12 Tropical Destinations Close to Europe
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Tropical destinations near Europe, such as Tenerife, Hammamet, and Hurghada, offer a sunny escape without needing a long-haul flight. These warm-weather getaways combine golden beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and off-season affordability.
With places like Dubai just a 3-hour flight from Athens and Egypt’s Red Sea resorts easily reachable from major cities like Rome or Berlin, you don’t have to go far to find spectacular beaches, sunny skies, and warm weather.
We selected these destinations based on flight times (under 8 hours from Europe), consistent temperatures above 25°C, and traveler reviews.
From the volcanic coastlines of the Canary Islands to the coral reefs of the Red Sea, here are 12 tropical getaways close to Europe that deserve a spot on your travel list.
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Bodrum, Turkey
Bodrum in Turkey is one of the hottest tropical destinations close to Europe. In the summer, average daily highs reach a toasty 95°C (35°C). From London, the capital of England, you can get to this sunny destination in less than 4 hours.
Bodrum is a popular beach getaway destination famed for its sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and crystal-clear emerald waters. You’ll likely spend most of your time in the city swimming in the Aegean Sea, sunbathing on the beaches, and visiting the most popular tourist attractions.
The best beaches in Bodrum are Gumbet Beach, Yahsi Beach, and Bitez Beach. Meanwhile, Bodrum Castle, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and Bodrum Marina are must-see attractions.
Read also: Tropical Islands in Europe
Fethiye, Turkey
Fethiye is another tropical destination that’s not too far from Europe. For context, it’s a 4-hour and 5-minute flight from London. However, you’ll also have a 50-minute journey when you land because Dalaman Airport serves Fethiye.
Like Bodrum, Fethiye is known for its picturesque beaches, hot weather, and fascinating attractions. In summer, you can experience highs of 95°F (35°C), so don’t forget your sunscreen. The best beaches for enjoying the sunshine in Fethiye are Ceviz Beach, Akmaz Plajı, and Çalış Beach.
The breathtaking Ölüdeniz Beach is also nearby. Once you’ve had your fill of the beaches, visit Fethiye’s main attractions, including Fethiye Market, Amyntas Rock Tombs, and the Ancient City of Telmessos.
Read also: Hidden European Islands
Hammamet, Tunisia
Hammamet is one of the top-rated and cheap tropical destinations near Europe. Located in northeast Tunisia, Northern Africa, it only takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach this stunning coastal town from Barcelona, Spain. This includes a 1-hour and 30-minute flight and a 1-hour bus, taxi, or car journey.
You’ll find luxurious vacation resorts, long sandy beaches, and gorgeous turquoise waters in Hammamet. In other words, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy a summer vacation. Notable points of interest in Hammamet include Plage de Hammamet, the Archaeological Site of Pupput, and Fort Hammamet.
One of the best things about Hammamet is its affordability. You can book a luxury 5-star resort for less than $150 nightly. Sounds great, right?
Read also: Cheap Beach Destinations in Europe
Hurghada, Egypt
Hurghada is a coastal city and beach resort in northern Egypt. It’s one of the best beach vacation destinations close to Europe. It is also one of the most affordable tropical escapes.
Hurghada offers 25 miles (40 kilometers) of Red Sea coastline and crystal-clear turquoise waters, four hours and 30 minutes away from Lyon, France.
Summer vacations in Hurghada include sunny days at the beach, swimming in the sea, exploring the old town, and tucking into local cuisine. Daily high temperatures reach 102°F (39°C) in July. Hurghada is also a popular place to try water sports like scuba diving and kitesurfing.
Partygoers can also enjoy the city’s lively nightlife. Enjoy live music and a great atmosphere at The Tavern Hurgada or cocktails and shisha at Orange Lounge. If that doesn’t sound like the perfect beach vacation, we don’t know what will.
Read also: Stunning Exotic Beaches
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is one of the most luxurious tropical destinations close to Europe. Although it isn’t often thought of when discussing tropical places, it offers travelers a tropical desert microclimate and dazzling white sand beaches framed by palm trees and emerald waters. Furthermore, Dubai’s temperatures consistently hover in the high 80s (30s).
As if that wasn’t enough, Dubai is considered one of the world’s most luxurious cities. When you’re not relaxing on the beaches or swimming in the sea, shop until you drop in luxury shopping centers and dine in upscale restaurants. You must also visit the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure.
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Regarding beaches, don’t miss Jumeirah Beach, Kite Beach, and Black Palace Beach.
Read also: Top Tropical Destinations Worldwide
Doha, Qatar
Doha, Qatar, is only a 4-hour and 20-minute flight from Athens, making it one of the easiest-to-reach tropical destinations near the Old Continent. Like Dubai, Doha isn’t generally considered a tropical vacation destination. However, the city’s breathtaking sandy beaches are not to be sniffed at.
