You’re living or you are in Europe at the moment and are in search for a little bit of sunshine, beach and the sea? You don’t know where to go and don’t want to fly too long?
There are beautiful beaches in Europe’s south as well as the north. From white sandy beaches and Mediterranean blue to turquoise sea and gravel beaches, you’ll find anything you want.
The following beaches were personally tested by us and we can highly recommend them. We hope, you’ll find a beach to broil yourself under the sun. (But don’t forget sun protection!)
1. Makarska Riviera, Croatia
We could spend a few awesome days at Brela Beach with the picturesque Brela Rock and in Baska Voda. Turquoise, crystal clear waters surrounded by the mighty Dinaric Alps. Such a dreamy place!
2. Cala del Principe, Sardinia, Italy
Carribbean blue water and heavenly white beaches. There are many of them in Sardinia. But some are better than the others. This beach is located in the north of the island. During low season, you could probably have it all by yourself.
3. Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal
Green and blue Sea and mighty ochre coloured rocks at one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe. If you have read our blog over the last few weeks, you might know that we’re huge fans of the Algarve. The sand is smooth and water temperatures are good from the end of May until the end of September. We could name you a few more, but we actually love the whole of the Western Algarve. Praia da Rocha is just one of many examples.
4. Costa Rei, Sardinia, Italy
White sandy beach, crystal clear, light blue water and in low season, it’s very calm here, with only some Swiss people. Unfortunately, this is also true for the surrounding restaurants.
5. Praia do Amado, Costa Vicentina, Algarve, Portugal
Wild and beautiful. The cliffs are dark and surfers and other sporty people who try to use the wind are everywhere. Praia do Amado is one of the most beautiful beaches at the Costa Vicentina and a contrast to the turquoise paradises in this list.
6. The whole West Coast of Sylt, Germany
Sunbathing at a beach in Northern Europe? Yep, it’s possible. I don’t know whether you’re brave enough to get in the water, but this will depend on the temperatures and the wind. But there’s more than enough to do. Despite of this the beaches and the dunes are picture perfect and the air is so fresh, you’ll never want to leave.
7. The beaches around Scala dei Turchi, Sicily, Italy
If you really want to go to places, where you’ll find Sicilians or other Italians, if you really want to avoid other tourists the best way possible, then this part of Sicily is perfect for you. Beautiful beaches, the dreamy scenery of Scala dei Turchi and in low season this is all yours. Maybe at weekends, you’ll see the locals here. For a reason.
8. Sveti Stefan, Budva, Montenegro
Actually, we didn’t like Budva itself. The Old Town was pretty but the concrete jungle for tourists was a nightmare. A huge contrast to this was the surreal island of Sveti Stefan, some meters away from Budva. What you see on the island (picture above) is one hotel and it’s very expensive.
This shouldn’t stop you from bathing at the beaches around and enjoying the view.
9. San Vito lo Capo, Sicily, Italy
Maybe, it may become boring now with all the picture perfect turquoise seas. Well, not for me.
San Vito lo Capo is a little place in the northwest of Sicily and is definitely worth the journey. Not far from here, you can visit Scopello, a beautiful hidden bay. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t so good that day so we couldn’t visit it.
10. Cala Brandinchi, Sardinia, Italy
Our absolute favourite in Sardinia. This beach is located in the north east of the island. It’s so beautiful, you might become blind if you watch it for too long. Seriously: It’s amazing, but also in low season still crowded. During that time, the beach is mostly visited by rich, elder Italian women who lie on the beach so you have at least the sea all for yourselves.
What are your favourite beaches? We’re interested in more tips regarding future trips!