Top 5 Tips To Make Your Trip To Europe Fantastic

BY  Sibashree Aug 13, 2025

Key Highlights: What Is The South Of France? Why Is The South Of France So Popular? Where To Go In South Of France? How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like? Where To Stay In The South Of France? Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? What Are The South Of France Cities Near The Beach? What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? Home to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix and blessed with 300 days of Sunshine in a year, the South of France is the ultimate luxury tourism destination.  The region also appeals to global travelers with the best wines, such as Bordeaux, Languedoc, Cahors, and Armagnac brandy. So, it is no wonder that the South of France is a crown jewel in the French luxury tourism landscape, about to reach $53.6 billion by 2030. Moreover, the South of France is home to many luxurious hotels, chateaux, and villas, such as Le Collectionist luxury villas in Provence. These high-end accommodations cater to ultra-high-net-worth travelers and ensure a premium experience.  However, there is more to visiting the South of France. Natural abundance, cultural heritage, and great food make it a destination for wholesome travel delights.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will explore the various aspects of the South of France and why it is a dream destination. We will also share a 7-day itinerary so that you can plan the trip well.  What Is South Of France?  The South of France is a district region, comprising Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA), itself, is a combination of six district departments. Those are: Alpes-Maritimes Bouches-du-Rhône Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Hautes-Alpes Vaucluse Var This region caters to every type of traveler and is almost an epitome of the natural wonders we love to visit.  The French Riviera beaches complement the rugged beauty of the Alps here. On the other hand, Provence promises the most quaint experience with vineyards, small villages, and hills smelling like lavender.  You can add to that the cultural and artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence and the cosmopolitan vibe of cities such as Avignon and Marseille. Marseille especially indulges you with the charm of the French good life, and it’s for wanderers who just want to travel slow and connect.  Bordeaux with its best wines and vineyards, Verdon Gorge with its serene green landscape, and Camargue with its wetlands and wildlife are other prominent destinations in the South of France. Why Is South Of France So Popular?  Gorgeous seaside towns The majestic Alps Roman ruins Medieval villages Long stretches of vineyards The Best wines The tranquility that makes you connect to nature! These are reasons why everyone loves the South of France. Now, nobody will take away the best from the South of France. However, some new developments make the South of France more popular among modern travelers.  1. Better Accessibility And Travel Connectivity: How To Reach The South Of France? The South of France is well connected to Paris. You can take a flight from Paris, and it takes around 90 minutes to cover the distance.  Furthermore, you can take the SNCF Connect sleeper train, running from Paris to Cannes or Nice. For a more luxurious journey, board Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Cannes.  It is an 18-hour journey with breakfast and gourmet meals.  Irrespective of the train you choose, you can buy the unlimited rail pass for the commute between Paris and the South of France.  2. Urban Improvements To Enhance The Experience Of Global Travelers  Nice has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. It now has the Promenade des Anglais, which is ideal for strolls and tourists who love to explore the city on foot.  Furthermore, today, the sidewalk looks beautiful with many trees and cafe terraces.  Moreover, the new Convention Center here just hosted the U.N. Ocean Conference 2025 in July. Also, it is likely to have a tram line directly connected to the airport and a pleasure port for excursions on boats. 3. Aix-en-Provence Is To Have New Cultural Sites And Updated Museums Atelier des Lauves, the studio of the famous French impressionist, Paul Cezanne, reopened in Aix-en-Provence on 28th June, 2025.  Also, Jas de Bouffan, his family’s home, was opened for the first time. Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence, the first independent art foundation of France, just had an expansion to celebrate its 60th anniversary last year. After the expansion, the foundation now has an exhibition space of 5,300+ square feet.  This space shows the works of Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall.  Furthermore, Nice’s Musée Matisse reopened in 2024 after a long period of renovation work, and La Malmaison, the contemporary art exhibition space of Cannes, reopened.  