12 Picturesque European Beach Towns for a Summer Escape
Some of the links might be affiliate links and, at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission. See our disclaimer for more info.
Nothing describes a perfect summer escape than a coastal town with stunning beaches and a rich cultural heritage. These 12 coastal towns offer a rich natural beauty, culture, and history blend. From scenic coastlines to endless adventures, these European beach towns promise a fun-filled summer you will remember. Read ahead.
1. Nice, France
Located in the picturesque French Riviera, Nice is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. Spend your days strolling or swimming on the exquisitely vast Promenade des Anglais Beach. It is also an opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, elegant palm trees, and endless pebblestone stretches.
Other must-visit beaches in Nice include Plage de Carras and the private Opera Beach. While it is a good summer escape for its beaches, there is more to do in Nice, such as indulging in its fresh seafood, strolling the Nice Old Town, and engaging in the vibrant nightlife.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Top European Beaches
2. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Fondly referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is the place to indulge in picturesque beaches perfectly co-existing with medieval history. Located just outside Dubrovnik, Banje Beach offers crystal-clear waters, peddled shores, and a vibrant beach ambiance. Catch up-close views of the city’s ancient walls while at Banje Beach.
Lying below a cliff, the secluded Sveti Jakov Beach is best for a tranquil retreat, panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, and swimming in its turquoise waters. Wind up your summer trip to Dubrovnik by visiting the city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You may also take a scenic ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srđ for panoramic views of the city, surrounding islands, and the Adriatic Sea.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Hidden European Islands
3. Amalfi, Italy
Located on Italy’s Amalfi coast, this charming town offers tourists stunning scenery, including colorful buildings, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Spiaggia Grande, the main beach in Amalfi, is a great spot to enjoy views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, golden sands, and a variety of water sports. For seclusion, stop by Marina di Conca Beach, hidden amidst towering cliffs.
While the natural beauty of Amalfi offers tourists more than enough for their summer holidays, only wrap up your trip after exploring the town’s ancient architecture. Stop over by landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. Amalfi’s traditional cuisine is something you have to experience too.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Cheap Beach Destinations in Europe
4. Saint-Malo, France
Saint-Malo is known for its picturesque beaches and unique architecture in the Brittany region of France. Start off at Sillon Beach, which features long stretches of sand against the historic walls of Saint-Malo. It is the best place to enjoy the stunning emerald waters, sunbathe and swim. You can also stop by Plage de Bon Secours, close to the city’s cold town.
Finish off your beach hopping at the secluded Plage de l’Éventail, which features rocky cliffs and tidal pools. History buffs will enjoy touring Saint Malo’s old town, Intra-Muros, and landmarks such as the Château de Saint-Malo and the Cathedral of Saint Vincent.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Cheap Beach Destinations in Europe
5. Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca is the perfect idea for tourists looking for a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination. Palma is renowned for its magnificent beaches and historical architecture. Some of Palma’s most sought-after beaches include Playa de Palma (locally called Playa Ca’n Pere Antoni), Cala Major, and Cala Mayor.
These beaches offer stunning views of the sea and city, soft sands to sunbathe on, and clear waters for water sports. For a dose of history and culture, ensure you tour iconic landmarks such as Palma Cathedral (La Seu), Almudaina Palace, Bellver Castle, and the Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Stunning Exotic Beaches
6. Tromso, Norway
When selecting the perfect summer getaway, very few people would have Norway on top of their list of countries to consider. This makes it a perfect destination for anyone who wants to escape the summer crowds at the popular beaches. Located in Norway, Tromso will give you an unforgettable summer destination. There is no better way to enjoy Tromso than taking a fjords cruise.
Spend your days swimming or enjoying the breathtaking scenery from Telegrafbukta Beach, which also offers perfect views of snow-capped mountains. Wrap up your evenings by taking scenic drives along coastal roads to explore the breathtaking landscapes, snowy mountains, and picturesque villages.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Hidden Beaches in Europe
7. Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos is a coastal destination that will exceed your expectations. From the stunning seaside scenery to tall cliffs and archaeological sites, this town has everything to make your summer unforgettable. Contenders for the best beaches in Paphos are Coral Bay, Lara Beach, and Vrisoudia Beach.
These beaches are perfect for endless water activities and breathtaking views of golden sands, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear water. Spice up your summer in Paphos by touring archeological sites such as the Tombs of the Kings, the Paphos Archaeological Park, and the Sanctuary of Aphrodite.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Greek Island Beaches
8. Swansea, Wales
Located on the south coast of Wales, Swansea is a vibrant summer destination that offers so much to do and see. Ensure you get a slice of Swansea’s best beaches: Langland Beach, Swansea Bay, and Caswell Bay. These beaches have rocky cliffs, sandy shores, and clear blue waters, enhancing your summer vacation.
Other must-dos in Swansea include visiting the striking National Waterfront Museum, The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea Market, and the Swansea.com Stadium, home to Swansea FC.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Hidden Beaches in the World
9. Salou, Spain
The beautiful seaside resort town, Salou, is just a 1h30 minutes drive from Barcelona. Salou is renowned for its beautiful town with palm trees, gorgeous beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Beach lovers would have a great time at Llevant Beach, Ponent Beach, and the smaller and secluded Capellans Beach.
Salou is also home to PortAventura World, the largest theme park in Spain and the third largest in Europe. This park is the perfect spot for family fun. While at PortAventura, experience Ferrari Land, an amusement park within another. Ferrari Land features roller coasters, simulators, and attractions inspired by the car’s brand-lasting heritage.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Underrated Places to Visit in the Mediterranean
10. Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is a loved destination, thanks to its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, charming whitewashed buildings, and rich history. This is the perfect combination for anyone looking for the summer of their lifetime.
Beaches in Mykonos are ethereal. Ensure you experience the charm of Paradise, Super Paradise, and Psarou Beaches. Outside beach life, explore Mykonos Town for the Cycladic architecture. Other must-visits include the iconic windmills, Mykonos Archaeological Museum, and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Stunning Islands in Greece
11. Bari, Italy
The vibrancy and charm of Bari are things you must experience firsthand; it is no wonder tourists keep flocking to this capital of the Puglia region in Italy. From its stunning beaches, rich history, beautiful architecture, bustling markets, and delicious cuisine, there is so much promise for a fun-filled summer in Bari.
Start by soaking up in the following Bari Beaches: Pane e Pomodoro Beach, Torre Quetta Beach, and San Francesco Beach. While visiting, explore Bari Old Town, Saint Nicholas Basilica, Bari Waterfront, and one of Italy’s most prestigious opera houses, The Teatro Petruzzelli, for concerts, opera, and ballet performances.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Hidden Beaches in Europe
12. Tallinn, Estonia
Overlooking the Baltic Sea, Tallinn is a great destination that offers coastal and historic allure to tourists. The city is known for its clean beaches, well-preserved medieval Old Town, and vibrant cultural scene. Spend some days swimming and sunbathing at the vast Pirita Beach close to the city center. Choose between Kakumäe or Stroomi Beach for a quiet retreat or family time.
For a culturally enriching trip, explore Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized as one of Europe’s best-preserved. Consider catching a glimpse of Kadriorg Palace and Park, which now houses Kadriorg and The Toompea Castle, which offer panoramic views of the charming city.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Top Tropical Destinations
Beach Destinations
Loading…
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Europe
Loading…
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Follow Us
Travel Planning Resources
Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
