Summer is here, and it’s time to plan your next getaway. If you’re looking for a summer destination that’s filled with sun, sand, and sea, or culture, history, and adventure, there’s a perfect place for you. Here are 10 of the best summer destinations in Europe for 2023 that you should consider:
Málaga
Are you looking for a unique and exciting summer vacation destination? Look no further than Málaga, Spain! Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga is a vibrant city with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. From its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage, Málaga has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure, Málaga has it all. Explore some of the best summer vacation ideas in Málaga in “Top Things to Do in Málaga“.
Getting to Málaga
Traveling from Europe to Málaga is a great way to explore the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. There are many options for you to get to Málaga from Europe, including train, bus, and plane. Here are the top 5 train routes in Europe to Málaga:
1. Train from Paris to Málaga (approx. 24 hours): Paris Gare de Lyon – Barcelona Sants – Málaga Maria Zambrano
2. Train from Amsterdam to Málaga (approx. 24 hours): Amsterdam Centraal – Brussels Midi – Madrid Atocha – Málaga Maria Zambrano
3. Flight from Berlin to Málaga (approx. 3 hours 25 minutes): Berlin Brandenburg Airport BER – Málaga Airport
4. Train from Zurich to Málaga (approx. 22 hours): Zurich HB – Basel SBB – Paris Gare de Lyon – Barcelona Sants – Málaga Maria Zambrano
5. Train from Vienna to Málaga (approx. 24 hours): Vienna Hbf – Munich Hbf – Paris Gare de Lyon – Barcelona Sants – Málaga Maria Zambrano
Barcelona
From the iconic Sagrada Familia to the bustling Las Ramblas, Barcelona is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural experience, or a night out on the town, Barcelona has it all. From the stunning architecture of Gaudi to the vibrant nightlife of El Raval, Barcelona is a city that will leave you with lasting memories. With its Mediterranean climate, Barcelona is the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Barcelona with our guide on “Top Things to Do in Barcelona”.
Getting to Barcelona
Traveling from Europe to Barcelona is a great way to explore the culture and beauty of Spain. Barcelona is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. From the stunning architecture to the delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone. Here are the top 5 train routes in Europe to Barcelona:
1. Train from Paris to Barcelona (approx. 6 hours): TGV, AVE
2. Train from Madrid to Barcelona (approx. 2.5 hours): AVE
3. Train from Zurich to Barcelona (approx. 12 hours): TGV Lyria
4. Train from Amsterdam to Barcelona (approx. 15 hours): Thalys
5. Train from Milan to Barcelona (approx. 8 hours): Trenitalia Frecciarossa
Amsterdam
From the iconic canals to the world-famous museums, Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure, Amsterdam has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife to taking a leisurely bike ride through the city’s picturesque streets, there are plenty of ways to make your summer vacation in Amsterdam unforgettable. Unveil a treasure trove of insights by exploring the foremost activities in top things to do in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Canal. Source: Shutterstock
Getting to Amsterdam
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Amsterdam, the iconic capital city of the Netherlands. Here are the top 5 routes to Amsterdam:
1. Flight from London to Amsterdam (approx. 1 hour 10 minutes): London Heathrow (LHR) / London Gatwick (LGW) / London Stansted (STN) / London Luton (LTN) – Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
2. Train from Paris to Amsterdam (approx. 3 hours 19 minutes): Gare de Paris-Nord – Amsterdam Centraal
3. Train from Berlin to Amsterdam (approx. 7 hours 21 minutes): Berlin-Gesundbrunnen Station – Amsterdam Centraal
4. Train from Brussels to Amsterdam (approx. 1 hour 50 minutes): Brussels Midi/Zuid – Amsterdam Centraal
5. Flight from Barcelona to Amsterdam (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes): Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) – Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Faro
Summer Vacation Ideas in Faro
Are you looking for the perfect summer vacation destination? Consider Faro, Portugal! Located in the Algarve region, Faro is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting adventure, Faro has it all.
Discover the wonders of Faro, a picturesque city on the southern coast of Portugal that boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant culture. Here are some fantastic things to do in Faro, along with examples of must-visit places:
Indulge in Portuguese cuisine: Savor the mouthwatering local dishes at traditional. Be sure to try the iconic cataplana, a seafood stew, or the region’s famous piri-piri chicken.
