Best summer holiday destinations in Europe

Costa Dorada, Spain

The Costas in Spain have been a hit with holidaymakers for decades, and Costa Dorada, in particular, really knows how to serve up a great summer break. The region’s got attractions for families, couples and culture vultures alike. There’s a long sandy beach in Salou backed by a bustling promenade, shops and restaurants, plus the huge PortAventura theme park is right next door. There’s also the Aquopolis Waterpark and Bonavista Market, where shoppers can snap up bargains. And, with Barcelona within daytripping distance, you can explore historic sights like Gaudi’s legendary Sagrada Familia.

Santorini

If you’re looking for the ultimate couples’ getaway in Europe, look no further than Santorini. Dial up the romance by admiring the island’s sugar-cube towns and iconic blue-domed churches, and heading to the top of capital, Thira, to watch the sunset. If you’re into beaches, Santorini also delivers. Find a spot for your towel on the volcanic sands of Kamari, a Blue Flag beach framed by dramatic cliffs. Or, try Perissa – a seven-kilometre stretch that’s known for its huge watersports offering.

Ibiza

Ibiza might be a haven for clubbers, but there's loads more of this Balearic beauty to explore, with hotels and attractions catering to every holidaymaker. Stick to San Antonio and Playa d’en Bossa if you want to party all night, or head north if you’ve got little ones in tow. The TUI MAGIC LIFE Cala Pada lines up tonnes of activities for families, with everything from archery and beach volleyball to Nordic walking and mini-football on the agenda. Or, if you’re looking for a chilled, grown-up escape, this part of the island’s got wellness retreats and secluded coves to explore – like Portinatx, a tiny village on the island’s northern tip.

Corfu

High summer is the best time to enjoy the picture-perfect landscape on this Greek island, with everything from Cypress trees and olive groves to wild flowers and secret beaches to explore. When it comes to where to stay, Corfu is an island of two halves. The north, home to the resorts of Gouvia and San Stefanos, is a little more low-key, with secluded white-sand beaches, nature trails and family-run candlelit tavernas. Head south, meanwhile, to enjoy party town Kavos, which is packed with bars, restaurants and activities, or the resorts of Sidari and Roda, which have a few lively nightlife options of their own. There’s also Corfu Town, which lines up fortresses, ancient churches and museums. If you’re visiting the island in a big group, stay in one of the villas in our handpicked Villas Collection. Set in peaceful locations and nestled in the countryside, most of them have their own pools and sun-facing terraces for you to enjoy. 

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Croatia

Croatia offers up everything from ancient sights and famous filming spots to secluded islands and an entire national park full of lakes and waterfalls. Game of Thrones fans should head to Dubrovnik to explore the walls of King’s Landing, plus visit ancient palaces and Baroque-style churches. Or, make tracks for the Istrian Riviera in the north of the country, which boasts the famous lakes and mountains of Plitvice National Park and an unspoilt shoreline. Over on the Dalmatian Coast, you can do a spot of island hopping and tick off A-list hangout Hvar, beach-filled Brac, and the old town of Makarska. Want to explore further? It’s easy to take a daytrip between the islands if you’re staying on one.

Bulgaria

Budget-friendly Bulgaria is fast becoming a popular UK tourist hotspot, and with its big resorts and white-sand beaches, it’s not hard to see why. The Sunny Beach region combines an eight-kilometre Blue Flag number with a lively promenade and plenty of shops and bars. Or, book a culture-packed escape to Varna, if you prefer city sights. Here you’ll find archaeological museums, monasteries, cathedrals and unique sights like a man-made cave complex built into a rock, and Ancient Roman baths dating back to the 2nd century. You can even see the oldest recorded gold treasures in the world at Varna’s Archaeological Museum. And, when it comes to places to stay, there’s a hotel for everyone. The TUI BLUE Nevis, in Sunny Beach, features a kids’ splash zone, a beachfront location and family-sized suites.

Which destination's on your radar?

Browse our holiday deals, and for more inspiration for your summer break, have a read of our articles on how to book a cheap family escape and the best beach destinations around the world.

Author: Selina Akhtar