It’s coming up to summer time in Europe. That period of the year where twinkling islands in the Mediterranean are sizzling hot, a dip in the blue sea is the perfect refresher, and European destinations become alive with people visiting from all over the world. What can be sleepy destinations in the winter, turn to little honeypots come the warmer months.

But if you’re planning a holiday in Europe this year, where’s the best place to go? Well I’m here to help you decide because, in my opinion, nothing beats a European summer. Whether you want to travel to see the continent’s cities and experience the culture, or sail out into the sea on a catamaran, Europe has pretty much everything covered you could want from a summer holiday.

I’ve visited all the destinations below during the summer months, and I’ve been very lucky to visit some cool places – places that I can fully recommend for summer in Europe. Majorca, Greece, and Greece all make the list and there’s also Portugal and Ibiza too.

If you’re visiting the below places from the UK, they’re all no more than a few hours away by plane. So if you only have a few days of annual leave to spare, or you’re on a budget but still want to travel, all these European destinations are perfect for either a quick getaway. However, if you have more time to play with, or more money to put towards your summer holiday, each destination below can be ideal for 2 weeks or more. You can even combine some of the destinations below so that your European summer is one to remember!

Just a warning, you may need to take a little electric fan as summer in Europe can get hot. But it’s nothing an iced lemon fanta or ice cream can’t help with. Get ready for dreamy photos and even better memories this summer if you visit one of these beautiful European destinations this summer…

Greek Islands

Now, I’m specifically suggesting the Greek Islands as I haven’t yet visited mainland Greece (it’s on my ever growing list!). But, from the Greek Islands I have visited, my opinion is that you just can’t go wrong with a holiday in Greece. Each island has its own character while still remaining distinctly Greek.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Zante, Rhodes, Symi, Corfu and Crete and I’d happily return to each one but below are my best recommendation for a Greek summer holiday.

Crete

Crete is a special place. I first visited with a one of my school friends and his family, staying on the north coast between Heraklion and Chania. It’s one of those trips that has stayed with me ever since.

In between days on the beach or playing pool by the pool, I remember long, sun-filled days exploring the island. We did an island tour, wandering around Chania’s harbour enjoying thick Greek yoghurt drizzled with honey, and heading out on boat trips (on one boat trip I fell asleep in the sun and woke up horrendously sunburnt which my friend has not let me forget since). On another, we went snorkelling and spotted what looked like a WWII plane wreck on the seabed, and even tried sea urchin for the first time. In between the usual teenage antics, it was a memorable holiday.

I returned in 2024, this time based in Chania, and it felt just as special—only now I experienced it differently. This visit was more about slowing down and exploring Crete’s culture and history.

Our group visited Venizelos Graves, which offer not only a fascinating insight into Crete’s more recent past but also sweeping views across the city. It’s worth reading up on the history beforehand or visiting with a guide to fully appreciate its significance.

Another highlight was the Holy Trinity Tzagaroli Monastery. The setting alone is beautiful, but what makes it even more special are the walking trails that surround it. One of these trails leads all the way down to Katholiko Bay, a secluded and dramatic stretch of coastline. We didn’t make the full hike (the climb back up is steep, and we were short on time), but it’s one walk I’d love to return and complete.

We did, however, make it back from our walk in time for something equally memorable as a visit to the coast—wine tasting at the monastery. Yes, wine tasting at a monastery. The wines were some of the best I’ve tasted, especially the sweeter varieties. I brought a couple of bottles home, along with some olive oil—both perfect reminders of the island. My only wish is that I’d had more room in my suitcase to bring more home. It’s a perfect excuse to visit again though.

Then there’s Chania itself. As Crete’s second-largest city after Heraklion, it manages to feel both lively and intimate. It’s hard not to be captivated by its 14th-century Venetian harbour, the iconic 16th-century lighthouse, colourful waterfront buildings, and the striking Kucuk Hasan Mosque (also known as the Yiali Mosque).

