Europe offers endless charm and diversity, especially in summer. If you are looking for the best places to visit in summer in Europe, then the list is long. Whether you are seeking bustling cities or serene landscapes, Europe has it all.
Each destination in this continent has its own unique attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience. You can visit the historical landmarks, experience the vibrant local culture and indulge in local cuisine.
In this article, we will explore the top European destinations for Summer 2024 and discover why these spots are among the best countries to visit in Europe in summer.
Best Countries to Visit in Europe in Summer
Spain
Spain is one of the top destinations for summer vacation Europe. The weather is perfect, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It is ideal for exploring the diverse attractions. Visit Barcelona, a city known for its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.
The country has some of the top tourist
places to visit in Europe. You can relax on the beautiful beaches of Costa Brava and Balearic Islands. Enjoy the rich cultural festivals, delicious cuisines and stunning locations. Walk around the historic streets of Madrid and experience the scenic beauty of Andalusia.
Spain has something to offer to every traveller. Its unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty makes it among the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
Summer Events in Spain
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Granada International Festival of Music and Dance (June 7 – July 14)
Spanish Grand Prix, Barcelona (June 21 - June 23)
Fiesta de San Fermín (Running of the Bulls) in Pamplona from July 6 - July 14
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim (Rock concert near Valencia)
La Tomatina in Buñol, Spain (August 28)
Seasonal Attractions in Spain in Summer
Beaches in Costa Brava, Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands are good for sunbathing, swimming and water sports.
Summer festivals in Spain like La Tomatina in Buñol.
Visit cities like Barcelona, Madrid and Seville
Visit the Balearic and Canary Islands
How to Travel to Spain from India
To travel to Spain from India, you can book a flight with a stopover or a connecting flight. Flights from Mumbai to Barcelona or Delhi to Madrid take more than 12 hours. You can also book connecting flights from cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, etc.
Major airlines offering flights from India to Spain are Air India, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Blue Air, Ryanair, Air France, British Airways, etc.
Accommodations in Spain in Summer
Five-star hotels in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona
Boutique hotels in smaller towns
Vacation rentals like Airbnb villas, apartments
Budget-friendly guest houses
Holiday homes and rural houses
Approximate Budget
₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 per person for 7 days (Excluding flight fair).
Italy
Italy is a must-visit and one of the countries to visit in Europe in summer. The weather is splendid, with warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. It is perfect for exploring Italy’s diverse attractions. Rome, for its ancient history and magnificent architecture, is the highlight.
You can relax on the stunning beaches of the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. Enjoy the rich cultural festivals, mouth watering cuisines and picturesque landscapes.
Walk around the streets of Florence and experience the scenic beauty of Tuscany. Italy has something to offer every traveller. Its unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in summer in Europe.
Summer Events in Italy
Rome Summer Fest (June 15 – August 4)
Festa della Repubblica, Rome (June 2)
Verona Opera Festival (June 21 – September 7)
Umbria Jazz Festival, Perugia (July 12 - July 21)
Venice Biennale (May 11 - November 24)
Seasonal Attractions in Italy in Summer
Beaches on the Amalfi Coast and Sicily.
Summer festivals like the Verona Opera Festival and Umbria Jazz Festival.
Visit cities like Rome, Florence and Venice.
Explore the countryside like Tuscany and Umbria.
How to Travel to Italy from India
To travel to Italy from India, you can book a direct or connecting flight. Flights from Mumbai to Rome or Delhi to Milan take more than 10 hours. You can also book connecting flights from cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, etc.
Major airlines operating flights from India to Italy are Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways and Turkish Airlines.
Accommodations in Italy in Summer
Five-star and luxury hotels in major cities like Rome and Milan.
Mid-range and budget hotels in smaller towns.
Vacation rental accommodations.
Budget-friendly guest houses and holiday homes.
Approximate Budget
₹1,20,000 to ₹1,70,000 per person for 7 days (excluding flight fare).
