12 Surprisingly Tropical Islands in Europe That Will Make You Forget You’re Not in the Caribbean
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Think of a tropical destination. My guess is you probably did not think of tropical islands in Europe. Instead, you went for something in the Caribbean, exotic Asian destinations like Bali and the Maldives, or something like Fiji.
We get it. These are literally everyone’s dream tropical destinations. However, you do not have to leave Europe to enjoy a tropical vacation because this continent has its fair share of stunning, tropical-like destinations.
Looking for European islands that offer the ultimate tropical vacation? We have you sorted right below. From sun-drenched beaches and turquoise waters to lush green landscapes and all-year-round warm Mediterranean weather, these European destinations provide the perfect escape for travelers seeking paradise without long-haul flights.
Madeira, Portugal
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Madeira is an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Africa. It is a great place to enjoy a mild climate, year-round warmth, and dramatic landscapes. With its landscapes and setting, Madeira is the perfect tropical island in Europe for relaxation and adventure.
Yes, its climate is so mild you can enjoy great beach weather even when the rest of Europe is freezing. For your activities, you can go hiking in Laurisilva Forest, watch whales and dolphins, sample the famous Madeira wine, explore the streets of Funchal (the capital of the archipelago), or take the cable car ride from Funchal to Monte.
It is not really a tropical vacation without visiting beaches. Some must-visits in Madeira are Praia Formosa, located near Funchal; Prainha Beach, a black sand beach near Caniçal; and Calheta Beach, one of Madeira’s artificial beaches with imported golden sand.
Lastly, don’t miss out on Cabo Girão Skywalk, one of Europe’s highest cliffs. Standing at 1,900 feet (580 meters), this cliff has a glass-floored skywalk offering stunning views over the coast and ocean.
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Azores, Portugal
Another Portuguese archipelago, the Azores, is a group of nine islands known for their volcanic landscapes and crater lakes. With its nickname being “European Hawaii,” you can already imagine what the Azores have in store for you.
For starters, the Azores are one of the best places in the world to watch dolphins and whales. Many tours are available from different Azores islands, such as São Miguel, Pico, and Faial.
For hiking adventures, you can hit popular trails like the one heading to Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire) on São Miguel or the ascent of Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak.
Don’t miss out on the islands’ crater lakes like Sete Cidades on São Miguel, known for its striking blue and green lakes surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Of course, the crown of any tropical environment would be endless beach adventures, and the Azores offer you exactly that. Some of its unmissable beaches include Praia Formosa (Santa Maria), Mosteiros Beach (São Miguel), and Praia do Almoxarife (Faial).
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Corsica, France
Corsica is home to rugged mountain landscapes, turquoise water, and some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, which give it a distinctly tropical feel. With its natural diversity, outdoor enthusiasts are definitely in for a treat when visiting Corsica.
You can hike the GR20, one of Europe’s most challenging long-distance trails; explore Bonifacio, a picturesque town perched on a cliff above the sea; or visit Calvi, known for its great beaches. Some of the island’s most stunning beaches include Palombaggia Beach, Rondinara Beach, Santa Giulia Beach, and Saleccia Beach. The thing with Corsica’s beaches is that they are all distinctly different; all beautiful but still worlds apart in character.
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Sardinia, Italy
With its warm climate, combined with its exotic beaches and untouched natural beauty, Sardinia is a popular destination for a European tropical getaway. With its white sand beaches and exotic ambiance, you feel like you’re in the Caribbean when you visit this Italian island.
Make time for Costa Smeralda, famous for its luxurious resorts, crystal-clear waters, and glamorous beach towns like Porto Cervo. It’s one of the most sought-after vacation spots in the Mediterranean. While it is one of the most expensive destinations in Europe, with its tropical ambiance and lavish facilities, you will get worth your money.
For its beaches, don’t be surprised when they become the reason you would want to stay a little longer than planned. Some unmissable beaches include Spiaggia La Pelosa (Stintino), Cala Goloritzé, Cala Mariolu, Spiaggia di Tuerredda, and Cala Brandinchi.
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Capri, Italy
Capri, located off the coast of Naples, is a tropical destination you would not be able to resist if you were an island lover. Known for its beautiful coastline, mild Mediterranean weather, and upscale ambiance, this coastal destination never fails to impress tourists.
Stay in a luxurious villa overlooking the water to experience this island’s exotic charm and tropical vibes fully.
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Visit the Blue Grotto, a sea cave that is one of the island’s most picturesque spots. Then, make time for Anacapri, a quieter town located higher up on the island, offering panoramic views of the island and sea. This town is also home to attractions like the Villa San Michele and the chairlift to Monte Solaro. For beaches, Marina Piccola, Bagni di Tiberio, and La Fontelina would be your best bets for tropical relaxation.
