Personally I think it’s the most popular kind of city trip. Combining culture and the sea has always attracted the crowds. Therefore part 3 of our series covers European seaside cities.
Seeing this list we had a tendency towards Southern Europe. This is no surprise when thinking about the warmer climate there.
Just recently we’ve slowly started discovering Europe’s northern cities.
Be inspired and get ready for your next trip.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona in December last year was one of the best decisions we made. It was 15°C warmer than in Germany, the food amazing and there’s no need to talk about the sights of the city. Barcelona is an evergreen!
Valencia, Spain
Compared to Barcelona Valencia is unknown, which is unfair. This city has so much to offer: the Ciutat de les Artes i les Ciencias, the great Old Town and the promenade at the sea. Furthermore Valencia is home of the delicious Paella which you can’t miss when you’re there.
Alicante, Spain
Oh, Alicante. I spent some time here because of a traineeship abroad. This way i had enough time to explore the city and the surrounding region of the Costa Blanca. The Old Town is great and full of bars and restaurants. The Explanada leads you directly to the city’s beach where you can see the Castillo de Santa Barbara. You better go up that Castillo as the view over the city is amazing.
Cádiz, Spain
Cádiz was one of the four stops during our three day Andalusia road trip this year and the crowning glory. The Old Town spreads a great atmosphere; the rough sea attracts surfers from everywhere and the Tapas where outstanding. We need more Cádiz in the world.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Game of Throne nerds aren’t the only ones being magically attracted by this city. Dubrovnik’s Old Town with its tiny alleys and cliff bars is great. In the evenings the atmosphere is relaxed and we had an amazing time here. If you can’t ignore the masses you better avoid peak season or come in the late afternoon.
Zadar, Croatia
If you can’t stand tourist masses, Zadar might perfect for you. The Old Town is small and the beautiful. But what you can’t miss here is the sunset with the sea organ. We still heard the sound long after we left this place.
Split, Croatia
For those who search for more nightlife, Split is a great choice for you. Split’s Old Town is awesome and full of cafés and bars. Unfortunately it’s a bit expensive. But totally worth the visit.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is lying at Southern Europe’s only fjord. The beautiful Old Town within the town walls and the small alleys transport you to a different time. Who’s taking the effort to hike up to St. John Fortress will be rewarded with an amazing view over the fjord and the Old Town.
Istanbul, Turkey
It’s hard to hold a candle to the city at the Bosporus at least regarding the entire cultural heritage and the food. You should avoid the summer heat and travel to Istanbul in spring or autumn. The temperatures are pleasant and it’s less crowded.
Venice, Italy
Venice is another evergreen. Though totally overcrowded in high season, you’ll find your quiet corner. Better come in spring or fall.
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
An underrated city. Palermo is Sicily’s capital and the cultural center of the island. The city has beautiful alleys and a great flair. It’s a must-see on every Sicily trip.
Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
The Old Town is small and contemplative. The best thing is to combine the city with a beach holiday at one of the many fantastic Sardinian beaches.
Bergen, Norway
The north of Europe has a few beautiful seaside cities. Bergen is one of them. We loved the beautiful Old Town ‘Brygge’ in Hanseatic style. It’s not a cheap place, but really beautiful and is some kind of special.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is famous for its ‘Gamla Stan’ and its location in the archipelago. Going out for dinner is really expensive but really good. Stockholm is perfect for a city trip over the weekend.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík is really different from other cities. The view from the tower of the Hallgrimskirkja is fantastic. The colourful houses, the harbour promenade and the old buildings at the town hall square are absolutely fantastic. Reykjavík is a city where you just feel comfortable.
What are your favourite seaside cities?