Greece
Greece is a fantastic destination to visit in Europe in summer. The weather is perfect, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It is ideal for exploring Greece’s diverse attractions. Athens, known for its ancient ruins and rich history, is a must-see. Greece hosts some of the best Europe cities to visit in summer.
If you want to take a summer vacation Europe, do not miss the historic city of Athens and experience the scenic beauty of the Greek islands. You can relax on the beautiful beaches of Mykonos and Santorini. Enjoy the vibrant cultural festivals, delicious Mediterranean cuisine and beautiful landscapes.
Summer Events in Greece
Athens Epidaurus Festival (June to August)
Ejekt Festival, Athens (June 13)
Rockwave Festival, Malakasa (June 22–23)
Santorini Jazz Festival (Juy)
Feast of St. Peter and Paul, Thessaloniki (June 29)
Seasonal Attractions in Greece in Summer
Visit cities like Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion
Explore the Greek Islands like Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes Islands
Beaches on Mykonos, Santorini and Crete
Summer Festivals like the Athens Epidaurus Festivals and Santorini Jazz Festival.
How to Travel to Greece from India
To travel to Greece from India, you can book direct flights or connecting flights. Flights from Mumbai to Athens or Delhi to Thessaloniki take more than 9 hours. You can also book connecting flights from other major cities in India.
Major airlines offering flights from India to Greece are Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France and Turkish Airlines.
Accommodations in Greece in Summer
Five-star hotels to Airbnb accommodations in Athens
Popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos charge higher rates for scenic locations
Less popular islands like Milos and Paros have limited accommodations. Prior booking is a must.
Approximate Budget
₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 per person for 7 days (excluding air tickets).
France
France is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in summer. The country offers warm and pleasant weather around this time of the year. Summer is the ideal time to explore cities like Paris and Nice. These are the most popular Europe summer holiday destinations.
The running countryside, including Provence and Loire Valley in France is in full bloom. Summer also hosts numerous festivals, such as Fête de la Musique, which is a music celebration that happens nationwide.
France is one of the best places to visit in Europe. The long days during summer allow for extended sightseeing. France’s rich history, world-class cuisine and diverse landscapes offer something for every traveller. It is the ideal destination for a summer vacation Europe.
Summer Events in France
Chorégies d'Orange (June 19 to August 6)
Bastille Day (July 14)
Avignon Festival (July 5 to July 25)
Cannes Yachting Festival (September 10 - September 15)
Nice Jazz Festival (July 15 to July 21)
La Route du Rock (August 15 to August 18)
Seasonal Attractions in France in Summer
Visit the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, which are the primary attractions in France.
Explore the French wine regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy and go for wine tasting.
Take guided tours to the lavender fields for a stunning sight and enchanting scent.
Attend festivals and cultural events, and summer is festival season in France.
How to Travel to France from India
France is a popular tourist destination, so finding flights from all major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai is easy. France has many international airports; however, Roissy - Charles de Gaulle in Paris is the only one serving flights from all countries.
If you are on a budget, you can opt for flights with layovers. Flights from India to France generally take 9 - 10 hours, but this can vary with stopovers.
Major airlines offering flights from India to France are Air India, Air France, Lufthansa, Vistara, Etihad Airways, etc.
Accommodations in France in Summer
Luxury hotels in Paris and Nice for luxury and opulence in your summer trip
Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) for cosy and intimate stay
Boutique hotels in a trendy neighbourhood
Vacation Rentals within budget
Budget-friendly country inns and gites
Approximate Budget
₹1,20,000 to ₹3,50,000 or more per person for 7 days (excluding flight fare).
Switzerland
If you want to visit beautiful places in Europe in summer, Switzerland is an ideal destination. The weather is mild, and it is perfect for outdoor activities. The Swiss Alps offer breathtaking views and opportunities like hiking, cycling and scenic train rides.
Swiss cities like Zurich, Geneva and Lucerne are among the best Europe cities to visit in summer. They boast vibrant cultural scenes and picturesque old towns.
