Europe is a continent blessed with diverse and stunning coastlines, offering plenty of options for beach lovers. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a fun-filled adventure, or a cultural immersion, you can find your ideal beach destination in Europe. In this article, we will introduce you to 10 of the best beach destinations for European sun-seekers, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea all year round. Plus, we will give you some tips on how to book your trip with Expedia, the world’s leading online travel platform.
1. Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Ayia Napa is one of the most popular and lively beach resorts in Cyprus, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here you can find some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, such as Nissi Beach, a 500-meter stretch of white sand and turquoise water, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Ayia Napa is also famous for its nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. If you are looking for a beach destination that combines natural beauty, entertainment, and culture, Ayia Napa is the place for you.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Napa Gem Suites
£68.20 – £136.40 per night
4 stars
Blue Peter Apartments
£98.33 – £196.66 per night
3 stars
NissiBlu Beach Resort
£129.74 – £259.48 per night
5 stars
The best time to visit Ayia Napa is between June and September, when the weather is hot and dry, and the sea is warm and calm. The average temperature in July is 32°C, and the average rainfall is 0 mm. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a quieter and cooler holiday, you can visit Ayia Napa in the low season, from March to May or from October to November. The average temperature in April is 17°C, and the average rainfall is 6 mm. You can still enjoy the beaches and the attractions, but with less hassle and lower costs.
Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, and one of the most stunning beach destinations in Italy. The island boasts over 1,800 kilometers of coastline, with a variety of beaches to suit every taste. From the glamorous Costa Smeralda, where you can mingle with celebrities and enjoy luxury resorts, to the secluded Cala Goloritzè, where you can admire the limestone cliffs and the crystal-clear water, Sardinia has something for everyone. Sardinia is also rich in history, culture, and cuisine, making it a perfect destination for a well-rounded holiday.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Hotel Cala di Volpe
£1,000.00 – £2,000.00 per night
5 stars
Hotel La Bitta
£150.00 – £300.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Gabbiano Azzurro
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Sardinia is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is pleasant and inviting. The average temperature in August is 25°C, and the average rainfall is 8 mm. This is also the high season, so be prepared to pay more and book in advance. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you can visit Sardinia in the shoulder season, from April to June or from September to October. The average temperature in May is 18°C, and the average rainfall is 25 mm. You can still experience the beauty and charm of the island, but with more tranquility and savings.
Majorca, or Mallorca, is the largest and most visited island in the Balearic archipelago, located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a paradise for beach lovers, with over 200 beaches to choose from, ranging from long and sandy to small and rocky. Some of the most popular beaches are Playa de Palma, a 6-kilometer-long beach with a lively promenade, and Cala Agulla, a natural beach surrounded by pine forests and mountains. Majorca is also a great destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and sailing, as well as for exploring the charming towns and villages, such as the capital Palma, with its impressive cathedral and old town.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Hotel Riu Palace Bonanza Playa
£200.00 – £400.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Illa d’Or
£150.00 – £300.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Amic Horizonte
£50.00 – £100.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Majorca is between June and September, when the weather is hot and dry, and the sea is calm and clear. The average temperature in July is 31°C, and the average rainfall is 6 mm. This is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed and cooler holiday, you can visit Majorca in the low season, from March to May or from October to November. The average temperature in April is 20°C, and the average rainfall is 39 mm. You can still enjoy the beaches and the attractions, but with less hassle and lower costs.
The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal, and one of the most popular beach destinations in Europe. It has over 150 kilometers of coastline, with some of the most spectacular beaches in the world. From the golden sands and dramatic cliffs of Praia da Marinha, to the hidden caves and rock formations of Praia da Benagil, the Algarve offers a unique and diverse scenery for beach lovers. The Algarve is also a hotspot for golf, surfing, and nightlife, as well as for discovering the traditional Portuguese culture and cuisine.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
£300.00 – £600.00 per night
5 stars
Hotel Faro & Beach Club
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel da Rocha
£75.00 – £150.00 per night
4 stars
The best time to visit the Algarve is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is mild and refreshing. The average temperature in August is 28°C, and the average rainfall is 4 mm. This is also the high season, so be prepared to pay more and book in advance. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you can visit the Algarve in the shoulder season, from April to June or from September to October. The average temperature in May is 22°C, and the average rainfall is 26 mm. You can still experience the beauty and fun of the region, but with more tranquility and savings.
Santorini is one of the most iconic and romantic beach destinations in Europe, and for a good reason. The island is famous for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets, creating a postcard-perfect scenery. Santorini is also home to some of the most unique beaches in the world, such as the Red Beach, with its volcanic sand and rocks, and the Black Beach, with its pebbles and hot springs. Santorini is a dream destination for couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking for a relaxing and memorable holiday.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Grace Hotel Santorini
£500.00 – £1,000.00 per night
5 stars
Astra Suites
£300.00 – £600.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Thira
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Santorini is between June and September, when the weather is hot and dry, and the sea is warm and calm. The average temperature in July is 29°C, and the average rainfall is 0 mm. This is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a quieter and cooler holiday, you can visit Santorini in the low season, from March to May or from October to November. The average temperature in April is 18°C, and the average rainfall is 16 mm. You can still enjoy the beaches and the attractions, but with less hassle and lower costs.
