Are you planning a trip for summer in Europe? If yes, then you have come to the right place!
As someone who has visited Europe a couple of times in the summer, I can suggest the best places to visit in Europe this summer.
From romantic retreats to family-friendly destinations, you can easily find a wide range of options here.
A lot of people think winter is the best time to visit Europe. But I feel the summer season is better as you can make the most of the mountains and the beaches.
Plus, there are lots of fun festivals and concerts to attend at this time too!
So, whether you are planning a couples trip, a family trip, or a backpacking trip with your friends, I have the list of the best European destinations to visit in the summer months.
From beach relaxation to city exploration, to outdoor adventure, there’s something here for everyone.
Here is a list of the 15 Unforgettable Summer in Europe Destinations to add to your bucket list!
Summer in Europe: 15 Unforgettable Destinations For Your Bucket List
Santorini, Greece
If you are looking for a romantic destination for the European summertime, then Santorini tops the list.
It is one of the most romantic places in Europe, making it a top choice for couples, particularly honeymooners.
The iconic blue-domed churches, whitewashed houses, and jaw-dropping views of the caldera make it a magical place to visit for everyone.
Also, don’t forget the stunning sunset views from Oia which anybody can ever talk about.
However, there is more to Santorini. Couples can enjoy wine tasting on the islands, explore ancient ruins, visit the volcanic islands nearby, and more.
Plus, we cannot forget the stunning beaches of Santorini that are perfect for relaxing and spending quality time with your partner.
So, if you are planning a honeymoon in summer in Europe, then do check out Santorini in Greece!
Check: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit
Check: Traditional Sightseeing Bus Tour with Oia Sunset
Check: Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise with Snorkel, BBQ & Open Bar
Summer Europe: Barcelona, Spain
The ideal place to visit in Europe in the summer months for all kinds of travelers has to be Barcelona.
With a mixture of beach, city, and culture, this city in Spain is perfect for not only families but couples and friends as well.
You have stunning architecture, rich history, buzzing nightlife, and easy access to the Mediterranean beaches. What more could you possibly want?
Trust me, there is nothing better than exploring Gaudi’s masterpieces like La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell in the morning and relaxing at Barceloneta Beach in the afternoons.
There are plenty of markets and cute restaurants to explore here as well.
So, whether you are planning a family trip or a couple retreat, Barcelona is one of the top places to visit in summer in Europe!
Check: Park Guell Guided Tour with Skip The Line Entry
Check: Gaudí’s Sagrada Família Fast-Track Guided Tour
Check: Flamenco Show at City Hall Theater
Summer Vacations In Europe: Dubrovnik, Croatia
I am sure if you are a Game of Thrones fan, you would already have Dubrovnik at the top of your Europe itinerary.
Well, summer is the best time to visit this Europe destination. But what to do here?
For history buffs, one of the top places to visit in Dubrovnik is the Old Town.
It is a UNESCO Heritage site and one of the best places to step back in time and learn about this city’s history.
I love walking through the medieval walls surrounding the old town as it offers the best view of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
Apart from a rich history, this coastal town also acts as a gateway to several beautiful islands and beaches nearby. You can go island hopping and explore lots of unique locations nearby.
Trust me, whether you are on a family vacation or a romantic trip, Dubrovnik is the perfect choice with its perfect mix of history, culture, and beaches!
Check: The Ultimate Game of Thrones Tour
Check: From Dubrovnik: Mostar and Kravica Waterfall Day Trip
Check: Blue Cave & Sunj Beach Boat Tour with Drinks
Summer Europe Trips: Interlaken, Switzerland
If you are someone like me who loves the mountains in the summer, then one of the perfect places to visit in summer in Europe is Interlaken in Switzerland.
This beautiful town is located between two crystal-clear lakes and is the dream of all adventure lovers.
From paragliding to hiking to skydiving, you can find all kinds of fun adventurous activities to do here!
Trust me, the view of the Swiss Alps makes your stay here even more memorable.
For a more adventurous trip, you can take the famous Jungfrau Railway up to Jungfraujoch. It is known as the “Top of Europe,” and offers stunning views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
If you are on a family trip, there are plenty of fun and easy hikes to do around here. Trust me, Interlaken will never disappoint you.
Check: Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
Check: Paragliding Tandem Flight in Interlaken
Check: Interlaken: Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm
Paris, France: Summer In Europe
Of course, when we are talking about the best places to visit in Europe this summer, we cannot forget Paris – the city of lights and love!
