Read on to learn about a few of the most popular beach destinations to visit in Europe!
A few sun worshipers require just three things for an ideal European beach holiday: a sun-kissed shoreline, shade-casting parasols, and a stocked beach bar. However, if you are more of a laid-back beach bum, you may prefer a European beach destination paired with some first-class food, a cliff-hugging hiking trail nearby, or other epic adventures more inland. Luckily, Europe has a bit of everything with their beaches to suit any type of traveler. Read on to learn about a few of the most popular beach destinations to visit in Europe!
The Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s southern region is considered one of the top beach destinations in Europe, welcoming visitors in the summer months. A lot of the most popular beach resorts, like Lagos and Carvoeiro, have developed from small fishing villages, which means the whitewashed towns have a bit more intimacy than the likes of Benidorm in Spain, but there are still plenty of activities and seafood restaurants to eat at. With an abundance of sea-facing villages in Portugal, like the Algarve, it is an excellent destination for getting away with a big family or group of friends, as the fresh fish and produce markets allow for a more affordable self-catering vacation, too.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily’s timeless charm and stunning coastline have long been a summer escape of choice for tourists and Italians alike. It is great to visit any time of year, and the weather here is great. Sicily is somewhat of a time capsule. Having hosted the Greeks, Romans, Phoenicians, Arabs, and more, there are visible signs of the past here, ranging from Greek temples on top of hills to a few of the finest Roman mosaics you will ever see. One of the most popular beaches is located in Cefalu, a beautiful seaside town. The Aeolian Islands are great too, where you are treated to the background of Stromboli, a famous volcano.
Croatia’s Islands
Croatia is home to some of the most popular beaches in all of Europe. The best beach in Croatia is usually the closest, with countless bars, beaches, and secluded island coves. The bays around Makarska are some of the finest you will find on the mainland, and across the Islands, the beaches of Zlatni Rat on Brac and Jagodna on Hvar are two spots to visit.
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