While we’re having fun in the sun in places like Cancun and Punta Cana, Europeans flock to their own set of popular, picturesque beach destinations—many of which remain almost unknown to most American travelers. This list of the six most popular sun holiday destinations, based on European booking data, features beautiful escapes with pristine coastlines, miles of sandy beaches, jewel-toned waters, culinary adventures and sun for days. And no, we’re not just talking about usual suspects like Santorini and Ibiza. Peruse this list of top under-the-radar beach escapes Euros flock to and then think about joining them next summer.
RELATED: Why This Eastern Capital is Now Europe’s Hippest City
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, Spain
Sun-drenched Mallorca has been a hot spot for Brits and Germans for years due to its numerous charming towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches, which is why a car rental is recommended to explore this large island—the largest of the Balearics. If you’re looking for nightlife and an energetic atmosphere, stay at Hotel Mama in Palma, the capital; it’s just steps away from shopping, restaurants and historic destinations such as the Bellver Castle. If you’re looking for a chill vibe, the bay front village of Port de Sóller is just what the doctor ordered. The Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel & Spa offers spectacular views of the ocean and the mountains, and is a quick walk to the quaint town center. From there, relax on the Mediterranean and charter a sailboat with Mezzo Magic or hop aboard a tram and get lost in the orange groves in the Sóller Valley at Ecovinyassa (by reservation only).
Algarve Coast
Algarve, Portugal
With long, hot summers, views you can get lost in and endless water sports and excursions like surfing and snorkeling, it’s obvious why this region of azure blue waters and stunning rock formations is a European holiday paradise. Did we mention the area is known for its orange sand? The lively town of Lagos is a popular destination, offering up cliff views overlooking the Mediterranean, summer nightlife and markets filled with fish and local produce. Conrad’s Algarve by Hilton in Lagos overlooks the idyllic scenery of the Ria Formosa National Park. The hotel offers guests a unique tour of a historic cork route where they can take in the dramatic cork oak groves, which have served wineries and fashion designers for hundreds of years. Just west of Lagos, be on the lookout for Sagres, a rocky cape and scenic town on the southwestern most tip of Europe. For relaxation away from the crowds, stay at Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort. The village has a laid-back vibe and simple, cheery cafes and bars, and has become popular in recent years with surfers. Don’t miss the Sagres Fortress, which sits right on the edge of a giant cliff.
Cyprus
Cyprus
This Eastern Mediterranean island is technically located in Western Asia although culturally it’s considered European. Rich with history and known as the birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, Cyprus has much to offer the curious traveler. The isle is surrounded by the most alluring blue waters and has a massive amount of coves and caves to explore. In winter, one of the island’s most interesting things for visitors to do is to actually ski the Troodos Mountains and sunbathe on the beach in the same day. Cyprus is also known as having the world’s oldest named wine and as the birthplace of haloumi cheese. Needless to say, the culinary game is on point. There are restaurants and hotels scattered across the island, but the town of Ayia Napa draws visitors for its stretch of golden sand and exciting nightlife.
Malta
Malta
Located directly below Sicily is the well-kept secret of Malta, an independent archipelago with a warm climate, miles of epic dive sites and, most famously of all, historical and architectural monuments. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hypogeum of Hal-Saflieni, an underground temple that was thought to be a sanctuary and necropolis. If ancient ruins aren’t your thing, opt for a tour of the Blue Grotto, a cluster of sea caverns on the southeast coast or the Sunday Market at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village. Pick up some local treasures and be sure to look out for handmade lace and hand-woven fabrics. Stay at the db Seabank Resort, and ride the ferry to nearby Gozo for an ideal day trip. Malta’s sister island, Gozo, is filled with green scenic hills and you guessed it, tiny magical beaches.
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes, Greece
Move over Santorini and Mykonos: Rhodes is the new Greek destination island, minus the massive crowds. A perfect mix of old and new, Rhodes melds historic architecture and a bustling city scene with gentle sea breezes, powdery beaches and unfettered ocean. Nestled at the foot of a steep rock and beautifully surrounded by the sea lies Lindos, a popular fishing village and home of a centuries-old clifftop acropolis. The view of Lindos with its square houses tumbling down the hillside under the acropolis is one of the most photographed sights in Greece. Catch this view at Melenos Lindos, a small luxury hotel with the most magnificent traditional hand-crafted details, including carved sand-stone and pebble-paving mosaics.
Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife, Spain
Almost guaranteed sun all year long is the number one reason Europeans flock to Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, located off the coast of Morocco. (The azure waters and black and gold silky sand beaches are reasons number two and three.) Teide National Park is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, where you can take a cable car to the summit for panoramic views. If you’re an adventure seeker, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers tons of hiking through forests and volcanic grounds. The island has a wealth of dining options and resorts to appeal to any traveler, and it’s dotted with quaint towns, like Garachico, a charming hamlet with an authentic vibe. Grab some tapas and enjoy the sites of this untouched oasis.
Jeanette Zinno
Latest posts by Jeanette Zinno (see all)
- The most Instagrammable lakes in the US - May 31, 2020
- The most Instagrammable food in New York City - October 31, 2019
- 5 vineyards that make for great wine country volunteer vacations - September 12, 2019
Travelocity compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.
Are there any packages for these areas? Or flight deals for these? I’m ready to go! Thanks, Elsa