Relax on Faro’s beautiful beaches: Soak up the sun and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Faro’s pristine beaches, such as Praia de Faro and Praia da Ilha Deserta. These stunning stretches of sand are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Getting to Faro
As the gateway to the Algarve region, Faro is a popular destination for travelers seeking sun, sea, and culture. Easily accessible from various European cities, Faro is well-connected by air and train. Here are the top 5 transportation options that will take you on a journey to the sun-soaked shores of Faro. Here are the top 5 routes to Faro:
1. Flight from London to Faro (approx. 2 hours 50 minutes): Heathrow (LHR) / London Gatwick (LGW) / London Luton (LTN) / London Stansted (STN) – Faro Airport (FAO)
2. Flight from Paris to Faro (approx. 2 hours 35 minutes): Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) / Paris Orly (ORY) – Faro Airport (FAO)
3. Flight from Amsterdam to Faro (approx. 3 hours): Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) – Faro Airport (FAO)
4. Flight from Madrid to Faro (approx. 1 hour and 25 minutes): Madrid Barajas (MAD) – Faro Airport (FAO)
5. Train and bus from Lisbon to Faro (approx. 4 hours and 30 minutes): Lisbon Oriente Train Station – Faro Train Station
Florence
Summer vacation ideas in Florence offer a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Italy. From the iconic Duomo to the stunning Uffizi Gallery, Florence is a city full of culture and history. From outdoor activities like hiking and biking to exploring the city’s many museums and galleries, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time in Florence. With its delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and stunning architecture, Florence is the perfect destination for a summer vacation. With so much to explore in this magical city, here is a prepared guide on the top things to do in Florence.
Getting to Florence
Traveling from Europe to Florence is a great way to explore the beauty of Italy. From the stunning architecture to the delicious food, Florence has something for everyone. Here are the top 5 departing train routes in Europe to Florence:
1. Train from Paris to Florence (approx. 10 hours): Paris Gare de Lyon – Milan Centrale – Florence Santa Maria Novella
2. Train from Barcelona to Florence (approx. 14 hours): Barcelona Sants – Milan Centrale – Florence Santa Maria Novella
3. Train from Zurich to Florence (approx. 8 hours): Zurich HB – Milan Centrale – Florence Santa Maria Novella
4. Train from Amsterdam to Florence (approx. 14 hours): Amsterdam Centraal – Basel SBB – Milan Centrale – Florence Santa Maria Novella
5. Train from Berlin to Florence (approx. 12 hours): Berlin Hbf – Munich Hbf – Florence Santa Maria Novella
Santorini
Located in the Aegean Sea, this Greek island is known for its stunning sunsets, picturesque villages, and breathtaking views. From exploring the ancient ruins to relaxing on the beach, Santorini has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family vacation, Santorini has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From wine tasting to sailing, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time in this beautiful destination. With its stunning scenery and rich culture, Santorini is the perfect place to spend your summer vacation.
Take in the breathtaking views of the caldera from Oia, explore the archaeological site of Akrotiri, Greek cuisine and enjoy the nightlife in Fira. Visit the Venetian Castle of Santorini, take a boat tour around the island and relax on the black sand beaches.
Santorini. Source: Unsplash
Getting to Santorini
Discover the enchanting island of Santorini, a breathtaking Greek paradise known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed villages, and crystal-clear waters. These are the top 5 routes to Santorini:
1. Flight from Athens to Santorini (approx. 1 hour): Athens International Airport (ATH) – Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
2. Flight from London to Santorini (approx. 4 hours 5 minutes): ALondon Heathrow (LHR) / London Gatwick (LGW) / London Stansted (STN) / London Luton (LTN) – Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
3. Flight from Paris to Santorini (approx. 3 hours 30 minutes): Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) / Paris Orly (ORY) – Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
4. Flight from Rome to Santorini (approx. 2 hours 30 minutes): Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) / Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA) – Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
5. Ferry from Athens to Santorini (approx. 5 – 8 hours – depending on the ferry type and route): Piraeus Port, Athens – Athinios Port, Santorini
Marseille
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo journey, Marseille has plenty of activities and attractions to offer. From the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica to the bustling Old Port, there are plenty of sights to explore. For those looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, sailing, and hiking. And for those looking to relax, there are plenty of beaches, parks, and cafes to enjoy. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, Marseille has something to offer. Read more in our detailed city guide on the top things to do in Marseille.
