Summer in Europe is a season of open-air concerts, long evenings, café terraces, and landscapes that seem to glow under a warm sun. Travelers from across the world plan their trips during these months because the continent offers such variety. There are plenty of places to visit in Europe during summer.
From quiet coastal towns to cities rich with history and mountains perfect for hiking, Europe has something for every kind of traveler. If you are thinking about a trip during these sunny months, here are ten of the best places to visit in Europe in the summer.
Paris, France
There is a reason Paris never loses its charm. In summer the city slows down a little but becomes even more beautiful.
Long daylight hours make it possible to see a lot in one day. You can walk along the Seine River and watch the street artists on the bridges, or enjoy an evening picnic with the Eiffel Tower in view.
Many Parisians leave the city during the warm months, which means parks like Luxembourg Gardens feel less crowded. Rooftop cafés open for the season and there are outdoor film screenings across the city.
Boat cruises on the Seine are especially popular in summer and give a different perspective of landmarks like Notre Dame and the Louvre.
Rome, Italy
Summer in Rome is hot, but the city makes up for the heat with endless culture and history. Walking through the narrow streets you find ancient ruins almost at every corner. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon are highlights.
Early mornings are perfect for exploring without the big crowds, and shaded piazzas make it easy to stop for gelato when the temperature climbs.
Fountains like the Trevi provide a cool breeze while you admire their design. The evenings are full of energy with open-air dining and music around the squares.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona blends the beach with city life in a way that feels made for summer. The Mediterranean coast is just steps away from the city center, so you can start the day with art and architecture and end it with a swim.
The work of Antoni Gaudí gives Barcelona a style that is different from anywhere else. The Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and the colorful houses in the Eixample district are worth seeing.
The streets of the Gothic Quarter are cool and shaded, perfect for an afternoon wander. At night the city comes alive with tapas bars and outdoor music.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam in summer is a city of canals, bicycles and flowers. The long daylight hours let you explore on foot or by bike for most of the day.
You can cycle through the narrow streets, visit the Van Gogh Museum, and take a boat tour through the canals.
Vondelpark, the city’s largest park, is perfect for a picnic or a break between sightseeing. In summer the park often hosts free music and theater performances.
The weather is mild, so it is easy to spend time outdoors without feeling too hot.
Santorini, Greece
There are many places to visit in Europe during summer, but only few islands in the world can compete with Santorini in the summer. The whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and views over the Aegean Sea look like a postcard.
During the day, visitors enjoy the beaches, boat trips to nearby islands, and tastings of local food and wine.
At sunset, the town of Oia becomes the place to be. Watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange over the sea is an unforgettable experience.
For families and couples alike, Santorini offers a slow pace of life, stunning scenery and excellent food.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, sometimes called the Pearl of the Adriatic, has a walled Old Town that is one of the best preserved in Europe.
Summer brings perfect conditions for walking along the city walls, taking in views of the sea and the red rooftops.
The clear blue water makes swimming from the rocky beaches a pleasure. Boat trips to nearby islands such as Lokrum or the Elafiti Islands are a highlight for visitors.
The evenings are lively, with restaurants serving fresh seafood and local wine.
Interlaken, Switzerland
If mountains and fresh air sound better than hot beaches, Interlaken is an excellent summer destination. This Swiss town is surrounded by peaks and sits between two lakes, making it a natural playground.
Families can try boat rides on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. Those looking for more activity can go hiking, take cable cars up to mountain viewpoints or even try paragliding.
On clear days the views of the Alps are breathtaking. The weather in summer is warm during the day but cool at night, which makes it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon offers a mix of history, food and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Summer brings bright blue skies and long evenings.
The city is built on hills, so be ready for some uphill walking, but each climb rewards you with panoramic views.
The historic tram rides, especially tram 28, are fun for all ages. In the Alfama district, narrow streets are filled with music and small cafés.
If you want a break from the city, beaches like Cascais and Estoril are less than an hour away by train.
Lisbon is also known for its custard tarts, called pasteis de nata, which are the perfect snack after exploring.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague in summer looks like a fairy tale. Cobblestone streets, a castle on a hill and the Charles Bridge lined with statues make it one of Europe’s most photogenic cities.
The Old Town Square is a good starting point, especially when the Astronomical Clock strikes on the hour. Walking across the Charles Bridge early in the morning avoids the busiest crowds.
Summer brings open-air concerts in the squares and the parks along the Vltava River. Families can enjoy boat rides and take in the city from the water.
Edinburgh, Scotland
In summer, Edinburgh combines historic charm with one of the world’s most famous arts festivals. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes place in August and fills the city with performances from morning to night.
Beyond the festival, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are must-sees. For a view of the entire city, climb Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano with a relatively easy trail.
The weather can be mild and breezy in summer, making the climb a comfortable experience.
Tips for Visiting Europe During Summer
Book early. Summer is the busiest travel season in Europe, and both flights and accommodations sell out fast.
Plan for crowds in the most popular destinations. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for sightseeing.
Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
Use trains where possible. Many European countries have excellent rail networks that are comfortable and faster than driving.
Why Summer Is a Good Time for Europe
Summer in Europe gives you long days filled with activity and warm evenings when you can sit outside for hours. Cities host festivals, beaches open fully, and rural areas like vineyards and mountain trails become accessible.
The weather is generally dependable, which makes it easier to plan a long trip that includes several countries.