4. The Celebration Of Perfume Heritage In South Of France  The South of France is the Mecca for a perfume connoisseur. The Rose et Marius in Aix-en-Provence or the factory of L’Occitane en Provence in Manosque have enhanced the tourism experience for tourists having a keen interest in fashion and perfumes.  Moreover, at Rose et Marius, you can attend a workshop and design your own perfume. On the other hand, you can register online and visit L’Occitane en Provence for a face diagnostic and get a free hand cream.  5. For The Love Of Ceramics And Pottery  Marseille, the port city of the South of France, is now emerging as the new hotspot amidst all the glamor and glitz of the French Riviera.  Since the COVID-19 era, many Parisians have also moved to Marseille for the quality of life, and the high-speed train ride to this port city from Paris is an amazing experience.  Furthermore, Aubagne, just outside this city, is a popular destination in the European ceramic landscape. Ravel Poterie, Santon Di Landro, and Louis Sicard are some important potteries here. Where To Go In South Of France?  The South of France has many options if you want to experience the ultimate French beauty. However, here are our favorite destinations in the South of France. 1. Nice And Alpes-Maritimes Nice, the capital, and Cannes are two landmark destinations in Alpes-Maritimes.  Furthermore, Nice is a cultural hub with Matisse and Chagall museums and the Promenade des Anglais.  Cannes, with its glitz and glamor and, of course, the much-celebrated film festival, is a global name in cultural tourism.  Also, this region has the town of Grasse, “The Perfume Capital of the World,” and Antibes, housing the Picasso Museum and wonderful beaches.  2. Bouches-du-Rhône And Marseille Marseille, the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, is a crown jewel in the tourism of the South of France. Some important cultural and historical landmarks here are: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde MUCEM museum Arles here is a standout place, being home to the Roman amphitheater and its connection with Van Gogh.  Moreover, the Camargue wetlands, with flamingos and wild horses, and the Calanques National Park with limestone cliffs are prominent natural wonders in thai region.  3. Var And Its Capital, Toulon Mediterranean coastline A vibrant nightlife Rich maritime history A beautiful harbor Var and its capital, Toulon, are famous for all these things. Furthermore, you will love the quiet beaches of Îles d’Hyères and areas like Bandol with expansive vineyards and massive production of rosé wines.  4. Avignon And Vaucluse Along with the quintessential Provençal countryside charm, Vaucluse remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the South of France.  Vaucluse, its capital, has a performing arts festival every year in July. On the other hand, Orange has one of the best preserved Roman theaters, and it still hosts many performances. Pont d’Avignon and Palais des Papes are other important landmarks in Vaucluse.  In addition, Valucluse offers you the most peaceful retreat in the Luberon region, filled with beautiful rolling hills, quaint villages like Roussillon, and vineyards.  5. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence And Digne-les-Bains With Digne-les-Bains as the capital, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is famous for thermal baths and lavender fields. It is also home to Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, and a beautiful hilltop town with a citadel, Sisteron.  Also, don’t forget to visit the Lavender Museum and the Valensole lavender plains in summer.  Moreover, if it is Jean Giono who introduced you to the South of France, you must explore Manosque, the writer’s hometown. 6. Hautes-Alpes And Gap Hautes-Alpes is famous for the beauty of the French Alps. Gap is the capital city, and Haute-Alpes is also home to the Écrins National Park, a popular summer destination for hikers thanks to its dramatic cliffs and glaciers.  Also, Hautes-Alpes has Briançon, one of the highest mountainous cities, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the Vauban fortifications.  How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?  Here, we have made a sample 7-day itinerary for you in the South of France. As I am yet to make it to the South of France, I have made this itinerary based on my online research and after consultation with a local travel expert. 7-Day Itinerary for the South of France Activities and Places to VisitDay 1• Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence• Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-ProvenceDay 2• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and GordesDay 3• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking thereDay 4• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des AnglaisDay 5• Monaco day tripDay 6• Explore Antibes and its Picasso MuseumDay 7• Day trip to Cannes Where To Stay In South Of France?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) I have already mentioned that the South of France, being a luxury tourist destination, has high-end villas such as Le Collectionist villas in Provence.  Furthermore, you will find many short-term and long-term holiday rentals for improved privacy at a more reasonable rate.  