Winter Sun Escapes: Best European Places To Bask

BY  Sibashree Dec 2, 2025

Porto was on my mind for the longest time. It is the home to the best Port Wine, the beautiful Douro River, and colorful buildings. Also, Porto has a crucial role to play in Portugal getting voted as the “Best Destination in Europe” at the World Travel Awards 2025. Porto itself has bagged the honor of the “Best Urban Destination of Europe.” When I reached Porto, I found it very walkable. It is not as hilly as Lisbon. So, strolling was breezy, and the tram rides! Those rides were the highlights of my trip to Porto last year. I even found many adorable cat graffiti on the walls of the many buildings in Porto. I met many volunteers at a hostel near the Old Town, and with such opportunities, Porto is now more open to budget travelers and backpackers. I also got a chance to meet many digital nomads and freelancers, and the most happening expat community. While strolling across the Old Town and enjoying the tram rides are the activities I loved the most, there are many other things to do in Porto. I will talk about them in this Tour and Travel Blog guide. How To Reach And How To Get Around Porto? Porto is well-connected to the rest of the world through the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) or Porto Airport. It is just 11 km away from the City Center. Thanks to the well-established public transport system, you will easily get a tram, metro, bus, cable car, or funicular to reach the City Center from the airport. I took a tram ride from the airport to the City Center, living my ultimate Porto dreams.  Also, as I had done my research correctly, I bought a Standard Andante Card. It was easier for me because I didn’t need to buy tickets separately for the train and metro rides during my days in Porto. You can buy an Andante Card from any Andante Shop at airports or subway hotels. Also, check if the hotel you are staying in sells an Andante Card. The Andante Card is rechargeable, and you can check the balance and recharge it at any kiosk at metro stations. The card will cost you 0.60€, and based on your travel plan, you will have to recharge the card.  What Are The Top Things To Do In Porto? Porto once again drew the limelight with its signature Port Wine. The celebration of the Port Wine Day on 10th September 2025 included a “free-guided tasting,” a show of the vintage wine labels, and a one-of-a-kind tour of the Douro and Port Wine Institute (IVDP) building. Yes, exploring the port houses and tasting the sweeter and richer versions of regular wines are some of the most delightful things to do in Porto. However, from the iconic tram rides to getting the amazing views of the city from the River Cruise, the city offers you endless options for exploration.  1. A Boat Cruise In The River Douro  Taking a Rabelo boat ride on the River Douro is the best way to enjoy a slice of Portuguese history. These boats were earlier used for the transportation of port wines and people. Today, these are cultural symbols of Porto, with the annual boat race during the Festa de São João do Porto or St. John's Festival being a major attraction. A rabelo ride exploring the major cultural sights visible from the river and the six iconic bridges cost me 20 Euros. It was a slow-paced, relaxing, and enriching ride. 2. Enjoying A Ride In The Vintage Tram  The city I come from also has a story of tramlines and vintage trams, thanks to British Colonization. I am from Kolkata, the City of Joy, and Google says that the distance is 9,068 kms. See how traveling brings two cities, thousands of miles apart, together. The trams here usually run on two lines, and on special occasions, you will find trams running on three lines. I took a ride on the Line 1 route, from the Ribeira neighbourhood to the Foz Area. The Foz Area has beautiful beaches, and here you will see the mouth of the Douro River. I had to pay €8 for the round trip, and you can even book a one-way ticket at €6. 3. Exploring The Port Houses  Vila Nova de Gaia, connected to Porto through the Douro River, is home to the famous Port Wine. In fact, the strict rules of the 17th century said that for a wine to be qualified as Port Wine, it had to be matured and stored in the premises of Vila Nova de Gaia.  So, the Port Houses are concentrated. So, it is easier to explore most of them on foot. I was at Taylor’s a Port House celebrating a legacy of 333 years in Port Wine-Making. It is one of the Port Houses, still owned by a family. The tour at Taylor’s was self-guided. So, I loved how I could appreciate each process of wine-making and tasting at my own pace. Along with Taylor’s, you can also plan a wine-tasting tour at Cockburns, Ferreria, and Calem. 