Heading to Europe this summer? If you’re traveling from the US, Australia or New Zealand, you’ll want to make the most of your time on the other side of the world. We’ve put together a list of some of the best summer destinations in Europe, just to get you started on planning the trip of a lifetime. Bear in mind, these are for inspiration – there are just too many amazing locations to mention in one article! Starting with…

 

UK – Edinburgh

 

Skip London and head up to the heart of Scotland. You might not fully understand the accents, but you’ll definitely understand the warmth and friendliness of the locals. If you come in August you can see a range of comedic, musical and theatrical performances at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, but make sure to book your Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo tickets far in advance to avoid disappointment.

Photo by Jörg Angeli on Unsplash

 

Portugal – Porto

 

Lisbon is known for its golden beauty, but Porto has a vibrant energy that is unmatched, not to mention multiple port cellars just across the river where you can join a port tasting that will make you appreciate the fortified wine like never before. Did you know that port comes in three categories – ruby, tawny and white?

 

Spain – Granada

 

This colorful city is overlooked by the Alhambra, a Moorish hilltop fortress full of palaces, gardens, and reflecting pools. Head into the caves for some authentic flamenco dancing, taste every possible flavor of ice cream, and have a glass of sangria while you sample a range of tapas.

 

France - Bordeaux

 

Don’t get us wrong, Paris is beautiful, but go a little further afield to see France without the constant hum of tourism. This region is a wine-lovers dream, and it’s also famous for medieval architecture, beautiful, green spaces, and its proximity to some of the best beaches on France’s western coast.

Photo by Jörg Angeli on Unsplash

 

 

Italy – Venice

 

There are so many beautiful cities, towns, and villages across Italy, but Venice will forever hold our hearts. With its many blue-green Venetian canals, this city is really a series of islands connected by bridges rather than one land mass. Gondola rides might be pricey, but you can use the public transport boats to feel the wind in your hair and get out on the water at a discounted rate.

 

Denmark – Copenhagen

 

What to do in Copenhagen? With all the wonderful Scandinavian food, architecture, and design you’ll be overwhelmed with choice! Get a crash course in this well-planned city and make sure to visit the Danish Architecture Center to learn about those beautiful prisons they’re always bragging about.

 

Croatia – Dubrovnik

 

This walled city featured in the Game of Thrones series, and once you’ve seen it in person, you’ll understand why. Book accommodation inside the walls to avoid getting kicked out after curfew, and make sure to take a dip off the rocks in the mornings before it gets too hot. Also, it’s very easy to travel from Dubrovnik to Athens, the final recommendation on our list!

 

Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

 

Greece - Athens

 

The birthplace of Western civilisation and a city where so many intellectual and artistic ideas were born – how can we move forward without first looking back? Visit the Acropolis Museum to walk through the ancient neighborhood and imagine yourself in the footsteps of your ancestors.

 

So, start looking at the map of Europe and figure out which cities you can’t miss this summer, then book your plane tickets and head off on an adventure!