5 Best European Countries to Visit in Summer

5 Best Summer Destinations in Europe

Europe in the summer is pure magic. The sun-drenched coastlines, charming old towns, and rich cultural experiences create a dream destination for travelers. Some seek crystal-clear waters, others prefer bustling cityscapes or quiet countryside retreats.

With 44 countries presenting their own slice of paradise, choosing a destination can be overwhelming. Iconic cities such as Paris and London attract millions, yet some of the most breathtaking experiences lie beyond the usual tourist hubs. To make planning easier, here are five incredible places to visit this season: Latvia, Croatia, Spain, Italy, and Greece.

Each of these countries brings something special. Have you ever pictured yourself (in no particular order) strolling through Latvia’s fairytale-like streets, exploring Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline, immersing yourself in Spain’s vibrant culture, stepping into Italy’s rich history, and unwinding on Greece’s sun-kissed islands? These destinations put together adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in the best way possible.

Travelers who love history, beaches, or picturesque towns will find unforgettable moments in these locations. This guide will help map out an incredible European summer getaway.

So, without further ado, let's jump right in!

Latvia

Located in the Baltic region, this green and vibrant country provides a mix of cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and modern amenities for a memorable summer trip.

Riga, the capital, astoundingly showcases Latvia's rich architectural heritage. The Old Town, with its cobbled streets and impressive historic buildings, transforms into a vibrant hub during summer months. Lush gardens and street cafes spring to life and create an infectious atmosphere. What truly sets Riga apart, however, is its Art Nouveau district. It is about a 10-minute walk from the Old Town and features the world's highest concentration of full-length, historic, Art Nouveau style multi-storey apartment buildings.

With over 400 beautifully preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, you'll find yourself constantly looking up in awe, especially along Alberta and Elizabeta streets.

When hunger strikes, prepare your palate for a culinary adventure. Latvian cuisine offers distinctive flavors that might seem unusual at first but quickly become addictive. Sample skābeņu zupa (sorrel soup) that can be enjoyed either warm or refreshingly cold on hot summer days. Don't miss karbonade — breaded pork topped with creamy mushrooms — or the striking pink aukstā zupa, a cold beetroot soup perfect for summer refreshment. For those with a sweet tooth, maizes zupa (rye bread pudding) provides a comforting end to any meal.

For an authentic peek into local life, Riga's Central Market is a must-visit. Housed in former Zeppelin hangars, it's officially Europe's largest market. The sensory experience alone is worth the trip. Taste fresh local cheese and bread while mingling with locals going about their daily shopping.

Nature enthusiasts will be in their element in Latvia, one of Europe's greenest nations with forests covering nearly half the country. The national parks of Kemeri and Gauja are home to diverse wildlife (yes, including beavers and lynx) and exhibit the best of Baltic wilderness.

Unsurprisingly, Latvia has stunning golden sandy beaches along its Baltic coastline. Jūrmala, just 20 kilometers from Riga, provides a luxurious beach experience with grand wooden holiday homes and spa hotels. If you want a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Ventspils with its public art and family-friendly activities.

Moving on, history buffs will appreciate Latvia's fascinating past, visible in its approximately 140 medieval castles. Rundale Castle dazzles with Baroque and Rococo splendor, while the red-brick Turaida Castle perches dramatically on the Gauja River banks. For those intrigued by more recent history, Soviet architectural remnants give glimpses into Latvia's complex 20th-century story.

Croatia

Taking the second spot on our European summer destination list, Croatia is famous for its breathtaking coastline, charming old towns, and island adventures. Here's why this Adriatic paradise should be on your travel itinerary this summer.

For starters, Croatia has remarkable accessibility. With major destinations like Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Pula just a short flight away — typically under two and a half hours from many European hubs — you can transition from everyday life to coastal bliss in minimal time. This convenience makes Croatia particularly appealing for families with young children or groups of friends eager to maximize their vacation time.

The country's coastline is too, nothing short of spectacular. Croatia's beaches, lined with pebbled shores and crystalline azure waters, are ideal for tranquil retreats and thrilling adventures alike. The iconic Zlatni Rat on Brač Island, known as the Golden Cape, presents a particularly fascinating natural phenomenon: its tip constantly shifts with the changing winds, creating a different silhouette with each visit. Tucked away between imposing cliffs, Stiniva Beach on Vis Island is a tranquil hideout, accessible mostly by boat for those seeking solitude.

