While planning for vacations during summer in Europe, most of the travelers prefer selecting the famous spots rather than exploring the less popular ones. In this manner, many of the awe-inspiring destinations in Europe that offer untouched surroundings for ideal summer vacations are left unnoticed.
11 Locations To Spend Summer In Europe
Consequently, we’ve gathered a list to bring some of the best unconventional destinations to your attention. Rest assured, these adventures will not only make your European summer vacations enjoyable, but also extraordinary.
11. Rhodes – Greece
Rhodes is a fantastic place to witness the Greek nightlife, culture, and cuisine. Renowned for its coastlines, beach resorts, and ancient remnants. Governed by various rulers including Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, and Ottomans in the past, the culture of this place showcases influences from each of them. This is also the largest island among the Dodecanese islands (groups of islands) of Greece. The Old Town in Rhodes is the main attraction, featuring the Palace of the Grand Masters and the medieval Street of the Knights. The terrain of this region is suitable for land and water adventure activities. There are also some fascinating ancient pilgrimage sites that you wouldn’t want to miss during your visit. The best way to explore Rhodes is by renting a scooter and touring the city on it.
Must Experience: Experience trekking to reach the Ancient city of KamirosBest Time To Visit: June to SeptemberPlaces To Visit: Tsmbika Beach, Monolithos Castle, Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, Anthony Quinn Bay, Archaeological Museum of Rhodes (Hospital of the knights)Things To Do: Enjoy sea excursions, hiking, mountain biking, trekking.
10. Crete – Greece
Home to some of the most soothing and crystal clear beaches with emerald green waters, Crete is one of the most unconventional and finest choices for a summer trip to Europe. Brimming with stunning pink sand beaches, traditional villages, enormous canyons, and much more, Crete is a must-have experience on the wishlist of every traveler.
Must Experience: Explore the remnants of the Palace of KnossosBest Time To Visit: April to mid-OctoberPlaces To Visit: Samariá Gorge, Knossos, Elafonisi Island, Balos Beach, Spinalonga, and more.Things To Do: Hike at Samariá Gorge, explore caves at Psychro cave, swim at Vai beach, shop in the local Agora, and more.
Important: DO NOT Depart for Europe Without Packing These 8 Items
9. Porto – Portugal
This is the destination you must visit if you are looking for peace and quiet during your vacation in summer in Europe. Situated in northwest Portugal, the beautiful city of Porto is among the top attractions to see in Europe during summer. As the second largest city in Portugal, Porto is internationally renowned for its port wine and holds the honor of being the inspiration behind the country’s name, Portugal. From its beaches and vibrant buildings to its rich past, Porto truly is a magical city with a lively nightlife.
Must Try: Take a trip across the iconic Dom Luís I BridgeBest Time To Visit: April to SeptemberPlaces To Visit: Palácio da Bolsa, Church of São Francisco, Livraria Lello, Clérigos Church, Estádio do Dragão, and more.Things To Do: Explore Porto on a double-decker bus, indulge in wine tasting, go hiking in Douro, admire the art and architecture at Serralves, and more.
8. Paphos – Cyprus
Prepare yourself for a dose of vitamin sea during this summer in Europe. If you desire to soak up the sun, show off your tan, and truly relax, then you must visit Paphos, the ultimate beach destination in Europe for the summer of 2023. Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, Paphos attracts visitors with its soft sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and renowned limestone cliffs. Additionally, make sure not to leave Paphos without experiencing a catamaran cruise.
Must Try: Make sure to explore the vibrant mosaics at the House of Dionysos, a protected Roman villa from the 2nd century.Best Time To Visit: April to OctoberPlaces To Visit: Coral Bay, Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Tombs of the Kings, Paphos Castle, Saranta Kolones, and more.Things To Do: Discover the ruins of the Roman era at Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, go horseback riding at Eagle Mountain Ranch, spot wild sea turtles at the Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station, and more.
7. Isle of Skye – Scotland
This is the ideal place to find harmony with nature this summer in Europe. Grand mountains and towering cliffs are the highlights of Isle of Skye, the widely acclaimed and the second largest of all islands in Scotland. Situated in the archipelago of Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye is also renowned for its ancient castles, picturesque fishing villages, and the finest nightlife in Europe summer. True to its name, Isle of Skye is indeed a location that can evoke a dream-like and enchanted sensation.
Must Experience: Stand on the verge of the westernmost Neist Point.Best Time To Visit: May to SeptemberPlaces To Visit: Dunvegan Castle, The Storr, Quiraing, Colbost, Armadale Castle, Fairy Pools, and more.Things To Do: Trekking at the Storr, hike the Quiraing, fishing in Dunvegan, nature walking and hiking at Fairy Pools, and more.
6. Bergen – Norway
Encounter Copenhagen’s look-alike with a scenic view! You heard that correctly! Home to shimmering glaciers and fjords, Bergen is the second largest city in Norway which never fails to amaze the travelers with its small-town appeal. With its origins tracing back to the era of the Vikings, Bergen is a perfect blend of 900 years old traditions and contemporary lifestyle. Bursting with museums, art galleries, restaurants, pubs, and handicraft shops, Bergen is certainly a vibrant city that enthralls everyone with its allure.
Must Experience: Appreciate the Hanseatic buildings of Bergen at the Vågen harbor.Best Time To Visit: May to JulyPlaces To Visit: Bryggens Museum, Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene, Troldhaugen, Bergenhus Fortress, Lille Lungegårdsvannet, and more.Things To Do: Embark on nature walking and hiking at Fløyen, take the cable car up to Ulriken mountain, explore the marine life at Bergen Aquarium, and more.