As you wander through the old town, you’ll notice layers of history everywhere with Venetian, Ottoman and Roman influences all blending into one. The best way to experience it is simply to get lost in the winding streets, before ending your day by the harbour. Restaurants like Arismari offer creative Cretan dishes that feel both modern and comforting and the service here is just wonderful.

If you’re looking to relax by the sea, Crete has no shortage of beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular include Elafonissi Beach, Balos Lagoon, Falassarna Beach, Stavros Beach, Kedrodasos Beach, Chrissi Akti (Golden Beach), and Marathi Beach.

I love Rhodes. For me, it’s the perfect destination to combine slow, relaxing beach days with just the right amount of exploring.

I’ve visited twice now, and both times stayed at Cook’s Club Ialysos Rhodes. The location is hard to beat—just 10 minutes from the airport, a short walk to the nearest beach, and around 20 minutes by bus into Rhodes Town. Our days were spent by the pool, drifting between sun loungers, good food, and cocktails, while evenings were for heading into town for dinner or finding a nearby Greek taverna.

If you’re looking for similar stays, it’s worth exploring other boutique-style hotels in Ialysos or on the main route between Ialysos to Rhodes Town where there are plenty of hotels that same balance of relaxation and accessibility.

In between those slower pool days, I’d really recommend setting aside time to explore both Lindos and Rhodes Town.

Lindos is one of the prettiest places on the island, with its whitewashed buildings and narrow, winding lanes that feel almost maze-like as they climb gently uphill. At the top sits the Acropolis of Lindos, towering over Lindos and it’s absolutely worth the visit for the views alone. We explored it independently, wandering through the ancient ruins at our own pace, but guided tours are available if you want more historical context.

Lindos Acropolis can get very hot and busy, especially in peak summer, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. There’s very little shade, and the climb up is steep in places, so take water and wear comfortable shoes.

If you’d prefer to soak up the views without the climb, Lindos has plenty of rooftop bars and terraces where you can sit back with a drink and take it all in. We enjoyed a cool margarita and refreshing beer at Apollo Bar which was a great treat after wandering around the acropolis in the heat.

Lindos is also home to some beautiful beaches, including St Paul’s Bay and Lindos Beach. On one visit, we spent the morning exploring the village and acropolis, before heading down to St Paul’s Bay for the afternoon. There’s usually a fee for sunbeds, but it’s worth it for a more comfortable, relaxed experience. The calm, shallow water also makes it a great spot for snorkelling.

Rhodes Town is another must-visit. The modern side has all the usual shops, cafés and restaurants, but it’s the Rhodes Old Town that really stands out because walking through it feels like stepping back in time.

Inside the walls, you’ll find a mix of historic landmarks including the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Master, the cobbled Street of the Knights and Suleymaniye Mosque, as well as plenty of small shops, and places to eat and drink. Some of our places to eat include Castello House restaurant for drinks, Giallo Verde for ice cream, and Proedros for Gyros, Il Borgo for pizza and Sissito for sushi. We visited Rhodes Town several times during our trips, sometimes for a full day of exploring and other times just for an evening meal after wandering the streets at golden hour.

Rhodes Old Town is also a great starting point for day trips. Many boat excursions depart from here, whether you’re heading to nearby islands or exploring more of Rhodes’ coastline. There are also organised tours available if you want to see more of the island without hiring a car.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in Rhodes
27–33°C

✈️ Flight Time From UK to Rhodes
Around 4 hours

🛏️ Where To Stay in Rhodes
Ialyssos (Close to Rhodes Airport and Rhodes Town)
👉 Cook’s Club Ialyssos, Martini Boutique Resort, Olympic Palace Hotel

Kolymbia
👉 Casa Cook Rhodes, Cook’s Club Kolymbia

Best Summer Activities In Rhodes
⭐ Guided Rhodes Old Town Walking Tour
⭐ Lindos Bus Tour With Free Time
⭐ Rhodes Island Tour with Wine, Honey and Olive Oil Tasting
⭐ Horse Ride On The Beach at Sunset
⭐ Cruise To Symi Island and St George’s Bay

Having only spent one day on Symi Island, you might think it’s strange I’m recommending it for a place to go for your summer holiday. However, I’d love to go back – it gave me the impression of being a very laidback island. We wandered around the main town on Symi, commonly referred to as Symi but actually made up of two parts – Gialos which is the harbour area and Chorio which is the village on the hillside, reached by a long staircase often called the Kali Strata—with a few hundred steps leading up to sweeping views across the harbour.

