Summer’s finally crept its way in as we welcome warm temperatures and the gratifying wave of heat. This summer, I’ll be ticking off gorgeous European islands and coastal towns off my travel list. I’ve always had a thing for coastal towns: craggy shoreline, charming houses poised on cliff tops and plundering azul waves. We’ve taken a look at the world’s most enchanting coastal islands, it’s time now to zoom in on Europe and check out its quaint, pocket-sized seafront towns.
1. Roquebrune, France
Flickr photo by freefotouk
Perched gloriously over a rocky outcrop above the Mediterranean Sea is the charming medieval village of Roquebrune. Unlike the usual flashy crowd of Cote d’Azur, this corner in the South of France has retained a tinge of authenticity. Climb up to the top of the village where a 10th century castle gives an awe-inspiring panorama.
2. Oia – Santorini, Greece
Flickr photo by DarkB4Dawn
As a personal favorite, Santorini oozes romantic vibes and postcard-perfect landscapes. A volcanic island perched above black fertile soils, Santorini boasts of gorgeous stark white-and-blue architecture, with monastery domes forming part of its setting. Oia is the prettiest town on the island, with narrow roads running alongside outdoor cafes and art galleries.
3. Ohrid, Macedonia
Having just returned from Macedonia, Lake Ohrid is undeniably the most beautiful natural attraction in the Balkans. The cobble stoned stairways and ancient Orthodox churches of the coastal town of Ohrid are artfully assembled against a backdrop of calm and peaceful Lake Ohrid. On a clear day, you can even see a hallucinogenic reflection of the surrounding snow peaks on the glassy water surface.
4. Mdina, Malta
Flickr photo by Ploync
On the historically-rich archipelago of Malta, you’ll never run out of sand-stone ruins, ancient architectural marvels and turquoise-clear beaches to revel in. Mdina is the island’s quiet and well-preserved old town, with a plethora of cathedrals, palaces and quaint dining spots to offer. It makes for an excellent alternative to tourist-filled Valletta.
5. Rovinj, Croatia
Photo from Wikipedia
With rapidly growing popularity in the tourism industry, Croatia is catching the attention of many. Try to make it there soon before it gets dominated by tourists. The old town of Rovinj is dubbed as Croatia’s most picturesque towns with a colorful waterfront and a compact historical city center littered with ancient gems.
6. Positano, Italy
Flickr photo by Glen MacLarty
Wind through the plunging cliff-edge roads of the Italian Amalfi Coast and you’ll find your way to this naturally stunning coast town, carved right into the craggy shoreline. The entire town is made up of a labyrinth of alleyways that snake through steep slopes and age-old brick houses, with mosaic-tiled domes poking into the skies. In summer, the crowd here is made up of well-heeled Italian and international travelers looking for a hint of romance.
Read my article ‘8 of the World’s Most Beautiful Coastal Towns’ on Bootsnall.com!
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I didn't know much about Croatia until I visited Europe and realized that so many Europeans actually go to Croatia for vacation. When I asked where, they mentioned Rovinj… and now that I've seen it, I can see why! Croatia actually sounds like a pretty cool place. And here I was thinking it was a crumbling war zone or something.
Croatia is quickly becoming one of the most popular summer destinations for Europeans, I’m thinking in 10 yrs’ time, it’ll be the next Spain.
It is far from looking like a crumbling war zone, but maybe the Balkan countries close to it. I was in Macedonia, Bulgaria and Albania recently, and absolutely loved how their beauty are still relatively untouched and undiscovered. The Balkans definitely make an excellent alternative to standard European destinations.
I'm so glad Ohrid made your list:) XXX from Skopje!
Wow! wow! What great pics of these charming places!
This has suddenly given fresh impetus to my Europe-backpacking plans someday!
No. 5 Rovinj is my favorite! I love that town, it is a mus visit if you come in Croatia!
I have a feeling you\’re probably biased.
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These are all some amazing places to visit for coastal entertainment. I would love to be able to travel to Roquebrune one day. I love your pictures and the descriptions. This is such a great post
If You're planning on visiting Croatia You must visit Rovinj! It's amazing and surrounded by beautiful nature and a magnifique coastline. Definitely a top destination in Croatia!