Also, Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo or Le Negresco in Nice are some luxurious hotels in this region.  Moreover, the Provence region, Côte d'Azur, and Languedoc-Roussillon have some amazing campsites if you want to spend your days in Southern France in the company of nature. What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? April to May and September to October are the best months to visit the South of France. In April and May, you will see the lavender in full bloom, while the summer is yet to set, keeping the temperature within 20-25 degrees Celsius.  On the other hand, September to October is the ideal time to explore the beaches and other coastal getaways of the South of France.  South Of France: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions about the South of France.  1. Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? If you are traveling on a budget, you can explore the following destinations in the South of France. • Antibes• Nice• Avignon• Cannes• Saint Paul de Vence• Monaco• RoussillonFurthermore, while traveling on a budget, you can choose Nice as your base. It has the most affordable holiday rentals. Also, you can easily take train trips from Nice and explore places like Monaco. Also, cook your own meals to avoid spending a fortune at expensive restaurants.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? From classic French Riviera destinations to a place with beautiful lemon groves, the South of France has plenty to offer to young adult tourists. Here are our favorites.• Nice with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and of course, the Promenade des Anglais• Cannes with its boutiques and all the love for films• Saint-Tropez with its happening beach clubs and high-end shopping experience• Menton, with its vibrant buildings, lemon groves, and proximity to the Italian border 3. What Are The South Of France Cities Near Beach? Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, and Menton are the most beautiful cities near the beaches in the South of France.  4. What Is The Nicest Part Of The South Of France? Provence is the nicest part of the South of France. Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports. 5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France?  Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft. 

BY  Sibashree Nov 25, 2025

My trip to Kotor, Montenegro, is filled with memories of the cats, who are the guardians of the city, and the smell of dew-drenched leaves as I went for a sunrise hike.  Also, along with being a hidden gem in the sustainable tourism scenario after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), it has also emerged as the ultimate budget-friendly location of Montenegro.  In this blog, I will discuss a 3-day travel itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro, including hidden gems and essential tips. Why Visit Kotor, Montenegro? The International Trade Administration has confirmed that the tourism sector in Montenegro contributes 30% to the country’s GDP. In addition, ReportLinker predicts that the number of visitors to Montenegro will reach 3.4 million by 2028.  The same report anticipates that the tourism industry will reach a revenue of $95 million by 2028.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, With Great Food, Community, Beauty, And Historical Charm Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the crown jewel of tourism in Montenegro. The deep bay waters here resemble the Nordic fjords. On the other hand, the coastal cliffs create the perfect backdrop for the city, exuding a medieval charm.  Now, Kotor and Montenegro as a country are planning to diversify their tourism portfolio, with a greater focus on cultural, ecotourism, and rural tourism.  In addition, the budget-friendly hostels in Kotor are more than cheap accommodations. They are the base for developing a backpackers' community.  Many of these hostels help you join pub crawls, hikes, local events, and more. As a result, Kotor, Montenegro, has become a favorite among backpackers, budget travelers, and solo travelers.  In addition, the rugged beauty of the Dinaric Alps meets the calmness of the Adriatic Sea in Kotor, Montenegro. So, every nook of Kotor is ideal for a photo-op.  Moreover, for me, exploring the maze of medieval lanes and the Venetian architecture was like time travel. Also, St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, stands as the eternal witness of human history in Kotor.  Furthermore, the family-run taverns here serve the most delicious yet simple food at an affordable price. Try the savory pastries! What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor Montenegro? July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor, Montenegro. However, if you want to travel to Kotor, Montenegro, on a budget, you need to plan a trip between November and February.  You will enjoy watersports and skiing in these months, and accommodations are available at a much more affordable price.  