Summer is a great time to enjoy the beauty of Switzerland’s stunning lakes, such as Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne. The country’s efficient public transport makes exploring the cities and nearby areas easy.
Switzerland's pristine beauty, charming villages and world-renowned chocolate and cheese make it a delightful summer getaway destination.
Upcoming Summer Events in Switzerland
Geneva Festival (August 1 to August 11)
Paléo Festival Nyon (July 23 to July 28)
Fête de l’Olivier (June 14 to June 18)
Locarno Film Festival (August 7 to August 17)
Zurich Street Parade (August 10)
Seasonal Attractions in Switzerland in Summer
Visit Zurich, Geneva and Lucerne and explore the city’s attractions.
Take a tour on Glacier Express for stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
Go hiking and trekking on The Matterhorn.
Attend the Montreux Jazz Festival held in July.
How to Travel to Switzerland from India
The quickest way to travel by plane from India to Switzerland is from Delhi airport to Zurich airport. The flight takes about 9 hours to reach. Flights on this route have a frequency of 1 - 2 flights per day, with Air India offering regular services 2 - 4 times a week.
Other popular routes include Mumbai to Zurich. Connecting flights are also available from all major Indian cities.
Accommodations in Switzerland in Summer
Luxury hotels in Zurich with breathtaking views
Mid-range hotels close to main attractions
Budget hotels in a homely atmosphere
Country Inns, lodges and vacation rentals
Approximate Budget
₹1,50,000 and ₹3,00,000 per couple for a 7 - 10 days trip to Switzerland (excluding flight fare).
Turkey
Turkey is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in summer. The weather is warm, and it is ideal for exploring its diverse landscape. It boasts the stunning beaches of the Turkish Riviera and the unique rock formations of Cappadocia. Istanbul, rich in history and culture, offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions.
Turkey has some of the best Europe cities to visit in summer. This season also sees fewer tourists, which makes it easier to explore sites like Ephesus and Pamukkale without large crowds.
The vibrant markets, delicious cuisine and welcoming hospitality enhance the overall experience of visiting Turkey. The country’s mix of natural beauty, historical sites and cultural richness makes it an excellent choice for a summer vacation.
Upcoming Summer Events in Turkey
Bodrum Ballet Festival (August 1 to August 15)
Cappadox Festival (June 13 to June 16)
Alaçatı Herb Festival (June 6 to June 9)
Istanbul Jazz Festival (July 3 to July 19)
International Istanbul Biennial (September 14 to November 10)
Seasonal Attractions in Turkey in Summer
Explore cities like Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara to soak in the beauty this country offers.
Enjoy Turkish cuisine, try simit, döner kebabs, manti, lahmacun, roasted chestnuts, etc.
Visit the beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts.
Go for paragliding opportunities.
Visit ancient cities like Ephesus and experience the archaeological treasures.
How to Travel to Turkey from India
Travelling to Turkey from India is straightforward. Several airlines offer direct and connecting flights between these two countries. Major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore have regular flights to Turkey.
Flights from India to Turkey take about 7 to 10 hours, and major airlines offering services are Air India, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, etc.
Accommodations in Turkey in Summer
You can stay in luxury hotels in Istanbul for an awesome experience.
There are mid-range and budget hotels near popular attractions.
You can also choose vacation rentals, lodges, seaside resorts and city hotels.
Approximate Budget
₹70,000 to 3,00,000 per person for a 7-day trip to Turkey (excluding flight fare).
Denmark
Denmark is another great Europe summer holiday destination. The weather is pleasantly mild, perfect for exploring its charming cities and picturesque countryside. Copenhagen, with its historic sites, vibrant street life and the famous Tivoli Gardens, is a must-visit.
June marks the beginning of Midsummer celebrations, which features bonfires, music and festivities. Denmark’s stunning coastline offers beautiful beaches and quaint villages.
The long daylight hours allow for extended sightseeing and other outdoor activities. Denmark’s friendly locals, rich history and scenic beauty make it a perfect choice for one of the best countries to visit in Europe in summer.