First impressions of the island show off the picturesque harbour with its colourful houses and buildings. Then you get further into Symi’s main town and discover the pretty streets and little shops. There are plenty of restaurants and bars here too if you stay on the islands as well as walking trails if you want to get out and about during your time here.

Then if you want to see Symi’s coast, hop on a water taxi to see the island’s beautiful beaches. St George’s Bay is absolutely stunning with its pale sand beach and clear water perfect for snorkelling, however St George’s Bay is very secluded and there are no facilities here. If you want a more catered beach day, head to Agios Nikolaos Beach where there are sunbeds and a beach bar so you can really relax by the sea.

The one thing I would say about Symi is that it gets hot. And I know Greece does get hot in the summer but I mean baking hot. We struggled to find much shade to shelter in during the day, unless we were at a bar or restaurant, so I would recommend staying here early or late summer if you’re planning a summer holiday in Symi. Alternatively, you can combine a trip to Symi from Rhodes by easily doing a day trip by boat from Rhodes Town.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in Symi
26-31°C

✈️ Flight Time From UK to Symi
Around 4 hours to Rhodes and then a 1-2 hour ferry to Symi Island

🛏️ Where To Stay in Symi
Ialyssos (Close to Rhodes Airport and Rhodes Town)
👉 Cook’s Club Ialyssos, Martini Boutique Resort, Olympic Palace Hotel

Kolymbia
👉 Casa Cook Rhodes, Cook’s Club Kolymbia

Best Summer Activities In Symi
⭐ Panormitis Monastery & Marathounta Bay Day Trip
⭐ Sea Kayaking Tour with Picnic Lunch and Snorkelling
⭐ Mini Van Excursion to Toli Bay

The Algarve is often thought of as a winter sun escape, but it really comes into its own in summer. If you’re looking for golden beaches, good surf, charming towns and incredible seafood, it’s hard to beat.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit three times with the most recent being for a family holiday in late Spring 2026. When I go to the Algarve, I look forward to the simple things—lazy days by the pool, exploring coastal spots like Benagil Cave, wandering through the creative town of Loule, and long, balmy evenings spent eating fresh seafood at local restaurants.

I’m a big fan of Portugal in general, but the Algarve is particularly easy to recommend. It’s under a three hour flight from the UK, and there are also direct flights from parts of the US into Faro, making it an accessible option for a summer break.

One thing to keep in mind is the size of the region – the Algarve stretches over 200km along the southern coast. Where you choose to stay will really shape your trip, so it’s worth picking a base that matches your travel style.

Most trips start with flights landing into Faro. To the east, you’ll find Olhao, a characterful town that feels more traditionally Portuguese. It’s known for its markets, especially the seafood market, and makes a great base for exploring the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park, a beautiful coastal lagoon system stretching for around 60km.

From Olhao it’s easy to take boat trips or water taxis out to the barrier islands. Ilha da Culatra is one of the most popular, with its lighthouse and small fishing community, but you can also explore quieter islands at your own pace. One particularly unique spot is Restaurante Estamine, the only restaurant on Ilha Deserta, known for its locally sourced menu and remote, oceanfront setting.

Further east of Olhao, Tavira offers a slower pace. Set along the Gilão River, it’s full of historic charm and often feels a world away from the busier resort towns. While there are Roman influences in the area, Tavira is more widely known for its Moorish and traditional Portuguese architecture, as well as access to long, undeveloped beaches.

To the west of Faro, the Algarve becomes more varied and, in places, more dramatic. Towns like Gale, Salgados, Armacao de Pera, Benagil and Carvoeiro are well placed for exploring the coastline, while Lagos offers a lively mix of beaches, history and nightlife.

