4 Sun-Soaked Spots in Southern Europe to Visit this Summer

[rohny jones]

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European tourism is finally open for business again, and plenty of great deals are available to entice visitors back, from city culture to delightful road trips to dreamy beach getaways - or combinations of all the above. And here's a quartet of classics to keep in mind when booking travel this summer:

Croatia's Dalmatian Coast

This ravishing coastline (top) has remained a favorite summertime destination thanks to its 79 beautiful islands; historic cities and towns; and stunning beaches to go with nearly all of them. You can stroll through the medieval quarter of Dubrovnik and the majesty of Diocletian’s Palace in Split; go swimming off islands such as Hvar or Korčula; and go sailing up and down the coast - it's all memorable!

Portugal's Algarve

Especially popular with Brits, the south of Portugal is also famed for its tawny beaches along a rugged Atlantic coastline dotted with dramatic cliffs, arches, and sea caves. Meanwhile, coastal cities and towns such as capital Faro - along with Albufeira, Lagoa, Lagos, Portimão, and Sagres - are blessed with not just fine beaches but also historic landmarks and a plethora of dining and entertainment options. The region is also known for its superb golf courses.

M. Kreuschitz

Andalusia, Spain

The coastline of Spain’s sprawling south is popular for the amazing beaches in the provinces of Almería, Cádiz, Huelva, and Málaga. But many visitors also come for the lovely small hill towns and historic larger cities including Cádiz, Córdoba, Granada, Jerez de la Frontera, Málaga, Ronda, and Seville. (Plus in the wintertime there's even skiing/snowboarding in Sierra Nevada mountains.) Truly a region that has it all!

Sicily

Not just Italy's but the entire Mediterranean Sea's largest island, Sicily is known for many things, beginning with fascinating cities such as capital Palermo, as well as Catania, Messina, and Siracusa. Then there are its small towns - on the coast with beautiful beaches, such as Cefalù and Giardini Naxos, and inland, on the order of Forza d'Agro, Ragusa, and Savoca (not to mention Corleone, infamous for its Mafia associations). Meanwhile, you can also explore the famous Mount Etna volcano as well as the spectacular ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites of Agrigento, Siracusa, and Taormina. And throughout all of it, you'll be wowed by the food and wine, as well as the relatively low prices. Bellissimo!

So what are you waiting for? Make your summer of 2021 memorable by starting with some gorgeous destinations of southern Europe - book your travel now!