How To Get To Kotor & Move Around On A Budget? The Tivat Airport, 7 km away, is the gateway for Kotor to the rest of the world. You can travel this 7 km distance by road.  Other nearby airports to Kotor, Montenegro, are Dubrovnik Airport (Croatia, 44 km) and Podgorica Airport (40 km). In addition, Podgorica and Kotor get regular flights from countries such as Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia.  Once you reach Kotor, you can explore the city and its surroundings in a boat. Don’t miss Perast on the route, as this village has fewer than 300 people, and it stands out with amazing scenic beauty.  Taxis, shuttles, and car rentals are other options if you want to explore Kotor by road. 3-Day Budget Itinerary For Kotor, Montenegro Here is a brief 3-day budget itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro. I will first share the days and activities, and then discuss why these attractions are special.  DaysActivitiesDay 1 - Exploring Kotor Old Town• Wandering through cobblestone streets.• Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral.• Climbing the City Walls for panoramic viewsInsider Tip: Visit the City Walls early for a discounted entry. Day 2 - Visiting Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks• Taking a local bus to Perast.• Boat ride to the iconic island church.• Enjoying budget-friendly seafood at a local konoba.Day 3 - Visiting Lovćen National Park & Njeguši Village• Hiking or taking a shared taxi to Lovćen.• Visiting Njeguši for a traditional prosciutto and cheese tasting. 1. Exploring Kotor Old Town And City Walls Here are some interesting and unknown facts about Kotor Old Town and City Walls.  The Old Town's fortification system stretches 4.5 km. So, it is one of the longest fortification systems in Europe. It only follows the Great Wall of China.  You have to climb 1350 steps to reach the San Giovanni Fortress. The entry fee is €8. However, you can also take the secret route via the old trade path outside the northern gate. It’s free.  The Sea Gate Inscription above the main gate is a quote from Tito: “We don’t want others’, we don’t give our own”, commemorating liberation from Nazi occupation in 1944. Furthermore, the Pillar of Shame, hidden in a square, reminds us of a brutal activity in the city in the past. Criminals were tied to this pillar, and everyone used to throw stones and rotten food at them as a mark of punishment.  2. Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral Built in 1166, the St. Tryphon Cathedral is even older than the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is one of the most ancient cathedrals on the Adriatic Coast. The cathedral has a 14th-century ciborium, which depicts the life of St. Tryphon. It is made of a red stone from Đurići. The goldsmiths of Kotor made the golden altarpiece of the cathedral in the 15th century. It has the figures of Christ, Virgin Mary, and 16 saints.  A devastating earthquake struck Kotor in 1667. Then, the bell tower of the cathedral fell, and it could not be rebuilt fully. Thus, the current cathedral structure is shorter by 2 meters than the original one.  In 2009, the St. Tryphon Cathedral got the status of a Papal Basilica. It is a rare honor for churches in the Balkan region. 3. Visiting Perast The 2-km-long main street of Perast was once a cultural hub during the days of the Venetian Republic.  The bell tower of St. Nicholas Church was built at a cost of 50000 Ducats in the 18th century. It was an unbelievable amount in that era.  Perast once stood as a reflection of the wealth in the Venetian Era. It had 16 palaces and 19 churches.  4. Knowing Our Lady Of The Rocks Rocks have piled up for centuries, and those rocks, along with sinking ships, have formed Our Lady of the Rocks, the only artificial island in the Adriatic Region.  The Fašinada festival is a popular ritual here, with its history dating back to 1452. It is a tradition to celebrate the island's foundation. Every 22nd July, the people of the island gather in decorated boats and they throw stones into the sea, as a symbolic exercise.  Furthermore, the Catholic church here has a tapestry made by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović. It was made using human hair, and Jacinta Kunić-Mijović made this tapestry while waiting 25 years for her fiancé to return from the sea.  The church also has the Death of the Virgin. It is a masterpiece by Tripo Kokolja. In total, the church has 68 paintings from Tripo Kokolja. 5. Visiting Lovćen National Park The Njegoš Mausoleum at Jezerski Vrh is one of the main attractions of the Lovćen National Park. Located at an altitude of above 1,660 meters, it is allegedly the highest mausoleum in the world.  200,000 Gilded tiles cover the dome of the mausoleum, and 13-ton granite statues of Montenegrin women guard the entrance of the national park.  Once you climb 461 steps and reach the top of the Mausoleum, you will enjoy panoramic views stretching toward Italy.  