A summer bucket list means something different to everyone. For some, it is about finally booking that dream trip to the Greek islands. For others, it is about rediscovering the joy of slow afternoons and long dinners in places you can actually afford. This guide brings both worlds together, the iconic cities and island escapes you have heard of, and the slower, slightly offbeat experiences that quietly stay with you long after the flight home. These are the destinations that deliver everything you want from a European summer: sun, soul, and a sense of being exactly where you are meant to be.
Photo by Dan
The Best European Summer Bucket List: Sun, Culture, and Coastal Escapes
We are keeping it smart on budget, rich on experience. From boat parties in Ibiza and port tastings in Porto to thermal pools in Turkey and quad bike beach days in Naxos, this is your go-to list for places worth planning a trip around.
Choose what fits, skip what does not, and leave space for moments that surprise you. Let’s start planning!
Visit Porto, Portugal: For Wine, Charm and Slower Days
Portugal is known for its rhythm, and nowhere moves more beautifully to that beat than Porto. This historic city boasts a centuries-old wine tradition that can be enjoyed while sitting by the Douro River. The UNESCO world heritage site of Oporto and Luiz is easily walkable, wonderfully soulful, and built for travellers who appreciate a mix of grit and beauty.
- What to do: Make your way to the Ribeira district, Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge by foot, then take the cable car back down for views over the Douro.
- Where to eat: Casa Guedes for roast pork sandwiches with Serra cheese, or Taberna dos Mercadores for a proper seafood dinner in a tiny setting.
- Don’t miss: A port tasting in Gaia. Kopke is great for a classic flight; Graham’s has a terrace worth lazing on.
- Travel tip: Get an Andante Card and travel on public transport with ease.
Visit Ibiza, Spain: For the Party You’ll Talk About All Year
Ibiza is home to the all-night raver, boho-cool hippy or the blissed-out beach lover. The Balearic islands — Ibiza being the most famous of the four — are a dream destination for culture-loaded city breaks, escapes to the countryside and adventure filled outdoor activities. This generally quaint town is the ideal party destination in the summers thanks to the renowned DJ’s bustling the clubs.
- What to do: Start the day with a swim at Cala Saladeta, then nap it off. By 3pm, glam up for a boat party in the Mediterranean. Score some Boat Party Tickets and dance it out to live DJs while enjoying the utopian sunset views.
- Where to eat: La Paloma for a garden lunch in San Lorenzo or Fish Shack for simple grilled sea bass on the rocks.
- Don’t miss: A late evening drive to Es Vedrà. The light is different there — hazy, cinematic, almost unreal.
- Travel tip: Even if you’re not staying in Ibiza Town, go once. The energy there is unmistakable.
Photo by Belinda Fewings
Visit Lake Garda, Italy: For Cottagecore Escapes and Long Lunches
Lake Garda boasts of peaks and valleys around its perimeter, small towns on its shores and lush vegetation all around. There’s no pressure to do anything at Lake Garda. That’s the point. You come here to slow down, eat well, and wake up when you feel like it.
- Where to stay: Limone sul Garda for the lemon groves and classic lakeside charm. Malcesine if you want to take the cable car up Monte Baldo for a hike and a view.
- What to do: Rent a boat for the day (no licence needed if under 40hp), discover the historic town centre of Sirmione or just take ferries across the lake like a local. Try windsurfing at the north end of Lake Garda – a must try for adventure junkies.
- Where to eat: Al Filò for dinner in an old wine cellar, or Trattoria Ago e Rita if you’re after the perfect plate of bigoli.
- Don’t miss: Aperitivo hour in a quiet piazza, just before the sun sets behind the mountains.
- Travel tip: Don’t try to “see” the lake. Pick a spot and stay awhile, you’ll get more out of it.
Photo by Marco Ghirello
Visit Pamukkale & Fethiye, Turkey: For Surreal Landscapes and Coastal Calm
Turkey is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and delicious cuisine. One such destination is the coastal town of Fethiye is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, adventure, and relaxation. If you are looking for a relaxing day try out the hot springs in Pamukkale which offers a unique and rejuvenating experience for its visitors.
- Where to stay: Fethiye is a short drive away, and worth every minute. The Hillside Beach Club surrounded by pine forests, clear sea, hammocks between trees is the ultimate luxurious resort.
- What to do: Arrive at Pamukkale early. The travertine pools get slippery by noon and the light is softest in the morning. Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool where rumour says she once bathed.
- Where to eat: Mozaik Bahçe in Fethiye is a must – Kurdish food, massive portions, no rush.
- Don’t miss: A sunset cruise from Fethiye’s marina. Bring something light to cover up, it gets breezy.
- Travel tip: Turkish breakfast is a full event. Don’t skip it. Especially not with the views from your balcony.
Photo by Hamza Şamil Yavuz
Visit The Greek Islands: For Mornings in the Sea and Nights Under the Stars
There are over 200 inhabited Greek islands, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them. But go with intention — pair one busy island with one quiet one.
Where to go: Start in Santorini for the drama and the sunsets, but don’t stay more than two nights. Then ferry to Paros, Naxos, or Milos for the real magic – beach days with no crowds.
- What to do: Rent a scooter, pack towels and sunscreen, and find your own beach. Book a half-day sailing trip, not the flashy ones, but the family-run tours with fresh lunch on board.
- Where to eat: you will find traditional Greek food anywhere on these islands, but I recommend Lefkes in Paros, To Elliniko in Naxos, and anywhere grilling octopus by the water.
- Don’t miss: Swimming just after sunrise. It’s the quietest the sea will be, and the bluest.
- Travel tip: Island-hopping works best when you keep it simple — max two or three stops.
Photo by Despina Galani
All in all, from my experience, a summer in Europe is not about cramming in every landmark or chasing the most ‘Instagrammable’ views, it’s about choosing the places that speak to you. So, choose what vibes with you the best, stop procrastinating and start your European summer adventures today!
