Europe is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so it’s no wonder that every summer millions of tourists are flocking to countries like Italy, Spain, Croatia, Greece, and Portugal. Whether you are looking for family-friendly beaches with calm waters and plenty of water activities or you are after secluded destinations where you will find some peace and quiet, there is something for everyone on this lovely continent. To help you decide where to go on your next European vacation package, we’ve made a list of 5 best beaches in Europe.
1.Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
Surrounded by the Ionian Sea and green hillsides, Myrtos Beach is a semi-circular white-sand beach that attracts large crowds of visitors during the summer season. It is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece and offers lots of space or sunbathing. The good news is that this one-mile stretch of sand remains untouched by urban development and the only water activity that is permitted here is swimming. Myrtos Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in the country.
2.Zlatni Rat Beach, Brac, Croatia
Croatia has one of the best coastlines in Europe and both Istria and Dalmatia are popular tourist destinations. One of the beaches that caught our eye is the picturesque Zlatni Rat Beach which is located in Bol on the island of Brac. It is one of the most popular beaches in Europe and the easiest way to reach it is by car or by a 15- minute walk along the sea. Famous for its unique shape, Zlatni Rat Beach attracts a number of professional surfers and kite-surfers. In case you are looking for some shade, there is a Mediterranean pine tree forest just a 2-minute walk from the water’s edge.
3. Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy
Travelers who wish to get away from all the hustle and bustle of overcrowded beaches should head out to the Rabbit Beach. Before you start packing your bags, there’s just one thing that you should know. There is a reason why one of the most beautiful beaches in the world is usually half-empty. It is located over 100 miles off the Italian coast and that’s kind of a deal breaker for many travelers. However, those who make the journey will be rewarded by a picturesque bay unlike any other in Europe and crystal-clear waters that offer ideal conditions for snorkeling and swimming. Don’t be surprised to see a bunch of sea turtles, as Rabbit Beach is their nesting site.
4. Praia de Marinha, Portugal
Various travel magazines at some point named Portugal’s Praia de Marinha as one of the best beaches in Europe. This golden-sand beach is nestled among the limestone cliffs and offers amazing views of jagged rock formations. The access to the beach is not ideal, as there is a steep coastal path that leads to Praia de Marinha. However, the waters of the Atlantic are quite calm here and the beach is ideal for both swimming and snorkeling.
5.Ölüdeniz Beach, Turkey
Also known as the Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz Beach in Turkey is a beautifully colored bay surrounded by a lovely forest. Amenities like showers, changing rooms, and a couple of cafes can be found on the beach. The water here is quite transparent, which means plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. In case you wish to buy some fresh fish, there is a local market close to the bay.