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Best summer holiday destinations in Europe

Beaches, cities or islands? Find the best summer holiday destinations in Europe.
Ibiza. Santorini. Corfu. Trust when we say that’s where you’ll find Europe’s best summer holiday vibes. Whether it’s lazy beach days, insta-worthy sunsets or cooling dips in turquoise seas, we’ve lined up a list of destinations that deliver it all. So, whenever summer plans start calling your name, these spots are ready to deliver the sunshine.

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Costa Dorada, Spain

The Costas in Spain have been a hit with sun-seekers 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 with shops and restaurants, plus the huge PortAventura theme park is right next door – this hotspot packs in something for everyone. There’s also the Bonavista Market, where you can snap up bargains on everything from local fruit and veg to handmade souvenirs and vintage clothes. And, with Barcelona within day-tripping distance, you can tick-off historic sites like Gaudí’s legendary Sagrada Familia – the biggest cathedral in the world.

Check out our holiday deals to Costa Dorada.
A view of Capellans beach in Costa Dorada.

Santorini, Greece

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, before heading to the top of its 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.

Check out our holiday deals to Santorini.
The cliffside town of Santorini, overlooking the sea.

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza might be a haven for clubbers, but there's loads more of this Balearic beauty to uncover, with hotels and attractions to match every vibe. 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. 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.

Check out our holiday deals to Ibiza.
Several boats are docked in a marina in Ibiza.

Corfu, Greece

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-flower fields and secret beaches to discover. When it comes to where to stay, Corfu is an island of two halves. The north, home to resorts like 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 - home to a few lively nightlife options of their own. There’s also Corfu Town, which lines up fortresses, ancient churches and museums. Planning a big group getaway? 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 soak up.

Check out our holidays to Corfu.
An aerial view of Cape Sidero in Corfu, with mountains in the background.

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 wander the walls of King’s Landing, plus visit ancient palaces and Baroque-style churches. Or, make tracks for the Istrian Riviera in the north, which boasts the famous lakes and mountains of Plitviče 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 Brač and the old town of Makarska. The latter sits in the shadow of Croatia’s second tallest mountain, Biokovo, which is home to the iconic Biokovo Skywalk. This semicircular glass bridge juts out from the side of the summit and offers up some of the best views of the region – on a clear day, you can even see parts of Italy. Your camera roll won't know what's hit it.

Check out our holiday deals to Croatia.
A sunset view of Makarska from a nearby beach.

Bulgaria

Budget-friendly Bulgaria is a popular hotspot, and with its big resorts and white-sand beaches, it’s not hard to see why. Sunny Beach combines an eight-kilometre Blue Flag number with a lively promenade that's stocked with shops and bars. Or, book a culture-packed escape to Varna, if you prefer city sights. Here, you’ll find archaeology museums, monasteries 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. TUI BLUE Nevis, in Sunny Beach, packs in a kids’ splash zone, a beachfront location and family-sized suites.

Check out our holiday deals to Bulgaria.
Aerial view over a beachfront in Bulgaria.
Ready to lock in your European escape?

Browse our holiday deals, and for more inspo for your summer break, find out how to book a cheap family escape or uncover the best beach destinations around the world.

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

Author: Selina Akhtar and Conor Braniff

Last updated: 02.09.2025

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