Beyond Lagos, places like Praia da Luz and Sagres feel wilder and more rugged, with dramatic cliffs, strong surf and a more laid-back atmosphere.

I’ve personally stayed in Gale and Salgados, which worked really well as a base for relaxing and enjoying the Algarve’s dramatic coastline as well as smaller villages and towns inland. Each of these places offer easy access to places like Loulé and Benagil for day trips, while still being close to the beach. Salgados in particular is great for beach access, with a long boardwalk running alongside the sand, dotted with relaxed beachside restaurants. From here, it’s an easy walk into Gale, where you’ll find surf schools, coffee spots and a more local feel.

In terms of accommodation, there’s something for every type of trip. I’ve stayed at W Algarve in Gale, which is ideal for couples or groups looking for a more luxurious, all-in-one stay. With a spa, multiple restaurants (including the excellent Paper Moon), pools, a lively bar, and direct beach access, it’s a place where you can fully switch off.

For a family-friendly option, Salgados is a great area to look in. Many of the resorts here cater well to multi-generational trips, with kids’ pools, activities, and easy beach access, as well as plenty of nearby restaurants for relaxed evenings out. We’ve stayed at the Westin Salgados Beach Resort and will be staying at the Marriot Residences Salgados Resort in 2026. Other hotels that have caught my eye include Kimpton Atlântico Algarve in-between Albufeira and Salgados, and Casa Mae in Lagos.

Salgados and Gale are also a great base if you’re planning to explore further—whether that’s walking part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail or taking day trips to places like Lagos or Loulé.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in The Algarve
25-30°C

✈️ Flight Time From UK to Faro, The Algarve
Around 2.5 – 3 hours

🛏️ Where To Stay in The Algarve
Olhão or Tavira in the Eastern Algarve – Perfect for a quiet and more traditional stay
👉 Pure Formosa Concept Hotel, B&B Hotel Olhão, Real Marina Hotel and Spa, OZADI Tavira Hotel, Altanure Almatere – Food Forest Boutique Stay

Albufeira, Faro or Gale in Central Algarve – Great for beaches, families and variety
👉 3HB Faro, Roots Hotel, Wine and Books By The Sea, The Westin Salgados Beach Resort, Marriott Residences Salgados Resort, Kimpton Atlantico Algarve by IHG, W Algarve

Lagos or Sagres – If you’re after a more rugged, scenic and surf-focused holiday
👉 The Editory By the Sea, Casa Margo, Memmo Baleeira – Design Hotels

Best Summer Activities In The Algarve
⭐ Benagil Caves and Dolphin Watching from Albufeira
⭐ Horse Riding Tour with Pickup from Albufeira
⭐ Guided Kayak Tour from Lagos
⭐ Jeep Safari Excursion in the Algarve Mountains
⭐ Surf Experience at Gale Beach
⭐ Seven Hanging Valleys Guided Walk
⭐ Ria Formosa Full-Day 3-Island Boat Tour

Ibiza

Ibiza will always have a part of my heart. It’s one of those places that’s hard to fully describe—there’s a certain magic to the island that you only really understand once you’ve been.

Well known for its world-class nightlife, Ibiza has absolutely earned its reputation as a summer party destination. Iconic clubs like Pacha Ibiza, Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Hotel and Hï Ibiza host some of the biggest DJ residencies in the world throughout the season.

But it’s not all about big nights out. Ibiza does daytime just as well. Beachside chiringuitos and beach clubs like El Chiringuito Cala Gracioneta and Cala Bassa Beach Club offer a more laidback vibe, with music drifting through the air as you relax by the sea. And of course, nowhere does sunset quite like Cafe del Mar—a classic Ibiza experience with the soundtrack to match. You don’t have to pay big bucks though to enjoy the Ibizan sunset, rock up with some chilled drinks from the local supermarket and grab yourself a spot on the rocks along the sunset strip and enjoy an Ibizan sunset without the price tag.

Ibiza isn’t just about dancing the day (and night) away though. There’s so much more to the island than its club scene. While nightlife is mainly centred around San Antonio and Playa d’en Bossa, much of the rest of the island has a completely different feel which is more relaxed, bohemian, and free-spirited.

