Lesser-Known Summer Destinations to Visit in Europe

Forget about Zagreb or Dubrovnik. When it comes to vacationing in Croatia, the sun-filled islands steal the spotlight. Hvar is the most glamorous, yet still largely off many tourists’ radar. Stroll around the quaint harbour, dipping into cocktail bars and seafood restaurants, then marvel at the ancient city walls and Spanish fortress, the latter of which is surrounded by brightly coloured flowers and exotic cacti. Don’t miss the chance to swim in turquoise waters and explore the mystical coves at idyllic beaches.

It’s time to swap the crowded and over-commercialised Ibiza for this unspoiled gem. Menorca is the least developed of the Balearic Islands; as a result, white-sand beaches and precipitous hiking trails are abundant here, making this an ideal destination for adventurers and nature-lovers. Traverse the entire island on foot or horseback, or cycle along the Cami de Cavalls bridleway. Say hello to pine martens and turtles in the numerous reserves and discover the gorgeous Ciutadella, the old town. Don’t leave without buying traditional Avarca sandals.

The oldest continuously inhabited city in Romania, Constanța brims with museums, archaeological treasures and religious hubs. The city is also home to the biggest port on the Black Sea, which encompasses the charming Tomis Harbor. Spend your days gazing at lavish yachts or take a boat trip into the open waters. Make sure you scan the stunning architecture; landmarks include the grandiose new-Renaissance House with Lions and the Roman Mosaic Edifice. Then, pass by the Genoese Lighthouse, before relaxing at one of the many tranquil beaches, parks and lakes.

An oft-overlooked destination in the Madeira archipelago is Porto Santo. Fittingly dubbed the Golden Island, it has the only sandy beach in the archipelago, which stretches across 9km (5.5mi). Lie on the soft sand of Praia de Porto Santo, or make the most of the wilder beaches, perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling amid volcanic rocks. Go for exhilarating hikes and visit the house where Christopher Columbus once lived, which is now a museum. Finally, after an action-packed day, enjoy glorious sunset views on the coast.

The summer retreat of the Olympian gods according to Greek mythology, Mount Pelion is the crown jewel of Thessaly in mainland Greece. Striking the perfect balance between a lush alpine area and a seaside resort, the mountain has trails leading to dreamy springs and, at the bottom of the slopes, hidden beaches with crystalline waters. Admire the traditional stone houses of the numerous villages and taste a luscious local delicacy in the shade of sycamore trees. Remember to try tsipouro, an intense distilled spirit, in a tavern in Volos, a town sitting at the foot of the mountain.

Mykonos and Santorini aren’t the only Greek islands to host whitewashed houses and cobbled alleys. Paros shares the same allure, but in a much quieter setting. Walk through fuchsia bougainvillaea along the narrow passages of Naoussa town and join the crowds dancing at the buzzing nightclubs. Lefkes village is where you can snap that flawless Insta shot. Make sure to visit Panagia Ekatontapyliani, a splendid Byzantine stone church in the port town of Parikia, and swim in the translucent waters of Kolymbithres beach, which are framed by impressive granite rocks.

Cinque Terre is not as glamorous as the Amalfi coast or as glittering as Lake Como, yet it’s so picture-perfect, it makes all those photo-editing apps utterly useless. The name means five lands, because Cinque Terre is comprised of five fishing villages, each as charming as the next. Follow the pathways between the towns and immerse yourselves in a colourful maze dotted with pastel-coloured houses perching on the cliffs. Grab fresh calamari from the streets of Vernazza and be sure to follow the Lovers’ Trail between Manarola and Riomaggiore – the sunset views are unreal.

Crystal-clear waters, serene lakes and jaw-dropping canyons make Montenegro the ultimate summer destination. Climb the 1,350 steps to the top of the imposing fortifications in Kotor town and pop by the old royal capital of Cetinje for a plethora of museums and amazing architecture. Look out for picturesque monasteries – such as Ostrog Monastery, which emerges from a rock – and feel free to wander aimlessly around the luxurious yachts moored at the plush marina of Porto Montenegro.

It may not appear it at first, but Newcastle is a great place to head for a summer break, with plenty of sunny outdoor spots to enjoy a refreshing drink and access to some of the UK’s most underrated beaches. Just up the coast from the city affectionately known as “the toon” are stunning stretches of white sand, including Tynemouth, which is overlooked by the impressive castle and priory, standing proud atop the headland. Further up the coast in Northumberland are places like Druridge Bay, Alnwick and Bamburgh, with its imposing 12th century castle sitting right behind a vast expanse of fine white sand and clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot sunny day. Back in the city, there’s plenty of bars and restaurants along the quayside for an outdoor drink, while the Ouseburn just down from the Millennium Bridge is a cultural oasis, full of independent bars and art galleries and even a city farm. It may not be top of your list for a summer break, but it’s definitely a great place to be when the sun’s shining.