Getting to Marseille
Traveling from Europe to Marseille is a great way to explore the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. There are many train routes available to get to Marseille from Europe. Here are the top 5 departing train routes in Europe to Marseille:
1. Train from Paris to Marseille (approx. 4 hours): TGV
2. Train from Barcelona to Marseille (approx. 8 hours): AVE
3. Train from Milan to Marseille (approx. 8 hours): Frecciarossa
4. Train from Zurich to Marseille (approx. 10 hours): TGV Lyria
5. Train from Amsterdam to Marseille (approx. 12 hours): Thalys
Brussels
From visiting the iconic Grand Place to exploring the city’s many museums and galleries, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore, as well as a variety of shopping and dining options. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, Brussels has something to offer. Embark on an enlightening journey through the top things to do in Brussels.
Getting to Brussels
Discover the enchanting city of Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium and the heart of Europe. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, Brussels is an essential stop for any European traveler. Here are the top 5 train routes that will whisk you away to the charming cobblestone streets of Brussels.
1.Train from Paris to Brussels (approx. 1 hour and 22 minutes): Paris Gare du Nord – Brussels Midi/Zuid
2. Train from Amsterdam to Brussels (approx. 1 hour and 50 minutes): Amsterdam Centraal – Brussels Midi/Zuid
3. Train from London to Brussels (approx. 2 hours): London St Pancras International – Brussels Midi/Zuid
4. Train from Cologne to Brussels (approx. 1 hour and 50 minutes): Köln Hauptbahnhof – Brussels Midi/Zuid
5. Train from Frankfurt to Brussels (approx. 3 hours): Frankfurt(Main) Hauptbahnhof – Brussels Midi/Zuid
Napoli
Napoli, Italy offers a unique blend of culture, history, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an exciting city break, Napoli has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Explore the city’s many museums, take a boat tour of the Bay of Naples, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. With its delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, and stunning views, Napoli is the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Unlock a world of knowledge about Napoli’s most captivating activities in our article “Top things to do in Napoli”.
Naples, Italy. Source: Unsplash
Getting to Napoli
Embark on an exciting journey to Napoli, a vibrant Italian city nestled along the stunning Amalfi Coast. With its rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and picturesque landscapes, Traveling from various European cities to Napoli is a breeze, thanks to the continent’s well-connected transportation network. Discover the top 5 train routes that will lead you to the heart of Napoli, and get ready to experience la dolce vita in this captivating city.
1.Train Train from Rome to Napoli (approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes): Roma Termini – Napoli Centrale
2.Train from Florence to Napoli (approx. 2 hours and 50 minutes): Firenze Santa Maria Novella – Napoli Centrale
3.Train from Milan to Napoli (approx. 4 hours and 45 minutes): Milano Centrale – Napoli Centrale
4.Train from Venice to Napoli (approx. 5 hours and 30 minutes): Venezia Santa Lucia – Napoli Centrale
5.Train from Bologna to Napoli (approx. 3 hours and 40 minutes): Bologna Centrale – Napoli Centrale
Alicante
Nestled on the sun-kissed shores of the Costa Blanca, this enchanting Spanish coastal gem beckons with its irresistible blend of Mediterranean charm and vibrant energy. As the temperature rises, so does the spirit of this captivating city, offering a playground of possibilities for every sun-seeking adventurer. Explore pristine beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, where azure waters tempt you to dive in and embrace the refreshing embrace of the sea.
Stroll along the picturesque promenade, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of bustling cafes, quaint shops, and tantalizing aromas of local cuisine. From historic castles perched on hilltops to bustling markets teeming with vibrant colors, Alicante invites you to uncover its rich history and cultural heritage. Satiate your curiosity by exploring the top things to do in the captivating city of Alicante.
Getting to Alicante
Traveling from Europe to Alicante is a great way to explore the Mediterranean coast of Spain. There are many options for traveling to Alicante, including train, bus, and plane. Here are the top 5 departing train routes in Europe to Alicante:
1. Train from Paris to Alicante (approx. 15 hours): TGV, AVE
2. Train from Barcelona to Alicante (approx. 2 hours): AVE
3. Train from Madrid to Alicante (approx. 3 hours): AVE
4. Train from Zurich to Alicante (approx. 17 hours): TGV Lyria
5. Train from Milan to Alicante (approx. 16 hours): Trenitalia, Renfe