6. Exploring Njeguši Village It is the cradle of the royal Petrović-Njegoš dynasty of Montenegro. This family ruled over Montenegro from 1696 to 1918. Furthermore, it has the birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš and many other 19th-century buildings. The birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš is now a museum housing the first edition of his poem, Mountain Wreath, and original furniture. How Much Does A 3-day Trip To Kotor Cost On A Budget? Here is a detailed breakdown of the budget for a 3-day trip to Kotor, Montenegro.  CategoryBudget Cost (EUR)DetailsAccommodation (Hostel)€15–€25 per night, meaning €45–€75 for 3 nightsHostel prices are even lower from November to FebruaryLocal Transportation€6–€12 total• Local buses (€1–2 per ride). • Short taxi/shared rides within the bay (€3–5). • Free walking inside Old Town.Airport Transfers€8–€15 each way, meaning €16-€30• Airport transfer from Tivat is the cheapest.• From Dubrovnik/Podgorica, it will be at least €20-€35. Food (Budget Travelers)€15-€25 per day. So, it will be €45 to €75 in total. Choose Konobas & bakeries: • Pastries (€1–2), • Seafood Meals (€7–10)• Wine/Beer (€2–3)Activities and Entry Fees€20–€35 total• City Walls (€8, discounted early)• St. Tryphon Cathedral (€3)• Perast boat (€5–10) • Lovćen shared taxi/hike (€5–10)Day Trip to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks€7–€12• Bus to Perast (€1–2), boat (€5–10)Lovćen National Park Day TripFree–€10• Free if hiking; €5–10 for shared taxi. • Mausoleum entry ~€5.Miscellaneous (water, snacks, souvenirs)€10–€20• Refillable water recommendedCollect small souvenirs €3–5.Total Estimated Budget for 3 days €139–€239• This is a cost breakdown for budget travelers. However, the budget for mid-range and luxury travelers will be different.  Day Trips & Hidden Gems Near Kotor Gornji Stoliv: It is a quiet coastal village. Vrmac Ridge: You will enjoy this scenic hike, and it is less crowded.  Church of Our Lady of Health: This chapel has a serene ambiance, and because of its location on a hilltop, it is often overlooked by tourists.  Vrmac Ridge: It is famous for the WWII bunkers, and it offers a beautiful panoramic view.  Blue Cave: It is a natural wonder of Kotor, Montenegro, and this natural sea cave has the most beautiful sapphire light and glow. You can reach the cave only by boat.  Secret Wine Bars: These secret wine bars are in the alleys of the Old Town. These places serve the best rakija and Montenegrin wines. Final Tips For Your Montenegro Getaway Kotor, Montenegro, gets busy in the summer season. Furthermore, early mornings are the busiest with the cruises docking in heavy numbers.  Also, there are some tips about the weather and travel you need to keep in mind.  Carry offline maps, as network connections may not always work.  Keep cash and small coins ready, as card transactions may not be accepted in local shops.  You must start hiking the steep route of the San Giovanni Fortress early in the morning to avoid the heat.  Use local buses for transportation, as they cost only €1–2 per ride.  Evenings are cool even in the summer season. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.  Dress modestly in churches, avoid loud behavior in Old Town squares, and learn basic Montenegrin greetings like “Hvala.” meaning Thank you. Choose konobas or local taverns for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are way affordable than the posh restaurants in the Old Square.  Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary.  1. Is Kotor, Montenegro, Worth Visiting For 3 Days? Yes, three days are perfect to explore Kotor Old Town, Perast, Lovćen National Park, and enjoy hidden gems without rushing.The budget for your three-day travel in Kotor will be around €139–€239, and Kotor is safe for solo travelers if you follow the basic travel precautions.  2. Can I Visit Kotor On A Day Trip From Dubrovnik? Yes, you can visit Kotor on a day trip from Dubrovnik. However, if you want to at least try its best food and soak in the vibe of the Old Town, you must plan for an overnight stay.  3. Do I Need A Visa To Visit Montenegro? If you are from the USA or a country that is part of the European Union, you will not need a visa to visit Montenegro. If you are from any of these countries, you can enter Montenegro and stay there for 90 days without a visa. You must check the visa requirements of your country.  4. Are There Budget-Friendly Accommodations In Kotor? Yes, the guesthouses in Dobrota and hostels such as the Old Town Hostel Kotor are some of the most budget-friendly accommodations in Kotor, Montenegro. The hostel prices will be around 15-25 Euros per night.  5. What Are The Must-Try Local Foods In Kotor? Kotor is famous for its seafood, and you can have it at local taverns or konobas. Furthermore, if you are in Njeguši, you must try prosciutto, a dry-cured ham with a lot of flavors. Moreover, burek, or the savory pastry, is the highlight of the delicacies of Kotor.  6. Do I Need To Rent A Car In Kotor?  No, you don’t need to rent a car in Kotor, Montenegro if you are a budget traveler. Local buses and shared taxis are easily available, and they are even suitable for day trips to Perast and Lovćen. Otherwise, you can take the boat rides, which are also quite affordable. 