Summer Events in Denmark
Roskilde Festival (June 29 –July 6)
Skagen Festival (July 4 – July 7)
Hindsgavl Festival (July 2 –July 9)
Jels Viking Pageant (July 5 – July 21)
Vig Festival (July 10 – July 13)
Aarhus Jazz Festival (July 13 – July 20)
Seasonal Attractions in Denmark in Summer
Take part in the Roskilde Festival, Copenhagen Jazz Festival, Moesgaard Viking Moot, etc.
Visit historic sites and castles like Kronborg Castle and Frederiksborg Castle to experience Renaissance architecture.
Visit cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, andOdense, and explore the national parks.
How to Travel to Denmark from India
If you want to travel from India to Denmark, you can book flights between these two countries. Even though there are no direct flights from India to Denmark, travellers can take connecting flights.
Common layover cities are Dubai, Doha, Frankfurt, Istanbul, etc. Major airlines that operate between these two countries are Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, etc.
Accommodations in Denmark in Summer
Approximate Budget
₹2,50,00 - ₹3,00,000 per person for a 7-day trip to Denmark (excluding flight fare).
Why Do You Need Schengen Travel Insurance from Reliance General Insurance
Travelling to Europe in summer is a dream for many, with top destinations like Paris, Rome and Barcelona offering breathtaking sights and rich cultural experiences.
However, travelling to Europe requires a Schengen travel insurance. So, if you plan to travel to these Schengen countries, purchase a
Schengen travel insurance plan from Reliance General Insurance, to ensure a worry-free journey.
Our Schengen travel insurance covers a minimum medical expenses of up to €30,000 and also ensures compliance with visa requirements. Enjoy exploring the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum and Sagrada Familia without concerns about medical emergencies, trip cancellations or lost baggage.
Reliance General Insurance offers peace of mind with 24/7 assistance. Our travel insurance allows you to immerse yourself in Europe’s summer wonders fully. Secure your trip with comprehensive Schengen travel insurance and make unforgettable memories.
Conclusion
Europe in summer can offer you a treasure trove of experiences. It offers everything from historical landmarks to vibrant cultural festivals and stunning natural landscapes.
Spain’s sunny beaches, Italy’s rich history and Greece’s ancient ruins can give you an experience of a lifetime. Also, there is France’s world-famous cuisine and Switzerland's breathtaking Alps.
Turkey’s unique blend of East and West along with Denmark's charming cities and midsummer celebrations, ensures an unforgettable adventure. Whether you seek bustling cities, serene countryside or you want coastal retreats, Europe’s diverse attractions cater to all travellers.
To ensure a worry-free journey, remember to secure Schengen travel insurance from Reliance General Insurance. It provides essential coverage and peace of mind during your European adventure.
So, pack your bags for an unforgettable summer in Europe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the safety precautions to take while travelling to Europe?
Know the local emergency contact numbers and have your Embassy’s contact number. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies and trip disruptions. Carry necessary medications and adhere to health guidelines. Also, stay updated with the local laws and travel advisories.
How can I stay connected while travelling to Europe?
Before you visit Europe, purchase an international roaming plan or get one local SIM card. Use travel apps for maps, translations and booking services. Also, carry a universal power adapter, so that you can keep all your devices charged all the time.
What are the best beaches to visit in Europe during summer?
Spain’s Costa Brava, Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Greece's Mykonos, France’s French Riviera and Turkey’s Turkish Riviera coast offer some of the best beaches. They are known for their stunning views, crystal-clear waters and vibrant beach scenes.
What are some must-try foods in Europe during summer?
In Europe, savour paella and tapas, Italy’’s pizza and gelato, Greece’s moussaka and souvlaki. You can also try France’s croissants and coq au vin, Switzerland’s fondue and Swiss chocolates. Also, do not forget to try doner kebabs and baklava and Denmark’s Danish pastry and smørrebrød.