Are you spending hours daydreaming about lounging on a sun-kissed beach or soaking up the sun in a shimmering pool?

I feel you!

Luckily, there are so many sunny Southern European spots you can visit in summer to make that a reality.

From gorgeous scenery and beautiful beaches to non-stop culture and luxurious hotels, the following Southern European destinations have it all.

I’ve been to all of these destinations – some even multiple times – and they always deliver that delicious European summer vibe.

So here are three sunny spots in Southern Europe you must visit at least once!

5 Sunny Southern European Spots You Must Visit

1. Sicily, Italy

It’s tough to get bored in picturesque Sicily, with its amazing architecture, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering food.

It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a 4-day break in the sun.

The beaches are so beautiful you’ll never want to leave! Check out Scopello in Trapani, with its expansive beach and gorgeous turquoise and indigo water—you won’t forget it.

Once you’ve soaked up the sun, there’s so much to explore. Check out active volcanoes, picturesque mountains, historic cathedrals, and well-preserved archaeological sites.

After all that fun in the sun, why not enjoy a beautiful view with a delicious glass of wine and some tasty Sicilian dishes like arancini, raw red prawns, or pasta alla norma?

One of the best pasta dishes I’ve EVER had was in Sicily – a pesto alla trapanese with a springy coiled pasta known as busiate. I honestly still think about that plate of Sicilian pesto pasta to this day. Glorious.

2. Porto, Portugal

Porto’s beauty lies in its dry, moderate climate, making even the hottest days feel comfortable without the humidity. Plus, the stunning beaches offer a cool breeze, so you won’t feel sticky while soaking up the sun.

There’s so much to see and do in the city that you won’t want to spend your whole holiday on the beach. It’s a fantastic place to explore, whether it’s sunny or rainy.

You’ll find plenty of local landmarks, museums, and galleries to keep you entertained. And you won’t miss the magnificent view of the Douro River when the sun starts to shine—it’s a golden, glittery postcard moment.

Of course, no trip to Porto is complete until you’ve immersed yourself in its food and wine scene.

You need to try the city’s signature dish ‘Francesinha’ (a hot, layered meaty sandwich with tomato sauce) and the world-famous Porto wine, to match.

3. Crete, Greece

If you’re itching for a laidback beach holiday at a stunning destination, you can’t go wrong with a Crete getaway. It has every type of beach you could dream of, from soft golden sands to charming pebble beaches with crystal-clear water.

But Crete isn’t just about the beaches.

Nature lovers will fall head over heels for its steep gorges, towering mountains, and lush valleys. Plus, the locals are incredibly friendly and warm, making you feel right at home every time you visit.

They’re well-known for their hospitality, so you’ll always feel welcome at local events or celebrations like The Cretan Diet Festival, The Hyakinthia, and the Matala Beach Festival. And don’t even get me started on the food! You have to try Cretan cheese, Dakos, and Apaki.

For a sunny spot with gorgeous scenery, fascinating history, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering cuisine, Crete should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Another city that boasts lovely sunlight and has a sun-kissed sandy beach you can easily reach from the city is the famous Barcelona.

Barcelona is a bustling city, known for its historic architecture, delicious street food, and colourful tiles that line the streets.

Like other European cities, Barcelona has an edgy reputation, but its naturally rustic charm sets it apart. Just imagine the endless beach, the charming trees lining the promenades, and the quaint seating areas in the beautiful parks around the city.

You can feel the deep history and love for food as soon as you land in Barcelona, and you’ll definitely notice it as you explore. Make sure to visit La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and of course, Las Ramblas for an amazing night (or day) out.

I’ve been to Barcelona a bunch of times, and every visit I find something new and exciting – whether it’s a new pop-up gallery or an amazing vegan restaurant.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you’re on the hunt for great weather and the vibe of doing island-hopping (Southeast Asia-style), Dubrovnik is where you need to be. This Croatian gem perfectly blends the laid-back beach life with the buzz of city excitement.

One of the best parts about Dubrovnik? Adventure is always just around the corner. Thanks to its prime location, you can easily hop on a day ferry to explore more of Croatia.

Check out stunning spots like Hvar (one of my absolute favourite places), Bol, and Zaton – perfect for a sunset picnic or a boat cruise.

Croatia isn’t just a treat for the eyes; it’s rich in history and culture too. A stroll around Dubrovnik will show you just how deeply this country values its heritage.

Unlike some European cities that have lost their charm by catering too much to tourists, Dubrovnik stays true to its roots. Visit, and you’ll see a city that’s unlike anywhere else, thanks to the locals who’ve worked hard to keep its original allure intact.

When is the best time to visit Southern Europe?

If you want a proper summer holiday, aim for June and August – those are the warmest months for all these cities, though also the most crowded months.

For a more quiet, laidback (and cheaper) getaway, consider booking in spring (April/May) or early autumn (September/October) – weather is normally fantastic, and way better for avoiding the crowds!

Take the Plunge: Sunny Southern European Spots to Visit

So if you’re looking for sunshine, beaches, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, those are the top five places I’d recommend visiting in Southern Europe.

If you have the time and budget, why not create a checklist and aim to visit one city each year for the next five years? How you plan it is totally up to you.

You won’t be disappointed by the sights, culture, cuisine, and beaches waiting for you.

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