnier, an opera house built in the nineteenth century by Napoleon III. You could probably throw a stone and hit the opera, and it’s close to a ton of other Paris attractions too.
For The Great Outdoors
If you’re feeling adventurous, and just want to be outside, these are the European destinations for you!
12. Isle of Skye
Nestled on the northwestern coast of Scotland, the Isle of Skye offers some of the best Harry Potter vibes on the continent. There are ample awesome places for a hiking trip, whether you’re interested in exploring the Highland foothills or a crystal-clear fairy pool. You can swim in them, but they tend to be very chilly, even in summer!
The Scots are known for their whiskey, and there are few better places to get a taste of what the hype is all about. Seaside whiskey tastings and distillery tours are sure to put you in the mood for a bagpiping jig. A bit of liquid warmth might be welcome, since like Dublin, the Isle of Skye doesn’t get nearly as toasty as other places in the summer. (Maybe it’d be a good idea to plan your drinking adventures prior to checking out a fairy pool!)
Fans of the beloved historical drama Outlander can finally fulfill their dream of going “over the sea to Skye,” where the jutting landscape and charming lochs make you feel like you’ve been swept back in time to simpler days. You can also easily take a day trip to Inverness, an ancient city home to some of Scotland’s famous castles and even the legendary Loch Ness monster.
The Princes Point Villa will give you the full Isle of Skye experience, combining comfort with a provincial ruggedness. Completely immersed in the natural environment, there’s a beautiful view of the sea and a full farm-style kitchen.
13. The Westfjords
One of the less touristy spots on this list, the Westfjords are home to plenty of Iceland’s hidden treasures, including gigantic waterfalls, red sand beaches, and a bird cliff that’s home to an INSANE number of puffins. Hopefully 20+ hours of daylight gives you enough time to see it all… (it should!)
What’s cozier than a geothermal pool to top off a summer getaway? Occurring naturally right along the shoreline in the village center, it’s a great place to chat with locals and get the authentic Westfjord experience.
The Westfjords are basically inaccessible during the winter, so between May and October is the perfect time to go and explore. But don’t leave your jackets and fleece boots at home just because it’s summertime – it rarely gets above 50 degrees! Perfect for the girls who are just little frost fairies at heart.
The Hotel Latrabjarg is a gem in itself and is very underrated, much like its home country. It feels like you’re spending a night in a quaint village in another century – talk about a getaway! If proximity to animal life and natural wonders are what you’re after, then this is a no-brainer.
Beach Getaways
For the beach bums and cabana babes who just need two things: beach and a cold drink with a little umbrella, these European beach getaways are for you. They’ve got all that and more!
14. Amalfi Coast
Spanning 34 miles in Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a picture-perfect place for summer travels. Sweet lemon blossoms mix with salty beach air, whisking you away to a delightful escape from the throws of everyday life.
The Belvedere of Infinity is literally one of the most beautiful places in all of Europe, at least in this girl’s humble opinion. This 11th-century villa is covered in greenery and surrounded by the most vivid roses and trees ever. Greta Garbo, Virginia Woolf, and Salvador Dali were known to love visiting the Belvedere – if it was good enough for some of the world’s most illustrious artists, there has to be some truth to its perfection.
As if the reality-defying sights weren’t enough, Amalfi has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you dry off from swimming in the rightfully world famous Mediterranean beaches, you step right into a world of ancient villages whose medieval cultures and landmarks are some of the best preserved in the region.
The Casa Dolce Casa bed and breakfast is significantly more affordable than other seaside lodging options, but it doesn’t sacrifice luxury. The view is breaktaking, and it offers easy access to the harbor below.
15. Algarve
Soaring cliffs, cerulean waters, and glowing beaches are just some of the gorgeous scenes you can expect to see on your summer escapade to Algarve. Located on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, you’d be hard pressed to find a more perfect coastline to soak up the sun, making it one of the best beach holiday destinations in Europe.
Of course, a trip to southern Europe is hardly complete without hitting up some wine hotspots. The Algarve holds a staggering number of vineyards that attract the world’s top wine connoisseurs every year. Quinta dos Vales is one of the most popular, offering a TON of wines all across the spectrum of red to white to rosé.
The Algarve boasts over 3,000 years of rich history, having been occupied by the Phoencians and the Ancient Greeks. There’s definitely enough museums, forts, and castles to even the most seasoned traveler on the edge of their seat for what’s coming next.
The Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda is one of the Algarve’s best, especially if the beach is your main priority. The interior design is funky, the restaurants are brilliant, and the coastal access is unparalleled. You can basically roll out of your luxury facial appointment and into the ocean!
16. Ibiza
They say that summer never really ends in Ibiza, with its lively club scene and beautiful coves. The largest of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza offers some unique opportunities that you won’t find in other places, especially for the adventurous girlies. And because the island is SO close to Spain, it would be super easy to take a day trip to cities like Valencia and Madrid! Best of both worlds.
While it might seem strange for me to recommend coming to Ibiza because of a cool rock, I think you’d be underestimating just how cool this rock actually is. Es Vedra, a 400-meter rock sticking out of the coastline, is shrouded in all kinds of legends that will appeal to the mythology lovers. Es Vedra is supposedly home to the Sirens of Greek mythology, and it is also believed to be the birthplace of the Phoenecian goddess Tanit. Definitely some badass women whose vibes you can share during your stay!
