Are you looking for the best of Southern Europe?
Whether you’re planning a winter sun escape to the Mediterranean region or want a sun-soaked beach trip in the summer, these cities and regions spread across the south of the continent, from Portugal to Greece.
Any of these are perfect for a getaway; whether you fancy a city break, beach escape or even trip to the mountains, there’s something on this list for you!
Best places to visit in Southern Europe
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s charm lies in its distinct neighbourhoods, tram-lined streets, and rich maritime history.
Begin in Alfama, the oldest district, where narrow alleys are filled with traditional Fado music drifting from small tavernas.
At Belém, explore the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, two landmarks of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
Don’t miss the iconic Pastéis de Belém bakery for freshly baked custard tarts dusted with cinnamon.
Take the LX Factory for a twist of modern culture: this creative hub has galleries, independent shops, and cafes.
For a scenic view, head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, one of Lisbon’s best viewpoints, especially at sunset.
Independent travellers, groups and private tours to Portugal all usually begin in Lisbon – and it’s the perfect first stop to get to grips with Portuguese culture!
Porto, Portugal
Porto, a city famous for its rich wines and vibrant colours, beckons with historic districts and riverside views.
Wander through Ribeira, where cobblestone streets and colourful houses line the Douro River. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for a breathtaking panorama, then venture to Vila Nova de Gaia for wine cellars that offer tastings and tours.
Porto’s Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, enchants with its Art Nouveau architecture and grand staircase.
The São Bento Railway Station is another unexpected highlight, with azulejo tiles illustrating Portuguese history.
To cap off the experience, sample the traditional francesinha sandwich, a local specialty layered with meat, cheese, and a rich sauce – I found a vegan option here when I visited.
Granada, Spain
Granada’s allure lies in its blend of Spanish and Moorish influences, epitomised by the grand Alhambra Palace.
This hilltop fortress with intricate Islamic architecture and serene gardens offers one of the most striking views of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Wander through Albaicín, the city’s ancient Moorish quarter, where narrow streets lead to the Mirador de San Nicolás, a viewpoint revered for its direct view of the Alhambra.
Granada’s unique tapas culture is a must-try; order a drink, and a complimentary tapa arrives, with each bar offering its signature dish.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
On the Amalfi Coast, dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters define the landscape. It’s a must-stop on most Italy tours for a reason!
In Positano, pastel-hued houses seem to spill down to the sea, where narrow streets host boutiques, cafes, and scenic vistas.
Ravello’s Villa Cimbrone is known for its Terrace of Infinity, a garden with statues and views that stretch across the coast.
The coastal town of Amalfi itself is a gem, with its stunning Cathedral of Saint Andrew and lemon groves producing fresh limoncello.
For the adventurous, the Path of the Gods hiking trail between Positano and Nocelle reveals awe-inspiring views of the cliffs and ocean.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor – a fortified medieval town along the Bay of Kotor – is steeped in history and natural beauty.
Begin by entering the town through the Sea Gate, the main entrance, and exploring the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon with its ornate relics.
Climb the ancient walls up to Kotor Fortress for a sweeping view of the bay and surrounding mountains.
The nearby town of Perast and its picturesque islets, particularly Our Lady of the Rocks, are worth a visit for their unique charm and folklore.
Corsica, France
Corsica’s untamed landscapes and Mediterranean beaches offer a mix of French and Italian influences.
Ajaccio, Napoleon’s birthplace, is filled with cafes, markets, and the Musée Fesch, an art museum with an impressive Italian art collection.
Head to Bonifacio, a stunning medieval town perched on limestone cliffs that plunge into the turquoise sea.
Corsica’s interior has rugged mountains and is known for the GR20 hiking trail, one of Europe’s toughest and most beautiful treks.
Corsican cuisine is unique, with delicacies like brocciu (a local cheese) and figatellu (a type of cured sausage), which can be sampled in family-run restaurants around the island.
Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos combines the charm of a traditional Greek island with a buzzing tourist scene.
Wander through Mykonos Town, where whitewashed buildings with vibrant blue accents line the narrow, labyrinthine streets.
Discover Little Venice, where houses sit right on the water’s edge, offering unforgettable sunset views.
Mykonos is known for its beaches, with Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach among the most popular – thanks to their lively beach bars.
A short boat trip takes you to the island of Delos, an archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage location, once considered the mythological birthplace of Apollo.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia’s fusion of historic and futuristic architecture sets it apart from other Spanish cities.
The City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a futuristic complex with an aquarium, museum, and opera house.
In the city centre, Valencia Cathedral offers a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, and nearby, the Central Market is one of Europe’s oldest, bustling with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
Malvarrosa Beach is an escape from the city. Sample paella in its birthplace—restaurants here prepare it traditionally with local ingredients.
Madeira, Portugal
Madeira, known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” boasts lush landscapes and scenic coastal views.
In Funchal, explore the Mercado dos Lavradores for exotic fruits and flowers, and take the cable car up to Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
For hiking, the levada trails wind through the island’s mountains and forests, with Levada do Caldeirão Verde being a popular route for its lush greenery and waterfalls.
Head to Porto Moniz for natural rock pools formed by volcanic activity, ideal for a refreshing swim.
Pico do Arieiro offers some of the island’s best sunrise views, with clouds floating beneath the peaks.
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia’s landscape ranges from pristine beaches to rugged mountains, making it a Mediterranean treasure.
The Costa Smeralda is famed for its turquoise waters and upscale resorts, attracting visitors for yachting – and the beaches, of course!
