Planning for a summer vacation can be tough. However, one of the things that will have you scratching your head is picking the perfect destination.
This is also the most important of all, so you have to get it right.
Not to worry though, this post takes you on a wild spin across Europe’s amazing must-visit summer destinations.
Norway
From the Fjord coastline that stretches over 62,000 miles to Viking cities and amazing tourist attraction sites in the country’s capital – Oslo, there’s a lot to see in Norway.
Besides, the average summer temperature is around 14-21 degrees C. You can bet you’ll be warm and cozy throughout your visit here. That said, the climate might vary slightly depending on where you visit the country. This doesn’t come as a surprise as Norway spans across many latitudes.
If you are looking for warm, mild weather, consider visiting the southeast parts of the country – which is where the capital is located. Here, you can treat yourself to such marvels as the Oslo royal palace, Oslo Opera House, and Nobel Peace Center.
There are also a lot of leafy parks for those yearning for outdoor adventure within the city. You can also take the adventure further out and get a splash with kayaking fun along the wonderful shores of Oslofjord.
Out on the West Coast, some jaw-dropping sites such as Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord, and Naeroyfjord, as well as wonderful cities like Alesund and Bergen, await.
If you journey up North, you can treat yourself to the majestic Lofoten Islands, with high rugged peaks and lovely sandy beaches.
Other activities to do in Norway include:
- Kayaking
- RIB boat safaris
- Glacier hiking
Sweden
Sweden neighbors Norway closely, and it’s no less impressive as far as having destinations that will leave you in awe.
The weather is just as welcoming here, too. The average temperature in summer in Stockholm is around 15-21 degrees C, which makes for a nice and warm environment for summer adventure.
So, what are some of the best places to visit in Sweden? You’ll be spoilt for choice. But the southern coast would be a great place to start. Here, you can see some of the country’s largest cities such as Skane and Oland.
You will be amazed at the pristine beaches where you can kick back and take in the natural touch or make a splash and enjoy your vacation to the max. Further inland, your spirit for wild adventure will come alive once you hit Sweden’s vast forests. Besides, Sweden has over 100,000 lakes and villages waiting for you.
You can even hop up and down the country’s biggest cities such as Malmo, Stockholm, Gothenburg, and others. The destinations are just part of the fun, the real treat is in the train journey and captivating road trips. But of all 3, the capital tops the list. Here, you’ll get to explore the Stockholm archipelago.
Go back in time by walking the cobblestone streets in the historic Gamla Stan, and visit the Vasa Museum and the Royal Palace. If you get there in June, you could catch the Swedish Midsummer Festival – and jump in on celebrating the summer solstice.
Scotland
If you have a thing for ancient castles and deep lochs, Scotland is the destination to set your eyes on. The weather here is a bit colder at 12-17 degrees C in summer.
However, the scenery scattered across this country makes up for the lower summer temperature. Still, this should be ideal for anyone trying to get away from excessive summer heat in other areas.
For outdoor adventure and rugged scenery to add to your photo collection, take to the highlands. An ideal route here would be to take a road trip to Glen Coe, then cut through the Cairngorms National Park and take in the Caledonian pine forests.
And to top it all up, a Nessie-hunting boat trip on the Loch Ness will give you the ultimate thrill.
Other must-visit destinations include the Isle of Skye – with outstanding landscapes such as Cuillin, Old Man of Storr, and Quiraing mountains. Visit during August and see the ultimate vibrancy of the blooming purple heather.
Malaga, Spain
There are a ton of awesome adventures that you can do in Spain, but Malaga is one of the most renowned destinations – for good reasons.
Once you experience the exciting mix of modern and historic essence that Malaga offers, there’s no going back.
A bustling yet traditional Mediterranean port with a busy center that still sports an unfinished medieval cathedral and narrow streets, Malaga has many faces. Balconies on traditional buildings, tapas, bars, and everything about this city scream adventure.