The first time I visited Paris in the summer, it felt like a dream. The tree-lined boulevards, charming cafes, and iconic landmarks made it feel so dreamy.
Although I was traveling with my family, the city is deemed to be one of the most romantic cities in the world.
Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine River or enjoy a cute picnic in one of the nearby parks.
For families and friends, there are plenty of museums and landmarks to explore here.
Plus, the city is home to plenty of festivals during the summer months, making it one of the most happening destinations to visit in Europe in summer!
So, if you are looking for the perfect European destination in the summer months to add to your bucket list, then don’t forget to include the iconic Paris.
Check: 1-Hour Seine Cruise starting at the Eiffel Tower
Check: Louvre Museum Timed-Entrance Ticket
Check: Access Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Level
Europe Travel Itinerary: Copenhagen, Denmark
With its colorful houses, waterfront views, and bike-friendly streets, Copenhagen is one of the most charming cities to explore in Europe in summer.
What I love about this city is the relaxed vibe and the focus on sustainable tourism. Plus, the weather is nice in the summer too!
Don’t forget to visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
It is the ultimate place to visit both with your family and friends as there are a lot of options of rides, games, and gardens to enjoy here.
Are you a foodie? Well, then you are going to love Copenhagen!
There are plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy street food markets where you can enjoy the most delicious Danish food!
Check: Copenhagen: Tivoli Gardens Entry Ticket with Unlimited Rides
Check: 3-Hour Culinary Bike Tour
Check: Hygge and Happiness Culture Walking Tour
Places To Visit In Europe In The Summer: Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city that effortlessly combines culture, affordability, and laid-back vibes.
Perfect for couples and groups of friends, this city in Portugal has warm, sunny weather in summer and offers a fun and lively atmosphere for everyone.
To make the most of your summer in Europe trip, enjoy a stroll through the hilly streets of Alfama, hop on the famous Tram 28, and enjoy the stunning views from the many viewpoints scattered across the city.
If you are craving some beach time, then you can also head to the nearby beaches like Cascais and Estoril.
Most importantly, if you are on a trip with friends and looking to party, then Lisbon has covered you there as well.
The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, especially in the Bairro Alto district. Here, you can find anything from trendy bars to live Fado music.
Whether you are looking for a fun trip with friends or a romantic getaway with your partner, Lisbon is the perfect choice.
Check: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour
Check: Food and Wine Small Group Walking Tour
Check: Tejo River Sunset Cruise with Welcome Drink
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Best Places To Visit In Europe This Summer
Another fantastic summer destination in Europe for families, couples, and friends is the iconic Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
The city has some of the most iconic canals lined with charming houseboats and colorful historic houses.
You can enjoy a stroll or bike through the streets here or even take a boat cruise to learn more about this city’s history.
Summer is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam as there are plenty of festivals, outdoor markets, and open-air cafes available this time.
Don’t forget to visit world-class museums such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. You can also enjoy a sunny afternoon in Vondelpark which is perfect for picnics or leisurely walks.
This is also one of the best places for partying in Europe so do head out to De Pijp or Jordaan for a vibrant nightlife.
Overall, Amsterdam has it all, making it the perfect European city to explore in the summer.
Check: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option
Check: Heineken Experience Ticket
Check: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour
Cool Places In Europe: Edinburgh, Scotland
Tired of all the heat of summer in Europe?
Then, head to Edinburg, a historical destination in Scotland with its medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, and iconic Edinburgh Castle perched on a hill overlooking the city.
One of the most amazing things to do here in the summer is to attend the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
It is the largest arts festival in the world which takes over the city in August.
Apart from this festival, there are plenty of museums, iconic landmarks, and natural places to visit in and around Edinburgh.
If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful trip with your partner or family, then Edinburgh is a great choice!
Check: Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour
Check: Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
Check: Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour
Plan To Travel Europe: Vienna, Austria
For architecture buffs, one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer is Vienna.
Known as the City of Music, Vienna has been home to some of history’s greatest composers, including Mozart and Beethoven.
This is why a must-do activity here is to attend an open-air concert in one of the city’s parks.
In summer, don’t forget to visit the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs.
Ideal for couples, the city is home to several traditional Viennese cafes. Here, you can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner with your partner.
If you are traveling with friends, don’t miss the Prater or Stadtpark, both of which are perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply unwinding in the sun.
