What are the best places to visit in Europe in summer?

Looking for the best places to visit in Europe in summer? Unsurprisingly, summer is the most popular time of year for travel. The kids are off school and many of us take a break from work to spend time with our families and friends. To make the most of this free time and warmer temperatures, why not plan a trip to some of the best summer destinations in Europe? From Mediterranean beaches to captivating cities bursting with culture, plan a trip to Europe with a little help from our selection of these top summer destinations:

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon is ideal for a visit at any time of year but comes into full bloom during the summer months. As temperatures rise, so does the city’s lively nightlife, as locals head out after dark to enjoy their city in the cool of the evening. On the other hand, the long summer days are all about soaking up the sunshine and sightseeing.

A stroll along the River Tagus followed by a spot of lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants is a must-do! Once you’ve checked out the magical Belem Tower, uncovered the heritage of Fado in the Alfama District and eaten your fair share of pastel de nata, you can head to the city’s beaches! With the nearest stretch of coastline just 20-minutes away by train, Lisbon offers the best of both worlds: sightseeing and beach lounging. Therefore, we think it’s one of the best summer destinations in Europe!

Reykjavik, Iceland

Perhaps not your first choice for a summer vacation, Iceland is actually a fantastic place to visit during the summer! Although you’re unlikely to spot the Northern Lights, you will experience another very special natural phenomenon: the Midnight Sun! Between May and August, the sun remains in the sky almost 24 hours a day due to Iceland’s geographical location. Therefore, if you travel to Reykjavik at this time of year you can enjoy all kinds of excellent activities and some pretty lively nightlife!

Transforming into the ‘city that never sleeps’, the Icelandic capital abounds with activities and events during the summer. Stay up late and join the crowds at the Solfar Sun Ship Sculpture to watch the setting of the Midnight Sun, enjoy the extra daylight hours to embark on hiking trips to Heidmörk Nature Reserve or spend a long evening relaxing at the famous Blue Lagoon! Furthermore, Reykjavik is well connected to other sights across Iceland, such as the famous geysers and waterfalls of the Golden Circle. Across the country you’ll find an array of outdoor activities to suit your tastes, making Iceland one of the best summer destinations in Europe!

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Famed for its picturesque towns, Mediterranean climate, and dramatic cliffside views, the Amalfi Coast has long been one of Italy’s most celebrated destinations. It was even designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997! Summer is without a doubt the high season in this limoncello-producing region, as the beachside trattoria hum with activity and tourists soak up the Italian sunshine. With 13 villages to explore, why not make day trips to see the best of Amalfi, Positano, or Ravello? Sample the region’s simple yet tasty dishes, always paired with a local wine!

Dublin, Ireland

Steeped in history and filled to the brim with classic Irish charm, Dublin makes a great summertime destination! Take advantage of the sunniest season to walk through this leafy city crisscrossed by canals and rivers. From drinking a Guinness in an authentic Irish pub to visiting Trinity College’s stunning campus, Dublin offers activities for a wide range of ages and interests. It’s also just a quick jaunt from Dublin to explore some of the Emerald Isle’s natural beauty and quaint small towns. This summer marks the perfect moment to get acquainted with Ireland!

Barcelona, Spain

If you think the best summer destinations in Europe should offer sun, sea and sightseeing, then head to Barcelona! Perched on the Mediterranean Coast, Barcelona’s beaches are full of fun-loving revelry at this time of year! After a stroll along the promenade, why not explore the old fisherman’s neighbourhood of Barceloneta? Alternatively, enjoy a little retail therapy on the upmarket shopping streets of Passeig de Gracia and Rambla Cataluyna. Take in the architecture of Gaudi at La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell or wander the historic alleyways of the Barrio Gotico. Barcelona’s electric atmosphere, neighbourhood festivals and sun-drenched beaches make it one of the best destinations to visit in Europe in the summer!

Crete, Greece

Nothing says summer like the Greek Islands. 500 kilometres from the Greek mainland, lies Crete, the largest of all the Greek islands. A travel destination that perfectly captures the spirit of Greece, Crete is a paradise of seductive beaches, jaw-dropping archaeological sites and charming mountainside villages. Of course, summer is the best time to enjoy the natural beauty of this incredible island. From the beautiful Balos Lagoon to the towering White Mountains, there’s plenty on offer here for lovers of the great outdoors. Furthermore, the capital of Heraklion boasts excellent archaeological museums, historic architecture and heaps of authentic bars and eateries to enjoy once the sun goes down.

Ready to travel to some of the best summer destinations in Europe? Explore our incredible travel deals and start planning a European getaway for summer today!

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