Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to start planning your ultimate European getaway! With so many beautiful destinations to choose from (and so little time to visit them all!), it can be difficult to decide where to go.
Luckily, we have some amazing places you can visit, including some of Europe’s best beaches. Here’s what you need to know for your summer getaway.
Quick facts about summer in Europe
Bask in the beauty and warmth of Europe this summer! Credits to Ezequiel Garrido on Unsplash.
Before your much-awaited vacation, you might want to know these fun facts about summers in Europe:
- The summer solstice, the longest day of the year, occurs in June, which means there are more daylight hours to explore the continent's cities and landscapes—this could be the perfect time to spend on the beach!
- In some parts of Europe, particularly in Spain and Italy, it's common for businesses to close during the summer months for a siesta, a midday nap, or a break to avoid the hottest hours of the day.
- During the summer, some European cities offer free outdoor concerts and movie screenings in parks and public spaces, allowing locals and tourists to enjoy cultural events in a relaxed setting. How exciting!
Where to go and what to expect for your European summer vacation
From Europe’s best beaches to breathtaking architecture, there are a lot of incredible attractions to explore. Here’s a list of must-visit destinations, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
1. Cinque Terre, Italy
Soak up the Mediterranean sun at Cinque Terre. Credits to Noah Mayer on Unsplash.
Want to explore Italy’s most charming villages? Take a quick trip to Cinque Terre! It’s a collection of five colorful coastal villages on the Italian Riviera, each with its unique character and views of the Mediterranean Sea. You hike along the scenic coastal trail, or simply relax on one of the picturesque beaches.
Be sure to sample the region's famous white wine, Sciacchetrà, which is made from locally grown grapes!
2. Jardin des Plantes, France
Step into a botanical paradise at Jardin des Plantes. Credits to Daphné Be Frenchie on Unsplash.
Planning a summer picnic? Located in the heart of Paris, the Jardin des Plantes is a botanical garden perfect for just that!
During your picnic, you can enjoy views of the garden's themed areas, including the Alpine Garden and Rose Garden. If you’d rather dine in, you can try the garden's restaurant, La Baleine, which offers delicious French cuisine in a serene and charming setting.
3. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, Italy
Sample the freshest seafood when you visit Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Credits to Alessio Bachetti on Unsplash.
Lay under lemon trees as you take in the dazzling views of Europe’s best beaches.
At Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, you can check out cliffside villages like Positano and Ravello as you sample fresh seafood and traditional Neapolitan pizza. Other popular activities include hiking along the famous Path of the Gods or exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii.
You can also go on an eight-hour day tour from Naples!
4. Costa Brava, Spain
Unwind in the breathtaking natural beauty of Costa Brava. Credits to tavarez88 on Pixabay.
One of the best beaches in Europe has to be Costa Brava in Spain!
There, you can try various activities such as hiking, water sports, or simply soaking up the sun. Don't miss out on local specialties, such as seafood paella or crema catalana, a delicious traditional dessert similar to crème brûlée.
5. Venice, Italy
Ride through Venice on a gondola. Credits to adrian krajcar on Unsplash.
Venice is a city unlike any other, with its impressive architecture, romantic canals, and rich history.
Here, you can ride in their iconic gondolas through the winding canals and marvel at the city's bridges and buildings, including the iconic St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Their local cuisine includes cicchetti (Venetian-style tapas) and fresh seafood dishes, making great pairings for their specialty wines!
What to wear
Prep your most fashionable outfits before your trip! Credits to sterlinglanier Lanier on Unsplash.
In general, temperatures during a European summer vacation range from mild to hot depending on the location. Coastal areas tend to be more temperate, while inland areas can be hotter and more humid.
It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before packing, but in general, lightweight clothing such as shorts, dresses, and t-shirts are appropriate for daytime activities, while a light jacket or sweater may be needed for cooler evenings.
Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for sightseeing and exploring. Plan your outfits accordingly, so you can take the cutest pics to post!
Now that you have an idea of what a European ultimate summer getaway looks like, it’s time to plan your trip!
