Can't wait for your summer vacation and are counting down the days to your dream getaway? There are many cities by the sea in Europe where you can spend an unforgettable vacation. Find out more about the top 10 best beach resorts in Europe

For everyone who is looking forward to summer and wants to be under the warm sunshine and enjoy the blooming nature and gentle sea, we have selected the best options for a beach vacation.

Europe offers a lot of options for recreation. In summer, seaside resorts are especially popular, attracting families with children, groups of friends and couples in love. Beach vacations can be complemented by exciting water activities and interesting excursions. Visit World recommends the 10 best European seaside resorts for an unforgettable vacation.

1. Crete, Greece

Crete is the largest and most popular island of Greece, which is a real pearl of the Mediterranean Sea. This is a place where thousands of tourists gather every season, each with their own preferences - some want to explore the places of ancient cultures and myths, while others just want to relax and sunbathe on the beach.

For the latter, many excellent hotels have been built and numerous luxurious beaches have been prepared. And for those interested in history, we are always ready to organize excursions to the sights - the ruins of the Knossos Labyrinth, the Malian Palace, the Arcadian Monastery, the Gramvous Fortress, and many others. Crete is also famous for its historical and archaeological museums.

There are many beaches on the island, among which Elafonisi with its pink sands and clear sea, Vai with its date grove, and Balos, an ancient pirate bay, are especially popular. Here you can find the remains of sunken ships and ancient fortresses.

The cuisine of Crete is also worthy of attention. Local restaurants serve the best Greek cuisine and seafood. And Cretan wines have gained world fame. Tourists always take a couple of bottles of wine with them, as local vineyards are recognized all over the world.

2. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik in Croatia is one of the most attractive resorts in the Adriatic, which attracts with its picturesque nature and clean beaches. The city has a prominent place in the list of the most beautiful Renaissance cities in Europe according to UNESCO.

Dubrovnik has always been famous for its excellent ecology and pleasant warm climate. Its cleanest sea, which was famously described by the oceanographer Jacques Yves Cousteau, makes the city attractive for recreation. There are huge beaches, luxury hotels, restaurants, cafes and clubs that create an atmosphere of life and entertainment.

Two of the most popular beaches, Lapad and Bani, are noted for their cleanliness and recreational facilities. Banja Beach offers a magnificent view of the island of Lokrum.

Dubrovnik is also a major cultural center, rich in ancient architecture. When visiting the city, you can see the Prince's Palace, Pili Gate, Franciscan Monastery, Lodge Square, Sponza Palace, Dominican Monastery, and many other architectural gems.

The atmosphere of Dubrovnik fascinates and attracts tourists from all over the world, especially Europeans who like to come here on vacation.

3. Ibiza, Spain

Hold on tight - we are going to Ibiza! Ibiza is a real symbol of freedom and fun, where days and nights are full of continuous parties and entertainment. This island in Spain is known for its incredible parties, discos, concerts and festivals that last from June to September. Ibiza is the brightest resort in Europe where you can have a blast.

However, fun in Ibiza is not the only thing that attracts this island. In spring and autumn, more relaxed tourists come here to enjoy coziness and comfort. In the north of the island, there are wonderful secluded resorts ideal for families, such as Portinach or Santa Eulària da Rio.

Ibiza is famous for its beaches - there are 18 in total. Cala Benirras is known for its musical atmosphere, where musicians and creative youth gather. In August, there is even a drumming festival. For lovers of peace and quiet, the beaches of Cala de Portinac, Cala de Sant Vincent or Punta Grossa are ideal. And diving enthusiasts will love Cala Harraca, where you can also try mud baths right on the coast.

4. Sicily, Italy

And again we go to the island, only now in Italy, to the famous Sicily.  Sicily, the famous Italian island that deserves the title of “paradise”, will amaze you with its unique beauty. With three seas - the Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian and Ionian, as well as numerous picturesque islands, Sicily offers an unforgettable vacation.

This island is literally overflowing with cultural attractions. Here you can admire the architectural masterpieces of historical monuments, enjoy the pristine nature and taste authentic Italian cuisine in hundreds of restaurants.

Sicily is always alive and gives its guests a variety of experiences. The beaches of Mondello in Palermo, Cefalù and Isola Bella in Taormina are considered the best on the island. It is worth noting that you will find numerous attractions near the beaches. For example, near Mondello, there is a wonderful promenade Foro Italico, and near Cefalù, you can visit the Royal Palace and the Parco delle Madonie regional park.

There is always something interesting for everyone in Sicily: charming beaches, the spirit of fascinating history and culture, magnificent nature and excellent Italian cuisine. This island attracts travelers from all over the world, and each of them finds its own special atmosphere and unforgettable experience.

5. Budva, Montenegro

Budva is a real natural pearl of Montenegro, it deserves the title of “Montenegrin Miami”. This resort can impress with its versatility and accessibility for vacationers.