If you’re an avid Game of Thrones fan, Croatia’s landscapes will look strikingly familiar. Dubrovnik’s city walls became King’s Landing, and the Fortress of Kliss was used for Meereen. You can join special tours to explore these historic filming locations and relive your most favorite scenes from the series.

Speaking of history, Dubrovnik —aptly nicknamed the "Pearl of the Adriatic"— is a must-visit destination. Take a walk along the city's 1.2-mile defensive walls and take in the panoramic views of terracotta rooftops against the brilliant blue sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides insights into the region's complex past while showcasing architectural splendor that has endured for centuries.

Nature lovers will also find paradise in Croatia's eight national parks. The crown jewel among them, Plitvice Lakes National Park, has a series of cascading lakes connected by magnificent waterfalls. It also protected by UNESCO and presents countless photo opportunities and hiking trails that wind through lush forests and alongside turquoise pools.

Culinary enthusiasts will relish in Croatia's gastronomic offerings, particularly its seafood. Freshly caught from the Adriatic, dishes featuring octopus, oysters, and various fish prepared in traditional styles provide an authentic taste of Mediterranean cuisine.

Spain

Surrounded by two seas and an ocean, Spain has enthralled travelers for generations, and for good reason.

Spain's diverse landscapes will leave you spellbound at every turn. With nearly 5,000 kilometers of coastline, Spain's beaches rank among Europe's finest. The Balearic Islands boast some of the Mediterranean's most pristine shores, whereas the Canary Islands offer year-round sunny escapes with their subtropical climate.

Beyond the coastline, the country houses magnificent mountain ranges like the Pyrenees in the north and the Sierra Nevada in the south, which is Europe's most southerly ski resort. On one hand, the lunar-like desert of Cabo de Gata in Almería provides such an otherworldly backdrop that many classic Western films were shot there; on the other he volcanic majesty of Mount Teide on Tenerife gives a dramatic contrast to the country's lush nature parks.

For thrill-seekers, Spain delivers in spades. Challenge yourself on one of the world's most daunting footpaths, catch world-class waves on the northern coastline, or explore hiking trails that wind through breathtaking vistas. The adventure possibilities are virtually endless, regardless of your experience level.

The Spanish culinary scene is also spectacular. The taste of authentic tapas is a true celebration of Spanish cuisine, far exceeding what you might find elsewhere. San Sebastián's pintxo recipes have earned global acclaim. Markets across the country too, burst with fresh produce, locally-caught seafood, and the renowned manchego cheese. Each region in Spain proudly showcases its own culinary traditions. That’s why a trip through Spain is as much an education in food as it is a cultural adventure.

History buffs, get ready to be enchanted by Spain's rich past. Spain’s diverse architectural landscape, from Moorish masterpieces like Córdoba’s mosque to medieval towns and grand cathedrals, reflects centuries of history. Among Spain’s 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are the prehistoric cave paintings at Altamira and the historic pilgrimage route of Santiago de Compostela.

The arts flourish in Spain with extraordinary vigor. Some of history's most influential painters — Goya, Picasso, Dalí, and Miró — called Spain home. Their masterpieces adorn world-class museums like Madrid's Prado and Reina Sofia, Barcelona's Picasso Museum, and Bilbao's striking Guggenheim. As a symbol of Spanish artistry, flamenco moves audiences with its raw emotion and visually stunning performances.

Spain's fiestas showcase the country's vibrant spirit. Each town celebrates its own unique festivals throughout the year and give visitors an authentic glimpse into local traditions and the warmhearted nature of Spanish people.

Above all else, the relaxed Spanish lifestyle might be the most transformative aspect of your visit. Here, people truly savor life's pleasures — lingering over meals, taking afternoon breaks, and enjoying the mild evenings. This unhurried approach to daily life has a profound effect on visitors. They leave with a renewed sense of calm and inspiration.

Italy

Summer in Italy often means two things: crowds and heat. As European travel continues to surge, particularly with major events like the Olympics in Paris and the European Soccer Championships in Germany drawing international visitors, Italy's popular destinations will be bustling. On top of that, thanks to global warming, high temperatures have become the norm during Italian summers.

Despite the summer crowds and heart, the country’s cultural and culinary treasures make it well worth the visit.

When you're there, embrace the Italian lifestyle by rising early to explore quiet morning streets and resting during the afternoon heat. Those magical early hours allow peaceful moments at iconic sites before the day's crowds arrive; evenings bring cooler temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere.