Check: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche
Check: Skip-the-Line Sisi Museum, Hofburg and Gardens Tour
Check: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour
Europe Summer Months: Lake Bled, Slovenia
Although the Julian Alps of Slovenia are not as famous as the Swiss Alps, they are no less amazing.
And tucked here is the most enchanting location in Europe – Lake Bled.
The emerald-green waters, surrounded by lush forests and the picturesque Bled Island, create a scene straight out of a fairytale.
So, whether you’re rowing out to the island to ring the church bell for good luck, hiking up to Bled Castle for panoramic views, or simply relaxing by the lake, Bled offers a peaceful retreat perfect for couples and families.
If you are looking for more adventure, then you can head to the nearby Vintgar Gorge for some hiking and biking.
Trust me, Lake Bled is one of the best cool places in Europe to explore in the summer months.
Check: Vintgar Gorge Best Experience and Food Tasting
Check: Guided Kayaking Tour in a Transparent Kayak
Check: Sava River Rafting Trip
Summer Vacation: Bruges, Belgium
This is one of the most romantic cities in Europe with its cute canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture.
And why it is also popularly known as the ‘’Venice of the North”.
If you are traveling with family or on a romantic vacation, don’t forget to try the famous Belgian chocolate.
For the panoramic views of the city, climb the Belfry Tower or visit the exhibits at the Historium for an interactive experience!
There are plenty of boutiques and cafes, especially around the historic Market Square where you can try the delicious Belgian cuisine.
Trust me, Bruges is like stepping back in time and offers a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.
Check: Guided Walking Tour and Canal Boat Trip
Check: Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
Check: Nightly Tales and Untold History Walking Tour
Best Holiday Destinations In Summer: Lofoten Islands, Norway
If you love hiking, then one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer is the Lofoten Islands.
These islands are known for their dramatic mountains, deep fjords, and pristine beaches, and offer the most unique summer experience ever!
Although the islands are north of the Arctic Circle, they have relatively mild summer temperatures, making them perfect for hiking, fishing, and exploring.
If that wasn’t enough, the experience of watching the midnight sun makes it a bucket-list destination to visit in the summer.
Whether you want to go hiking or chill on the beach, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are the best places to visit in Europe in summer.
Check: Svolvær: Ultimate Aurora Hunt with Northern Lights Warranty
Check: Lofoten Islands Silent Trollfjord Cruise
Check: Trollfjord Sea Eagle Safari by RIB Boat
Best Places To Go This Summer: Amalfi Coast, Italy
Are you a fan of beaches and coastal towns?
If so, then one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer is the Amalfi Coast in Italy!
With stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean, this is one of my favorite places to visit in Europe!
Riding along the winding roads with the turquoise waters on one side and colorful cliffside villages on the other is like a dream come true.
If you are here for a romantic getaway, then you can enjoy exploring the cobblestone streets, dining at waterfront restaurants, or taking a boat ride to explore secret beaches.
For families, there are lots of beaches here. And if you are an adventure traveler, then don’t forget to explore the hiking trails and water activities that are available in this region.
Whether you want adventure travel or luxury travel, Amalfi Coast is one of the top places to include in your Europe itinerary.
Check: Amalfi Coast and Positano Sunset Cruise with Drinks
Check: Make Fresh Pasta, Mozzarella, & Tiramisù
Check: Positano/Praiano: Iconic Fiat 500 Private Amalfi Coast Tour
Summer In Europe: Stockholm, Sweden
One of the top cool places in Europe in summer is Stockholm, Sweden.
The city has a rich history, culture, and nature, making it the ideal destination for all types of travelers.
For couples, one of the best places to visit in Stockholm is Gamla Stan, where you can stroll through cobblestone streets, visit cozy cafes, and enjoy the charming, colorful buildings.
My favorite thing about this city is that during the summer months, you can enjoy long daylight hours and indulge in plenty of outdoor activities here.
Families will love Djurgården where kids can enjoy the open-air museum with animals, a waterfront amusement park, and more.
So, whether you are traveling with friends, family, or your partner, Stockholm offers something for all kinds of vacations!
Check: City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with Guide
Check: ABBA The Museum Entrance Ticket
Check: Swedish Food Guided Walking Tour
Europe In Winter Packing List
No matter how you will be traveling, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.
These RFID sleeves are another solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.
The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you. It would not take up much space at all.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.
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Europe In Winter: 15 Unforgettable Destinations For Your Bucket List