Every girl needs to have their secret agent moment at least once, and Ibiza can make that dream come true. Hydrojet packing excursions take you out into the sea, where you use water jets to shoot yourself into the sky. Adrenaline junkies looking to add some water sports to their summer will definitely need to add Ibiza to their itinerary!
Bless Hotel Ibiza is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, so its reputation definitely precedes itself. It’s right on the beach, which is ideal for a vacation on an island chain. Enjoy everything from the poolside bar to the spa to any of the three modern European restaurants.
17. Mykonos
This list wouldn’t be complete without one of the Greek islands! From sandy beaches to guided tours of cultural and historical sites, you’ve got everything you need for a Europe summer. Splurge on one of the best hotels on the island: Tropicana Hotel, Suites & Villas for an unforgettable stay.
For City Life
A classic European summer getaway is discovering new cafes and restaurants, wandering around museums and getting lost in the city. These are the best of the best!
18. Berlin
Winter in Germany can be pretty gloomy, so there’s no better time to visit Berlin than in summer! Beach bars are a great way to soak up the sun. There’s nothing like a stroll beside Halensee Lake with a cocktail or glass of champagne in hand.
If you’re a clubbing kind of girl, the famous Berghain club should be at the top of your list. Built in what used to be a power station, Berghain is iconic for its dark rooms and judgment-free nightlife. For something a little more chill, the riverside YAAM club offers everything from live music to leisurely volleyball games, all in a rustic outdoor venue.
Berlin is a fantastic spot for history lovers, especially those looking to see some of the most notable relics of twentieth century Europe. The Berlin Wall and Holocaust memorials are two of the more harrowing options, but the city is also filled with marvelous historical architecture. The Brandenburg Gate has been stunning travelers since the 18th century, so I’m sure it will leave your camera roll filled to the brim!
Located in Mitte, Berlin’s innermost city center, live like royalty at the Regent Berlin. The room designs are fit for a queen (which you are), and the views have to be seen to be believed.
19. London
Just like Berlin, if the “London fog” stereotype doesn’t appeal to you, the summer months are the perfect time for a sun bum to explore the city without freezing in the rain.
London has absolutely NO shortage of variety. A city as ancient as it is modern, you can do everything from seeing Les Mis at the iconic Sondheim Theater to walking the steps of notorious Victorian serial killer Jack the Ripper. Whether live music or true crime is your thing, London has something for all the girlies.
Buckingham Palace offers access to State rooms and gardens from June to September, so live out your Bridgerton fantasies for a day while keeping your feet firmly planted in the present. Stay vigilant while taking it all in, because you just may be able to spot a royal!
The Haymarket Hotel looks like it was designed by London’s newest fashion mogul. This place is super swanky and is definitely a travel blogger’s dream! It’s just a five-minute walk from Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square, and even shorter to public transportation hubs.
20. Oslo
Oslo really offers a bit of everything – dynamic history, divine scenery, and heart-racing excursions. The best part? You can experience some of these things all in one place.
A haven for all things Viking, Oslo gives you a chance to channel your inner valkyrie! See everything from medieval longboats to mysterious skeleton remains at the Viking Ship Museum. If natural beauty is your thing but you don’t wanna miss out on giant ships, Oslo’s botanical garden features a 33-meter ship filled with plants and rocks that were used by the Vikings themselves!
Take a guided cruise around Oslofjord, an inlet that looks like it was pulled straight out of a Game of Thrones episode. For the girls who want something a bit more electrifying, you can take a dive off the Kollensvevet zipline, plunging down from the top of a ski lift. It’s over 100 meters tall and offers a spectacular view of the city!
Hotel Bondeheimen is an Oslo favorite, and for good reason. Aker Brygge and the opera house are just a 5-minute drive away. There’s a coffee shop and a bar, so depending on the time of day, there’s always a perfect beverage option. The best part? Free breakfast!
21. Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s old town charm is second to none, perfect for the hopeless romantic in all of us. A stunning combination of cultural sites like the Anne Frank House and modern pleasures like bicycle tours and art festivals, Amsterdam is a window on the past but is constantly pointing to the future!
The city’s canals are nothing short of iconic, creating the ideal romantic ambience for a dinner by the water. Whether you’re traveling with a partner or all by your sexy self, a date might be in order. There’s nowhere better to let love blossom than at a Dutch coffee shop overlooking the tulips.
Looking for the best European city where you can set up camp but still be free to travel to some of the heavy hitters? Amsterdam is the place for you! Located SUPER close to Paris, Berlin, London, and Brussels, Amsterdam is an excellent home base. Spend an evening in the red-light district and the next morning, take a day trip to Belgium to fill your summer holiday with as much of Europe as possible!
Amsterdam is known for the colorful homes that line its waterways, and the De L’Europe Amsterdam hotel provides a spectacular view of this famous sight.
Final Thoughts
When planning how to spend your few months of freedom, it’s not uncommon to ask, “is it worth it to go to Europe in the summer?” It definitely is. The best summer European destinations depend very much on what you want to get out of your trip, but there really is something for everyone. I hope this guide gives you a bit more confidence in selecting your perfect summer holiday destination!
