Top 5 European locations to visit this summer
Here’s a detailed article on the top 5 European locations to visit this summer, including pros, cons, price differences, and top attractions:
1. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a stunning volcanic island in the Aegean Sea, known for its breathtaking sunsets, white-washed buildings, and blue-domed churches.
Pros:
- Spectacular scenery and photo opportunities
- Beautiful beaches with unique black and red sand
- Rich history and archaeological sites
- Excellent Greek cuisine and local wines
- Romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples
Cons:
- Can be very crowded during peak summer months
- Expensive compared to other Greek islands
- Limited public transportation options
- Some beaches have pebbles rather than sand
Price Range: Santorini is one of the more expensive Greek islands. Expect to pay €100-300 per night for a mid-range hotel, €20-40 for a meal at a restaurant, and €3-5 for a local beer.
Top Attractions:
- Oia village for its famous sunset views
- Akrotiri archaeological site
- Red Beach and Perissa Black Sand Beach
- Ancient Thera ruins
- Santorini volcano and hot springs tour
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant coastal city known for its unique architecture, rich culture, and lively atmosphere. Pros:
- Stunning Gaudí architecture throughout the city
- Beautiful beaches within the city limits
- World-class museums and art galleries
- Excellent food scene, including tapas bars and markets
- Efficient public transportation system
Cons:
- Very crowded during summer months
- Pickpocketing and petty theft can be an issue in tourist areas
- Some popular attractions require advance booking
- Can be hot and humid in July and August
Price Range: Barcelona is moderately priced for a major European city. Expect to pay €80-200 per night for a mid-range hotel, €15-30 for a meal at a restaurant, and €2-4 for a local beer.
Top Attractions:
- Sagrada Família basilica
- Park Güell
- La Rambla street
- Gothic Quarter
- Casa Batlló and Casa Milà
3. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city known for its well-preserved medieval walls, limestone streets, and crystal-clear waters.
Pros:
- Beautiful Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Stunning Adriatic coastline and beaches
- Rich history and cultural heritage
- Excellent seafood and Mediterranean cuisine
- Game of Thrones filming locations
Cons:
- Extremely crowded during summer months
- Can be expensive compared to other Croatian destinations
- Limited sand beaches (mostly pebble)
- Steep streets and many stairs in the Old Town
Price Range: Dubrovnik is one of the more expensive Croatian destinations. Expect to pay €80-200 per night for a mid-range hotel, €15-30 for a meal at a restaurant, and €3-5 for a local beer.
Top Attractions:
- City Walls walk
- Dubrovnik Cable Car
- Lokrum Island
- Rector’s Palace
- Stradun (main street)
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a charming city known for its picturesque canals, world-class museums, and laid-back atmosphere.
Pros:
- Beautiful canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- World-renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum
- Excellent cycling infrastructure
- Vibrant nightlife and cultural scene
- Easy to explore on foot or by bike
Cons:
- Can be crowded and touristy, especially in summer
- Accommodation can be expensive
- Weather can be unpredictable, even in summer
- Some areas, like the Red Light District, may not be suitable for all visitors
Price Range: Amsterdam is relatively expensive. Expect to pay €100-250 per night for a mid-range hotel, €20-40 for a meal at a restaurant, and €3-5 for a local beer.
Top Attractions:
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Canal cruise
- Vondelpark
5. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy, known for its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and luxurious atmosphere.
Pros:
- Breathtaking coastal scenery
- Charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
- Excellent Italian cuisine and limoncello
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters
- Hiking opportunities with panoramic views
Cons:
- Very crowded during the summer months
- Expensive, especially for accommodation and dining
- Limited public transportation options
- Narrow, winding roads can be challenging to navigate
Price Range: The Amalfi Coast is one of the more expensive destinations in Italy. Expect to pay €150-400 per night for a mid-range hotel, €25-50 for a meal at a restaurant, and €4-6 for a local beer.
Top Attractions:
- Town of Positano
- Amalfi Cathedral
- Villa Rufolo in Ravello
- Path of the Gods hiking trail
- Boat tour along the coast
Each of these destinations offers a unique European summer experience, from the sun-soaked islands of Greece to the cultural capitals of Spain and the Netherlands. While they all tend to be crowded and relatively expensive during the peak summer months, they offer unforgettable experiences, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage that make them worth visiting.
