In light of Europe Day 2021 – and ok, I’ll admit, I missed it by nearly a week – I thought what better way to recognise it than to take a look at some of the continent’s best summer spots. If you’re like me and you live in Europe, it’s probably made up the bulk of your holiday and travel experiences due to the ease of travel and short journeys – but I bet there are still some places you’ve not yet been to, that should definitely be on your Europe List!
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast has been one of Italy’s most sought out destinations for many years now, and with great reason too. Dramatic cliffs lining the coast, scenic villages and towns, and stunning clear blue water.
There’s so much to do, you’ll never run out of options. Visit any of the picturesque towns including Positano, Amalfi and Sorrento. Traditional, pastel-coloured buildings line the coast where you’ll get great sea views and authentic Italian food.
A trip to the island of Capri is also a must – some of the most stunning views, beaches, and swimming that you’ll find in all of Europe! Other great beaches along the Amalfi Coast include Spiaggia di Cauco, Fiordo di Furore, Spiaggia Arienzo and Marina Grande.
Corfu, Greece
Corfu is a small island located off the coast of Greece that makes for a relaxing, nature-filled summer break. Filled to the brim with picturesque sights, beautiful beaches and stunning coastlines, this small, friendly island offers plenty to do.
Visit Agni Bay or Corfu City for a relaxed day exploring local areas with fantastic Greek food and traditional Greek buildings. Agni Bay’s small beach is lined with restaurants that all serve fresh food, Greek beer and live music in the evenings. My absolute favourite here was Nikolas’ Taverna – a lovely beachside spot for a relaxing evening!
For awesome beaches and equally amazing sights, check out Palaiokastritsa, Porto Timoni and Cape Drastis. Beautiful white sand beaches, dramatic white cliff faces and great snorkelling opportunities.
Zillertal, Austria
I suspect that this is one of the lesser-known spots on the list, but it’s absolutely worth a visit! Just an hour and a half drive from Munich and situated in the middle of the Austrian countryside, a stunning summer awaits.
It definitely caters to those who love an action-packed trip, with endless mountains, lakes, activities and hikes. Head up to Lake Achensee for a full day of lake activities – long hikes along the lakeside, water sports ranging from paddle boarding, to windsurfing to sailing, relax on the beach, or even go diving in the crystal waters.
Alternatively, go rock climbing at one of the many climbing courses located nearby (in German known as a Klettersteig), or take a mountain hike. I recommend the Olpererhütte hike that takes you up above Lake Schlegeis to a great observing bridge (pictured on the right, above). And who doesn’t love a great Instagrammable spot once in a while right? To find out how you can make it here, check out this helpful guide!
A personal recommendation is to stay in Zillertal, a small village located just south of Lake Achen – there are some great, quiet homestays that plunge you in traditional Austrian life! Absolutely one of Europe’s best summer destinations if you ask me!
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The French Riviera, France
The South of France is another great coastal spot with so much on offer. Long stretches of beach, non-stop fine dining, and iconic coastal towns. It’s one of my favourite scenic trips in all of Europe and definitely earns its spot on this list.
Along the coast you’ve got St Tropez, Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes. All of these picturesque seaside towns make for a great day out, roaming the cobbled streets, surrounded by traditional French buildings, cafes and restaurants.
And let’s not forget that, being situated on the Mediterranean, this area is packed with lush beaches. Clear blue water, white sand or cobblestone, and endless sun! For some of the best that the French Riviera has to offer, check out Paloma Beach, Plage des Marinières, Plage de la Mala, and Plage D’Argent.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The final spot on this list goes to Amsterdam – a city teeming with culture and stunning scenery. This is a great place for a city break that really comes to life in the summer.
With more bikes than people, you won’t find it hard to locate a bike and tour the city. Cycle along the canals, to nearby lakes for a swim, or to one of the many cafes situated around the city. Amsterdam also has several great museums including the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. If you want to book tours or tickets in Amsterdam, grab some great deals here!
In the evenings, enjoy drinks at one of the local breweries, roof top bars, or pubs. For some of Amsterdam’s most popular bars, head to the Skylounge, the Flying Dutchman, Hiding In Plain Sight, and Brouweij’t Ij.
So there we have it, 5 top picks for a summer in Europe. Obviously, there are loads more awesome European destinations that should still make it onto your list at some point, but you can’t go wrong with the ones listed here.
Which of Europe’s best summer destinations have you been to already? Which spot gets your number one pick?
