Best holiday destinations in Europe 2018

City break or beach escape? Get our top picks for holiday destinations in Europe.

Browsing our summer deals and wondering where the best spot to go on holiday in Europe is? We know you’re spoilt for choice. From the golden sands of Spain to the historical monuments dotted across Greece, we’ve got everything from quiet beach holidays to activity-packed getaways. And, some of these crowd-pleasers offer up both. Read on to find out our pick of the best destinations in Europe for your next break…

FOR A BEACH HOLIDAY

Spain has swathes of beaches on offer. Whether you opt for the Costas or the Canary Islands, you won’t be short on sunbathing spots. Benidorm in the Costa Blanca has three Blue Flag beaches to choose from, each offering something different. Meanwhile, Balearic Island Ibiza has sandy spots like Cala Llonga beach, where you can rent pedalos and go diving. Or, if city living is more your style, in the Costa Brava you get access to both beautiful beaches and to Barcelona, which shows off Spain’s traditional side – from tapas bars to swanky boutiques.

Find out more about our holidays to Spain.

FOR AN ISLAND ESCAPE

There are plenty of holiday spots in Portugal, but the Floating Garden, otherwise known as the island of Madeira, is one of the prettiest. This slice of tranquillity off the mainland is a mixture of old town charm and rural beauty. Capital Funchal offers up Colonial buildings, winding cobblestone streets filled with family-run shops, and a pretty marina. Expect villages lined with brightly-coloured flowers, and some of the best surfing opportunities around.

Find out more about our Portugal holidays here.

FOR HISTORY BUFFS

The Acropolis in Athens might be the most famous ancient monument around, but the Greek islands are overflowing with historic landmarks, too. The Palace of Knossos in Crete was the home of King Minos, who features in the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, while Rhodes is home to The Temple of Apollo. Back on the mainland in the Peloponnese region you can visit Olympia, where the first ever Olympic Games was held in 776 BC. There are temples dedicated to Zeus and his wife Hera here, too.

Find out more about our holidays to Greece here.

FOR ADVENTURERS

If you enjoy keeping active on holiday, consider Croatia. This spot on the Adriatic is full of cobbled seaside towns and pebbled beaches, as well as Medieval cities like Dubrovnik. But away from the picturesque coastline, Croatia’s mountainous interior has UNESCO World Heritage Site status. At Plitvice Lakes National Park you’ll find sixteen lakes connected by waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including wild cats. Meanwhile, the Istrian Riviera has some of the best cycling in the country, and keen climbers can test their skills in Paklenica National Park.

Find out more about our Croatia holidays.

Time for a break?

Browse our All Inclusive breaks to Europe, and for more on our European destinations, find out more about our hotels with sea views, and the best golf holidays on the continent.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Lizzie Butler

Last updated: 12.07.2018