4. Visiting The Porto Cathedral, Se Do Porto  The Porto Cathedral, next to the remnants of the medieval walls, stands out with its fortress-like exterior. The cathedral remains open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, and it offers free entry. However, you will have to pay €3 if you want access to the cloister. Predominantly Baroque in its architecture, the cathedral also shows the influence of the Gothic and Neoclassical styles. It is because the cathedral was first constructed in the 12th century, and it has been renovated many times. 5. Visiting The Palácio Da Bolsa  Address: R. de Ferreira Borges 11, 4050-253 Porto  Hours Open: 9 AM to 6:30 PM  Entry Fee: €14 for Adults, €9.50 for Students and Seniors, Free for Children below 12 Years  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Palácio da Bolsa (@palaciodabolsa) Palácio da Bolsa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is now home to Porto's Commercial Association. It was built on the ruins of St Francis Convent, which was engulfed by fire during the Liberal Wars. The building was built in 1842, and it was opened in 1891. The Pátio das Nações, or the central courtyard of the palace, with a glass enclosure, ensures adequate lighting throughout. You can explore its beautiful architecture and learn more about its history by taking part in a 30-minute guided tour. 6. Enjoying A Cable Car Ride  A funicular or cable car ride is the best way to enjoy amazing views of the Dom Luis I Bridge, the Douro River, and the Port cellars. The cable car or the Teleférico de Gaia in Porto connects Jardim do Morro with Vila Nova de Gaia. This five-minute ride costs 6 euros one-way and 9 euros round-trip. For children aged 3 to 12, the ticket price is €3 for a one-way trip and €4.50 for a round trip. You can use the Porto City Card if you are looking for discounts on this cable car ride. 7. Taking A Photo At The Dom Luís I Bridge  Théophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, is behind the construction of the Dom Luís I Bridge. This bridge on the Douro River serves as a prominent transportation link and icon of Porto. It connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. I loved walking through the low point and along the top. I took some lovely photos there and enjoyed a panoramic view of the city. For more fun, you can take a cable car ride to the top of the bridge and then walk to the Cathedral and medieval walls. 8. Visiting The Historic Bolhao Market  The Bolhao Market is not just a place to find fresh fish, vegetables, and other produce. It is important for the history of the city and the people living there. The market is as old as the mid-1800s, and once the two-story building opened in 1914, the market shifted there. In 2022, the building underwent a major renovation, and it is now accessible to visitors. The market remains open from 8 AM to 8 PM, and it remains open from 8 AM to 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The market also hosts many events, including opera performances and workshops. 9. Try Pastel De Nata: The National Pastry Of Portugal  Pastel De Nata, the century-old delicacy and the national pastry of Portugal, is the best dessert one can have in Porto. This dish has egg custard in a tart. I had the best pastry at the Bolhão Market, and it cost me €1.50. I did not have much time. Otherwise, I would have loved to join a pastry-making class offered by many locals at their homes. Food and attending cooking classes are some cool practices to break the ice and have an authentic cultural experience. 10. Indulging In The Quaint Little Charm Of The Time Out Market  After trying the best Pastel De Nata at the Bolhao Market, my next destination was the Time Out Market. I had some Caldo Verde soup and a Francesinha sandwich at the Time Out Market. These two items cost me €18. The market opens at 10 AM and remains open till 11 PM (Up to 12 AM on Fridays and Saturdays). Furthermore, if you want to try the best of the best in the Time Out Market, you can explore restaurants such as Padaria Ribeiro, Casa Inês, and Meia-Nau. 11. Exploring The Central Train Station Of Porto  The Central Train Station of Porto comes alive with the history of the city depicted through its blue and white ‘azulejo’ tiles. The main hall with 20,000 azulejo tiles is the main attraction of the architecture of this train station. It was built in 1916, and you will get trains to the Douro Valley and other popular villages in the neighborhood from here. The Central Train Station of Porto, or the São Bento Railway Station, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and previously it was the site of a Benedictine monastery. 