This summer, you’re ready to discover all that Europe has to offer. To help you travel to the continent’s most beautiful spots, we’ve put together our Top 5 Europeans cities to travel to this summer in this article. You’ll find all our tips for creating the perfect vacation between our favorite activities, our summer weather tips and how to get there.
Azores, Portugal
Still little known to tourists, the Azores in Portugal is a true paradise on earth if you want to enjoy an island vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the Mediterranean. This archipelago is located in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, with nature reigning supreme to the delight of lovers of the great outdoors. The summer temperatures are pleasant oscillating between 73 and 90°C, perfect for a summer in the sun. The Archipelago of the Azores is made up of 9 islands, each more surprising than the last: São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Santa Maria, Graciosa, Flores and Corvo. Several must-do activities are possible in the Azores, including a hike to discover the archipelago’s famous volcanoes and lakes, a day enjoying the natural pools and waterfalls present on the island and an encounter with the giants of the oceans on a marine safari. As you can see, the Azores is one of our Top 10 summer destinations in Europe for its many natural attractions that are still little known to the general public.
What island to visit in the Azores this summer?
If you want to make the most of this archipelago, we recommend that you give priority to our 5 favorite islands to visit this summer in Europe.
- Sao Miguel: this island has all the highlights of the archipelago between lakes in the craters of volcanoes, a lush jungle, its colonial town center, and the chance to go whale watching.
- Faial: this island is small but boasts beautiful black sand beaches and an impressive crater. If you like hiking, this island has magnificent trails that will take you through lava caves to explore.
- Pico: a 30-minute ferry ride from the island of Faial, Pico is a wine-growing land. Taste wines from volcanic soils and climb Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak.
- Terceira: the city center of the capital Angra do Heroismo is a must-see, with its colorful houses and churches and marina. Also, discover the incredible chimneys of Algar do Carvao. For those who wish, this island is also ideal for diving.
- Flores: this island is a veritable green valley and owes its name to the thousands of flowers from all over the world. It boasts dozens of waterfalls, lakes and rivers and is a paradise for nature lovers.
Istanbul, Turkey
If you’re looking for a vacation destination in Europe this summer that’s the perfect blend of history, culture and sunshine, Istanbul in Turkey is the perfect city to travel to. This metropolis at the crossroads of two continents is a unique place where cultures blend and tame to create a bustling city. In summer, Istanbul is packed with a wide variety of activities, from concerts and exhibitions to open-air tours. Contrary to popular belief, you can also enjoy the beach in this great Turkish metropolis, making it an ideal summer destination in Europe. We highly recommend a trip to the Isles des Pricnes, the perfect getaway for escaping the Mediterranean heat. Of course, don’t miss a visit to the Saint Sophia Museum, a former church later converted into a mosque that is one of the most beautiful architectural creations in the world.
What to do in Istanbul on your European vacation this summer
Istanbul has earned its place in our Top 5 destinations in Europe in summer for several reasons, the first of which is the many things to do in this city at this time of year. Among our favorite activities, we recommend adding the following 3 to your list of things to do in Istanbul in summer:
- Visit Büyükada the largest Princes’ Island: with its sunny lanes, stunning houses and gardens, you’ll feel like you’re strolling through another world.
- A gastronomic tour of Istanbul: on your own or with a guide discover Istanbul’s incredible culinary scene. Try the lahmacun, the Şiş Kebap and the famous Backava
- A sunset cruise on the Bosphorus: discover the beauty of Istanbul at sunset from the waters of the Beauphores while sipping a traditional Turkish drink.
Corfu, Greece
Also in our Top 5 destinations in Europe in summer, Corfu. The island is a must-see destination if you’re looking to experience an unforgettable European summer. This small Greek island in the Ionian Sea comes alive with color once summer arrives. It’s the perfect European summer destination if you’re looking to stroll the winding Venetian, French and British-influenced streets and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. You can visit the palace of Achilleion or take in the colorful village of Paleokastritsa. Once your day of cultural sightseeing is over, grab your flippers and snorkel and dive into the lagoons of the island of Paxos. Finally, you absolutely must arrange a walk to Cape Dastis to marvel at the magnificent white cliffs on this part of the island.
Corfu is one of our Top 5 destinations in Europe in summer, as it’s the perfect destination to enjoy the sea, visit spectacular natural sites, sumptuous palaces and temples and take advantage of numerous outdoor activities to fill up on adrenaline during your summer vacation in Europe.
What to do in Corfu on your summer vacation in Europe
If you’ve chosen Corfu as your destination to go to in Europe this summer, we urge you to add the following activities to your list of things to do in Corfu during your trip:
- Explore the blue caves of Paxos and Antipaxos: discover the small village of Paxos then swim in the island’s crystal-clear waters and blue caves.
- An excursion to Parga and Sivota: set off by boat to discover the islands of Parga and Sivota and its Blue Lagoon bay, Venetian fortresses and small surrounding islands.
- Visit the Achilleion Palace : named after the Greek god Achilles, this palace once belonged to Empress Sissi of Austria. Much of the interior decoration is original, immersing you in the former glory of this cult place to visit.
Tenerife, Spain
The island of Tenerife often comes up in lists of the best destinations in Europe whatever the season, and this is mainly due to its mild climate all year round. In summer, the island of Tenerife is perfect as temperatures are hot, but the oceanic wind present on the island means you won’t suffer from the heat making your stay optimal. The island offers a wide range of activities to suit all profiles. You can choose to do a bit of lazing around in the south of the island onLas Américas beach, set off to meet the ocean giants on the west side of the island or go hiking on the slopes of Teide (the island’s volcano) and dozens of other activities. The summer period is ideal for diving activities or if you want to enjoy one of the best surf spots in Europe.
What to do in Tenerife on your European vacation this summer
If you choose Tenerife as your destination to go to in Europe this summer, you should definitely add the following activities to your travel itinerary:
- A dolphin- and whale-watching boat trip: most departures are from the town of Los Gigantes
- Snorkel in the charcos of northern Tenerife: our favorites are those of La Laja, del Viento and El Caleton.
- A buggy tour of Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes: around Costa Adeje.
Scotland, United Kingdom
The last destination in our Top 10 destinations in Europe in summer is Scotland, a land of myth and legend. If you’re not a big fan of beaches and the Mediterranean, this is the destination for you. During your summer vacation in Scotland, there’s nothing like a roadtrip through the Scottish Highlands to immerse yourself in these mystical lands and breathtaking landscapes. We strongly advise you to plan a stop in Glasgow and Edinburgh, which are a little less coveted by tourists at this time of year but have a lot to offer. The Castle of Urquhart and the Lake of Loch Ness are, of course, must-sees in summer to enjoy sunny strolls around this legendary lake.
What to do in Scotland on your European vacation this summer
If you’re wondering if there’s much to do in Scotland in summer, the answer is yes. Between walks in the Highlands, visits to mythical natural sites, day trips to the main cities and visits to castles and historic sites in Scotland, you won’t be bored on your summer vacation. Among our favorite activities, we highly recommend adding the following stops to your itinerary:
- Kayaking on Scotland’s lakes or on the Isle of Skye for a water activity in the heart of mythical Scottish landscapes.
- Visit Stirling Castle one of the best-preserved castles in the UK and the favored home of the kings of Scotland
- Discover the Highlands aboard the Jacobite steam train: (train that inspired the famous Hogwarts Express) to enjoy a unique experience alone or with others in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
