Coastal Summer Destinations in Europe: The magical city of Porto in Portugal
August is special for many reasons. But most of all it’s that unique time on the calendar where the majority of people go on holidays, shutting their laptops down and creating that highly anticipated auto-reply email at work. When it comes to summer in Europe, various seaside cities manage to satisfy every traveler’s craving, like the scenic destinations near Cork City that can offer beautiful beaches, majestic castles, picturesque parks, and pretty towns. So, before you kiss the summer goodbye, check out one of these incredible locations for an unforgettable vacation.
Santorini is famous for its stark white-colored buildings with tones of deep blue that mirror the nation’s flag
Santorini, Greece
A coastal getaway destination where breathtaking views can be seen from every angle, Santorini is part of the Cyclades islands and is full of white and blue structures that perfectly represent the town’s unique nature. Here, visitors will be able to watch gorgeous sunsets while having romantic dinners atop a sea-hugging cliff – talk about peace! Not to mention Santorini is home to a famous active volcano that is thousands of years old. There are also great hiking routes for those interested in a day of scenic trekking.
Monte Carlo, Monaco
An independent city-state in its own right, Monaco is situated on the Mediterranean and boasts some seriously jaw-dropping panoramic views. Monte Carlo is the Principality’s most visited destination, with tourists frequenting luxurious name-brand shopping streets or playing casino games inside the historic, 158-year-old Monte Carlo Casino. In fact, although this casino is one of the oldest in all of Europe, visitors can still play classic table games like Blackjack and Roulette inside its walls. Visiting the casino is a must-have experience for tourists, but before entering they may want to familiarize themselves with the basic rules surrounding popular casino games. In order to get the most out of the venue and its offerings, it can be helpful to utilize a casino platform in the virtual environment as a means of practice and refreshment of skills. Because Monte Carlo is well-known for being one of the most glamorous and glitzy spots in Europe, expect to rub shoulders with the rich and famous at these casino tables. After you’ve had your fill of gaming, check out the port and its million-dollar yachts or sunbathe at the pristine Larvotto Beach.
Barcelona, Spain
There’s a reason why Barcelona is one of Europe’s most touristic cities. The Catalan capital truly has everything. From a long line of beaches to picturesque mountain ranges, world-famous architecture, and delectable Mediterranean cuisine, there is nothing but good things to say about Barcelona. A cosmopolitan destination that combines bustling city vibes with relaxing sandy spots, tourists can visit art museums and shop downtown, and then paddleboard and sunbathe on the same day. Tasty tapas and miles of coastline, what more could you need out of summer vacation? Although most people in the city speak English, it can be a good idea to brush up on your Spanish a bit in order to get the full cultural immersion experience.
With its dramatic rocky coastline and gorgeous blue waters, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque sites in all of Italy
Amalfi, Italy
In the same way that Monte Carlo exudes luxury with its shopping and casino destinations, so too does the Amalfi Coast in terms of beaches. This Italian town is known around the world for its wonderful ocean views and high towering cliffs. Because of its charming villages, kind people, and out-of-this-world views, there is nowhere in Europe quite like the Amalfi Coast.
Porto, Portugal
Last but certainly not least, Porto is another great place to add to your summer vacation itinerary. Not only does the Portuguese city have amazing prices and sights, but it is also home to a variety of landscapes like beaches and hiking routes that will keep tourists occupied no matter their preferences. A perfect day in Porto looks like surfing for hours, going on a food tour that includes plenty of ‘pastel de nata’, and ending the night admiring art while enjoying a glass of the city’s famous port wine. When packing for any one of these trips, a good rule of thumb is to bring no more than two pairs of shoes in order to save room for any souvenirs you may want to bring back home.
