When we travel, we only want the best when it comes to beaches! No crowded deck chairs or stoney walks to the ocean - just white sand, turquoise waters and enough ice cream to choke a shark. That's why this week we're giving you a run down of the best beaches in Europe!
At least one of these top 5 European beaches definitely needs to be on your list of places to tick off this summer. They range from exciting, vibrant coastal towns to quiet, beautiful hidden gems. Whether you're hoping to get back to nature or just pick up a tan, you'll find something for your perfect beach getaway.
Don't forget to bring a towel!
La Concha, San Sebastián
Settled in a calm nook to the south side of the French border, this beautiful Spanish town goes very much unnoticed by tourists on their way to bigger cities like Bilbao and Santander. All the better for you - the enormous, golden sandy beach is not often crowded, even during the blistering summer months. On top of this, the Basque region of Spain has its own unique colour and culture. If you’re looking for a beach that’s away from the crowds with a hint of local flavour thrown into the mix, San Sebastian is the perfect choice.
Kolymbithres Beach, Paros
When you visit Greece, turquoise waters and white sand are pretty standard, however if you pick your destination carefully you can find some experiences that defy all expectations. Kolymbithres Beach is one of these spots. Its lagoon-like bay and rocky features make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling in the crystal-clear water. It's the ideal place for aquatic adventures.
Santa Severa, Rome
Beaches in Italy can be difficult. Many are rocky and the nicer, sandy ones often charge people to enter. But not Santa Severa! You can easily catch the train out of Rome and be at this beautiful seaside destination in a little under an hour. As if all that wasn’t great enough, it’s even got an epic fourteenth-century castle standing right on the water's edge, If you're looking for some Insta-worthy photo ops , this is definitely the beach for you.
Serenella Beach, Lake Como
Who says you need the sea to enjoy a beach? Lake Como's crystal-clear water can compete with any coastal destination and you'll be swimming in one of the most scenic landscapes imaginable. Located at the foot of the Alps, you'll have breathtaking views of the mountains as you take a dip. You'll also have the chance to explore the hundreds of scenic villages and townships perched on the shores of the incredible lake.
Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona
Barceloneta is certainly busy. But that’s partlywhy we love it so much! This unique cityside destination blends cafe, club and restaurant culture with the beach bum life. Relax on a sunbed, mojito in hand, during the daytime before heading into one of Barcelona's buzzing bars when the sun goes down. The atmosphere is as vibrant as the city centre itself and you'll feel like you're truly living your best life. Sometimes a bit of action is just what you need.
All these great beach destinations can be found on our Hop-on Hop-off network in Europe. Head on over to our Adventure Planner to build your perfect beach-hopping holiday!