You’ll find hippy markets like Las Dalias Hippy Market and Punta Arabi Hippy Market, yoga retreats tucked away in the hills, and no shortage of beautiful beaches and walking trails to explore.

In recent years, Ibiza has also become known for its more refined, luxury side. While the party scene is still very much alive, there’s an increasing focus on slower, more indulgent travel. The island is home to some incredible hotels offering five-star service and design-led stays.

Places like Six Senses Ibiza, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay and OKU Ibiza make perfect bases—whether you’re splitting your time between exploring Ibiza Town (also known locally as Eivissa) and its historic Dalt Vila, or beach hopping between spots like Cala Comte and Cala d’Hort. My favourite beaches include Cala Gracioneta, Sa Caleta and Playa de ses Salines – make sure to grab some food at Sa Trinxa for fresh fish and music in the afternoon.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in Ibiza
25-31°C

✈️ Flight Time From UK to Ibiza
Around 2.5 hours

🛏️ Where To Stay in Ibiza
Ibiza Town – If you want to stay in a lively town full of history and culture
👉 The Standard, Ibiza, Montesol Experimental Ibiza, Ibiza Corso Hotel, Mikasa Ibiza Boutique Hotel

San Antonio – A busy area with a mix of budget friendly and stylish beachside hotels
👉 TRS Ibiza Hotel, OKU Ibiza, Hotel Sa Clau by Mambo, Bonito Ibiza by O Beach, Cubanito Ibiza, Hotel Galfi, The White Apartments, Excelsior Estudios & Apartamentos, Hotel Portmany, THB Naeco Ibiza – Adults Only

Santa Eulalia – Relaxed and friendly area perfect for families
👉 Hotel Mongibello Ibiza, Aguas de Ibiza – Small Luxury Hotel of the World, Hotel Riomar Ibiza, Melia Ibiza, Nativo Hotel Ibiza, W Ibiza, Boutique Apartments Marsol Ibiza, Me by Melia Ibiza, MalaQuita Hotel Boutique

Best Summer Activities In Ibiza
⭐ Snorkelling and Stand Up Paddleboard Beach and Cave Tour
⭐ Sunset Cruise with Live Saxophone Music
⭐ Secret Spots 4X4 Island Tour
⭐ Small Group Day Trip To Formentera
⭐ Can Marca Caves, Las Dalias Hippie Market and Benirras Tour
⭐ Guided Food Tour Of Ibiza Town

Mallorca (Majorca) feels like Ibiza’s older, bigger sister. It’s larger, more varied, and offers a little bit of everything—whether that’s beaches, mountains, or beautiful historic towns. Its capital, Palma, is bigger and more culturally rich, and the island as a whole has a more diverse landscape, from sandy coves in the south and east to dramatic scenery and stone villages in the northwest.

I know I said Ibiza has a piece of my heart, but Mallorca is just as special—and an island I’ve returned to time and time again (around five visits and counting). Ibiza might pull you back with its energy, but Mallorca is the one that keeps you coming back for its sheer variety.

Palma is a fantastic place for a city break in its own right. It does get hot in peak summer (I’ve experienced 38°c here before), but the atmosphere, food scene, and architecture make it worth it. Spend a few days wandering the old town, visiting landmarks like La Seu Cathedral, and enjoy long lunches in shaded squares. It also works perfectly as part of a wider island trip.

If you’re here for the beaches, Mallorca won’t disappoint. Areas like Alcudia and Cala d’Or are great bases, with easy access to some of the island’s best sandy stretches.

That said, if you want to see more of what makes Mallorca special, hiring a car is well worth it. It gives you the freedom to explore hidden coves and quieter spots like Cala Varques and Cala Mondrago. One of my favourite memories from a trip here was a full day of beach hopping, ending at Calo del Moro, secluded but busy cove with the clearest, bluest water I’ve ever seen—I only wish we’d had more time to stay.

If beaches aren’t your main focus, head to the northwest, where you’ll find the Serra de Tramuntana. This mountain range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favourite among cyclists, but it’s also perfect for scenic drives and slower-paced exploring.