12. Visiting Livraria Lello  Built in 1906, Livraria Lello remains the epicenter of Porto’s literary scene. It was named after prominent aristocrats and the founders, the Lello Brothers. And all the Potter Heads know this place as it inspired J K Rowling while writing Harry Potter, Also, I was surprised knowing that I would need a ticket to enter this bookstore, the most beautiful in the world. The ticket costs 10 Euros, and the charge will be deducted from the price of any book you purchase. Along with being a treasure trove of books, Livaria Lello stands out with its architectural magnificence. It has a stained-glass skylight, a unique staircase, and some brilliant woodwork. 13. Visiting The Chapel Of Souls  Location: R. de Santa Catarina 428, 4000-124 Porto, Portugal  Hours Open: Tuesday - Friday: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday: 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, Sunday: 7:30 AM to 13:30 PM, Monday: Closed  Porto made me fall in love with the iconic blue azulejo and white facade of the churches. Capela das Almas, or the Chapel of Souls, is another prominent structure, bearing these characteristics. When I visited the chapel, it was in the afternoon, and the blue and white azulejos on its exterior looked more dramatic as the Sun changed color. The beautiful facade of the building and its Neoclassical style are ideal for Insta-worthy photo ops. However, the place remains crowded, and the street is busy with cars. So, I had a difficult time clicking the photos of the chapel.  14. Visiting The West Coast Of Portugal  It takes a bus ride and costs less than 10 Euros to reach the West Coast of Portugal from Porto. The bus ride takes just 15 minutes, or you can explore the route on foot. I could not be there due to time constraints. However, Praia do Carneiro, the closest beach to Porto, offers the most relaxing beach experience. The esplanade is surrounded by palm trees, and the lighthouse and the 16th-century forts add to its historical significance. Other popular beaches on the west coast of Portugal are Praia do Molhe, Praia de Gondarem, Praia dos Ingleses, etc. 15. Watching Sunset From The Guindalense Football Club  Address: Escada dos Guindais 43, 4000-337 Porto, Portugal  Hours: Tuesday to Friday - 10 AM to 11 AM, Saturday - 1 PM to 11 PM, Sunday and Monday - Closed  Entry: Free  The Guindalense Football Club is one of the best sunset points in the city. It also offers an amazing view of the river, Don Luis Bridge, and the city’s orange rooftops. The food and beverages available at this club are reasonably priced. I talked to a few locals there, and the gentle breeze coming from the river made my sunset moments even more special. 16. A Day Trip To Braga And Guimarães  I loved the day trip to Braga and Guimarães from Porto. Braga is about 55 km from Porto, and Guimarães is about 48 km away. I took a bus to Guimarães, and it took me less than an hour to reach Guimarães. I visited the Guimarães Castle and the historic center of Guimarães. Braga is famous as the home to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, the Baga Cathedral is an important landmark. 17. Enjoy A Fado Show  Watching a Fado Show at Ideal Clube de Fado was something I was not prepared for. For instance, I'd know that a musical performance in Porto would make me feel the melancholy and the sprinkles of warm yellow lights like an autumn afternoon. Of course, I did not understand word-for-word, but every note, depicting emotions such as sorrow, love, and sadness, stirred me. It was the people, culture, and history of Porto talking to me through music. Furthermore, you can explore options such as the Fonseca Cellar Tour & Fado Show or visit Calém Cellars to enjoy a Fado Show with the best Port Wine.  My Days In Porto, Portugal: A 3-Day Itinerary My days in Porto were a little rushed, I admit, and I had to cover many places. However, you make it more relaxed if you have a trip plan of 5-7 days.  1. Activities On Day 1: Exploring The Heart Of Porto  Morning Visiting Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) Morning Exploring the Old Town (Ribeira District) Midday Exploring the Bolhão Market Midday Lunch at Time Out Market Afternoon Vintage Tram Ride Afternoon Taking Photographs at Dom Luís I Bridge Evening Watching the sunset at the Guindalense Football ClubEvening Attending Fado Show at Ideal Clube de Fado  2. Activities On Day 2: Wine, Culture, And Scenic Views  Morning Exploring Port Wine Houses Midday Taking a Douro River Cruise Ride Midday Lunch in Ribeira Afternoon Reading and Buying Books at Livraria Lello Late Afternoon Visiting the Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas) Evening Cable Car Ride Evening Dinner and Late Night Riverside Walk  3. Activities On Day 3: Day Trips And Hidden Gems  Morning Day Trip to Braga & Guimarães Midday Lunch in Braga Afternoon Returning to Porto and Exploring the Central Train Station (São Bento) Afternoon Walking and Discovering