Inland, ancient nuraghe structures offer a glimpse into Sardinia’s prehistoric past, with sites like Su Nuraxi di Barumini recognised by UNESCO.
In Cagliari, explore the medieval centre and visit the Bastione di Saint Remy for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Sardinia’s culinary specialties, such as fregola (a type of pasta) and pecorino sardo, are a treat for food lovers.
San Sebastián, Spain
San Sebastián, in Spain’s Basque Country, is a coastal city known for both its beaches and world-class food.
La Concha Beach is perfect for a leisurely swim or a stroll along the promenade, while the nearby Old Town (Parte Vieja) brims with pintxos bars offering small, inventive dishes.
Climb Monte Urgull for views of the bay and visit the San Telmo Museum to learn about Basque history and culture.
For fine dining, the city boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants.
Palermo, Italy
Palermo, Sicily’s energetic capital, encompasses a blend of Arab, Norman, and Italian influences.
Explore the historic Palermo Cathedral and the intricate mosaics at Cappella Palatina.
The city’s lively markets, like Ballarò, are perfect for sampling street food such as arancini and panelle.
Take a day trip to Mondello Beach for a swim, or to Cefalù, a nearby coastal town with medieval streets and a beautiful sandy beach.
Split, Croatia
Split’s historic centre revolves around Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman complex that has become a vibrant part of the city, filled with restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.
The Riva Promenade along the harbour is a great spot to people-watch, and the hike up Marjan Hill offers views over the city and Adriatic Sea.
Split is also a gateway to the Dalmatian islands, with ferries to places like Hvar and Brač for day trips or longer stays.
Andorra la Vella, Andorra
Tucked in the Pyrenees, Andorra la Vella is known for duty-free shopping, wellness spas, and scenic mountainous surroundings.
While it’s not a typical Southern Europe destination – it’s a lot chillier in winter, for one – it’s easy to access from Spain and Southern France.
Wander through the Barri Antic, Andorra’s old quarter, where historic stone buildings and narrow alleys create a picturesque setting.
Caldea, a large thermal spa complex, showcases a relaxing experience with mountain views.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre encompasses five distinct fishing villages, each with its own charm along Italy’s rugged Ligurian coastline.
Monterosso al Mare is the largest and only village with a proper sandy beach.
Its old town brims with cafes and shops, while the hillside vineyards above offer a taste of local wines.
Next, Vernazza is a picturesque village with a small harbour, colourful facades, and waterside cafes.
Corniglia, perched on a cliff, is the only village not directly on the coasts.
Its quiet, narrow lanes and terraced vineyards make it feel like a tranquil hideaway.
Further along, Manarola enchants visitors with its photogenic cliffs and vibrant buildings that spill down toward the marina.
Lastly, Riomaggiore welcomes visitors with a lively main street, vibrant houses, and a small rocky beach.
Its marina is the perfect spot to watch fishermen at work or take a sunset stroll along the cliffside.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a walled city with striking views and medieval charm.
Begin at the Pile Gate and walk along the ancient city walls to take in panoramic vistas of the terracotta rooftops and deep blue Adriatic.
Stroll down Stradun, the main thoroughfare, lined with limestone buildings, shops, and cafes.
Or, you could hop on a short ferry to Lokrum Island for lush gardens, peacocks, and serene swimming spots.
To experience the local culture, visit Gundulić Square Market in the morning for fresh produce and local crafts.
Thessaloniki, Greece
Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, combines ancient ruins, lively nightlife, and a rich culinary scene.
Explore White Tower and Ano Poli, Thessaloniki’s old town. Here, traditional houses and cobbled streets provide views over the Aegean Sea.
History enthusiast? The Rotunda and Arch of Galerius boast Roman-era architecture, while the Byzantine Walls are a peaceful spot for sunset.
Thessaloniki’s food markets, such as Modiano Market, are perfect for sampling local delicacies, from bougatsa (a sweet pastry) to savoury gyros.
Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital, is filled with baroque architecture, historical sites, and vibrant harbour views.
Wander the Upper Barrakka Gardens for views over the Grand Harbour, then visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, renowned for its ornate interior and Caravaggio paintings.
A short ferry ride brings you to The Three Cities which are historical neighbourhoods offering insight into Malta’s rich maritime past.
For a day on the water, the nearby Blue Lagoon is a stunning spot for swimming.
It’s also a popular scuba diving destination!
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, beaches, and charming villages.
At the heart of the island lies Teide National Park is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest peak.
A cable car takes you close to the summit – or you can hike, of course!
For beach lovers, Playa de las Teresitas near Santa Cruz is a golden-sand beach ideal for swimming, while Los Gigantes boasts dramatic cliffs that rise vertically from the ocean.
The historic town of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features colourful colonial buildings and bustling squares.
For a more local vibe, explore La Orotava, a picturesque town with traditional Canarian architecture and botanical gardens, or visit Garachico, known for its natural volcanic rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip.
Provence, France
Provence enthrals with its lavender fields, vineyards, and historic villages.
Avignon is a perfect starting point, where you can tour the imposing Palace of the Popes and walk along the Pont d’Avignon. I
n the Luberon region, Gordes and Roussillon are perched on hilltops, with charming stone buildings and ochre cliffs.
Aix-en-Provence hosts bustling markets, where you’ll find Provençal cheeses, olives, and wines.
For nature lovers, Verdon Gorge offers crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs.
