Best Beach Holidays in Europe for Summer 2025
July 02, 2025
Summer is a great time to relax and enjoy some of the best beach holidays Europe has to offer. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or family, Europe’s beaches offer more than just sunbathing. From gentle walks along the coast to exploring local culture or enjoying summer music festivals, these destinations give you plenty to do while soaking up the sun.
We’ve picked 10 of the best beach destinations in Europe for 2025. These places are perfect for those who want a peaceful holiday with the chance to try some light activities or simply enjoy beautiful surroundings. Plus, we’ve added some travel tips to help you prepare for your trip. Whether you like swimming, exploring towns, or finding quiet spots away from the crowds, there’s something here for you.
1. Costa Brava, Spain
Costa Brava has calm, clear bays like Tamariu and Llafranc, ideal for snorkelling or kayaking. There are lovely walking paths along the coast where you can enjoy the fresh sea air. Nearby towns such as Tossa de Mar offer beautiful beaches as well as markets, history, and local food.
Things to do:
- Walk the coastal “Cami de Ronda” trail between beach towns
- Visit the medieval town of Tossa de Mar and its castle
- Take a group kayaking tour around sea caves and coves
2. Crete, Greece
Elafonissi Beach in Crete is known for its pink-tinted sand and shallow waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or paddling. You can also visit charming villages, try fresh Greek dishes, and see historic sites like the Palace of Knossos. Crete has nature trails and family-friendly attractions for visitors of all ages.
Things to do:
- Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos and local museums
- Go hiking through the Samaria or Imbros Gorge
- Visit local farms or wineries for tastings and food tours
Discover more about family travel in Crete.
3. Puglia, Italy
Puglia’s beaches, such as Torre dell’Orso and Punta Prosciutto, have soft sand and calm seas. Nearby towns are peaceful and great for evening walks and sampling local food. The region also hosts music and dance festivals during the summer for those interested in local culture.
Things to do:
- Enjoy evening strolls and gelato in historic towns like Ostuni or Lecce
- Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional pasta
- Attend a local festival like the Notte della Taranta for music and dance
4. Côte d’Azur, France
The Côte d’Azur is famous for its sandy beaches in Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. It’s a perfect place to relax by the sea, with many beach clubs and cafés. You can also explore old towns, local markets, and enjoy summer festivals and concerts.
Things to do:
- Take a day trip by boat to the Lérins Islands or along the coast
- Explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice) and local flower markets
- Attend outdoor concerts or film screenings on the beach
Discover more about Côte d’Azur here.
5. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is known for golden beaches like Praia da Marinha and Meia Praia. The calm waters are perfect for swimming or gentle paddling, making it suitable for families and those wanting a peaceful holiday. You can take boat trips to sea caves or walk along the cliffs. There are also waterparks and many restaurants with sea views.
Things to do:
- Take a boat trip to the famous Benagil sea cave
- Visit local waterparks such as Slide & Splash for family fun
- Walk the scenic clifftop trails of the Seven Hanging Valleys
Learn more about the Algarve here.
6. Zadar Riviera, Croatia
Beaches like Borik have calm waters ideal for paddleboarding or pedal boating. Zadar’s coastline features the Sea Organ, a unique musical instrument played by the waves. From here, you can visit nearby islands or the historic town of Nin, famous for mud baths and old architecture.
Things to do:
- Listen to the Sea Organ at sunset and see the Sun Salutation light display
- Take a boat trip to Kornati Islands or nearby sandy islands
- Visit Nin’s salt museum and try the natural mud baths
7. Budva, Montenegro
Budva offers sandy beaches such as Mogren alongside a lively Old Town with shops, cafés, and cultural sites. Visitors can enjoy water sports or attend summer festivals. For a quieter beach day, nearby Jaz Beach is a good choice.
Things to do:
- Wander through Budva’s Old Town and take a guided history walk
- Try jet skiing or banana boat rides on the main beach
- Attend music events or open-air theatre performances in summer
Explore Budva and Montenegro’s coast here.
8. Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Ayia Napa is well known for soft, shallow beaches like Nissi and Makronissos, perfect for safe swimming and relaxing. There are shaded walking paths, children’s play areas, and plenty of restaurants serving fresh seafood. Nearby, you can visit cultural sites like the Ayia Napa Monastery.
Things to do:
- Visit the Ayia Napa Sculpture Park and nearby sea caves
- Take a glass-bottom boat cruise for spotting marine life
- Enjoy beachfront family parks with go-karts, trampolines, and more
9. Nida, Lithuania
Nida, on the Curonian Spit, has peaceful sandy beaches surrounded by forests and dunes. It’s a great spot for a quiet holiday. You can cycle through nature trails, visit the Thomas Mann Museum, or enjoy the Nida Jazz Festival with free concerts on the beach. The cooler summer temperatures make it comfortable for many visitors.
Things to do:
- Cycle or hike through the Curonian Spit National Park
- Climb the Parnidis Dune for panoramic sea and forest views
- Visit Nida’s lighthouse, art galleries, or catch a beach concert
Find out more about Nada and the Curonian Spit here.
10. Hel Peninsula, Poland
The Hel Peninsula has long, wide beaches perfect for kite flying, beach games, or simply enjoying space to relax. The shallow waters are good for splashing about, and a seal sanctuary nearby is popular with families. A small train runs along the peninsula, making it easy to visit different beaches and towns.
Things to do:
- Visit the Seal Sanctuary and learn about marine conservation
- Try windsurfing or kitesurfing, popular along this breezy coast
- Take the scenic train ride and stop off at beach towns like Jastarnia
Travel Tips for Your European Beach Holiday:
- Apply for a EHIC/GHIC: UK travellers should carry a valid GHIC card to access state healthcare in most EU countries. Apply for free on the NHS website.
- Take out travel insurance: A GHIC card doesn’t cover cancellations or delays. Get Going offers travel insurance designed for UK travellers.
- Stay sun-safe: Use SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear hats, and avoid strong sun between 12–3pm.
- Book shade early: Reserve beach umbrellas or sunbeds before you arrive, especially in busy summer months.
- Drink plenty of water: Carry refillable water bottles to stay hydrated and be eco-friendly.
- Check government travel advice: Visit GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you go for the latest updates.
No matter where you choose to go, these best beach holidays in Europe offer a lovely mix of rest, light activity, and sunshine. Whether you prefer peaceful walks, gentle swimming, or exploring local culture, you’ll find the perfect place to relax this summer.
Protect your trip with Get Going Travel Insurance. Get a free quote today.