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Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is another destination that offers an amazing tropical escape with a European twist. The island has a unique blend of vibrant nightlife, wellness retreats, and unspoiled nature, making it appealing to both partygoers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
For your beach adventures, Ibiza will take you by surprise. Cala Comte, known for its turquoise waters and beautiful sunsets, is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. When visiting, however, do yourself a favor and sample other Ibiza beaches like Cala d’Hort, Las Salinas, and Cala Bassa, surrounded by pine forests.
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Zakynthos, Greece
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is one of Greece’s Ionian Islands, famous for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery. From its scenic coastlines, olive groves, and hidden coves, this island is the perfect destination for a dream tropical destination.
Of all the good things Zakynthos is famous for, Navagio Beach would definitely take the crown. This beach, with its rusting shipwreck, white cliffs, and white sands, is one of Greece’s most picturesque spots. However, don’t bank all your hopes on Navagio Beach since it is sometimes closed for maintenance. Other impressive options to add to your itinerary include Gerakas Beach, Kalamaki Beach, Porto Limnionas, and Laganas Beach. Beyond its beaches, Zakynthos has an electrifying nightlife.
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Rhodes, Greece
Nothing makes a destination more enticing than a good blend of rich history and natural beauty, and this is what Rhodes has in store for you. Located near the coast of Turkey, this Dodecanese island enjoys long, hot summers with mild winters. Rhodes is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, and this says a lot when the competition includes Mykonos, Santorini, and the other Cyclades.
Rhodes Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Beyond Rhodes Old Town, the Acropolis of Lindos, located on a hilltop in a town called Lindos, is another perfect spot to explore the history of this island.
For beachgoers, you will have a great time at Faliraki Beach, Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Beach, and Agathi Beach. The bays around Lindos are also beautiful. These beaches could make you choose Rhodes as your go-to island for a tropical escape.
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Sicily, Italy
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. You could spend a year here, and you would not run out of new things to do.
Luckily, Sicily experiences hot summers and very mild winters. The weather is almost always good to get out there and explore.
You can explore Mount Etna, visit the Valley of Temples, one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy, or discover the beauty of Taormina, a hilltop town with stunning views of the Mediterranean and Mount Etna. Some beaches that let you enjoy the tropical side of this island include San Vito Lo Capo, Scala dei Turchi, Isola Bella, Cefalù Beach, and Fontane Bianche.
Sicily is also a paradise for food lovers, offering world-renowned cuisine that includes fresh seafood, flavorful pasta, and its signature dessert, cannoli.
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Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands. It is a destination that lets you enjoy endless adventure amidst the most inviting tropical-like climate. Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital, is adorned by tree-lined streets and palm-lined beaches, creating a stunning environment to relax and explore.
While the capital has a lot in store for tourists, make sure to head out and hike the Sierra de Tramuntana, visit the picturesque village of Valldemossa, or explore Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves), a series of underground caves that are also home to one of the world’s largest underground caves are home to one of the world’s largest underground lakes.
For the ultimate tropical vacation vibe, go beach hopping in spots like Es Trenc Beach, Cala Agulla, Cala Mondragó, Cala Deià, and Cala Varques.
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Crete, Greece
Palm-lined beaches, a warm Mediterranean climate, crystal clear waters, and exotic natural landscapes make Crete one of the best destinations in Europe. With its coastal beauty and year-round warm temperatures, it is easy to see why this Greek island is a desirable tropical destination.
The island is famous for some of the best beaches in the world, including Elafonissi Beach, Balos Lagoon, and Vai Beach, which has the largest palm forest in Europe. If beaches with palm trees are your thing, make time for Preveli Beach, too. Beyond the beaches, you can explore the Palace of Knossos, hike the Samaria Gorge, or stroll through Chania Old Town.
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Gozo, Malta
While Malta is a great year-round destination for sunseekers, I recommend you go to its sister island, Gozo, as it is calmer than the bustling Malta.
This island is famous for its rural charm with quiet and beautiful villages, lush landscapes, and a laid-back ambiance. For exploration, Visit the Ggantija Temples, wander through the island’s capital, Victoria (Rabat), or explore the Gozo Salt Pans located on its northern coast.
Ramla Bay, considered Gozo’s best beach, is known for its unique reddish-orange sand and clear, warm waters. It’s set in a lush valley surrounded by hills. The beach also features Calypso Cave, which is said to be the location of the nymph Calypso’s cave from Homer’s The Odyssey.
For a variety, head out to other beaches like San Blas Bay, Dwejra Bay, Xlendi Bay, and Hondoq Ir-Rummien.
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