It has everything you need for different types of recreation. For those who like an active lifestyle, there are sports grounds, tennis courts, diving, and boat trips. Those who appreciate nightlife will not be left out either: a huge selection of discos, bars, parties and shows.

Budva also pleases families and lovers of a relaxing vacation. The Montenegrin coast has more than a dozen quiet, hidden beaches and playgrounds. And for those who like to explore, there is a wonderful Old Town with its unique architecture and many museums.

As for the beaches, they are a real treasure in Budva. There are about 35 beaches here, 8 of which have a blue flag, which indicates cleanliness and environmental friendliness (FEE sign). The most popular and longest beach is Slovenska Plaza. Also worth visiting are Morgen, located near the cliffs, and Pisana, which has a great location near the Budva River.

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6. Nice, France

Nice, as the heart of the Côte d'Azur, beckons with its variety of recreation. Here, life is lively, the atmosphere is full of energy, and the cultural experiences are endless. Europeans prefer Nice for its ability to combine a seaside vacation with rich leisure activities in this cultural center of France.

The main central beach of Nice is located near the Promenade des Anglais, and although it is a popular place, always flooded with tourists, it is not the only option. There are another 20-30 clean, picturesque beaches in the eastern part of the city, both private and public, with all the amenities and even volleyball courts.

Beautiful beaches are also located outside the city, for example, La Reserva near Vigier Park or Coco Beach near Cape Ferrat. However, Nice is not only about beaches. It is worth visiting Place Rosetti, looking into the picturesque harbor, contemplating the City Hall and the Basilica of Notre Dame. Also in the city, do not forget to visit the numerous museums that will captivate everyone with interesting exhibitions.

7. Leiria, Portugal

Portugal, of course, is famous for Lisbon and Porto, but the real treasure for a beach vacation is the Leiria region. This is the place where all the conditions for a great vacation meet, and it is located in the Nazare region and on the island of Berlenga Grande.

Nazare is a leader among the best beaches in central Portugal. It is a clean, well-groomed beach with restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment centers close by, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Atlantic Ocean. And if you move a little further north from Nazare (only 500-700 meters), you can get to a wonderful surf spot with incredible waves, where you can not only ride the waves yourself, but also just enjoy the spectacle while sitting on the shore.

Berlenga Grande Island is a dream for diving and surfing enthusiasts. The water here is very clean and clear, ideal for underwater excursions. The beach is cozily located behind 3 rocks, and the views from there are striking in their beauty.

8. San Remo, Italy

San Remo is a popular destination on the Mediterranean coast that attracts visitors during spring and fall. Families with children and groups of friends can find something to do here. The city's beaches are well maintained and clean, an ideal place to relax by the sea.

Most of the coastline offers entertainment for outdoor enthusiasts: water skiing, motorcycling, sailing, paragliding, scuba diving, and boat trips. There is also something to please shopping enthusiasts: many boutiques, salons, antique shops, perfume stores, ceramic workshops and candy shops.

9. Costa Brava, Spain

Traveling to European resorts, our last stop is the Costa Brava in northwestern Catalonia. This is really one of the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean Sea, where there are wonderful resort areas for recreation. Tourists gather here not only to swim and sunbathe, but also to enjoy the nature, which is simply amazing.

The Pyrenees mountains, covered with pines and firs, hide unsurpassed bays, bays with blue waves and white beaches. This is a real paradise for nature lovers, where every corner is filled with charm and beauty, leaving an unforgettable experience.

The cities of Tossa de Mar, Blanes, and Lloret de Mar are located along the Costa Brava. No matter which of them you stay in, you will definitely have something to enjoy. Here you can enjoy the richness of history, local culture, and taste local liqueurs and wines.

Be sure to try the local national dish “maar i mutanya” - a real gastronomic journey through the famous Catalan cuisine. The atmosphere of this region is filled with hospitality and the beauty of nature.

10. Paphos, Cyprus

The name speaks for itself. Paphos is a place where rich life and relaxing vacation are combined. This resort can impress with its sophistication, but not with its cheapness. Why do thousands of tourists choose Paphos?

One of the main attractions of this place is the many clean beaches that stretch along the coast. Here you will find everything you need for a comfortable stay, and the service is excellent. In addition, restaurants and entertainment complexes await you at every turn - there are more of them here than on the entire island of Cyprus.

Paphos is a place with a rich history and culture. The city is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which guarantees the presence of many attractions. You can visit the royal tombs, Theseus' villa, Solomon's catacombs, and a place associated with the legend of the goddess Aphrodite.

Paphos is an ideal place for a romantic vacation with your loved one or with friends. Here you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature, but it is worth noting that the infrastructure for children is not as developed as for adults. 

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Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

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