In Doha, you can spend your time sunbathing on the beaches, swimming in the sparkling water, and visiting the city’s most famous attractions. Must-visit beaches in Doha include 974 Beach, Bahriya Beach, and Doha Sands. Meanwhile, noteworthy attractions in the city include Souq Waqif, the National Museum of Qatar, and Katara Cultural Village.
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If you’re looking for more luxury, you could purchase a day pass to the 5-star Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara.
Read also: Best Hidden Beaches in the World
Oualidia, Morocco
Oualidia, a coastal village in Morocco, is one of the hidden and underrated tropical getaways close to Europe. Despite offering exceptional natural beauty, golden sand beaches, and warm weather, only some tourists consider visiting Oualidia. This is even more surprising when you think you can get there in less than 5 hours from Barcelona.
It only takes a 2-hour and 10-minute flight and a 2-hour and 20-minute drive to reach Oualidia from Barcelona. In Oualidia, you can enjoy lazy days by the beach, fresh seafood, surfing, and scenic walks. You can do all these things while experiencing temperatures above 77°F (25°C).
What do you think? Does Oualidia sound like your next tropical getaway? It certainly sounds like ours!
Read also: Hidden Tropical Islands
Cape Verde
Cape Verde is a tropical archipelago and island country situated off the coast of West Africa. Also known as the Republic of Cabo Verde or Cabo Verde, this island nation is renowned for its tropical climate and impressive natural scenery. Picture white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and towering volcanic landscapes.
Cape Verde might seem far away, but you can get there by plane in only 6 hours and 30 minutes from Paris, the French capital. You’ll want to spend most of your time at the beach in Cape Verde. Some of the country’s best beaches include Praia de Santa Maria, Ervatão Beach, and Praia de Chaves.
Regarding temperatures, you can expect daily highs of 82°F (28°C) in August.
Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations
Muscat, Oman
Muscat, the capital of Oman, is another underrated beach destination close to Europe. A flight from London takes 7 hours and 10 minutes to reach the city. Muscat might be best known for its grand mosque, rich cultural heritage, and bustling souks, but its beaches are beautiful, too.
You’ll find countless mesmerizing beaches along the Muscat coastline with white and golden sand, tall palm trees, and tranquil emerald waters. Some of the city’s most popular beaches include Azaiba Beach, Sarooj Beach, Qurum Beach, and Almouj Community Beach. The city itself also offers many things to see.
Muscat’s must-visit attractions include the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Natural History Museum, and the Royal Opera House.
Read also: Tropical Destinations Close to London
Tangier, Morocco
Tangier, Morocco, is one of the closest tropical destinations to Europe. You can reach this gorgeous coastal city in Northern Africa in less than an hour from Malaga, Spain.
In fact, several viewpoints in Tangier offer clear views of the Spanish coastline. Tangier has been a strategic gateway between Europe and Africa since Phoenician times.
However, travelers love the city most for its rich cultural heritage, whitewashed architecture, and postcard-perfect coastline. Of course, Tangier’s warm weather and clear skies are also significant draws. During your vacation, relax on the beach, swim in the sea, and explore the city.
Notable points of interest you should visit include Plage de Tanger, Villa Harris Park, and Place de la Kasbah.
Read also: White Sand Beaches in Europe
Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt is one of the most exciting tropical destinations close to Europe. It offers sun, sea, sand, and heaps of fun, only a 5-hour and 25-minute flight from London. Sharm El-Sheikh is best known for its sandy shorelines, clear waters, and coral reefs.
It’s a big hit with beachgoing travelers who want to escape the daily grind and rejuvenate their minds and souls. You’ll find most of the action in Sharm El-Sheikh in Naama Bay. This scenic bay features a long, sandy beach, bars, restaurants, and beach resorts.
It’s also a popular place to party at night. History lovers will also be pleased to hear that Naama Bay is home to the King Tut Museum.
Read also: Hidden Beaches in Europe
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife, the largest Canary Island, lies off the coast of Africa. It is one of the European tropical islands. You can fly from Manchester in Northern England to Tenerife in 4 hours and 45 minutes, making it a great tropical vacation from the UK.
Tenerife is well known for its year-round warm weather, awe-inspiring landscapes, picture-perfect beaches, and lively vacation resorts. While the island is a fantastic place to relax and unwind, it’s also a big hit with partygoers and outdoor adventurers. Hiking enthusiasts can hike up Mt Tiede.
Beachgoers can sunbathe on Playa de las Teresitas. Families can have fun at Siam Park, and party seekers can dance the night away at Veronicas Strip.
Read also: Romantic Getaways in Europe
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