The Best European
Summer Getaways

It’s never a bad time to hit the beach in Mykonos, where natural beauty and sunshine await. From Agrari Beach to Fokos Beach, there will be plenty of time to stretch out with a book and a glass of something fruity. On the quieter side of the island, you can explore narrow winding alleys full of tempting boutiques in the labyrinth of Old Town and marvel at the many Mykonos windmills, churches, and lighthouses.

Beaches, architecture, boutiques

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities around Lake Como. A boat tour of Lake Como is one of the best ways to take in the stunning scenery and picturesque towns along the shoreline. There are many beautiful towns and villages to explore around Lake Como, including Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. The Lake Como region is also home to many excellent wineries, producing a variety of wines such as Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Pinot Noir. Summer visitors can enjoy wine tastings and vineyard tours.

Scenic beauty, relaxation, food & wine

In Porto, you can wander through medieval alleys that snake through UNESCO-designated neighborhoods enclosed by 14th-century walls. Or, you can visit the unmistakable landmark, the Clérigos Tower, which is visible from almost anywhere in Old Town. The vibrant city has a lively riverside area full of bars and restaurants around every corner, a perfect setting for a stroll or to mix and mingle with locals.

Port Wine, Douro River and Valley, cosmopolitan suburbs

San Sebastián’s most famous beach, Playa de la Concha, is known for its arced bay and prime sunbathing territory. This area is also perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other recreational water activities. Take a stroll down San Sebastián’s boardwalk, where you’ll eventually happen upon its beautiful harbor of fishing boats or wander through the romantic Old Town, known for having the highest concentration of bars in the world.

White, sandy beaches, delicious food, glamorous past

The terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik beckon, as do the city’s large medieval walls that show breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Visit one of the city’s many wine bars to sample true Croatian and Montenegrin wines. Fresh fish and seafood are served at many restaurants around the city, although plenty of other cuisines are available, including Italian, Japanese, and Bosnian. Sightseeing opportunities include Rector’s Palace, Onofrio’s Fountain, and Franciscan and Dominican monasteries.

Fishing, walkable Medieval Walls, Adriatic Coast

This city beckons you to wander the tranquil lakeshore and enjoy the mountains with panoramic alpine views. Specifically, you can revel in the beauty of Mount Pilatus, also known as “Dragon Mountain,” and see Mount Stanserhorn by way of the cable car. Before shopping in the Old Town for Swiss souvenirs, watches, and chocolates, you should cross the solid wooden Chapel Bridge that dates back to the 14th century and overlooks the Ruess River. There are plenty of historical relics to be seen, like the solemn Lion Monument, Vitznau Artillery Fortress, and many munition halls, galleries, and armaments, which date back to World War II.

Mountains, lakes, medieval guildhalls