Hidden Murals Evening Dinner and Leaving for the Airport  Is Porto In Portugal Safe For Women? I found Porto safe and warm. Also, a vacation home booking portal, Holidu, has named Porto one of the safest cities in Europe for women digital nomads. The portal has enlisted the safest cities after a data analysis from sources such as Nomads.com and Numbeo. Furthermore, according to Numbeo, the crime rate in Porto is only 30.31, which is pretty low. In addition, the crime rating in “a physical attack because of your skin color, ethnic origin, gender, or religion” is just 13.61, which is very low. Moreover, the rate of assaults is low in Porto, with a rate of 27.86. Getting Lost Is The Best Thing You Can Do In Portugal Nothing can be better than a city that allows you to breathe and get lost. Porto does exactly the same! I loved the Old Town area, especially where I could cherish the beautiful murals, the warmth of people, and the scent of freshly baked Pastel De Nata. Everything offered me a wholesome experience. The more you walk through the alleys, the more you will discover cool buildings, architecture, and gardens. I am not sure whether you will agree with me because it’s not easy to put your mobile phone on flight mode while exploring a new country solo. Still, I took the risk, and I carried my camera to take the photos. People talk about free things to do in Porto, I would say that it was something that did not charge me a penny, yet was priceless! Eu amo-te, Porto! Also, this walkability factor adds a lot of soul to the city’s character. The “human-scale streets” keep reminding you that the city was built long before cars were invented. And as you walk through these streets, there is no barrier between you and the experience you soak in. In the end, you have a story that is deep and personal. Tourism In Porto Is More Than Being A Popular Destination With the World Travel Awards conferring the title of “Europe’s Best Tourist Destination, 2025,” Porto is emerging as more than a popular tourist spot. The city’s big win shows what the travelers truly value these days. As travelers, we love a city that is walkable, sustainable, authentic, and culturally rich. Also, you have to remember that the city has left names like Berlin, Barcelona, and Amsterdam behind to win this laurel. The layered heritage of the city has played a major role in making it so rich in experience. You will love the Baroque churches, the Ribeira Riverfront, arty neighborhoods, and medieval lanes. So, despite rapid growth, the city has been careful to protect its heritage. In addition, as major cities such as Venice and Barcelona struggle with overtourism and its impact on the environment and local communities, Porto is showing the way to low-impact travel. Walkability and tram rides contribute to the city's low-impact tourism. Overall, the win shows that authenticity is preserved and respected, and it is not a performance or a show. It also shows how successful the city has been in balancing authenticity with amenities, growth with sustainability, and mobility with walkability.

BY  Sibashree Mar 13, 2026

Amsterdam is one of the best family vacation spots in the world.  Well, the canals and bikes are legendary. However, you also get something that you probably did not expect.  Amsterdam teaches you the art of slow traveling and the thrill of “doing nothing” as a tourist looking for meaningful and authentic experiences.  So, as a believer in TheLowDownUnder Travel, the capital of the Netherlands became my instant favorite.  Furthermore, once you reach Amsterdam, you find out that nothing is superficial about it. Also, the layered history of the city keeps the intrigue alive.  Hence, you always want to come back to Amsterdam.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the things to do in Amsterdam. Also, if you are in the Dutch capital for the first time, read my guide on Amsterdam travel tips before booking your tickets.  What Are The Things To Do In Amsterdam? (Beyond Ticking The Bucket List) The Keukenhof Gardens in Amsterdam have all the credit for being one of the best places in the world to see flowers.  Furthermore, it is home to historical and cultural landmarks such as the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum.  However, the things to do in Amsterdam are not limited to exploring these places. The real thing to do here is to soak in the history, culture, and livelihood of the city.  So, this is how I experienced Amsterdam.  1. Know A City Built On Water And Ambition A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amsterdam’s Canal Ring was engineered in the 17th century.  The 17th century was the Dutch Golden Age. So, it is no wonder that Amsterdam was one of the most powerful trade hubs in the world then.  