This area is home to some of Mallorca’s most beautiful villages, including Valldemossa, Deia, Fornalutx and Soller.

Valldemossa is one of the most popular, and it’s easy to spend a full day here wandering its cobbled streets, stopping for coffee, and browsing independent shops. Sóller is another highlight, known for its lively square and its famous oranges—you’re never far from a fresh juice or orange ice cream.

Sóller is also famous for its historic tram and train connection to Palma. The vintage Ferrocarril de Soller is one of the island’s most iconic experiences. Whether you travel from Palma to Sóller or the other way around, the journey takes you through tunnels, mountains, and some of the most scenic landscapes on the island.

If you’re torn between Ibiza and Mallorca, you can actually combine both. Ferries run between the islands (typically around 2–4 hours depending on the route and service). That said, Mallorca offers more variety if you’re looking to fill your trip with day trips and different experiences, while Ibiza is ideal for a more relaxed, fly-and-flop holiday with a touch of nightlife and beach club culture.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in Mallorca
25-32°C

✈️ Flight Time From UK to Mallorca
Around 2.5 hours

🛏️ Where To Stay in Mallorca
Palma – For culture, food and city vibes
👉 HM Jaime III, Nakar Hotel, Fil Suites, Summum Boutique Hotel Meliá Collection, Concepcio by Nobis, Palma, a Member of Design Hotels

Port de Soller – On the beach with a lively promenade
👉 Hotel Es Port, Bikini Island & Mountain Port de Soller Hotel, Hotel Eden Nord Soller

Alcudia – Family friendly with good beaches
👉 PortBlue Club Pollentia Resort & Spa, Petit Palau Alcudia, INNSiDE by Meliá Alcudia

Best Summer Activities In Mallorca
⭐ 5 Hour Catamaran Cruise With Lunch and Swim
⭐ Cathedral of Mallorca Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
⭐ Caves of Drach Entrance, Music Concert, and Boat Trip
⭐ Sunrise at Sea and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
⭐ Bodegas Ángel Winery Tour with Wine Tasting
⭐ Mallorca Island Tour with Boat, Train, Tram and Bus
⭐ Mountain Buggy Adventure with Secret Coves Tour
⭐ Valledemossa and Mountain Viewpoint Hike

Back in the UK, Cornwall is the place to go if you want that “abroad” feeling without actually leaving the country. With over 400 miles of coastline, turquoise-tinged water on a sunny day, and a mix of surf towns and tucked-away fishing villages, it’s perfect if you love being outdoors.

From creative hubs like St Ives to surf-central Newquay, there’s a huge amount of variety here. You’ve got long sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, scenic coastal paths, and plenty of places to slow down and switch off.

It’s worth knowing that Cornwall can get very busy during the UK school summer holidays (late July through August). Prices go up, popular spots get crowded, and yes, you’re more likely to find yourself navigating a narrow country lane with a queue of cars coming the other way.

That said, if that’s the only time you can go, don’t let it put you off. Cornwall still has a way of surprising you with quieter corners, especially if you’re willing to explore a little beyond the main hotspots or head out early in the day.

Cornwall is best enjoyed slowly. It’s not somewhere to rush. If you can, give yourself at least a week to explore properly and see different parts of the county. That said, even a long weekend (around 4 days) works well if you focus on one area and really get to know it.

Newquay is a great base, especially if you’re after a mix of activity and convenience. It’s one of the UK’s best-known surf towns, with beaches like Fistral Beach drawing surfers from all over. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafés, and easy access to other parts of Cornwall, making it a practical and lively place to stay.

If you’re after something a little more picturesque, St Ives offers beautiful beaches, art galleries such as Tate St Ives, while Padstow is a dream for food lovers with 5 Michelin recommended restaurants and Paul Ainsworth at No.6 holding 1 Michelin Star, it’s the place to be if you want to experience a destination through its food.

