Europe’s 5 Best Summer Getaways
This summer beckons with the promise of sea-salt air, sun-warmed terraces and hidden lanes where every turn feels like a discovery. If you’re dreaming of wandering cobbled streets, dipping toes into turquoise water or savouring a chilled glass of something local at sunset, you’re in good company.
In the handful of places below, you’ll find a blend of relaxation, culture and sun-soaked adventure. Whether you’re after laid-back luxury or spirited exploration, these destinations deliver something for every kind of traveller. So pack a hat, leave the rush behind and let your curiosity guide you to one of Europe’s best summer getaways.
Croatia
In the heart of the Adriatic lies Croatia, a coastline studded with golden beaches and medieval walls that shimmer in the late afternoon light. Imagine waking up in a beautiful Dubrovnik villa rental perched above the sea, before padding barefoot onto the sun-warmed terrace, coffee in hand, and watching the electric-blue waves lap in and out under the morning light.
Explore the centuries-old, narrow alleys of towns like Split and Dubrovnik, where the ancient and the modern merge effortlessly. Stop at one of the modern cafes for some iced coffee and local figs, before strolling through the bustling squares filled with life. For an island escape, head over to Hvar, where white boats bob lazily in the harbour and the air smells of lavender and grilled sea bass.
Evenings here stretch long and golden, with clinking glasses, the hush of the tide, and music spilling from tucked-away bars. Croatia feels effortlessly cinematic, a place where history, sunlight and sea seem to move in perfect rhythm.
Italy (Amalfi Coast)
If dramatic cliffs, pastel houses and zesty lemon groves get your travel pulse racing, then the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy is calling. Villages like Positano tumble down the cliffs in a cascade of colour, each doorstep offering a view of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Wander the narrow stairways, smell the citrus in the breeze and taste fresh seafood at a little outdoor table.
The rhythm here is gentle but vibrant. Locals move slowly over lunch, then speed off to the beach in the afternoon. The coastline vistas are postcard-perfect but still feel lived in and real. Hike the coastal path early to avoid crowds, sip limoncello as the sky blushes at dusk, and you’ll feel like you’ve discovered something timeless. Summer here doesn’t need to be loud; it’s all about that slow, sun-lit beauty.
Greece (Crete)
When you seek a mix of ancient history, mountainous backdrop and inviting beach life, Crete in Greece steps up in style. Picture olive groves brushed by the breeze, the scent of oregano in the air and seaside tavernas where music drifts across the table.
Start your morning hiking through a gorge, pause for a midday swim in a quiet bay and end the day with a fresh-grilled catch and a glass of chilled Raki as the stars begin to appear. Crete offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, the kind of place that keeps you coming back for more.
Beaches vary from fine-sand expanses to wild pebbled corners, giving you freedom to pick your vibe. Whether you’re strolling through a Venetian old town or relaxing under tamarisk trees at sunset, Crete’s timeless charm will have you falling in love with every corner of this stunning Greek island.
Cyprus
Heading east, Cyprus is next on our list. The island pulses with Mediterranean warmth and a welcoming spirit. Think olive groves, citrus trees and the gentle hum of summer evenings by the sea. With package deals to Cyprus increasingly available, it’s easier than ever to lock in a stress-free escape where your biggest decision is which beach to claim that day. In Paphos or Ayia Napa, you’ll find stretches of sand perfect for reading that book you’ve been meaning to open, and taverna tables where you can share a mezze platter while the sun sets behind the mountains. Local markets burst with colour and flavour – fresh halloumi, figs and honey you almost taste in the air.
For those looking to escape the crowds, head to Larnaca, a charming town with a more laid-back vibe. It’s not just about the beaches here (though they are beautiful, of course). Larnaca is home to some fascinating historical sites, like the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, which sits on the shores of a serene salt lake. As you wander through the town, you’ll find cobbled streets lined with traditional Cypriot architecture, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich culture and history.
Cyprus offers everything from relaxation to adventure, making it a perfect destination for both beach lovers and explorers alike. With the soothing sound of the waves in the background, you’ll know you’ve chosen somewhere special for your summer getaway.
Portugal (Algarve)
Down on the southern tip of Portugal, the Algarve region offers golden sands, hidden coves and the kind of light that painters chase. One moment you’re standing on a cliff looking out at sculpted rock arches, the next you’re dipping your toes into clear water at a beach that still feels undiscovered.
The Algarve has more than sun-lounging to offer: wander into whitewashed villages, enjoy fresh local fish on a wooden deck by the sea, or join a sunset catamaran ride with dolphins playing off the bow. It’s friendly and relaxed – no rush, no fuss.
You might find yourself chatting with someone who’s lived there all their life, sharing stories over a Sagres with the salty breeze in your hair. Summer here is uncomplicated and fulfilling: you go to switch off, breathe deeply and let the Atlantic energy wash over you.
Summary
When you sit back and breathe in, you’ll realise what connects all these spots: sea, sun, good food and places that feel alive but unhurried. Europe’s summer escapes don’t have to be frantic; they’re about laughter at the dinner table, toes in warm sand and sunsets that take your breath away. Pick one, pack light, and leave space for the unexpected; that’s where the magic lies.
This summer beckons with the promise of sea-salt air, sun-warmed terraces and hidden lanes where every turn feels like a discovery. If you’re dreaming of wandering cobbled streets, dipping toes into turquoise water or savouring a chilled glass of something local at sunset, you’re in good company.