Till today, these waterways lined with tilting canal houses continue to be the backbone of daily life.  You can cycle along the banks like a local or enjoy your time in the houseboats, which bob quietly in the morning mist. These also connect the neighborhoods.  Moreover, the city is very walkable.  The city centre has a series of concentric canals radiating outward from Central Station. Also, most of the major attractions are within cycling or walking distance.  2. Explore Culture At Every Corner The Rijksmuseum is the crown jewel in the cultural landscape of the Dutch capital.  Here, you can see all the great works from the Dutch Golden Age of painting. Furthermore, it has works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.  A short walk away, the Van Gogh Museum draws visitors from across the globe. On the other hand, the Stedelijk offers a strong programme of modern and contemporary art.  Are you looking for something more intimate? The smaller canal house museums like Museum Van Loon or the Willet-Holthuysen give you a glimpse into how Amsterdam's merchant elite actually lived. Then there's the Anne Frank House on the Prinsengracht. It is a sobering and essential visit that tells one of history's most important stories within the very walls where it unfolded. Book tickets well in advance. Beyond the museums, Amsterdam rewards wandering.  The Nine Streets district is a tangle of independent boutiques, vintage shops, and coffee bars tucked between the Herengracht and the Prinsengracht.  The Jordaan neighbourhood, once a working-class area, is now one of the most charming parts of the city. It is full of small galleries, brown cafés, and local markets. 3. Enjoy The Food, Drink, And The Art Of Doing Nothing Dutch food has come a long way from its reputation for simplicity.  Amsterdam's restaurant scene now spans everything from Indonesian rijsttafel, a legacy of the country's colonial history, to outstanding French bistros. It also has modern European tasting menus, and some of the best street-level snacking in Northern Europe.  Grab a fresh herring from a harbour stall. Also, settle into a traditional brown café for a local beer, or book ahead at one of the city's many acclaimed restaurants. The café culture here is worth embracing fully.  Amsterdam's brown cafés, or bruine kroegen, are warm, unhurried spaces designed for long conversations and slow afternoons. They are as much a part of the city's identity as the canals. Where To Stay In Amsterdam? Choose Ambassade Hotel Are you looking for accommodation that feels like an extension of the city itself? Then, the Ambassade Hotel on the Herengracht is a natural choice.  1. Live The History And Enjoy The Art It is spread across 16 historic canal houses that date back to the 17th century. So, a stay here gives you the chance to be a part of the city’s history.  Also, most rooms here look over the Herengracht canal. So, you can enjoy the streetscape of the city.  Furthermore, this hotel has a rich legacy in the field of Dutch hospitality. It has been welcoming guests since 1953. So, the moment you step into this hotel in Amsterdam, you get that whiff of history and feel the warmth.  Moreover, this hotel was an informal art gallery for me, as it has decorations with works from the CoBrA art movement.  Artists from Copenhagen, Brussels, and Amsterdam founded this bold post-war avant-garde school. 2. Check Its Vast Collection Of Literature  This Amsterdam hotel is also famous for its connection to literature. So, it can be a favorite stay for dark academia fans.  Furthermore, writers and intellectuals have loved gathering here since the 1980s, and it has a Library Bar housing more than 5000 books.  Moreover, each book is signed by an author who stayed here.  So, this Dutch hotel is not just a place to stay. It is a destination in itself.  3. Indulge In The Cuisine  The Brasserie Ambassade serves French-inspired cuisine seven days a week. Moreover, if you want to explore the city more deeply, you can also join the private tours offered.  These tours cover Amsterdam's art, architecture, and canal history. Choose A Stay That Gives You The Ease To Explore  Staying at The Ambassade Hotel gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. It is located at Herengracht 341.  So, this hotel is located within walking distance of the major attractions in the city.  Moreover, booking directly via ambassade-hotel.nl gives you the best available rate. You can get up to 15% lower than third-party platforms, along with seasonal offers and the possibility of a complimentary room upgrade. Overall, Amsterdam is a city that rewards travelers who take it slow and yearn for authentic experiences.  Hence, staying at a place that is imbued with the city’s character is very important for a perfect vacation.

