Imagine you’re soaking up the warming Mediterranean sun as your toes sink into warm golden sand and azure waves lap. Imagine wandering over cobbled streets of historic cities with centuries of echoes in every step and mouth-watering culinary traditions calling you to the table. This is the wonder of a European summer.
But where do you start, with so many destinations to choose from? Don’t panic, we are here to help! In this guide, we’ll discover some unforgettable cultural experiences that will leave you spellbound and practical travel tips to help make your trip seamless.
Sun-Soaked European Beaches
Mediterranean marvels: Spain and Italy
Your European summer kicks off on the sun-soaked coasts of Spain and Italy. Head to Spain where the Costa del Sol earns its name with hours of sunshine and golden sands. For a scenic urban beach experience, travel to San Sebastian’s Playa de la Concha or seek out the quiet coves on Menorca for a more secluded beach trip.
Italy’s coast is just as magical. Cinque Terre is a colourful village with a blend of beach and culture. For an experience of la dolce vita, head to the Amalfi Coast where you can recline on pebble beaches below towering cliffs in Positano or Amalfi.
Greek island paradises
Then, head to the Greek islands, where azure waters and whitewashed buildings come together in an image straight from a postcard. Swinging back to the Cyclades, Santorini’s distinctive black sand beaches, such as Perissa and Kamari, provide a dramatic contrast to the blue of the Aegean Sea.
For a more classic beach experience, go to Navagio Beach on Zakynthos, known for its shipwreck and its towering limestone cliffs.
Hidden Coastal Gems in Croatia
There are countless hidden beaches along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Get to secluded Stiniva Beach on Vis Island, reachable only by boat or steep hike, you’ll be rewarded with a low, pebble-fringed cove flanked by towering cliffs.
On the mainland, Brela’s Punta Rata Beach has crystal-clear waters and fragrant pine forests, ideal for pairing sunbathing with nature walks.
Atlantic Treasures: Portugal’s Algarve
Your tour of the beach ends in Portugal’s Algarve region, where the Atlantic Ocean collides with golden sands and towering cliffs. The iconic limestone formations of Praia da Marinha provide both fantastic views and some of the best snorkelling available.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, look for the secret Benagil Beach, which boasts the stunning Benagil Cave, a regional wonder that’s best accessed by kayak or boat tour.
Iconic European Cities
Paris: Beyond the Eiffel Tower
You’ve seen the Eiffel Tower in a million photos but beautiful Paris has more in store. Visit the idyllic streets of Montmartre, once home to avant-garde painters, where creativity blossoms today.
Stroll through the secret corridors of Le Marais, stumbling on boutique shops and charming cafés. Make sure you visit the lesser-known museums like Musée de l’Orangerie, where Monet’s breathtaking Water Lilies are on display.
Rome: Ancient wonders and modern delights
History is waiting for you at every corner in Rome. Between the Colosseum and Vatican City, explore the lively Trastevere neighbourhood. Here, you can enjoy traditional Roman dishes and the local nightlife. For a different view, head to the top of Gianicolo Hill for sweeping views of the Eternal City.
Amsterdam: Canals, culture, and charm
Amsterdam’s canal-lined streets are made for wandering. Hire a bike and cycle through the scenic Jordaan district, pausing at cosy brown cafés. Get lost in Dutch art in the Van Gogh Museum or look for hidden hofjes, quiet inner courtyards spread throughout the lively streets.
Prague: Fairy-tale architecture and rich history
With spires and cobblestone streets, Prague will feel like a trip back in time. The truly interesting stuff is north of Old Town Square, particularly in the charming Malá Strana district. It was not to be missed to attend a classical concert in one of the city’s beautiful Baroque churches.
Barcelona: Gaudí’s masterpieces and vibrant street life
In Barcelona, the enchanting architecture of Gaudí is only the start. Get lost in the small streets of the Gothic Quarter, where history meets modernism. For a taste of local life, visit the bustling La Boqueria market, where you can sample fresh Spanish delicacies.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
Slovenia’s Lake Bled: A fairy-tale come true
Lake Bled, Slovenia Located in a hollow of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is a hidden treasure that will literally take your breath away. When you reach the lake, the emerald-green water surrounded by dense forests and the mighty Bled Castle sitting on a hillside will astonish you. Its centrepiece is the tiny island in the middle where a picturesque church sits.
To get there, visitors can take a traditional wooden boat known as a “pletna” to the island, where they can hike the 99 steps to the church and ring the wishing bell. For the best panoramic views hike up the nearby Ojstrica viewpoint or bike around the 6km perimeter of the lake.
Cinque Terre: Italy’s colourful coastal villages
Go off the beaten path to Cinque Terre, a series of five colourful fishing villages perched on the cliffside of the wild Ligurian coast. Each village is delightful in its own way, with picturesque hiking trails and an adorable train connecting them all.