BY  Sibashree Apr 21, 2025

Europe is a significant player in the global beach tourism industry, holding a 38.3% share. Further, the thriving beach tourism scenario in Europe has the solid backing of the European Commission.  The Commission is supporting all 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 most popular 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 involve a lot of drama.  On the other hand, the Atlantic beaches are full of marshlands, inlets, and barrier islands.  Now, despite the difference in the landscape and coastal geology, beaches are the best summer destinations in Europe, thanks to long hours of Sun and pleasant weather conditions.  Also, summer months are ideal for various outdoor activities on the beach, including sunbathing, swimming, and scuba diving. Furthermore, intimate activities such as sunbathing against the serene water backdrops make the beaches in Europe 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, and while there are some regular staples on our list, mostly I have talked about the beaches that have impressed me the 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. So, you have beaches like Pampelonne, where the 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 that is just 15 km away by a water taxi ride from the French Riviera.  Porquerolles, one of the best summer destinations in Europe, is a not-so-developed island with a length of 9 km and a width of 2 km.  So, we started our day by bicycling through red trails. The eucalyptus trees on both sides of the trail blessed us.  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 lightplay 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 grinding of cicadas and see how the last rays of the Sun for the day weave magic on the sand and water.  After our moments in the water, it was our time to get 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 the best European cities with beach 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 pebbled beaches and fewer crowds, everything about the beach defined the word “intimate.”  It was our Punto Dolce, where we enjoyed all the beach chores to the fullest. However, the highlight of the visit to this beach was exploring the nearby Grotta di Fornillo, as the scenic views were amazing.  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 some of the best European summer beach destinations.  Our destination was Favignana, which has 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.  Furthermore, we decided to explore Favignana, and we took a ferry to the nature reserve of the Saline Trapani. 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 located along the Formentor Peninsula, Platja de Formentor is surely one of the best that 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 blue and green colors of the water complement the backdrop.  The beach is not very long, and we took a walk of around 1 km to reach Cap de Formentor, the farthest point of the beach. Also, we took a ride in 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: Kefallinia (EFL) Airport One of the best summer destinations in the world, Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, has our hearts for its stunning natural beauty.  The beach, awarded a “Blue Flag,” features stretches of white sand with the most dramatic cliffs in the backdrop.  Furthermore, the turquoise water provides a serene experience for the eyes.  6. Hietaniemi Beach, Helsinki: Best For Summer Swimming And Beach Volleyball ‣ Nearest Airport: Helsinki Airport Hot summer days call for some serious beach fun at Hietaniemi Beach, 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?  Pay a visit to the miniature golf course nearby.  7. Beach of Durres: The Most-Visited Beach In Albania ‣ Nearest Airport: Tirana Airport The beach of Durres, the most-visited beach in Albania, is also one of the best beaches in Europe.  Durrës, as a city, has a rich historical background, with the stories going back to 627 BC. Additionally, the Roman amphitheater was our biggest draw.  Additionally, the beach stands out due to its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, a prominent feature in the cultural, historical, and economic landscapes of Europe.  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 the best summer destinations in Europe, this beach on a secluded cove has beautiful white cliffs and the bluest water.  Don’t miss snorkeling in the water 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 the best summer destinations in Europe, Praia da Comporta is a hidden gem in Portugal.  Summer months are busy at Praia da Comporta. However, the 19-km stretch of the shoreline ensures you get enough 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 during the 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 penning this blog, and then suddenly it struck me. I have 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 the best summer destinations in Europe 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, the rugged and bewitching inlet near Deiá, 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. 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