Tour Chief Editor (Chilaka)Europe is a continent with some of the world’s most stunning destinations and visiting in summer can make it a memorable experience. It’s the ideal season to travel across the continent because of the pleasant weather, exciting nightlife, and beautiful scenery.
In Europe, summer is a season for exploration, adventure, and life-changing encounters. These locations are only a few of the best places to visit in summer in Europe that can give visitors an incredible outdoor experience.
Summertime travel has traditionally been a lavish spectacle to the most coveted cities in Europe. Even though it can be crowded, Europe’s summer is a stunning time to travel there.
The European coastal and mountainous regions are perhaps never more picturesque than in June, July, and August, even though some cities may be extremely hot. Adventurers love to travel to Europe for its spectacular natural beauty and memorable wild regions.
In pursuit of escape, many visitors swarm to Europe’s vibrant nightlife, thrilling festivals, and boisterous live performances.
In this article, we will highlight some of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
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Table of Contents
How is Summer in Europe?
Summer in Europe (June to August) paints the continent in warm, sunny hues. It’s the peak tourist season, with long days and comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring. Southern Europe basks in sunshine, with highs sometimes exceeding 30°C (86°F) – perfect for beach lounging or soaking up the vibrant culture in cities like Rome or Barcelona.
Northern Europe experiences milder summers, often ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This makes it pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring charming towns without feeling overwhelmed by heat.
However, be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially along the western coasts. The upside? Fewer crowds and stunning displays of wildflowers.
Is it good to go to Europe in the summer?
Whether summer is the ideal time for your European adventure depends on your priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Pros:
- Glorious weather: Bask in long, sunny days with warm temperatures, perfect for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and enjoying the beach life in southern Europe.
- Vibrant atmosphere: Summer explodes with life across Europe. Cities buzz with festivals, street performers, and open-air events.
- Long daylight hours: Maximize your exploration time with extended daylight hours, allowing you to pack more activities into your itinerary.
Cons:
- Crowds and Prices: Be prepared for peak-season crowds at popular destinations, which can translate to longer queues and higher prices for flights and accommodation.
- Hot weather: Southern Europe can get quite hot, especially for those not accustomed to it. This might make extensive sightseeing less comfortable.
Consider this:
- Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer a good compromise: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices.
Generally, the best time for Europe depends on what you seek. If sunshine and lively atmospheres are your priority, summer is fantastic. If you prefer a more relaxed pace and don’t mind slightly cooler weather, consider the shoulder seasons.
Best Places To Visit In Summer In Europe
Here is a list of 18 best places to visit in summer in Europe.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona bustles with energy, beaches, and architectural marvels such as Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.
Barcelona, a thriving metropolis on the Mediterranean Sea, was founded by the Romans. It is a regional superpower because it is the capital of Catalonia.
It is renowned for its distinctive structures, many of which were created by Antoni Gaudi and ranks as one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe. La Sagrada Familia, a church that has been under construction since 1892, is one of these iconic buildings.
You could plan your entire trip around his structures, but you’d miss out on other highlights like La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian boulevard in the heart of Barcelona.
2. Paris
Songs extol Paris in the spring, but you can visit this fascinating city on the Seine at any time of year as it is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe. It is a city bursting at the seams with culture, history, delicious food, and cutting-edge clothing.
One of the top cities in the world, Paris boasts several iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Palace of Versailles.One of the largest art collections in the world is located in the Louvre.
Notre Dame and Sacred Heart are two of its magnificent churches. Versailles, with its renowned Hall of Mirrors, is the pinnacle of wealth.
3. Athens
Greece’s capital is a must-visit location for many reasons, including the fact that it was the birthplace of philosophy and democracy as well as the widely held belief that the sea’s azure hue, the breathtaking scenery, and the radiant sunshine all uplift the spirit and allow travelers to forget about their cares for the day.
Athens, one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe, is an elegant, multiethnic city with fantastic food, wild nightlife, inspiring energy, and a thriving art scene.
It is a magnificent example of ancient art with breathtaking Mediterranean scenery. One of the top locations for street art in Europe is Athens.
Don’t forget to visit the Best Beaches in Greece, Best Islands in Greece, Best Natural Wonders in Greece, and Best Hidden Gems in Greece while you’re there.
Also, read 10 Best Summer Holiday Destinations for Couples
4. Santorini, Greece.
Santorini is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe. When in Santorini, one can take delightful walks along the white-washed walls and blue dome roofs of the island.
Take yourself to the Aegean island of Santorini when you’re ready to unwind. When you visit, you’ll understand why this place is regarded as one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe and a top vacation spot by leading travel publications.
