Wondering where to visit for some sea, sand and sunshine this summer? Europe is blessed with a long and varied coastline which ranges from rugged cliffs and magical coves to picture-perfect Mediterranean beaches. Find your next beach holiday destination in this list of top picks which includes family-friendly resort towns and romantic historic cities.
- Algarve, Portugal
Once a sleepy area populated by a scattering of fishing villages, the Algarve has been hailed as a hotspot for European beach holidays since the 1960s. This popularity means that Portugal’s southernmost region now boasts big towns with plentiful hotels, villas and restaurants geared towards visiting tourists, but largely its peaceful atmosphere remains.
The Algarve is the Atlantic at its most beautiful: jagged cliffs covered in long grass and spikey trees fall in straight lines down to concealed coves, interspersed with sweeping golden bays. Turquoise waters lap the shores, with plenty of areas for safe swimming and water sports. Seeking a relatively tranquil location that doesn’t compromise on facilities? Portugal’s picturesque Algarve is for you.
- Costa Brava, Spain
Spain is renowned as one of the best beach holiday destinations in Europe – and with good reason. As well as the mainland coastline, split into separate ‘Costas’, the country boasts archipelagos with astounding beaches including the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands.
The Catalonian coastline Costa Brava is a top choice, whether you prefer all-inclusive holidays at fantastic hotels offering classic family fun or romantic trips away from the crowds. Tranquil towns with old architecture such as Calonge and Begur contrast with chic cosmopolitan resorts where water sports abound, and the vibrant city of Barcelona is just a short drive south.
- Amalfi Coast, Italy
Another European destination that perfectly blends coastal adventure and culture is Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Running between Positano and Salerno, this westerly region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its extraordinary natural beauty and historical significance. Contemporary culture is present too, in the fashionable shops and high-end dining venues.
Must-visit sites include the colourful houses clinging to the cliffside in Positano, Amalfi’s spectacular cathedral and the determinedly traditional village of Cetara. Beaches are breathtaking but small, so ill-designed for sunbathing. The coastal highlights here are the caves such as the Emerald Grotto and the three islands just offshore: Procida, Ischia and Capri. A day’s sailing is highly rewarding, and you can end with a veranda dinner with a view.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
Perhaps best known for its Old Town which acted as King’s Landing in the international hit TV series Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik – nicknamed ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ – is Croatia’s crowning jewel. Tourists flock here each summer to marvel at its unique architecture and to loll on its glorious beaches.
Soft white sand and azure waters surround this medieval port city, so there’s no shortage of places to set up camp and unwind in the sunshine. Head to Sveti Jakov for more space or get a piece of the action at Copacabana which has bars, water sports and areas reserved for families where children can play freely. You can also push the boat out with a sailing adventure around the nearby islands which include mesmerising Hvar complete with a hilltop fortress and lavender fields.
Photo credit: Header, Algarve, costa brava, Amalfi coast, Croatia
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