Planning a trip to Europe: Best beaches for a relaxing summer?

traveleuropebeachessummer-vacation

Georgi_Pro

Joined:
01.02.2020
Posts: 225

Topic Starter

24.02.2025 22:34

My partner and I are finally planning a two-week summer trip to Europe and we really want to focus on finding some beautiful, relaxing beach spots. We're hoping to avoid the super crowded party areas if possible, as we're mostly looking to swim, read, and enjoy good food. Does anyone have recommendations for hidden gems or quieter coastal towns, perhaps in Greece, Portugal, or the south of France? We are planning to go in late July, so any advice on how to handle the heat or peak season crowds would be greatly appreciated.

15 replies in this topic

star_vulk

Joined:
25.07.2023
Posts: 2496

01.03.2025 16:57

If you want to avoid crowds in late July, honestly, stay away from the Mykonos/Santorini circuit. Try Milos or Folegandros in Greece instead. They are stunning, much quieter, and have amazing food.

Krasen_K

Joined:
06.09.2024
Posts: 1967

21.03.2025 14:22

In reply to a previous post

Totally agree with the Milos suggestion! We went last year and it was the highlight of our trip. Just rent a car to find the smaller coves.

redoven

Joined:
03.12.2024
Posts: 2257

21.05.2025 20:17

For Portugal, skip the Algarve if you want peace. Head north to the Alentejo coast. Towns like Vila Nova de Milfontes are super chill and the beaches are vast and empty.

Toni_M

Joined:
27.07.2022
Posts: 1673

30.05.2025 07:40

In reply to a previous post

Good point about the Alentejo, but the water in Portugal is freezing even in July! Just a heads-up if you're sensitive to cold water.

Milos_S

Joined:
10.12.2022
Posts: 2206

12.06.2025 16:54

South of France in July is going to be packed everywhere, unfortunately. If you must go, look at the smaller villages in the Var region rather than the big cities.

Selekcioner

Joined:
30.03.2021
Posts: 941

26.07.2025 17:18

I'd suggest looking into Albania. It's becoming the new 'hidden gem' and it's much cheaper than Greece, plus the Ionian coast is beautiful.

kamilo

Joined:
12.08.2022
Posts: 1978

21.08.2025 11:58

In reply to a previous post

Albania is great, but the infrastructure is still a bit hit or miss compared to the rest of Europe. Maybe stick to Greece for a first trip.

ChernaKotka

Joined:
21.10.2023
Posts: 144

13.10.2025 03:51

Late July is the absolute peak of the heatwave season. Make sure your accommodation has A/C, or you won't get any sleep at all.

grigor_b

Joined:
26.01.2022
Posts: 276

14.11.2025 13:02

In reply to a previous post

Seconding the A/C comment. I made the mistake of booking a 'charming' old stone cottage in Provence once and it was like living in an oven.

Leni_C

Joined:
23.09.2024
Posts: 1533

21.11.2025 20:02

Try the island of Paxos in Greece. It's small, very relaxed, no big party scene, and perfect for reading by the water.

nov_tuk

Joined:
17.08.2020
Posts: 1102

01.12.2025 09:09

In reply to a previous post

Is Paxos easy to get to? I've heard you need a ferry from Corfu.

robert_d

Joined:
10.08.2023
Posts: 1018

07.12.2025 03:34

Honestly, wherever you go, just be prepared for the prices in July. It's peak season everywhere, so book your flights and hotels as soon as possible.

NqkoiNesh

Joined:
02.11.2025
Posts: 1073

10.12.2025 16:44

I'd recommend looking at Menorca instead of Mallorca. It's much more laid back, has incredible 'calas' (coves), and feels way less touristy.

Denis_P

Joined:
14.09.2020
Posts: 928

26.12.2025 16:42

In reply to a previous post

Menorca is perfect for couples. Rent a boat for a day to get to the secluded beaches you can't reach by foot.

Nadiya_D

Joined:
19.12.2025
Posts: 2103

17.03.2026 04:17

Whatever you choose, just embrace the 'siesta' life. Don't try to sightsee between 1 PM and 4 PM. Stay in the shade, eat a long lunch, and you'll survive the heat!

Planning a trip to Europe: Best beaches for a relaxing summer?

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