And that’s not all. You will also fall in love with other scenes such as the Gibralfaro castle, Alcazaba, and a Roman theatre nearby…
There are also vantage points where you can get a great view across the city. And then you can step into the botanical gardens and ease your soul to the sound of majestic fountains.
Other great attractions here include the Picasso museum, and Manquita, the city’s cathedral. The drinks and foods will blow you away with that special Spanish taste.
Bodrum, Turkey
If you have Turkey in your sights, Bodrum is one stop you have to make on your travel there. Here’s yet another mix of modern and ancient that will take your breath away.
For y’all antiquity fanatics, the Bodrum castle is one place you have to visit. Built in 1402, this well-preserved medieval monument is now a museum where the area’s unique history is preserved.
Swim in the warm seas, or bask out and tan away on the fantastic beaches, capture stunning sunset photos, or visit the famous whitewashed windmills. And yes, you also get to tingle your taste buds with special Turkish recipes.
Other attractions in Bodrum include;
- The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology
- Ottoman shipyards
- Amphitheatre
- Myndos Gate
- Turkkuyusu Camii mosque
Venice, Italy
Romance, elegance, and beauty, the city of Venice has it all. This destination easily ranks among the top picks for most adventure enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why.
There’s a ton to see here… from contemporary art scenes that earn it a spot in the present to churches and museums that will take you back in time.
Where will you start?
- Will it be the city’s islands, Murano, to see the exquisite glass? Or Burano to see those delicate laces?
- Will you get a view of the city from one of its many waterways cruises?
- Or take a peek at works of art by famous artists like Canaletto and Titian.
- Catch a wonderful orchestra at Teatro La Fenice (the premier opera house) or visit Venice’s lagoon cluster of islands, such as Torcello and Lido.
The list of amazing destinations here is endless.
Nice, France
For anyone looking for a place to relax and unwind, the French Riviera is one place that should top your must-see visit list. It’s here where you’ll find Nice, a relaxing and rewarding destination.
With deep blue coastal waters, legendary dining areas, and diverse shopping adventures, there’s more to Nice than just indulging in the warm summer weather.
For an even more satisfying adventure, visit the Cours Saleya Flower Market and explore the different blooms on sale. And then spoil yourself to the souvenir shops and chic cafés.
A stop at the nearby Matisse Museum opens a window to an amazing world for art lovers.
Iceland
If you’re looking for a cool-weather summer getaway, Iceland is where you should be headed. The summer temperatures here are around 10-15 degrees C.
The small North Atlantic island nation is home to natural wonders you can hardly find anywhere else… From glacier-topped volcano mountains to hot springs and stunning waterfalls.
Take the unbeaten path and dig up lots about Viking history, explore the world-class museums, and enjoy outstanding foods in the country’s capital, Reykjavik.
Other activities to do in Iceland;
- Whale watching and puffin spotting on boat trips
- Hiking in the lush valley of the Porsmork region
- Visit the black sand beach in Reynisfjara
- Check out the Seljalandsfoss waterfall
- Explore the Jokulsarion Glacier Lagoon
Visit between May and September to enjoy more hours of daylight.
Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia might not be among the most popular summer destinations in Europe, but Zagreb is hands down a hidden gem.
Elegant architecture with 18th-19th century structures, lush parks, and museums, you will have more than enough adventure here.
Head down south of the city, and soak up the sunshine on the shores of Jarun Lake. You can also enjoy swimming and rowing in the lake.
Visit the Stone Gate and marvel at this medieval structure, but others, such as bedecked with arches and columns, are also worth checking out.
Other must-see scenery in Zagreb;
- Lotrscak Tower – for a 360 view of both upper and lower town areas.
- A ride on the world’s shortest cable car ride (66 meters) between uptown and downtown.
- Museums filled with the history and heritage of Croatian people – Museum of Contemporary Art, Archeological Museum, Ethnographic Museum.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line, as you dream about your next getaway, let these incredible locations inspire your travel plans and lead you to explore the endless wonders of Europe. The images you see on this post are for illustration purposes only. Thank you for reading.
