If you long for a relaxing getaway, the best beaches in Europe are the ideal destination, offering you a paradisiacal landscape of white sands and crystal-clear waters bathed by the sun. There’s nothing better than a beach vacation and it’s clear that you don’t need to travel to the tropics to enjoy a delightful stay of warmth, sea and tranquility.
In fact, Europe has a wide variety of fantastic beach destinations, especially in the Mediterranean. So before you book your next trip, don’t forget to take a look at our selection of the best beaches in Europe.
THE LIZARD. PORTUGAL
The Algarve has some of the best beaches in Europe, and even the world. What makes this coastal region so special is the great diversity of its beaches, ranging from small sandy coves and rugged enclaves to endless stretches of white sandy beaches. Everything is possible in the Algarve: delve into incredible sea caves with turquoise waters, enjoy a fantastic dolphin-spotting cruise or simply relax in the shade listening to the sound of the waves.
Some of the most popular beach destinations in this famous area of Portugal are Lagos, Faro, Albufeira and Portimao. Its western Atlantic coastline and rich local gastronomic culture make the Algarve a great choice for a vacation if you are looking for a beach destination in Europe.
SANTORINI. GREECE
Elegant, romantic and eternally cool, Santorini is the most coveted Greek island by travelers. It is part of the Cyclades group of islands and has the privilege of having some of the best beaches in Europe. They are of volcanic sand and range in color from charcoal black to vibrant red to classic white. Bathed by the warm waters of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is a popular beach destination worldwide.
Among the island’s most famous are Red Beach, flanked by steep ochre-colored cliffs; Perissa, also known as the Black Beach; tranquil Vlychada; and idyllic White Beach. In addition, Santorini is also famous for its luxurious resorts and its breathtaking sunsets, ranked among the most beautiful on the planet. What more could you ask for in a European beach vacation?
BLUE COAST. FRANCE
Also known as the “French Riviera”, it is an unbeatable destination for beach vacations. Delicious cuisine, exquisite wines, glamour and the best beaches in Europe make it a paradise for travelers. 21 towns make up this stretch of about 300 km of Mediterranean coastline in southeastern France offering visitors pristine beaches and warm waters. Nice, Cannes, Antibes, Sant-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Avignon and Marseille are some of the most popular resorts where a wide variety of accommodation options are available.
AMALFI COAST. ITALY
With a stretch spanning 50 kilometers of coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast presents itself as a rainbow palette of hillside villages, fishing ports, turquoise bays and lush forests. The jet-set has long adored this idyllic corner of Italy for its tranquil setting and elegant cliffside towns.
A total of 13 coastal towns make up the crown jewel of this slice of coastline, including glamorous Positano, verdant Ravello, historic Amalfi and tranquil Sorrento, just some of the most popular destinations. The beaches are mostly golden sandy coves with idyllic views of the sea and the surrounding hilltop villages. Without a doubt, the Amalfi Coast offers the traveler a luxurious getaway in the heart of the Mediterranean.
DUBROVNIK. CROATIA
Best known for its historic walled city center, Dubrovnik also boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. A stone’s throw from the city walls, you’ll find a variety of idyllic beaches lapped by the Adriatic Sea, which are a very attractive option for a relaxing getaway. Danče, Banje, Sveti Jakov and Kopakabana are just some of the most popular and beautiful beaches in the Croatian city. Its unfailing combination of fascinating historical sights and pristine beaches makes Dubrovnik one of the best beach destinations in all of Europe.
BALOS LAGOON. CRETE. GREECE
Crete is the largest Greek island and home to the famous Balos Lagoon. This amazing natural wonder is a paradise of white sand and turquoise sea. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular beaches on the island. The crystal clear water is shallow, making it suitable for children, and the white sandy banks are the perfect place to set up your umbrella and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
This natural lagoon is best reached by boat, but you can also drive, although it is 56 kilometers from the popular town of Chania. Kissamos is closer, just 17 kilometers away. Indeed, one of the best beaches in Europe, the beauty of Balos lagoon has to be seen to be believed!
