10 European destinations for summer 2023

VnExpress•14/06/2023

Here are 10 top destinations recommended by travel experts for those planning a trip to Europe this summer.

The World Tourism Organization predicts Europe will see a return of pre-pandemic visitor numbers, despite "inflation and a challenging economic environment." Even with rising travel costs and crowded peak summer seasons, people are still flocking to the region.

Here are 10 top summer travel destinations for 2023, for those who haven't decided where to go in Europe yet. Experts also suggest that travelers book their flights as early as possible to get the best prices.

Rome and Ponza, Italy

First-time visitors to Rome can explore popular attractions such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, or the art museums. After spending a night or two in Rome, take a train to nearby towns like Formia and Anzio. From there, you can catch a ferry to Ponza, an island with towering cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters.

Enjoying a leisurely lunch of seafood pasta, snorkeling, swimming, and soaking up the sun are suggestions for travelers wanting to experience European summer days on the island.

Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife has houses painted yellow with red tiled roofs. Photo: iStock — Tenerife has houses painted yellow with red tiled roofs. Photo: *iStock*

Summer is the best time to visit Tenerife, the largest island in the Canary Islands, as the temperatures are milder than on the Spanish mainland. The island is also a favorite tourist destination for Europeans.

Highlights of Tenerife include Teide, one of the highest peaks in Spain, and Anaga Natural Park, whose lush climate gives visitors a feeling similar to being in Costa Rica.

Participating in water sports at the island's beaches is also a popular experience for many tourists. The northern part of the island is where the local people live. Visitors can visit this area to participate in wine tasting tours at the vineyards.

Veszprém and Budapest, Hungary

Any visitor to Hungary would want to visit Budapest, a city ranked among the world's best destinations in 2023 by Time magazine. Near Budapest is Veszprém (the City of Queens), about an hour's drive away.

Veszprém is known as one of the most creative and vibrant areas in the country. The city regularly hosts arts, culture, and culinary events (with a focus on sustainability) to attract visitors.

Veszprém viewed from above. Photo: Unsplash — Veszprém viewed from above. Photo: *Unsplash*

The Bakony hills near Veszprém and Lake Balaton are ideal spots for visitors to relax during a peaceful summer vacation, or to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking through oak forests and ravines. Visitors can also explore the small villages surrounding Lake Balaton to learn about local culture and cuisine.

Istria Peninsula, Croatia

When mentioning Croatia, tourists often think of Dubrovnik, a city located on the Adriatic coast of the Dalmatia region. However, those who dislike crowds should avoid this city during the summer months. Instead, the Istria peninsula is a better option.

The peninsula is easily accessible by car and feels "amazingly Italian" with its Tuscan-style farms and vineyards stretching across the hillsides and its colorful coastal villages.

The first leg of this journey takes visitors to Motovun, a hilltop village, followed by Porec, a coastal village "as beautiful as a Byzantine mosaic." Afterward, visitors continue south to Rovinj, another charming fishing village, by boat.

Azores, Portugal

Hotspots like Lisbon and Porto are all too familiar. If you want to visit a Portugal free of tourist crowds and in a sustainable way, consider the pristine Arozes archipelago.

The Azores islands are scattered across the Atlantic Ocean, and the best time to visit is from June to September. "There's always something for everyone in the Azores," many visitors say. Active people can find activities like hiking, diving, and surfing. Visitors can also enjoy the wines, cuisine, and architecture of the islands.

Kotor, Montenegro

For budget-conscious travelers looking for a European getaway, consider a trip to Kotor. This affordable town is situated along the Adriatic coast. Its medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets, red-roofed houses, and stunning views of Kotor Bay, is a favorite among many visitors.

According to assessments from the multinational financial company American Express (Amex), Montenegro's tourism industry is experiencing remarkable growth. The country is also one of the top 10 most popular destinations this year, based on Amex's booking data.

Kotor as seen from above. Photo: *Unsplash*

Warsaw, Poland

Ranked among the top destinations in Europe in 2023, Warsaw was rated as "the ideal destination for travelers looking for something spectacular for their summer holiday."

The city is cold, with snow falling during the winter months. Summer becomes the optimal time to see the capital. The Old Quarter is the best place to start your sightseeing. You can wander through the ancient squares, walk along the Royal Route to see the Royal Palace, St. Anne's Church, and the Presidential Palace. Other activities include visiting Lezienki Royal Park and strolling along the Vistula River – a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.

Athens, Greece

Many people visiting Greece often head straight to the popular islands, skipping the capital Athens. But missing out on this destination, with its rich culture, history, and cuisine, would be a shame.

Just south of the city center lies the Athenian Riviera, a stretch of rocky and sandy coastline, perfect for a city and beach getaway. The area boasts many affordable hotels.

Malta

Malta is hot in the summer, but there are plenty of beaches where visitors can cool off by swimming. With over 300 historical sites, simply walking around Malta will make you feel like you're stepping back in time or into a historical film. The rest of the island consists of resorts, coves, and parks. The capital, Valletta, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980.

Those who enjoy partying can head to St. Julian's for a vibrant nightlife. LGBTQ+ visitors will also find Malta comfortable, as it is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world.

Istanbul, Türkiye

After arriving in Istanbul, you can go home and brag to everyone that you've visited both Asia and Europe this summer, as the city lies on two continents, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. Despite Türkiye suffering significant damage from the earthquake earlier this year, Istanbul is ready to welcome visitors again.

The city boasts numerous attractions such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus Strait, where you can see two continents simultaneously.

Anh Minh (According to Upgraded points )

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