If you are looking for a holiday in a beautiful coastal town in Europe, you are spoilt for choice. There are hundreds of beautiful places all over the continent to choose from, which can make it hard to decide. With this in mind, this post will take a look at five of the best European coastal towns that should be on your shortlist. These are all places with a beautiful coastline as well as plenty of culture and history to immerse yourself in.
1. Charming Cinque Terre, Italy
First, you have the charming Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera. Consisting of five picturesque villages, each with its own charm, you can enjoy coastal walks, taking in breathtaking views of the ocean, the rugged coastline, and colourful houses. Of course, a trip to the Italian Riviera also allows you to try the freshest Italian seafood and indulge in Ligurian cuisine.
2. Historic Dubrovnik, Croatia
The walled city of Dubrovnik has a rich history with its iconic city walls, fortresses, and marble streets. There is plenty to see and do in Dubrovnik, but you are also on the coast with many islands and beaches to discover nearby. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can be sure that this is a breathtaking city, and many Mediterranean cruises include Dubrovnik as a port of call, which gives you the chance to tick off a few places on one trip.
3. Picturesque Portree, Scotland
The Isle of Skye boasts breathtaking natural beauty, and the colourful harbour town of Portree serves as the perfect base for your trip. Here you can enjoy dramatic scenery, including the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, boat trips, and wildlife spotting, making it the ideal place for nature lovers.
4. Cosmopolitan Cascais, Portugal
Lisbon is the most popular destination in Portugal, but just down the road is the hidden gem of Cascais. This vibrant town is known for its beaches and surfing, but you also have a historic centre, museums, and a great selection of bars and restaurants, giving you the best of both worlds.
5. Relaxing Rovinji, Croatia
If you are looking for a serene escape, the charming town of Rovinj on the Istrian peninsula has an unmistakable Venetian influence with cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and a hilltop church with panoramic views. When you aren’t exploring the town, you can spend your time chilling on the picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters.
It is hard to choose a European coastal town when there are so many incredible places to choose from. The above are five of the best and all places that are worth looking into further. Each place has its own character and attractions while giving you the opportunity to escape to the coast and enjoy spending time by the sea.
