5 European Cities That Come Alive For Summer

If you’re looking for a place to spend some sweet summer days (and nights!) in Europe, then look no further than these modern and unique cities! Summer is a time of relaxation, beach-going, music, and fun! However, don’t miss out on a single opportunity when traveling to these places in the summer!

summer pictures
Summer vibe!

#1 Faro, Portugal

This seaside city boasts a greater amount of the sun per year than anywhere else in Europe.  That means that summer is king here in Faro! Many festivals go on during the summer with live music outside and crowds of people long after the sun goes down and the moon is high in the sky.

Faro sea
Welcome to Faro.

The “Festa da Ria Formosa” is a seafood festival that usually takes place around mid-summer, featuring the best of local foods. Want to know more? We’ve already written on eating in Portugal

Nightlife is also very open here in Faro, with many clubs and bars along the cobble-stoned Rua do Prior. If you’re looking for a more family-friendly evening, then follow families to the city’s restaurants and relax with the ones you love long into the night.

Faro.
Faro.

If you’re in the mood for music, check out the local jazz bars. If not, make some music of your own at O Conselheiro, which offers nights of karaoke and dancing! 

#2 Reykjavik, Iceland

Heading northwards, this European city features almost 24 hours of daylight during summertime, which means the fun never has to stop. As Iceland is known for its incredible natural wonders, this European city is a great option if you’re looking for a summer vacation that won’t be too loud (or too hot!)

Reykjavik, Iceland.
Reykjavik, Iceland.

Touted as one of the most beautiful sights on earth, the setting of the midnight sun is a must-see if you’re in Reykjavik during the summer! Other nature-based activities include whale-watching, horseback riding, and more.

The top view of Reykjavik.
The top view of Reykjavik.

Reykjavik also has no lack of summer festivals, including the Menningarnott (a cultural festival) and the Reykjavik Jazz Festival. And with legendary nightlife, you’ll still be able to party your way through a great summer vacation!

See also  How Should You Prepare For A Fishing Trip?

#3 San Jose, Spain

If you’re looking for beautiful blue beaches and vast, wild scenery, then San Jose, Spain is the place to be!  This white village is nestled in a nature reserve and set idyllically on the Mediterranean Sea. There is nearly no end to the summer here, with the weather staying beach-worthy until mid-October.

Unitarian church in San Jose.
Unitarian church in San Jose.

Local festivals include the arts and crafts market which lines the paseo along the beach, where you can find many handmade gifts and souvenirs. You’ll see a local painter who uses real sand in his pieces depicting the local beaches.

The town’s main beach is located very centrally and is dotted with places to eat tapas and drink sangria like any good tourist in Spain should. But within 10-30 minutes’ drive, there are over 20 beautiful, mostly undiscovered beaches that are perfect for a day of relaxation in summer! To see more about the beaches of Cabo de Gata, check out this link: (link to article in this order “Southern Spain’s Most Beautiful Undiscovered Beaches.”)

#4 Amsterdam, The Netherlands

While the weather will not be as hot as other European cities, Amsterdam has no lack of summer fun, especially for music lovers.

Stunning Amsterdam.
Stunning Amsterdam.

The best way to enjoy this city (although we admit it is a bit touristy) is to take to the canals and view the city from the water. Also, summer is a great time to enjoy the many parks and gardens that Amsterdam holds. You can actually spend a day exploring Amsterdam for 12 euro or less

Amsterdam canals
Visiting Amsterdam during the summer is definitely a great idea!

Of course, the best part of Amsterdam is the many unique and wonderful music festivals that are featured, such as Indiestad and the Holland Festival. The open-air theater in Vondel Park also features many musical performances throughout the summer.

See also  Don’t Look Down! Rock Climbing in Solius #InCostaBrava

#5 San Sebastian, Spain

Spain is known for its ‘start-late-finish-late’ attitude, and summer brings this party-loving country to its peak potential. Enjoy the beautiful beaches of San Sebastian, or try the different hiking routes around the town to see some incredible panoramic views.

San Sebastian Harbour
San Sebastian Harbour.

What to do at the end of the festival called Semana Grande? The perfect thing to do is go to Playa de la Concha to watch the fireworks. After, head for some local cuisine of a pinchito of tortilla and a glass of Txakoli.

Architecture of San Sebastian city
Interesting architecture of San Sebastian city.

So, who’s ready to head to Europe for the summer? These five fantastic cities will give you the perfect summer vacation with memories that will last a lifetime.

Which of these cities are on your bucket list for the next summer?

Share

Search
Close this search box.

We want you to know! Some links on this page may be affiliate links. We may earn a small commission from what you buy. 
It will never cost you extra, or make us bias, but helps us run this blog and occasionally get a good cup of coffee. 
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Agness Walewinder
Agness Walewinder
Travel freak, vagabond, photography passionate, blogger, life enthusiast, backpacker, adventure hunter and endless energy couchsurfer living by the rule "Pack lite, travel far and live long!"
Do you want to contribute?
Publish your guest post on Etramping!

6 thoughts on “5 European Cities That Come Alive For Summer”

  1. Avatar of Katarina

    Portugal looks so pretty. I’ve heard many places in Europe really close down in the winter time, is that true? If that’s the case summer time really is the best time to go there, right?

  2. Avatar of Amy

    I just wanted to mention that the picture of the church in San Jose is not the same as the white village in Spain that is written about in the article. Otherwise, nice post!

  3. Avatar of jessica

    I already had been to Portugal and Amsterdam but again planning Portugal for this summer for my long vacation. I had been there for short trip so could not manage to visit all place. I have added San Sebastian, Spain to my wish bucket list after reading your post. Hope I enjoy the same as I did in Funchal, Portugal.
    Thanks for sharing a nice and heart touching article.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *