7 destinations to enjoy summer in Europe

Summer is the season that makes Europe more vibrant. Those who travel to Europe during this time will see more people in the streets, enjoy music festivals, make the most of longer daylight hours, and much more. Since this season is approaching (I can already feel the warmer days), I decided to put together a list of 7 destinations to enjoy summer in Europe, I hope you like it!

Before we begin, I want to share that during summer, the sun sets much later. For example, in Dublin, the sun usually sets between 9:30 PM and 10 PM in July. In Helsinki, it sets even later, between 10 PM and 11 PM. So don’t be surprised if you arrive here and it only gets dark after 10 PM.

Another important fact is that summer in Europe starts on June 21st and ends on September 22nd. That means while it’s winter in Brazil, it’s summer in Europe. It’s also worth noting that August is the busiest and most crowded month, considered peak season (equivalent to January in Brazil). So, be aware that traveling during July and August is more expensive, especially.

Destinations to enjoy summer in Europe

Summer in Europe can be enjoyed in many destinations, but I’ve made a list of those I find most interesting for nature lovers.

Hvar, Croatia

Hvar is an island in Croatia, located near the city of Split (less than 90 minutes away) and about 6 hours from the capital, Zagreb.

It’s a great choice for those looking for a vibrant and lively destination, with various parties and music events. Many young people take advantage of their university vacation to tan and party in Hvar and its surroundings. Another good thing is that traveling here is cheaper than going to Ibiza or Saint-Tropez (other summer destinations in Europe).

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is located in southern Italy, near Rome. It is made up of several towns, with the most famous being Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Cetara.

The landscapes here are breathtaking, making it an ideal romantic destination. The small towns create a charming and intimate atmosphere. However, the beaches are not the best for swimming, even though they are beautiful. Unlike sandy beaches, these are covered in pebbles.

In terms of costs, this is a more expensive destination than Hvar. If you’re on a budget, a great tip is to stay in Sorrento, a town located next to Positano.

Malta

Another summer destination in Europe to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.

The archipelago of Malta is located near Sicily and can be easily reached by plane (with an airport) or ferry. A great tip is to combine a trip with an English course, as the country has excellent language schools.

Ibiza, Spain

When thinking about summer in Europe, which destination comes to mind? Ibiza, of course! Known as the party capital of the world, it’s the most festive destination on the continent. You’ll find legendary nightclubs like Pacha, Privilege, and Café del Mar.

Like Hvar and Mykonos, Ibiza is an island, located in Spain, near Valencia, Barcelona, and Alicante.

Barcelona

Another Spanish destination that is perfect to visit during summer in Europe. However, unlike Ibiza, Barcelona is not just a party destination. It’s great for those who want to enjoy summer while also exploring museums and cultural experiences.

From my list, Barcelona is one of the cheapest destinations and easily accessible for travelers coming from Brazil or other parts of Europe.

Algarve

The Algarve region is located in southern Portugal and includes cities like Albufeira, Faro, Portimão, Lagos, and Tavira. It’s an excellent option for families and couples looking to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea while spending less than in other European destinations.

The best time to visit Algarve is from June to September, not only because of the pleasant temperatures (annual average of 18°C) but also because businesses and attractions are fully operating. The ideal trip should be at least 5 days to visit the main cities. If you also want to visit Lisbon, Sintra, and Cascais, add 4 more days to your itinerary.

Mykonos

One of the most sought-after destinations in Greece for enjoying summer in Europe. Mykonos is known for its lively atmosphere and incredible parties. World-famous DJs perform at the island’s beach clubs, attracting people from all over Europe in search of fun.

Mykonos is an island located approximately 4 hours from Athens, accessible by bus + ferry. If you have 7 to 12 days, consider a trip combining Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. But be prepared for the costs, Greece is not a cheap destination.

These are my suggestions for enjoying summer in Europe! As I mentioned earlier, there are dozens of amazing destinations, and this list only includes a few.

If you have any questions or travel tips, leave them in the comments!

See you around the world!