Begin in Monterosso al Mare with its lovely beaches, then wind through the cobblestone streets of Vernazza. In Corniglia, hike up the 382 steps for spectacular views. Manarola has the best sunset view and Riomaggiore has a lovely harbour walk to make memories with your partner.
Bruges: Belgium’s medieval marvel
Travel through time as you stroll the cobblestone streets of Bruges and marvel at its well-preserved medieval architecture. Wander around Market Square, the main square of the town dominated by the imposing Belfry Tower, which makes you feel like in a postcard.
Hop on a boat ride through the many beautiful canals, tour the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and sample some world-famous Belgian chocolates and waffles. And don’t miss the chance to climb the Belfry for a view of the city’s red-tiled rooftops and winding waterways.
Santorini: Greece’s postcard-perfect island
Santorini with its beauty still proves to be a jewel as a necessary destination to visit. The island’s stunning views of whitewashed homes with blue-domed roofs and dramatic cliffs will leave you breathless.
Explore the pretty villages of Oia and Fira, catch the iconic sunset from Oia Castle, and visit the black sand beaches of Perissa and Kamari. For a taste of history, check out the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, nicknamed the “Minoan Pompeii.”
Unforgettable Cultural Experiences
Attending local festivals and events
During summer, Europe is teeming with colourful festivals and events that celebrate the continent’s cultural diversity. From Porto’s colour-splashing Festa de São João to the upbeat Sziget Festival in Budapest, these celebrations give you a crash course in local traditions or modern culture.
Don’t miss out on the party, whether it is hurling tomatoes at La Tomatina in Spain or boogying all night at the Berlin Festival.
Savouring regional cuisines
Your European summer trip isn’t complete without some tastes of the local flavour. You’ll have a chance to sample the local cuisine in each destination, think fresh seafood paella in Valencia, goulash in Hungary and much more.
Food markets and local restaurants are the best spots to taste authentic dishes. Be sure to sample specialities such as Belgian waffles in Brussels or traditional Greek moussaka in Athens to truly taste the heart of each region.
Exploring open-air markets
Wandering around Europe’s open-air markets is a feast for the senses. These vibrant centres of local life give you an opportunity to meet vendors, taste fresh products and search for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
The bustling market scene of Campo de’ Fiori in Rome or the Naschmarkt in Vienna, where the fragrances of herbs and local delicacies permeate the air, will make you swoon.
Engaging with local artisans
To conclude your cultural journey, engage with local artisans. You’ll get a greater appreciation of traditional craftsmanship as you’ll see the hands of skilled workers in action.
Watching glassblowers at work in Murano, Italy, or pottery workshops in Delft, Netherlands, either way, these experiences give you the real deal with a taste of Europe’s artistic heritage. This is a chance to chat with the artisans and even to try your hands on traditional craftsmanship.
Practical European Travel Tips
Best times to visit different regions
Are you planning your European summer adventure? Timing is everything! For Mediterranean countries, such as Spain, Italy or Greece, target May to June or September to October.
You’ll experience nice weather and fewer tourists. Scandinavian countries, such as Sweden and Norway, are especially wonderful from June to August when the long hours of daylight are beautiful for visiting.
Transportation options across Europe
Europe has a comprehensive transportation system, making it easy to get around. For those thinking of travelling across even just a few cities, train travel can be a scenic and one of the most comfortable ways to get around, with the Eurail Pass allowing for cheaper multi-country visits.
Low-cost airlines are a good option for long-distance travel and buses are an inexpensive option for shorter distances. Take public transport in cities or rent yourself a bike for an environmentally friendly experience.
Money-saving hacks for budget travelers
These savvy tips help make your euros go further. Plan accommodation beforehand and opt for hostels or holiday lets for longer stays. Utilise free walking tours in major cities and buy city passes to save on attractions.
Eat like a local by visiting markets and trying street food. Visit during shoulder seasons to secure better flight and accommodation deals.
Essential packing list for European summer
You’ll want to pack right for your European adventure. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light breathable clothes and a versatile jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget a universal power adapter, a reusable water bottle and a daypack for excursions.
Include sun protection essentials and swimsuits for beach days. And be sure to leave room in your bags for souvenirs!
Language basics to enhance your experience
Although English is common, some important phrases in the local language will enhance your travels greatly. Learn basic words like “hello,” “thank you” and “excuse me” in the local languages of the countries you’ll visit.
Get a language app for translations on the go. We can often come across better as foreigners by at least attempting to communicate in the local language. Even if imperfectly, those efforts will generally be welcomed in return for more memorable experiences with locals.
Conclusion
So, have fun planning your European summer trip, make sure to keep in mind to explore the local culture, taste the local food, and get in touch with the great local people around you. Now that you know these practical travel tips, you can make the most out of your journey.
After all, this is the magic of the European summer, that will last you a lifetime. So let’s pack your bags and be prepared to experience what this fascinating continent can offer you.