A live volcano, picture-postcard villages, and breathtaking sunsets can all be found on the island. Visit the village of Fira, which is set on a cliff. Wines like the dessert wine Vincanto and produce that is sweeter and tastier due to the soil’s volcanic ash content should also be tried.
5. Cittadella
The walled city of Cittadella is not only the most stunning in all of Europe, but it is also the best preserved and one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
With its central location in Northern Italy’s Veneto Region and proximity to the region’s most significant cities—just one hour’s drive from Venice and Verona, and three hours from Milan and Florence—it has a strategic setting.
Both the Venetian Lagoon and the Dolomite mountains are conveniently accessible from Cittadella for a fun day excursion. Additionally, it is a great place from which to explore the Veneto and all of Northern Italy.
6. Lisbon
One of the best places to visit in summer in Europe for those seeking wonderful weather, delicious food, fascinating history, and vibrant nightlife, especially in Bairro Alto, is Lisbon.
Get lost in the Alfama neighborhood’s winding streets and picturesque lanes, which are the oldest in the city. Visit the Sé Cathedral and take in the scenery from the S. Jorge Castle.
The Belém neighborhood is rich in delights for architecture enthusiasts, including the great Manueline-style structures Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, also known as the Portuguese late Gothic.
There are several fantastic day trips you can do from Lisbon, like to the Coimbra university town, Aveiro, which is commonly called the “Portuguese Venice,” or Fátima, which is the most important pilgrimage site.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe and is known for its houseboats, canal-lined streets, architecture, and culture.
In the Netherlands, bicycles are the primary mode of transportation, which makes sense given the flat, beautiful terrain of the nation. There are reportedly two bicycles for each citizen in the Netherlands, which has 32,000 kilometers of cycling routes.
In Amsterdam, you can visit a festival, go on a canal cruise down the Rhine, or explore the city’s renowned tulip fields.
Every July, the city hosts the North Sea Jazz Festival, the biggest indoor jazz festival in the world.
View the best examples of Vincent Van Gogh’s artwork by touring the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, then curl up and enjoy a movie outside. Geitenkaas cheese and Dutch Gouda are regional specialties.
Also, read 12 Best Countries for Road Trips.
8. Dubrovnik, Croatia.
In the country’s southern Adriatic Sea region, Dubrovnik is a wonderful destination noted for its coastal activities and dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
Dubrovnik isn’t extremely big compared to other European cities, but don’t let that stop you from visiting. One of the most popular tourist destinations and one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe in the Mediterranean is this tiny gem, which has less than 43,000 residents.
Visitors can travel back in time to a time when Dubrovnik, a fortified city, was a significant maritime force and commanded the third-largest navy in the Mediterranean.
You’ll probably see statues of St. Viaho, the city’s patron saint, as you walk the streets because his life is commemorated every February.
9. Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh has a rich cultural history, beautiful views, and city tours.
Edinburgh is particularly alluring because of its medieval splendor. Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe and is a great option if you’re seeking a peaceful break.
Edinburgh experiences both warm and freezing weather in July. Beautiful scenery, historically significant artwork, and a thriving arts scene—Edinburgh has it all.
After admiring the regal splendor of Edinburgh Castle, visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art to be in awe of the magnificent post-impressionist works on show.
You can make time to attend the Edinburgh Fringe, a treat for culture and entertainment.
10. Prague, Czech Republic.
Prague is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe and a must-visit destination for its architecture, historical charm, beer, and food.
There are many ways to take in Prague’s magnificent beauty and rich cultural history during the summer.
Prague is one of those destinations that draw a variety of visitors, including budget travelers, nomads, honeymooning couples, and those in their 50s and older.
The greatest of the city’s art and culture can be experienced while strolling through Prague Castle, admiring the majestic baroque palaces, or attending one of the numerous art exhibitions, concerts, dance festivals, or traditional performances happening in July.
Cross the Charles Bridge and take in the astronomical clock and Gothic churches.
11. Split, Croatia
Split is a great spot on the Adriatic Sea that boasts beaches, markets, and historical landmarks and is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe. Visit the historic Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll through the Old Town.
While wandering along the Riva promenade or visiting Marjan Hill for a panoramic view of the city, you may also try some of the regional food and wine.
You can also arrange for a speedboat to take you from Spiti to the islands of Bisevo, Vis, Budikovac, and Hvar, where you can go swimming and snorkeling and explore caves.
12. Vienna, Austria
This beautiful city is home to many magnificent structures such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Imperial Palace, and the Belvedere Palace, and is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
Austria’s capital city, Vienna, is renowned for its cultural heritage and imperial splendor. A must-see sight is the Hofburg Palace, which houses the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments. You can also go on this guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace’s gardens, which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
To get a feel for Vienna’s cultural landscape, attend an opera or ballet performance at the Vienna State Opera or go to the Musikverein music hall.
