Best Summer Holiday Destinations in Europe in 2025

When it comes to planning the best summer holiday destinations in Europe, the only real challenge is narrowing down your options. From charming old towns to lively coastal cities, Europe offers a world of adventure perfect for a getaway from your student accommodation.

Europe is absolutely packed with buzzing cities, charming villages, and dreamy beaches just waiting for you and your mates to explore.

Whether you are after vibrant nightlife, relaxing coastal escapes, or cultural adventures, there is something for every type of traveller. Grab your sunnies and start planning your next getaway with our curated list of top picks for the best summer holiday destinations in Europe!

1. Santorini, Greece

Highlights: Santorini is a postcard-perfect island famous for its dazzling white buildings with blue domes, found dramatically over the Aegean Sea. The island’s sunsets in Oia are legendary, and its volcanic beaches offer a unique twist on the typical Mediterranean coastline.

Activities: Snap Insta-worthy photos in Fira, sail around the caldera, or hike from Fira to Oia for jaw-dropping views.

Best Time to Visit: Late May to early July for warm weather without overwhelming crowds.

Accommodation Tip: Stay in Imerovigli for stunning sunsets without the heavy tourist traffic.

Travel Tip: Book ferries and flights early. Santorini fills up fast during summer.

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Highlights: The Amalfi Coast is a dreamscape of cliff-hugging villages, lemon groves, and glittering blue waters. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a visual feast, with pastel-coloured houses down cliffs toward the sea.

Activities: Wander around Positano’s colourful streets, visit Ravello’s historic gardens, or take a boat trip to Capri.

Best Time to Visit: May or September. July and August can get packed and pricey.

Accommodation Tip: Consider staying in Praiano. It is quieter but just as charming.

Travel Tip: Public transport can be tricky. Hiring a scooter is a fun way to explore.

3. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Highlights: Often called “the southernmost fjord in Europe,” the Bay of Kotor blends dramatic mountain scenery with medieval towns full of charm and history. Its calm waters and stunning landscapes make it a peaceful escape.

Activities: Kayak around the bay, hike up to the Kotor Fortress, or chill in Perast.

Best Time to Visit: June or September. Warm weather but fewer tourists.

Accommodation Tip: Stay inside Kotor Old Town for that storybook vibe.

Travel Tip: Montenegro uses the Euro even though it is not in the EU, which makes transactions super easy.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Highlights: Barcelona blends beach and urban vibes perfectly.

The city is a mosaic of imaginative architecture, lively streets, and endless cultural experiences, from Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia to bustling La Rambla.

Activities: Stroll through Park Guell, feast at La Boqueria Market, or dance the night away in Barceloneta.

Best Time to Visit: Late May or early June before the city hits peak summer.

Accommodation Tip: Stay in El Born or Gracia for a local, authentic feel.

Travel Tip: Get a Hola BCN card for unlimited metro rides.

5. Croatia

Highlights: Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a fortified city that plunges dramatically into the blue waters below. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is packed with historical treasures and unforgettable scenery.

Activities: Walk the city walls, hop on a kayak tour, or relax on Banje Beach.

Best Time to Visit: June or early July.

Accommodation Tip: Choose accommodations just outside Old Town to save some money.

Travel Tip: Early morning visits beat both the heat and the cruise ship crowds.

6. Himarë, Albania

Highlights: Himarë is a hidden gem with a laid-back vibe, untouched beaches, and affordable living. It offers a glimpse into authentic Albanian coastal life, far from the tourist crowds.

Activities: Sunbathe on Livadhi Beach, hike to Ali Pasha Castle, or take boat tours to secret coves.

Best Time to Visit: June or September for good weather without peak crowds.

Accommodation Tip: Opt for guesthouses by the beach for a real local experience.

Travel Tip: Cash is king here. Always carry some local currency.

7. Nice, France

Highlights: Located between the Alps and the Mediterranean, Nice offers a relaxed yet chic coastal experience. The vibrant markets, artistic heritage, and beautiful beaches make it one of the best summer holiday destinations in Europe.

Activities: Wander along the Promenade des Anglais, visit the Chagall Museum, or explore nearby Monaco.

Best Time to Visit: May or early June when the temperatures are perfect.

Accommodation Tip: Stay near the Old Town for easy access to everything.

Travel Tip: Public buses are cheap and convenient for day trips around the Riviera.

8. Porto, Portugal

Highlights: Porto is a colourful and charismatic city known for its riverside charm, port wine lodges, and vibrant arts scene. Its relaxed atmosphere and affordability make it a must-visit.

Activities: Cruise along the Douro River, sample ports, or ride the old-fashioned tram.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early summer.

Accommodation Tip: Ribeira district for stunning river views.

Travel Tip: Bring comfy shoes. Porto’s hills are no joke.

9. Reykjavik and South Coast, Iceland

Highlights: Reykjavik’s colourful houses, creative cafes, and wild landscapes make it a standout. The nearby South Coast offers surreal sights like waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches.

Activities: Go glacier hiking, chill in hot springs, or chase waterfalls like Skogafoss.

Best Time to Visit: June through August for endless daylight.

Accommodation Tip: Book early. Summer gets booked out quickly.

Travel Tip: Renting a car gives you total freedom to explore beyond Reykjavik.

10. Ljubljana and Lake Bled, Slovenia

Highlights: Ljubljana charms visitors with its green spaces, river cafes, and relaxed feel. Lake Bled’s fairy-tale setting, complete with a castle and a picturesque island, is unforgettable.

Activities: Paddle to Bled Island, hike through Vintgar Gorge, or enjoy a coffee along the Ljubljanica River.

Best Time to Visit: June for perfect weather without the crush.

Accommodation Tip: Stay in Ljubljana and do easy day trips.

Travel Tip: Public transport is efficient but renting a bike in Ljubljana is a fun way to explore.

Bonus Tip: If you are sticking closer to home this summer, check out our guide to the best staycations in UK for unforgettable local adventures.

And hey, if you are squeezing in a trip between your final papers, do not miss our must-read dissertations tips to keep your academic game strong!

Exploring the best summer holiday destinations in Europe is all about creating memories that last a lifetime. So, which destination are you packing your bags for first?

Whether you are chasing sunsets in Santorini or relaxing by the beach in Barcelona, the best summer holiday destinations in Europe are calling your name. Adventure is just one booking away!