Top 5 European Destinations to Visit this Summer

Whilst the summer dream may be jetting off to Asia or America for months at a time, the reality is often a bit different with real life (and money) getting in the way. However, there are some great European destinations, all a lot closer to home, at a fraction of the price

Budapest

Hungary’s capital is fast becoming the go-to destination for young people and summer is the perfect time to experience it. Taking a dip in one of the world famous bath houses is a must, if you can bare to be around that many middle aged men in speedos, and the water is the perfect hangover cure for those who many have got a little too involved in Budapest’s notorious night life. If music is more your thing, grab a ticket for Sziget, a 7 day festival which takes over an entire island in the middle of the Danube. This year’s acts include Rhianna, Muse and David Guetta so it promises to be huge.

Top Tip: Flights to Budapest in the summer can be a little pricey so try heading into a nearby city like Prague or Vienna and get the train in. It’s like two holidays for the price of one!

Croatia

Croatia is perfect for those who are looking for beautiful beaches and gorgeous weather but with a side of culture. Head to Dubrovnik, an old, pedestrian-only town on the coast to sail and snorkel in the clear water or explore the city and indulge in some local cuisine. The beauty continues inland but to really make the most of the scenery, travel down the coast or catch a boat to one of the many stunning islands. Music festivals are also common here with Hideout and Outlook becoming two of the most popular festivals around because of their proximity to the beach.

Amsterdam

Set on a series of beautiful canals, Amsterdam is the perfect city to explore in the summer. With a wide variety of museums as well as a great zoo and a Heineken beer tour, you’ll find something to suit everyone. Be sure to go to the Anne Frank house and walk through the annexe which hid the family for all those years and learn about their incredible story. As for food, there is an abundance of cafes, bakeries and, for some reason, Argentinian steak houses, where you can eat for a reasonable price before heading to a bar for a drink overlooking the canal

Top Tip: Buy a transport pass for the duration of your trip. You’ll use the trams way more than you expect and the passes make it a whole lot cheaper and you avoid angering Dutch people by trying to figure out how to pay the driver.

Barcelona

Barcelona gives you the best of both worlds with a city and beach combined in one neat package. Relax in Parc Guell, take a tour of Sagrada Familia and take a stroll down the bustling city streets. For those looking for a great view, head to Turo dela Rovira viewpoint and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea or check out a flamenco show to really get immersed in the culture.

Greek Islands

With so many islands to choose from, Greek island hoping can really be the perfect holiday for anyone. From relaxing beaches and scenic walks to raging night life and water sports, you really can have it all in just one trip. Some of the most popular islands are Santorini and Mykonos, which are both situated in The Cyclades, fairly close to Athens. Here you rent an apartment and a scooter for a reasonable price and live in the slow lane, just soaking up the sun and taking in the view. You’ll never want to leave!

If you’re looking for a longer trip, you could combine these destination with an Interrail pass which allows you to use the European train network for a select number of days each month. Perfect for young, budget travellers!

Katie x

This post is in partnership with Easiliving. They offer affordable housing in Newcastle so you always have a home to return to after your travels!