Why Europe Is the Ultimate Summer Destination (And Our Top Picks!)
Europe, we LOVE you. 💙 From charming cobblestone streets to dreamy beaches and ancient ruins, this continent has everything a traveler could want—and then some. Whether you're after sun-soaked coastlines, unforgettable food, or a healthy dose of culture, Europe in the summer is where it's at.
Not only is it stunning and diverse, but Europe is also relatively affordable, easy to navigate, and rich in culture, history, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. With short distances between countries, low-cost flights, and efficient rail systems, it's possible to see multiple countries in one trip—without draining your savings.
Ready to plan your next European adventure? ✈️ Here are our personal favorite countries to visit in Europe during summer, along with our memories, tips, and inspiration to help you build your dream itinerary.
🇬🇷 Greece – The Ultimate Mediterranean Escape
Why We Love It: Beautiful islands, warm locals, affordable food, and centuries of history.
Greece feels like it was made for summer. Whether you’re sipping wine on a Santorini balcony or exploring ancient ruins in Athens, the country is steeped in charm. It’s affordable, laid-back, and perfect for both beach bums and history buffs.
Our favorite memory? Ashley explored Greece with a local friend (shoutout to lifelong connections made through travel 💕). One night ended in a "My Big Fat Greek Wedding"-style dinner, complete with homemade dishes, music, and more laughter than you can imagine.
Don’t Miss:
Santorini or Milos for sunsets and stunning whitewashed towns
Athens for a dose of ancient history (and delicious souvlaki)
Naxos or Paros for a quieter island experience
Greek food—it’s fresh, delicious, and surprisingly budget-friendly
Travel Tip: Visit in June or early September to avoid the peak crowds while still soaking in the sun. Ferries make it easy to hop between islands.
🇹🇷 Turkey – Culture, Adventure & Incredible Food
Why We Love It: A rich blend of cultures, jaw-dropping landscapes, and some of the best meals we've ever had.
Turkey isn’t always the first destination people think of for a European summer, but it should be. Ashley rang in her 28th birthday floating in a hot air balloon at sunrise in Cappadocia—and it was as magical as it sounds. From the fairy chimneys to bustling bazaars, this country is dreamy, unique, and shockingly affordable.
Also, can we talk about the food? Think grilled meats, fresh vegetables, sweet pastries, and everything seasoned just right—all for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere.
Don’t Miss:
Cappadocia for balloon rides and surreal landscapes
Istanbul for the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, and street food
Pamukkale for its cotton-candy-looking thermal terraces
Turkish breakfasts—we're still dreaming about them
Travel Tip: Travel is incredibly affordable here, from five-star stays to street eats. And don’t skip the hammam (Turkish bath) experience—just trust us.
🇮🇹 Italy – A Romantic Summer Classic
Why We Love It: Art, gelato, dramatic coastlines, world-famous food, and postcard views around every corner.
We know, we know—Kelly won’t stop talking about Italy. 😂 But can you blame her? Whether you're sipping espresso in a sunlit piazza or boating along the Amalfi Coast, Italy just hits different. It's one of the most popular summer destinations for good reason—and it truly has something for every type of traveler.
From ancient cities to coastal escapes, it’s a country you could visit again and again and never see it all.
Don’t Miss:
Rome for the Colosseum, Vatican, and pizza by the slice
Florence for Renaissance art and Tuscan charm
Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast for dramatic sea views and hiking
Sicily or Puglia for off-the-beaten-path adventures
Travel Tip: Travel between cities by train—it’s scenic, efficient, and cost-effective. Also, Kelly is currently brushing up on her Italian via Duolingo, and we fully support it. 🇮🇹
🇪🇸 Spain – Vibrant Cities & Soulful Culture
Why We Love It: Flamenco, tapas, stunning architecture, and a perfect mix of old and new.
Ashley spent a whole month bouncing around Spain, and every city had something new to offer. From Barcelona’s modernist vibe to Seville’s deep-rooted traditions, Spain is a choose-your-own-adventure destination—with no wrong choices.
It's also one of the most budget-friendly Western European countries to visit, especially if you're into good food, late-night energy, and exploring cities on foot.
Don’t Miss:
Barcelona for Gaudí, the beach, and buzzing nightlife
Madrid for museums, royal palaces, and beautiful parks
Seville for flamenco and history-soaked charm
San Sebastián for world-class food and beaches
Travel Tip: Spain is hot in summer, especially in the south. Plan early morning sightseeing and long, lazy siestas. It’s how the locals do it!
Why Europe Is the Best Summer Destination
We could go on forever, but here’s a quick roundup of what makes Europe unbeatable in summer:
Weather: Warm, sunny days across most of the continent (hello, Mediterranean tan!)
Transportation: Easy, cheap flights and reliable trains connect almost every major city
Affordability: With budget airlines, Airbnbs, and hostels, Europe can be as affordable as you want it to be
Variety: Mountains, beaches, cities, small towns, castles, ruins—you name it
Culture: Centuries of art, food, architecture, and traditions at your fingertips
Final Thoughts & What’s Coming Next
If you're dreaming about Europe this summer, let this be your sign to book that flight. Whether you’re drawn to the sparkling coast of Greece, the history-rich streets of Italy, the spicy energy of Spain, or the hidden gems in Turkey—your perfect summer escape awaits.
✨Stay tuned for in-depth itineraries, budget tips, and detailed guides to these destinations and more. We've got packing lists, foodie recs, photo spot ideas, and cultural insights coming soon.✨
So where are you heading first? Tell us in the comments or tag us in your trip photos—we love to see your adventures!
Your passport to peachy travels starts here. 🍑✈️🌍