Although Rome, Florence, and Venice rightfully claim attention, consider spending nights in enchanting locations like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, or one of Italy's countless hilltop villages. These overnight stays allow you to experience these treasures during quieter evenings and mornings.

Need a refreshing break? Add beach towns into your itinerary. Italy's coastline has beautiful beaches where temperatures remain slightly cooler than urban centers.

Italy consists of 20 regions, each with its own traditions, dialects, and culinary styles. The north has strong Western European influences, where French is spoken in Aosta Valley and German in Trentino-Alto Adige. The south, on the other hand, has strong Mediterranean roots, with Sicily reflecting North African history and Trieste influenced by Slavic culture.

This regional diversity provides countless opportunities for authentic experiences. Learn a few Italian phrases to uplift these connections. The simple joy of saying "grazie" creates immediate warmth between visitors and locals.

Italian cuisine truly delivers on its reputation, with expertly cooked pasta coated in just the right amount of sauce, flavorful meat and seafood dishes, and fresh vegetables bursting with natural taste. The tomatoes and zucchini are exceptionally fresh, and gelato is a satisfying way to round out any meal.

To avoid tourist traps, research restaurants beforehand, seek local recommendations, or join food tours that highlight authentic establishments. Remember that Italians dine later than Americans, so savor their meals without rushing.

Book major attractions in advance like the Colosseum, Accademia Gallery, Pantheon, Vatican Museums, and St. Mark's Cathedral, to avoid lengthy lines in summer heat. Be prepared for Venice's new €5 entry fee program on selected dates if you're visiting as a day-tripper.

Pack appropriately. Italians take fashion seriously even in summer heat. Opt for collared shirts and trousers (lightweight linens work wonderfully) rather than shorts and flip-flops when exploring cities or traveling on first-class trains.

While credit cards are increasingly accepted, carry cash for small purchases, tips, and occasional public toilet fees. And remember that most city exploration happens on foot. Break in comfortable shoes and build walking stamina before your trip.

Greece

Greece is not just a place to visit; it’s a place where you fall in love. Here’s why you should pack your bags and head there this summer.

Greek hospitality is legendary. The word philoxenia, meaning “friend to a stranger,” is deeply rooted in Greek culture. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the warmth of the people who take pride in making visitors feel at home.

Ask for directions in a small village, and a local might walk with you to your destination, eager to help. Enjoy a seafood meal by the shore, and the chef may bring out a dish “on the house” because they want you to taste something special. Step into a small artisan shop, and the owner may share the story behind their craft. Stroll through a local bakery, and the owner might hand you a warm pastry to try, just because you showed interest. Browse a local market, and a vendor might hand you a fresh fig to taste, just to share their love for local produce.

Rooted in the Mediterranean diet, Greek cuisine is both delicious and nutritious. Olive oil, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and grilled meats are at the heart of every dish. From savory souvlaki to mouth-watering moussaka, every bite tells a story of tradition and quality. Don’t miss out on fresh seafood by the coast or the famous street food staple, gyros wrapped in warm pita.

If history fascinates you, Greece is an open-air museum where ancient and modern worlds coexist harmoniously. The Parthenon, standing proudly over Athens, is a symbol of Western civilization. Journey to Delphi, once considered the center of the world, or explore the ruins of Mycenae, the kingdom of Agamemnon. The island of Crete is home to the Palace of Knossos, linked to the legend of the Minotaur. And let’s not forget Olympia, where the first Olympic Games took place. In Greece, every stone, temple, and ruin has a tale to tell, if you take the time to listen.

Like the other countries on this list, Greece has some of the most stunning beaches in the world. With over 15,000 kilometers of coastline, you’ll find everything from golden sand beaches to hidden rocky coves. Relax on the black sand beaches of Santorini, dive into the turquoise waters of Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, or enjoy the family-friendly shores of Crete. Whether you seek vibrant beach parties or peaceful seclusion, Greece has a perfect spot waiting for you.

Final Thoughts

If you love history, enjoy great food, or dream of relaxing on beautiful beaches, the countries mentioned above have something for every kind of vacationer. Make this summer one to remember by exploring them.

Most importantly, all of them are known for their safety, and hence are a great destination for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Here, children will love exploring ancient ruins, building sandcastles on pristine beaches, and discovering medieval castles. Parents can rest easy knowing they’re in a welcoming and secure environment.

So, what are you waiting for? When summer comes, pack your bags and set out on a journey filled with beauty, adventure, and discovery.