5. Brasov – Romania
This is an ideal place to soak in the positive energy this summer in Europe. Encircled by the Carpathian mountains on all sides, Brasov is a charming little city located in the region of Transylvania. Serving as the best place for summer skiing in Europe, Brasov showcases world-class gothic architecture in all its churches and buildings. Surrounded by natural beauty on all sides, Brasov also serves as a perfect base for parachuting and hiking.
Must Experience: Explore the council square of Piaţa Sfatului and the vibrant baroque buildings around.Best Time To Visit: March to June & September to OctoberPlaces To Visit: Bran Castle, Biserica Neagră Church, Parcul Zoologic, St. Nicholas Church, and more.Things To Do: Enjoy the cable-car ride at Tâmpa, skiing and snowboarding at Poiana Brasov, relax at the Smile Aqua Park, and more.
4. Zadar – Croatia
Here’s an opportunity to discover an architectural gem in summer in Europe. Enjoying a beautiful location on the Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is an unspoiled gem set in the heart of Croatia. Much famed for housing the historical Venetian and Roman ruins, you cannot help but fall in love with the architectural gem of Zadar. Also, it is a must to attend the Soundwave Festival in Tisno which is one of the best music festivals in Europe’s summer.
Must Experience: Explore the Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the best European national parks & a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Best Time To Visit: June to SeptemberPlaces To Visit: Church of St. Donatus, Krka National Park, Morske Orgulje, Ošljak Island, the Archaeological Museum, and more.Things To Do: Parachuting, horse riding at Velika Plana Valley, Hiking at the Peak of Pag Island, Jeep Safari at Velebit Mountain, and more.
3. Giethoorn Village – Netherlands
Experience something new this summer in Europe by visiting a wonderland with no roads. Get a boat in Giethoorn and you’re sorted. This marvelous village that has no roads, attracts thousands of travelers from all around the world. Comprising of more than 180 bridges and endless canals, the magical land of Giethoorn Village works like a charm during summers in Europe.
Essential Experience: Delighting in boating on a Whisper vessel equipped with a noiseless electric engine.Optimal Time To Visit: April to mid-OctoberRecommended Destinations: The Museum De Oude Aarde, Museum Het Olde Maat, Museum Gloria Maris, Arendshorst, and more.Activities: Exploring the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, canoeing through the canals of Giethoorn, renting a bicycle to discover the cycling trails, and more.
2. Sicily, Italy
Embark on a journey of your fantasies during your European summer. A mere glimpse of Sicily’s landscape will leave you captivated. With its awe-inspiring sights, Sicily stands as one of the largest and most striking islands in the Mediterranean. Beyond its historical attractions and gleaming coastlines, Sicily’s dreamlike surroundings will surpass your expectations during your Italian summer getaway.
Must Experience: A visit to Valle dei Templi, an epitome of art and architecture, is a must.Optimal Time To Visit: May to June & September to OctoberRecommended Destinations: Mount Etna, Cappella Palatina, Villa Romana del Casale, Palazzo dei Normanni, Cattedrale di Monreale, and more.Activities: Skiing and hiking at Mount Etna, canyoning and rafting at Alcantara, snorkeling at Isola Bella, and more.
1. Lauterbrunnen – Switzerland
Featuring the magnificent and towering Staubbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen strikes the perfect balance between nature, adventure, romance, and serenity. As one of the finest honeymoon destinations for adventure, Lauterbrunnen offers snow-covered mountains, rugged landscapes, rocky terrains, glaciers, valleys, and every other element that will make your Swiss summer vacation a truly unforgettable experience.
Must Experience: Indulge in skiing at the Jungfrau mountains, one of Switzerland’s highest peaks.Optimal Time To Visit: April to JuneRecommended Destinations: Trümmelbach, Staubbach Falls, Mönch, Lauberhorn, Eiger Glacier, Männlichen, and more.Activities: Admire panoramic views of Jungfrau and Mönch from the Jungfraujoch observatory, dine at the revolving restaurant at Schilthorn, go hiking at Kleine Scheidegg, take a cable car ride from Stechelberg to Schilthorn, and more.
Unable to resist packing your bags? Well, nobody is halting you. Explore some incredible European vacation packages and personalize your own travel itinerary as per your preferences with Fred and Fuzzys. Off you go!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Summer In Europe
What are the summer months in Europe?
June to August represents the summer months in Europe.
Is Europe hot in the summer?
The Average summer temperature in Europe is approximately 30 degrees Celsius.
What is the most economical month to fly to Europe?
From late October to March is usually the most economical time to fly to Europe.
What are the summer months in Europe?
June to August and this is the peak season in Europe.
What are the periods of the year in Europe?
Peak season (approximately mid-June through August), shoulder season (April through mid-June and September through October), and off-season (November through March).
Where should I go in Europe during the summer?
Lisbon, Portugal, Dubrovnik, Croatia, Reykjavik, Iceland, Budapest, Hungary, London, England, Florence, Italy, Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Prague, Czech Republic.
What is the optimal time of year to visit Europe?
The optimal time to visit Europe is primarily between May, June, and September.
Which European city should I explore?
The finest destinations to explore in Europe are Paris, Florence, Santorini, Amsterdam, and London.
Is Europe costly to travel to?
Yes, it is a bit on the pricier side and depends on where you go. Greece is moderately cheaper in comparison to other countries in Europe.
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