With the passing of Labor Day, one thing is for certain. Summer has been left in the rearview mirror, and now we all begin the “shorter than you think it will be” descent into the winter months. But, while the weather may be turning colder and drearier, that doesn’t mean that our thoughts should stray from the summer months. Far from it, in fact! Instead, we should all be starting to think about next summer, and where in the world we might like to visit.
If you’re like many other travelers, you might be thinking about taking a vacation in Europe next summer. No doubt, the many locales of Europe make perfect places for you and yours to take in the summer months and the summer weather. But, just as with any other region in the world, there are some places in Europe that really come into their own during the summer months.
What are these places, and why do they become so special when the calendar hits the middle of June? That’s exactly what we’re going to be taking a look at as we explore the 20 best places to visit in Europe next summer. See what we’ve pulled together, and start making your arrangements now. These places fill up quickly!
1. Croatia
While it doesn’t come first to the minds of money travelers, Croatia’s popularity is increasingly exponentially by the month.
2. Dubrovnik (Croatia)
A big reason for this is Croatia’s capital city, which is home to some truly amazing sites, cultural centers and restaurants.
3. Budapest (Hungary)
The incredible mix of European cultures one finds at Budapest often leads many to believe that this city has become the continent’s cultural center.
4. Riga (Latvia)
Those looking to get a flavor for art-nouveau architecture on their summer European vacations will be best served in Latvia’s capital city.
5. Copenhagen (Denmark)
With a beautiful climate during the summer months, this walkable and bikeable city really comes alive… Foodies will definitely want to make the trip here.
6. Costa de la Luz (Spain)
In the eyes of some, this is the most beautiful coastline to be found in all of Europe, and we’re not prepared to argue with those who say that!
7. Hamburg (Germany)
Berlin may be all the rage when it comes to Germany, but for our money the country’s second-largest city is really where it’s at.
8. French Riviera
A list of the best places to visit in Europe during the summer months that doesn’t include the French Riviera is nothing short of a disservice.
9. Ibiza
Those looking to party their nights away during the summer months need look no further than Ibiza.
10. Formentera
But, if you want the feel of Ibiza without the 24-hour EDM party, then the island of Formentera may be for you.
11. Santorini (Greece)
Speaking of islands in Europe, you can’t do much better than the crown jewel of the Greek Isles.
12. Pelion (Greece)
But those Greek Isles can get expensive, which is why you might turn to this equally beautiful by mainland-based coastline in Greece.
13. Plage de Gatsea (France)
Located on Ile d’Oleron, this wonderful beach area flies under the radar, meaning there’s plenty of space for you.
14. Comporta (Portugal)
When you visit this coastal region on Portugal’s West Coast, you’ll find a healthy mix of artists and surfers are competing for a good stretch of sand.
15. Amsterdam (Netherlands)
There’s plenty of reasons to visit Amsterdam, and things are obviously much easier in the summer when the temperatures are higher.
16. Mallorca (Spain)
One of the most beautiful places in the world, one that has long been a haven of artists, the summer months are the best for experiencing Mallorca.
17. Calabria (Italy)
This beautiful coastal region of Italy has much to offer, not the least of which is some of the country’s best food.
18. Cyrpus
This tiny island national knows how to have fun in the summer, which is why you should definitely check it out.
19. Azores (Portugal)
Forget the Greek Isles and instead check out the Azores, which have beautiful weather and even more beautiful beaches.
20. Barcelona (Spain)
For our money, it’s the most beautiful city in all of Europe, and the summer months are the best time of the year to experience it.