Additionally, you can go to the neighborhood market, Naschmarkt, and sample authentic Austrian cuisine.
13. Berlin, Germany.
By seeing sites like the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Berlin Wall, you may gain an understanding of the city’s rich history and culture as it is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
Visit the Pergamon Museum and Museum Island for a variety of cultural experiences, and get a taste of Berlin’s alternative and bohemian culture in the thriving communities of Kreuzberg and Neukölln.
Booking this bike trip is a terrific way to discover Berlin’s attractions, including the Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Central Station, and the Government District.
14. Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are far away and inaccessible, but if you’re seeking a unique, stunning summer vacation in Europe (and you’re not especially committed to the idea of being warm), try going there as it is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
This autonomous group of 18 islands, which is part of Denmark’s administrative territory, is situated (quite) midway between Iceland and Norway.
The Faroe Islands may be the most unusual travel location on this list. They are home to breathtakingly stunning ocean views, towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and some of the best bird-watching on the globe.
They’re truly wonderful, but they do take some money (prices are reportedly on par with Norway, possibly the most expensive country to visit in Scandinavia) and a commitment to experience.
15. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges has earned the nickname “The Venice of the North.” The lovely and ancient city of Bruges is one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe and is well-known for its quaint canals, medieval buildings, and delectable chocolate. Take this canal-side boat cruise to see the city from the water.
The Belfry, a medieval tower with stunning views of the city from its summit, is a must-see sight in Bruges.
The Choco-Story Museum provides information on the development of chocolate and its manufacture in Belgium. Additionally, you can explore the Beguinage neighborhood, Our Lady’s Church, Groeningemuseum, and Minnewater Lake.
16. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland has exploded in popularity over the past few years, and it’s no wonder why it makes the summer an ideal time to visit.
Iceland is a rugged and remote destination, perfect for adventures of all kinds, and has become one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
Staying in Reykjavik will offer the perfect balance of city life with adventure right on your doorstep. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll even get to take advantage of the “midnight sun,” since the sun hardly sets for most of the summer.
Explore waterfalls, go horseback riding on black sand beaches, or take a hiking trip through the highlands. Before you head home, make time to relax in hot springs or the famous Blue Lagoon.
17. Copenhagen, Denmark.
Copenhagen, one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe, is the capital of Denmark, and might easily be called the “Milan of the north” due to its casual Scandi-chic vibe.
There are more Michelin stars in the city than in any other Scandinavian metropolis, and hip inhabitants sip coffee and cocktails in chic cafés and bars while dressed in fashionable clothing from the city’s stores.
Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark, is stunning and is guarded by men in uniform.
The Old Stock Exchange, Europe’s oldest theme park, the elaborate Tivoli Gardens, the waterside Little Mermaid sculpture, and the splendor of the royal Amalienborg Palace are all examples of the old-style “Wonderful Copenhagen” that may still be explored despite its youthful vibe.
18. Dublin, Ireland.
One of the best places to visit in summer in Europe is Ireland, with its well-known temperate climate and lush surroundings.
Despite its chilly climate, Ireland is known for its kind people and creative community, which has drawn writers and artists for generations. There are many places to eat, drink, and socialize wherever you go, and there is a tonne to see and do.
Visit historic castles, discover Irish heritage at a local museum, visit a medieval church and more.
Also, read 10 Best AI Travel Planner.
Conclusion
Europe offers a wide range of breathtaking vacation spots to accommodate all interests and preferences. Beach towns and old cities both have plenty to offer.
I hope that this list of the 18 best places to visit in summer in Europe has motivated you to start thinking about your next trip.
There is a place out there that is ideal for you, whether you want to enjoy the sunshine on a Mediterranean beach, discover the fascinating history and culture of Eastern Europe, or savor the gastronomic delights of Western Europe.
FAQs
When is it ideal in summer to visit Europe?
The best summer months to visit Europe are from June through August. It’s warm outside, and there are plenty of long days with, in some places, nearly 18 hours of sunlight.
Which mode of transportation is most effective for summertime travel in Europe?
Trains are a convenient, pleasant, and environmentally friendly means of transportation, making them the greatest option for summertime travel throughout Europe.
Are summer travel costs to Europe high?
Depending on the location, a trip through the best places to visit in summer in Europe can cost more or less. On the other hand, summer is typically the busiest season, so costs for travel, lodging, and activities may be higher than they are throughout the rest of the year.
What are some of the most popular summer activities in Europe?
The most well-liked outdoor activities in Europe during the summertime include hiking, cycling, sightseeing, trying local food, and lazing on the beach.
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Tour Chief Editor (Chilaka)
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