Biarritz is a chic and elegant seaside resort in the southwest of France, on the Atlantic coast. It is known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Grande Plage, a wide and sandy beach with a casino and a lighthouse, and the Côte des Basques, a surfers’ paradise with waves and views. Biarritz is also a cultural and historical destination, with a rich heritage of architecture, art, and gastronomy. Biarritz is a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the French charm and sophistication, as well as the Atlantic breeze and sun.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Hôtel du Palais
£400.00 – £800.00 per night
5 stars
Le Regina Biarritz Hotel & Spa
£200.00 – £400.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Edouard VII
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Biarritz is between June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is mild and refreshing. The average temperature in July is 22°C, and the average rainfall is 69 mm. This is also the high season, so be prepared to pay more and book in advance. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you can visit Biarritz in the shoulder season, from April to June or from September to October. The average temperature in May is 16°C, and the average rainfall is 88 mm. You can still experience the beauty and culture of the region, but with more tranquility and savings.
Zadar is a charming and historic city on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, and a great base for exploring some of the best beaches in the country. It has several beaches, such as Kolovare, a pebbly beach with a promenade and a park, and Borik, a sandy beach with a water park and a marina. It is also close to some of the most beautiful islands and national parks in Croatia, such as Dugi Otok, with its sandy Sakarun beach and turquoise water, and Kornati, with its hundreds of islands and reefs. Zadar is a destination that combines culture, nature, and adventure, making it ideal for a fun and varied holiday.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera
£200.00 – £400.00 per night
5 stars
Hotel Bastion
£150.00 – £300.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Mediteran
£75.00 – £150.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Zadar is between June and September, when the weather is hot and dry, and the sea is warm and clear. The average temperature in July is 28°C, and the average rainfall is 40 mm. This is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed and cooler holiday, you can visit Zadar in the low season, from March to May or from October to November. The average temperature in April is 16°C, and the average rainfall is 69 mm. You can still enjoy the beaches and the attractions, but with less hassle and lower costs.
Lanzarote is one of the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa, but belonging to Spain. It is a unique and fascinating beach destination, with its volcanic landscape, black sand beaches, and lunar-like scenery. Lanzarote has over 100 beaches to choose from, such as Playa Blanca, a long and white beach with calm water, and Playa de Papagayo, a secluded and natural beach with cliffs and coves. Lanzarote is also a destination for eco-tourism, with its biosphere reserve status, its sustainable practices, and its artistic and cultural attractions, such as the works of the local artist César Manrique.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort
£200.00 – £400.00 per night
5 stars
H10 Lanzarote Princess
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
4 stars
Hotel Lancelot
£50.00 – £100.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Lanzarote is between October and April, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the sea is pleasant and inviting. The average temperature in January is 20°C, and the average rainfall is 24 mm. This is also the low season, so you can enjoy lower prices and less crowds. If you want to experience the hottest and driest weather, you can visit Lanzarote in the high season, from May to September. The average temperature in August is 25°C, and the average rainfall is 1 mm. However, be prepared to pay more and book in advance.
Crete is the largest and most diverse island in Greece, offering a wide range of beach destinations for every taste. It has over 1,000 kilometers of coastline, with some of the most stunning beaches in Europe, such as Balos, a lagoon with pink sand and turquoise water, and Elafonisi, a beach with a small island and a nature reserve. Crete is also a destination for history, culture, and cuisine, with its ancient sites, such as the Palace of Knossos, its traditional villages, such as Chania and Rethymno, and its delicious dishes, such as moussaka and dakos.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa
£300.00 – £600.00 per night
5 stars
Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa
£150.00 – £300.00 per night
4 stars
Porto Veneziano Hotel
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Crete is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is mild and refreshing. The average temperature in July is 28°C, and the average rainfall is 1 mm. This is also the high season, so be prepared to pay more and book in advance. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, you can visit Crete in the shoulder season, from April to June or from September to October. The average temperature in May is 21°C, and the average rainfall is 23 mm. You can still experience the beauty and charm of the island, but with more tranquility and savings.
Cornwall is a county in the southwest of England, famous for its rugged and scenic coastline, its picturesque fishing villages, and its rich Celtic heritage. It has over 400 beaches to choose from, some of the best in the UK, such as Fistral, a surfers’ mecca with golden sand and waves, and Porthcurno, a sheltered and sandy beach with a theater and a museum. Cornwall is also a destination for nature, adventure, and culture, with its national parks, such as Dartmoor and Exmoor, its castles and legends, such as Tintagel and King Arthur, and its festivals and events, such as the Eden Sessions and the Falmouth Oyster Festival.
Hotel Name
Price Range
Rating
The Headland Hotel & Spa
£200.00 – £400.00 per night
4 stars
The Lugger Hotel
£150.00 – £300.00 per night
4 stars
The Old Coastguard
£100.00 – £200.00 per night
3 stars
The best time to visit Cornwall is between June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is mild and inviting. The average temperature in July is 19°C, and the average rainfall is 62 mm. This is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed and cooler holiday, you can visit Cornwall in the low season, from March to May or from October to November. The average temperature in April is 12°C, and the average rainfall is 69 mm. You can still enjoy the beaches and the attractions, but with less hassle and lower costs.
If you are ready to book your trip to one of these amazing beach destinations in Europe, Expedia is the best way to do it. Expedia is the world’s leading online travel platform, offering you everything you need for your holiday, from flights and hotels, to car rentals and activities. With Expedia, you can:
Compare prices and deals from thousands of travel providers, and find the best option for your budget and preferences.
Save money and time by booking your flight and hotel together, and get access to exclusive discounts and benefits.
Earn rewards and points for every booking, and redeem them for future trips or other perks.
Enjoy flexibility and peace of mind, with free cancellation on most hotels, and customer service available 24/7.
Discover and book amazing experiences and activities at your destination, and make your holiday unforgettable.