BY  Sibashree Apr 21, 2025

Discover the best summer destinations in Europe, a continent that remains a massive powerhouse in the global beach tourism industry, holding an impressive 38.3% market share. Further, Europe's thriving beach tourism sector has strong backing from the European Commission.  The Commission supports European countries with beautiful beaches through action plans, smart strategies, and sustainable growth initiatives.  Therefore, it is no surprise that by 2032, the European beach tourism industry is expected to reach $357 billion. Now, as a traveler, if these stats look mundane to you (I love them, as I think traveling is all about touching and improving lives, and you cannot do that without an economic boost!), the glorious stretches of sand and the dramatic landscape give you enough reasons to plan a trip.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I have curated the best summer destinations in Europe, along with the hidden gems.  So, couples, you know where you need to sail for some serious coastal fun! The Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Forget The Count!  Think of the dramatic landscape of the Mediterranean Coastline. Some are sandy and fun, while others are gothic and full of drama.  On the other hand, the Atlantic beaches are full of marshlands, inlets, and barrier islands.  Despite these differences in landscape and coastal geology, beaches are among best summer destinations in Europe, thanks to long hours of Sun and pleasant weather.  Summer months are also ideal for outdoor activities on the beach, including sunbathing, swimming, and scuba diving. Furthermore, intimate activities such as sunbathing against serene water backdrops make Europe's beaches ideal for summer romance.  Moreover, I cannot think of a more romantic venue for a candlelight dinner than the Mediterranean beaches in Europe. Here, I present the beaches I have been to in Europe; while there are some regular staples on our list, I'll focus mostly on the beaches that impressed me most.  1. French Riviera: Plage Notre-Dame Porquerolles Was Our Sweet Spot ‣ Closest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) With approximately 180 km of coastline, the French Riviera, the setting of popular movies such as GoldenEye and Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief, is dotted with stunning beaches.  The over 90 beaches in the French Riviera offer an unmatched diversity. You'll find beaches like Pampelonne, where vast sandy stretches will grab your attention.  On the other hand, the French Riviera boasts Paloma, an adorable spot with its dramatic pebble beach.  However, we found our sweet spot at Plage Notre-Dame Porquerolles, a beach just 15 km away by water taxi from the French Riviera.  Porquerolles, one of Europe's best summer destinations, is a not-so-developed island measuring 9 km long and 2 km wide.  So, we started our day by bicycling through red trails. The eucalyptus trees on both sides of the trail were a blessing.  After the ride, we visited the contemporary art museum at Villa Carmignac and enjoyed the best rosé champagne and local delicacies at their outdoor dining setup.   We came back to the beaches by noon, and the cafes with the musicians playing the old-day tunes created the perfect backdrop for the change of shades and light play we were witnessing on the sandy stretches.  And it was sunset time! We knew we had to take a dip. We could listen to the cicadas' grinding and watch the last rays of the sun weave magic on the sand and water.  After our time in the water, it was time to head back to the French Riviera. We had a great time at the beach with memories of broken wooden chairs and weary bicycle stands as beautiful frames from a movie.  Au revoir, Porquerolles! ⁕⁕⁕ Tour And Travel Note ⁕⁕⁕ Don’t miss a visit to the resort town of Nice if you are in the French Riviera. It is one of Europe's best cities, with beaches and nightlife.  2. Amalfi Coast: A UNESCO World Heritage Site And The Prettiest Coast Of Italy ‣ Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport (NAP) The Amalfi Coast requires no introduction. From beaches with dramatic rocky coves to those with sandy stretches, every beach stands out with its unique appeal, and Mediterranean delicacies here are out of this world.  Nevertheless, among all the beaches, Fornillo Beach in Positano won our hearts. With its pebbled shore and fewer crowds, everything about the beach felt “intimate.”  It was our Punto Dolce, where we enjoyed every beach activity to the fullest. However, the highlight of our visit was exploring the nearby Grotta di Fornillo, with its amazing scenic views.  3. The Egadi Islands: The Best Fusion Of Natural Beauty And Ecological Attractions View this post on Instagram A post shared by Giovanni Vasta (@gvasta2) ‣ Nearest Airports: Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) and Trapani-Birgi Airport (TPS) Also known as the Egadi Islands, these islands in Italy are among the best summer destinations in Europe.  Our destination was Favignana, with beautiful beaches such as Cala Azzurra and Cala Rotonda.  However, our favorite among all was Bue Marino. The rocky coastline here is unique, and we fell in love with the sunrise views.  