The Best Places Your Mates Are Travelling To This Euro Summer

Sick to death of scrolling through your Instagram feed only to discover seemingly everyone you know is living our their European summer dreams, while you’re freezing your butt off here at home? Us too.

Besides, which sounds better, a sun-drenched resort pool and a boozy cocktail, or the Ugg boots and dressing gown combo you’re currently rocking? Just know, it’s not too late to chase an endless summer in 2019.

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To get you in the mood for a spontaneous getaway, here are the five hottest places all your mates are drooling over this European summer.

#1 Rhodes, Greece

With its awe-inspiring landscape, insane natural beauty, and rich history, it’s no secret why travellers are obsessed with Rhodes come European summer – this ancient city has it all.

Soak up the sun exploring the vast, sandy beaches (sporting crystal-clear waters, of course) castles and ancient civilisations by day, and hit up the plenty of gourmet restaurants and traditional tavernas slinging local delicacies, like Moussaka (a lasagne-like eggplant creation) by night.

Plus, Rhodes is often considered one of the safest places in Greece. Crime is low, meaning it’s safe to walk around at almost any time of the day, or night.

#2 Biarritz, France

When you think of hitting up the beach in Europe, France is maybe the last country that springs to mind – that’s only because you haven’t been to Biarritz yet.

You’ll fine Biarritz on the Bay of Biscay, on the Atlantic coast in southwestern France, just 35kms from the Spanish border. This luxurious seaside tourist hotspot is famed for Hotel du Palais – originally built in 1855 for Empress Eugénie.

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Besides its killer coastline, rich history and impeccable architecture, there’s tonnes to appreciate in Biarritz, like explore France’s incredible food scene.

Biarritz is home to a slew of incredible restaurants, cafes and bakeries just waiting to be discovered (and devoured). Bon appétit!

#3 Malaga, Spain  

Dubbed “the new Barcelona” Malaga is the capital of the Costa del Sol and is considered the most cosmopolitan city in the south of Spain.

The port city is a melting pot all things old and new – its strong historical significance perfectly intersects with its modern (read: Instagrammable) charm.

Spend your days exploring the city’s many drool-worthy beaches, historical monuments and museums. There’s also a bunch of markets, theatres and shopping districts to check out.

Plus, Malaga has an extremely privileged climate, meaning you can enjoy the sunshine all year round. Sign us up.

#4 La Maddalena Archipelago, Sardinia

The northeast coast of Sardinia in the Mediterranean Sea screams luxury.

The coastline is glittered with luxe-as-hell resort villages overlooking the pristine beaches – most of which are privately owned by the hotels.

However, you can find almost identical strips of coastline which are free to everyone on the offshore Maddalena Island, just a short ferry ride from Santa Teresa Gallura.

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Maddalena Island – otherwise known as the La Maddalena archipelago – is otherworldly.

Otherworldly in the sense that it almost looks out of place – as though it shouldn’t exist in the Mediterranean, rocking more of a Caribbean-like aesthetic.

In the strip of sea between Sardinia and Corsica – also known as Bocche di Bonifacio – you’ll find a bunch of small islands and inlets fully encompassed by turquoise sea. Plus, do it its naturalistic value, the area is totally protected by national park.

Something for-sure worth adding to the bucket list.

#5 San Sebastian, Spain

With its golden shores and green, rolling hillsides, San Sebastian has an undeniable attraction and it’s one of the most popular destinations to visit during European summer.

And, if it’s exceptional food you’re after, the city has claimed a whole Milky Way of Michelin stars – or 16, to be exact. This makes San Sebastian the city with the most Michelin stars per square metre in the world. Delicioso!

Mugaritz is famous for its techno-emotional Spanish cuisine and is not only arguably the city’s most popular restaurant but is internationally known as one of the best restaurants in the world.

Get in our bellies.

Sick of being left dead with Instagram envy? It’s seriously not too late to book that Euro trip and chase and endless summer. What are you waiting for? Go get amongst it!

Check out Qantas flights and begin your next adventure.

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(Lead image: La Maddalena archipelago / Sardegna Turismo)