7 Best European Cities to Visit in Summer

Why Summer Is the Best Time to Travel Europe

What makes traveling in summer to Europe so special? Several reasons. As the days get longer and the temperatures warmer, you’ll find locals and tourists alike sipping on Spritzes, dining al fresco while eating tapas and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. A European summer means you don’t need to worry about much rain or cold snaps. Instead, you can enjoy longer days that allow you to explore historic sites and winding cobblestone streets without feeling rushed.

Summer in Europe is also filled with plenty of festivals and cultural experiences, which are some of the top experiences today’s travelers are interested in. Cities like Barcelona, Rome, Paris, Edinburgh and London host events that attract locals and travelers. Consider the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, or the Zagreb Folk Fest in Zagreb, Croatia, both popular summer cultural festivals that offer an immersive experience into each respective country’s culture.

And travel in summer to Europe won’t be complete without a mention of beaches and coastal towns, which brim with life as locals and visitors seek reprieve from the heat. From the Amalfi Coast to the French Riviera and Greek Islands, Europe’s beach destinations are in full swing, with beachside dining, dazzling nightlife and access to boats and ferries to easily explore new destinations.

Top Mediterranean European Cities to Visit in Summer 

Summer brings out the best in Europe, mostly due to the easygoing, yet vibrant energy that defines the season. Along the Mediterranean, you can find relaxing European cities to visit in summer​ that lend themselves to lazy afternoons on the beach and evenings sipping wine at a sidewalk café. The following destinations come alive with festivals, street life and cultural events as people embrace a more relaxed social rhythm.

1. Nice, France

One of the best European cities to visit in summer is in the heart of the French Riviera. Nice, situated along the Côte d'Azur, features stunning Belle Époque architecture that contrasts beautifully with the rich blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. During the summer, Promenade des Anglais is abuzz with a vibrant mix of tourists, locals, street performers and cyclists, creating a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy fine dining and explore local boutiques for some shopping. The pebbled beaches are ideal for soaking up the sun while enjoying a refreshing drink, and the pastel-colored alleys of Old Town, known as Vieux Nice, feature local markets like Cours Saleya, with its fresh produce and flowers. From open-air concerts in city parks to the renowned Nice Jazz Festival, Nice is the perfect summer escape.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Another one of the best places to travel in Europe in the summer is Barcelona. Western Europe tours to the city introduce you to Antoni Gaudí’s iconic, whimsical landmarks like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as pristine beaches like Barceloneta and Bogatell, populated with swimmers and volleyball players by day and lively partiers by night. To escape the heat, visitors can wander the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter and explore areas like the bohemian neighborhood of Gràcia. During the summer months, adventurers exploring Barcelona can enjoy cultural events like La Mercè, which is one of the city’s biggest festivals highlighted by colorful fireworks and parades.

3. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls make it another exciting European city to visit in summer, offering sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below. The Old Town comprises a maze of stone streets, baroque churches and seaside cafés, while the Dubrovnik Summer Festival fills July and August with a series of music, dance and theater performances. Visitors can also take a short ferry to Lokrum Island for a relaxing day trip complete with tranquil beaches and delicious local cuisine.

Cool and Cultural Cities in Central and Northern Europe

Many travelers today prefer to partake in cultural events for an immersive travel experience. Fortunately, many of the cities in Central and Northern Europe feature local traditions and festivals that visitors can enjoy and even participate in.

4. Berlin, Germany

Creative energy spills into Berlin’s parks, canals and open-air venues during the summer. Locals lounge at Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport turned public space that hosts a range of events, such as the Berlin Circus Festival or the City and Country Giant Kite Festival. The Spree River offers a haven for people to sit along the riverbank to relax and enjoy the cool breeze that flows downstream. The Kreuzberg-Friedrichshain district is home to many popular up-and-coming neighborhoods, offering world-class museums, flea markets and art shows where visitors can find unique souvenirs to commemorate their time in this cultural area of Berlin.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Eastern and Central Europe tours in the summer can take you to Prague, a city that seems straight out of a fairytale, with the Charles Bridge glowing in the early morning light and the Old Town Square offering a vibrant meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. Across the Vltava River, the Castle complex offers a glimpse into the history of Medieval times, while summer festivals such as the United Islands and Prague Proms fill the city’s parks and plazas with live music.

Underrated Summer Destinations in Europe

Many of Europe’s cities come alive with tourists eager to enjoy leisurely dining experiences on lively terraces or other adventures that stretch late into the evening, thanks to extended daylight hours. While this can lead to overcrowding in certain destinations, there are plenty of underrated spots that offer all the charm and ambiance of a European summer without waiting in long lines at attractions or competing for the best hotels and transportation.

6. Vienna, Austria

Vienna in summer is a perfect time to experience the elegance and charm of this cultural city in a wonderfully laid-back manner. As one of the best European cities to visit in summer and often overlooked, Vienna offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy sites like Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral without the bustling crowds. On hot days, enjoy the shaded walking paths of the Ringstrasse or venture to the Danube Island to swim and sunbathe. Music also defines the city, serving as the birthplace of renowned composers like Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert. During the summer, tourists can attend the Vienna Film Festival at Rathausplatz, where they can enjoy opera and concerts while indulging in food stalls that dot the perimeter.

7. Thessaloniki, Greece

Another one of the most underrated European cities to visit in summer is Thessaloniki, Greece, featuring a perfect blend of seaside relaxation and vibrant urban culture. During the summer, the waterfront promenade buzzes with locals enjoying cold frappés and street music. In late summer, the Dimitria Festival features theater, music and dance performances across venues large and small, while local markets and ouzeries in Ladadika delight in serving fresh seafood and flavorful meze, offering visitors a culinary treat for their taste buds.

Planning Tips for Traveling Europe in the Summer

Ready to explore some of the best European cities to visit in summer? Take a look at these essential travel tips for Europe to ensure a safe, stress-free and unforgettable journey:

• Book early: Summer is one of the most popular times for European travel, which means accommodations, transportation and attractions can be filled quickly. Book your European vacation well in advance to ensure you get the best prices and accommodations.
• Expect crowds: Major attractions can get packed, so consider booking attractions at less crowded times, such as the early morning or later in the evening.
• Pack light and smart: Choose breathable clothing, comfortable shoes and layers for cooler evenings, such as a light jacket, scarf or shawl that can easily be dressed up or down.
• Hydrate and protect: When exploring Europe’s iconic cities, you’ll most likely find yourself on your feet much longer than you do at home as you wander through museums and quiet alleys. Make sure to pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day and apply sunscreen to avoid uncomfortable sunburns.
• Check local events: To get the most out of your adventure, look up local festivals or holidays you can join and participate in.

Explore the Best European Cities to Visit in Summer with Road Scholar

Looking for one-of-a-kind Europe tours this summer? Look no further than Road Scholar. At Road Scholar, we have an exciting collection of the best places to travel in Europe in summer​, from iconic metropolises like Paris and London to more underrated and culturally diverse destinations like those previously mentioned, or perhaps Porto and Palermo. No matter the European city you choose, you’ll join a diverse cohort of like-minded travelers eager to learn more about the world around them. Plus, our expert local guides will walk you through the history, culture, traditions and geography of each city, offering an educational and immersive experience you’ll never forget. Find an adventure today to enjoy a European summer of your own.