Wherever you base yourself, Cornwall is all about the simple pleasures: coastal walks, beach days, good food, and that fresh sea air.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in Cornwall
17-22°C

✈️ Travel Time From London
Around 1 hour by plane or 4–6 hours by train or car

🛏️ Where To Stay in Cornwall
Newquay – Ideal for surfing and a lively atmosphere
👉 Watergate Bay, Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, The Feathers Hotel Newquay, SeaSpace, Scarlet Hotel (Mawgan Porth), Bedruthan Hotel & Spa (Mawgan Porth)

St Ives – Artistic and picturesque with great beaches
👉 Pedn-Olva, Harbour Hotel and Spa St Ives

Padstow – perfect for food and a more relaxed pace
👉 The Pickwick Inn and Oliver’s Restaurant, The Old Custom House

Best Summer Activities In Cornwall
⭐ Eden Project Entry Ticket
⭐ Tintagel Castle Entry Ticket
⭐ Guided RIB Sealife Safari from Padstow
⭐ 2-Hour Surf Lesson in Newquay

Split is the only part of Croatia I’ve visited so far, but it left such a strong impression that I’d recommend it without hesitation for a European summer holiday. I’m sure there are plenty of other incredible spots across the country, but Split offers that perfect balance of city and beach—ideal if you like to mix exploring with relaxing.

It’s actually Croatia’s second-largest city after Zagreb (not Dubrovnik), sitting right on the beautiful Adriatic coast. Split is steeped in history and is well known as a filming location for Game of Thrones, particularly scenes set in Meereen. Walking through the city really does feel like stepping back in time, with Roman streets, ancient walls, and lively squares around every corner.

At the heart of it all is Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient Roman palace and fortress that forms much of the old town. It’s not just a historical site—it’s still very much alive, filled with homes, shops, bars and restaurants. During the day, it’s fascinating to explore, and in the evening it transforms completely. One of my favourite memories from Split was stumbling across live music in one of the palace squares with people sitting on cushions on the stone steps, drinks in hand, soaking up the atmosphere. We ended up staying for a spontaneous drink and a little late-night dance before heading home.

Just along the waterfront, you’ll find Riva promenade, a palm tree-lined stretch overlooking the harbour. It’s the perfect place for a stroll, a coffee, or something a little stronger, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.

If you’re looking to escape the city for a bit, head up to Marjan Hill, a large, forested park on the western side of Split. There are walking trails, quiet spots to swim, and plenty of viewpoints looking back over the city and coastline. If you’re short on time, the Marjan steps (around 300 of them) offer a quicker route to one of the best views so make sure to take your camera!

One of the biggest draws of staying in Split is how easy it is to explore the surrounding islands. While Greece might be more famous for island hopping, Croatia is just as good—if not more varied in some ways. From Split’s harbour, you can easily reach islands like Brac, Hvar, Solta, Vis and Korcula, either on organised tours or by ferry and catamaran.

We took a trip to Brač, which ended up being a real highlight. The day started with olive oil tasting before heading up to a viewpoint with incredible views across the island. We then made our way down to Zlatni Rat (also known as Golden Horn Beach), one of Croatia’s most iconic spots. It’s easy to see why because it’s absolutely beautiful. It is a tourist hotspot and it can get busy in peak summer but if you want a beach day where there’s everything right there, there are plenty of food stalls and water sports on offer so that you can fully enjoy your visit.

☀️ Average Summer Temperature in Split
26-32°C

✈️ Flight Time from UK to Split
Around 2.5 hours

🛏️ Where To Stay in Split
👉 Hotel Ambassador, Central Square Heritage Hotel, Jupiter Hotel, Marmont Heritage Hotel, Cornaro Hotel, Piazza Heritage Hotel

Best Summer Activities In Split
⭐ Blue Lagoon and 3 Islands Speedboat Trip
⭐ Split Old Town Food Tour with 9 Tastings and Local Wines
⭐ Small Group Guided Tour of Diocletian Palace
⭐ Krka National Park Day Trip
⭐ Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour with Entry Tickets
⭐ Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour of Split
⭐ Guided Sunset Kayak Tour
⭐ 5 Islands Full-Day Tour to Blue Cave, Vis & Hvar