Summer Europe Trip 2024 | Top Destinations for Every Traveler

Table of Contents

Croatia: Ideal for Sailing and Island-Hopping

With its stunning Adriatic coastline, boasting over 200km of sparkling blue waters and more than 1,000 islands, Croatia ranks as one of Europe’s premier sailing destinations. For a mix of chic bars, lively nightlife, and gourmet dining, head to the picturesque island of Hvar, where some of Croatia’s finest culinary experiences await. With so many incredible beaches scattered across these islands, island-hopping is a must-do activity. Beyond sailing and island exploration, Croatia is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and culture lovers. Explore our list of the top things to do in Croatia for more inspiration.

Insider Tip: Looking for something different? Croatia offers unique experiences like visiting the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, the country’s cool and quirky capital.

Where to Stay in Croatia:

Best for Island Elegance: Hotel Adriana
Best for Art Deco Fans: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Best for Couples: Villa Dubrovnik

Iceland: Best for Adventure Seekers

Iceland is a treasure trove of adventure, with experiences ranging from ice and lava caving to glacier hiking and intercontinental snorkeling. These activities, set against the backdrop of glaciers, fjords, and majestic volcanoes, make Iceland one of the world’s top adventure destinations. Serious hikers might tackle Iceland’s most challenging trails, but there are also gentler paths leading to breathtaking waterfalls and relaxing hot springs.

Insider Tip: Combine adventure with wildlife watching and cultural experiences by exploring Iceland’s enchanting east or the wild west with our customizable trips.

Where to Stay in Iceland:

Best for Families: Kvosin Downtown Hotel
Best for Thrill-Seekers: Hótel Skógafoss
Best for Budget-Friendly Comfort: Saeluhus Apartments & Houses

Slovenia: Perfect for Caves, Castles, and Coastlines

Start your journey in Slovenia’s elegant capital, Ljubljana, which serves as a great base for exploring the country’s many attractions. The city itself features a 15th-century hilltop castle, and just 50 minutes away is the stunning Lake Bled, with its fairy tale island and cliff-top castle set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Don’t miss the Postojna Caves, where a train ride takes you deep into a magnificent subterranean world, and nearby, marvel at the architectural wonder of Predjama Castle, built into a cave entrance.

Insider Tip: To fully appreciate Slovenia’s beauty, consider booking our customizable “Treasures of Slovenia” trip.

Where to Stay in Slovenia:

Best for Lakeside Luxury: Vila Bled
Best for Families: Guesthouse Soul
Best for Budget Travelers: Guest House PachaMama

Sweden: Top Spot for Midsummer Festival Fun

Sweden offers year-round serenity, space, and sports, but experiencing the Midsummer solstice celebrations is a magical mix of tradition and revelry. Held over the weekend closest to June 24th, these celebrations see Swedes leaving the cities for the countryside. Expect maypoles, grand feasts, and festivities that continue late into the long summer nights, accompanied by traditional accordion and fiddle music.

Insider Tip: For inspiration throughout the year, explore our guide to the best things to do in Sweden.

Where to Stay in Sweden:

Best for 19th-Century Charm: First Hotel Grand Falun
Best for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Slipens Hotell
Best for Eco-Friendly Families: First Camp Västerås-Mälaren

Portugal: A Haven for Water Sports

Portugal’s extensive coastline makes it a top destination for water sports, with the Algarve being particularly popular for its sheltered, sandy beaches. If you prefer quieter spots, check out our guide to getting off the tourist trail in North Portugal. For those undecided about where to go, our guide to Porto vs. Lisbon will help you choose, along with tips on the best things to do in Portugal.

Where to Stay in Portugal:

Best for Luxury Lovers: TURIM Terreiro do Paço Hotel
Best for Families: Torel Avantgarde
Best for Surfers: Vila Gale Ericeira

Switzerland: Unmatched Scenery and Cycling

Switzerland consistently ranks among the world’s most beautiful countries, praised for its “spectacular scenery” and “pristine cities.” It’s a top summer destination, with numerous ways to enjoy outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking the Eiger in the Jungfrau region or cycling through the mountain passes, the views are always breathtaking. Urban centers like Geneva and Zurich offer a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Insider Tip: With four official languages — German, French, Italian, and Romansh — you might find our range of phrasebooks helpful for your travels.

Where to Stay in Switzerland:

Best for Pampering: Sunstar Hotel and Spa Grindelwald
Best for Couples: Hotel de Geneve
Best for Alpine Adventurers: Endweg Apartment

Andalucía: Foodies and Fiesta Fans Rejoice

Spain is a dream destination for food lovers, and Andalucía stands out as a culinary hotspot. The region’s three major cities — Granada, Seville, and Córdoba — showcase stunning Moorish architecture and offer perfect settings for outdoor dining.

Insider Tip: Make the most of your time in Andalucía with our customizable “Best of Andalucía” trip, or treat yourself to a culinary break in Seville.

Where to Stay in Andalucía:

Best for Traditional Charm: Hotel Las Casas de la Judería
Best for Stylish Travelers: Vincci Albayzin
Best for Couples: Casagrand Luxury Suites

Italy: The Ultimate Romantic Destination

Italy nearly topped our survey of the most beautiful countries in the world, thanks to its romantic landscapes and cities. Whether you’re exploring Tuscany’s vineyards, the Amalfi Coast, or cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, Italy is the place to live out your “La Dolce Vita” dreams. For those seeking seclusion, Sicily and Sardinia offer idyllic escapes with beautiful beaches.

Where to Stay in Italy:

Best for Romantics: Hotel Casanova
Best for History Buffs: Residenza Roma Imperiale
Best for Wine Lovers: Borgo Conde Wine Resort

Greece: A Blend of History and Island Magic

Greece, with its millennia-old historic sites, stunning coastline, and over 200 islands, is a top summer destination. Start in Athens, where ancient history meets modern energy, and the iconic Acropolis looms large. For sun, sea, and sand, explore Greece’s best beaches and islands. A Santorini sunset is a must-see, even if it’s a popular spot.

Insider Tip: Combine island sun with history by booking our customizable “Historic and Mythological Cyclades” itinerary, featuring Santorini and Mykonos.

Where to Stay in Greece:

Best for Beach-Loving Foodies: Corfu Palace Hotel
Best for Culture Enthusiasts: SV Acropolis Residence
Best for Santorini Sunsets: Golden Sunset Villa

Balearic Islands: The Ultimate All-Rounders

Located east of mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands — Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca, and Menorca — each offer something unique. Ibiza blends historic sites with vibrant nightlife, while Formentera provides a quieter, rustic vibe. Mallorca has moved beyond its party reputation to attract hikers and cyclists, although its beaches remain a major draw.

Insider Tip: Discover which Balearic Island suits your travel style best.

Where to Stay on the Balearic Islands: