Europe

Best Summer Destinations in Europe you Need to Visit

9 April, 2022

Europe is one of the most historically rich and culturally diverse continents on Earth, so deciding on a summer destination is a challenge in itself. What do you include? What do you leave out? It’s been a challenge, but this list has 10 spectacular destinations you absolutely must visit in summer in Europe.

Here are all recommendations for the best summer destinations in Europe you can visit:

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is one of those destinations that you’ll fall in love with at first sight. The warmest weather in Mykonos is between June and September, with temperatures averaging 27°- 29°C, making it perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

There’s more to Mykonos than just sunny beaches, amazing food, and cocktails. Here are just a few of the attractions you can discover during your trip:

The windmills are an iconic feature of Mykonos and were once essential to the local industry.
Paraportiani Church – one of the most famous Greek churches, particularly due to its stunning architecture.
The Archeological Museum – schedule an hour or two to get a glimpse of some of the ancient artifacts that are exhibited there, dating from the Prehistoric up until the Hellenistic period.

Barcelona, Spain

One of the most jaw-dropping European cities, both because of its architecture and its vibrant culture, Barcelona is a must-visit during summer days in Europe.

If you’ve decided to book a trip to Barcelona this summer, here are some important things to do during your stay:

La Sagrada Familia – La Sagrada Familia blends several architectural styles, such as Art Nouveau, Catalan Modernism, and Late-Gothic.
Park Güell – another one of Gaudi’s masterpieces, this project was inaugurated in 1926 and is currently one of the largest and most beautiful green spaces in Barcelona.
Las Ramblas – one of the central pedestrian streets of Barcelona stretches for 1.2 kilometers and is basically the bridge between Placa de Catalunya and the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell.
Casa Battlo – This apartment building is right in the center of Barcelona and was redesigned in 1904.

Sardinia, Italy

Located in the Mediterranean Sea and the second-largest Italian island, Sardinia is one of the best places in Europe for summer. Sardinia packs a whole lot of things to do and, as with the whole of Italy, is a foodie’s heaven.

Things you can’t miss on your Sardinia itinerary are the cities Alghero, Oristano, Cagliari, and the beautiful village of Bosa. Natural highlights are the Grotto di Nettuno, Tiscali Mountain, and the stunning Maddalena archipelago.

Sardinia has plenty of beaches, but I can highly recommend spending a day at Spiaggia La Pelosa (near Stintino) and Spiaggia di Is Arutas (near Oristano).

Malta

Beyond its dreamy bays and natural pools, Malta is home to cities that were built by knights, historical landmarks and archeological sites, and an intriguing culture that was influenced by the Arabs, Italians, and Brits.

Your Malta itinerary can certainly be all about relaxation and soaking up some sun, and places like Għadira Bay, Riviera Bay, and St. Peter’s Pool are perfect for doing that.

But if you feel like seeing more of this fascinating destination, you have to visit places like the complex of the Blue Grotto, the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, and cities such as Valletta and Mdina that will make you feel like stepping back in time.

You should also head to Malta’s two other islands – Gozo and Comino. You can either visit them independently by taking a ferry, book a full-day cruise, or take a guided day tour.

Porto, Portugal

Portugal’s second-largest city is one of the best summer destinations in Europe. From a vibrant art and cultural scene to surf spots, from beautiful architecture to the stunning Douro River, Porto has it all.

Located in the north of the country, Porto has an international airport and is easily reached by plane, train, or bus.

Start by exploring Porto’s downtown, where you’ll find Lello Bookstore, Clérigos Tower, São Bento Train Station, and Porto’s Cathedral. Head to the picturesque Ribeira district and soak in its unique charm and beauty.

For the modern and cultural side of Porto, have a look at the incredible architecture of Casa da Música, visit the Serralves contemporary art museum, and stroll along the Foz do Douro waterfront.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Durmitor NP is located in the northwest corner of Montenegro and is the perfect destination for adventure lovers and thrill-seekers.

Not only is it one of the most picturesque locations but compared with other European parks it’s undiscovered and underrated. The highest tourism season is winter which means you’ll have almost 80,000 acres to yourself and your travel buddies.

Must do things when Visiting Durmitor National Park:

Visiting the Tara Canyon bridge. The most iconic symbol of Durmitor and connection of two sides of the Tara Canyon by a 172m high arched wonder. A great activity to do here is zipline across the canyon.
Take a self-guided audio tour. A lot of the national park surrounds a great panoramic ring road. Download the free izi.travel app and the Durmitor audio guide to make available offline.
Hiking. The Durmitor National Park hiking trails range from short loops around the Black Lake to full-day adventures. Whatever your hiking style, summer is the best time to get out and hopefully catch a glimpse of a chamois or mountain goats.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of the most gorgeous European cities to visit during summer. Nicknamed “The City of a Hundred Spires”, this gorgeous European capital is one of the best and most interesting cities in the world.

If you don’t know where to start, here are our top recommendations for things to do/visit during your summer trip to Prague

Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is one of the top summer destinations in Europe. It is cheap, does not have the tourist crowds. You can even go to the beach in Belgrade. Belgrade has a scenic location where the Sava and Danube rivers meet. They offer a nice respite from the summer heat.

The most beautiful way to see the rivers is from the ancient Kalemegdan fort. From here you have a beautiful view of the city.

Belgrade is a very young and dynamic city with lots of cafes and restaurants and an active nightlife. Summer is perfect to spend the day on one of the restaurant terraces in the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija or in Zemun.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a great destination in Europe all year round, but nothing beats a summer trip. It’s the time the flower fields are blooming, the locals sit down at terraces and the sunny weather makes the country look at its best.

Most travelers stick to the famous capital of Amsterdam, but there’s much more to see and do around the country. Public transport is an easy way to get around and explore more than just Amsterdam.

Head north of Amsterdam to see some old villages and windmills like at Volendam or the Zaanse Schans. Enjoy the modern architecture in Rotterdam and unwind at the beaches of Texel island or the forests of the Veluwe National Park.

London, UK

London is one of the most popular cities in the world, bringing in about 30 million tourists every year. You will want to visit it between June-August, making it one of the best summer destinations in Europe you absolutely must include on your list.

What is there to do in London in the summer?

Check out the British Museum – a free entrance to one of the most famous museums in the world, which houses around 8 million priceless objects from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Mesopotamia, and more.
Go antique shopping at Portobello Road Market – this famous shopping street from Notting Hill features not just fruit and vegetable stands, but also some impressive antique pieces that you can purchase six days a week.
Visit The Shard – if you want to get a full panoramic view of London from high up, this 95-story skyscraper is the place to be. It also has some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, so go ahead and enjoy a cocktail or two while you admire London from above.
Visit Buckingham Palace