We also explored Favignana and took a ferry to the Saline Trapani nature reserve. It is around 40 minutes to reach the nature reserve.  This Ramsar Site, and a protected area entrusted to the World Wildlife Fund, is home to the rare Aphanius fasciatus fish.  Further, we saw birds like the Saker Falcon and the Common Shelduck there.  4. Platja de Formentor, Majorca: A Calm Beach With Green Water ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) A calm “Blue Flag” beach on the Formentor Peninsula, Platja de Formentor is surely one of the best Majorca Island has to offer. The landscape here defines the word drama, and the sight of the Tramuntana mountains amidst dense pine forests will stay in my memory forever. Furthermore, the water's blue and green colors complement the backdrop.  The beach isn't very long, and we walked about 1 km to reach Cap de Formentor, the farthest point of the beach. We also took a ride on a rented sailboat. Catamarans are also available for rent. You can even try snorkeling for more adventure.  5. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia: A Romance With White Sand And Turquoise Sea ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefalonia (EFL) Airport One of the best summer destinations in the world, Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, has our hearts for its stunning natural beauty.  Awarded a “Blue Flag,” the beach features stretches of white sand with dramatic cliffs in the background.  The turquoise water also offers a serene view.  6. Hietaniemi Beach, Helsinki: Best For Summer Swimming And Beach Volleyball ‣ Nearest Airport: Helsinki Airport Hot summer days call for serious beach fun at Hietaniemi Beach in central Helsinki, Finland.  With its shallow water and picturesque setting, Hietaniemi Beach is perfect for playing basketball and beach volleyball.  Also, don’t forget to try the coffee and snacks at Badenbaden, the summer terrace. Want to try your luck at golf?  Visit the nearby miniature golf course.  7. Beach of Durres: The Most-Visited Beach In Albania ‣ Nearest Airport: Tirana Airport Durres Beach, Albania's most-visited beach, is also one of the best summer destinations in Europe.  Durrës has a rich history, with stories going back to 627 BC. The Roman amphitheater was also our biggest draw.  The beach also stands out for its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, a prominent feature in Europe's cultural, historical, and economic landscape.  Recently, the Adriatic Sea was in the news after a Riesenhai, or basking shark, was seen off the Croatian Peninsula. 8. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia: Romance In A Secluded Beach With Turquoise Waters ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou With rugged hinterlands and candy-colored houses, Fteri Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, is the prettiest beach I have been to in Europe.  One of Europe's best summer destinations, this beach sits in a secluded cove with beautiful white cliffs and the bluest water.  Don’t miss snorkeling for the ultimate adventure.  9. Praia da Comporta: The Secret Sweet Spot In Portugal View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luis Mendes (@luismendeslm) ‣ Nearest Airport: Lisboa (LIS) Airport One of Europe's best summer destinations, Praia da Comporta is a hidden gem in Portugal.  Summer months are busy at Praia da Comporta. However, the 19-km stretch of shoreline gives you plenty of space for all the beach fun.  We had the most elaborate lunch at the Comporta Café, and we got into the water after hours of swimming.  However, the biggest attraction was the horseback ride at sunset. The surroundings looked magical.  10. Mala Beach: Cliffs, Sands, And Clear Water View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ekaterina Erokhin (@katiaerokhin) ‣ Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport I was almost done writing this blog when it suddenly struck me. I had missed Mala Beach, another wonder in the French Riviera.  With pebbles and sand on the shores, this secluded beach is ideal for some intimate moments with your partner.  Further, the views of the majestic Mediterranean Sea and cliffs leave you awestruck.  11. Vitali Beach: Best For The Quiet Romance ‣ Nearest Airport: Athens International Airport Vitali Beach in Andros, Greece, is one of Europe's best summer destinations if you are planning a coastal getaway.  It is one of the quiet ones, too!  The shores are full of pebbles. So, it is quite a walk before you reach the blue waters. However, the nearby caves and the best Pina Colada available make every effort worthwhile.  12. Cala de Deiá, Mallorca: Falling In Love With The Rugged Charm ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) Cala de Deià, a rugged, bewitching inlet near Deià, Spain, has a small beach with crystal-clear water. This is a place for couples who love everything quaint and a close-to-nature experience.  After a fun swim in the crystal-clear water, you can have your meal at the Can Lluc cafe and enjoy fishing while sitting on the rocky platform above the water.  You can also visit the beautiful hamlet of Lluc Alcari, just 15 km away from Cala de Deiá. Related Posts.. 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