10 Best European Destinations for a Beach Holiday

Craving some fun in the sun? For those looking for some fun in the sun – check out the 10 Best European Destinations for a Beach Holiday!

Home to several gorgeous, sunny locations, Europe is bursting with incredible destinations for a beach holiday! Whether you’re looking to party, do some water sports, or simply relax under the sun, there’s a beach and hostel ready and waiting for you! Interested in planning a beach holiday in Europe but don’t know where to start? Check out our list of the 10 Best European Destinations for a beach holiday!

1. Barcelona, Spain

Sunny Barcelona – everyone’s favourite Spanish party city – is our first recommendation for the best European destinations for a beach holiday. Famous for its architecture, food, art, and party scene, you’ll also be more than happy with its beaches. Offering the perfect balance of beach and urban sights, you’ll never have a dull moment in Barcelona. 

The biggest and most popular beach here is Barceloneta, and it’s always full of activity! Aside from catching some rays or taking a dip, windsurfing and kite surfing are some of the most popular activities here. Accessing the beach is relatively easy, whether you’re on foot or relying on public transit. And if you forget to pack a lunch, don’t stress! Barceloneta is also home to several spots to get some food or drink. 

Where to Stay: If you’re looking for a hostel notorious for a great party and welcoming atmosphere, then we recommend booking a room at Kabul Party Hostel, located only 20 mins from the beach! 

2. Lagos, Portugal

A list of the best European destinations for a beach holiday wouldn’t be complete without including Lagos, Portugal. And if you’re looking for a holiday when it’s always beach time, then this is where you’ll want to be. Located in the Algarve region of Portugal, Lagos is a small city situated on the Atlantic Ocean. Aside from bars and restaurants, you won’t find much else here, so be sure you have enough sun screen! While the Atlantic is known for being colder than the Mediterranean, that shouldn’t deter you from choosing Lagos for European destination for a beach holiday. After all, it has some of the best surf spots in Europe!

Where to Stay: With free pub crawls, breakfast, activities, and so much more, you’ll want to book your room at Rising Cock Party Hostel, located only 5 mins from the beach! If you’re planning to visit in the summer months, be sure to book accommodation well in advance.

3. Nice, France

Dreaming of visiting the French Riviera? Then you have to check out Nice! Easily one of the most famous European destinations for a beach holiday, Nice is the perfect mix of glamour and gorgeous scenery. Offering great shopping, restaurants, nightlife and beach options, you’ll quickly understand what all the hype is about. And if you want to explore more of the Cote d’Azur, Cannes and Monaco are both quick and easy options!

While Nice is home to several large pebbled beaches, we think Carras Beach is worth mentioning. Located near the airport, Carras is wheelchair accessible and the only beach that offers jet skis!

Where to Stay: While Nice has a reputation for being a bit pricey, you won’t have to break the bank to stay at the best hostel in town. For a budget-friendly, fun, and central location, book your stay at Villa St Exupery Beach!

4. Lisbon, Portugal

While you might not initially consider it for a beach holiday, we also recommend Lisbon! Portugal’s capital city is breathtaking with its historical & colourful buildings, mouthwatering food, and amazing views from its hills. And it’s also within reach of many great beaches.

The area around Lisbon is full of places to soak up the sun, but we recommend heading to Sintra. Getting here is easy with public transit, and won’t take you more than 40 mins. But if you’re looking to catch some of those famous, big Portuguese waves, then we suggest checking out Carcavelos.

Where to Stay: Our top recommendation is Sunset Destination Hostel Lisbon, located only 4 mins from the popular Barrio Alto. You’ll love the atmosphere, free activities, and great amenities at this famous hostel. Did we mention they have a swimming pool and rooftop bar with spectacular views over Lisbon?!

5. Rimini, Italy

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Rimini is one of the best known European destinations for a beach holiday. This famous Italian resort town still draws the crowds to its beaches year after year, and has become a party hot spot for younger crowds. With its miles of sandy shores, bars, clubs, water sports, and more you won’t be lost for things to do in Rimini!

Where to Stay: If you’re looking to stay close to the beach, then we recommend booking a room at Sunflower Beach Hostel! Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent location, you’ll feel like a VIP at Sunflower!

6. Valencia, Spain

Bringing it back to Spain, we’re adding Valencia to our list as one of the best European destinations for a beach holiday. The home of Paella and amazing architecture, Valencia offers a mixture of historical charm and modern attractions. Some of our favourite things to do includes the City of Arts & Sciences, and the famous aquarium.

As for the beach, you’ll find plenty to spend your time at only 10-20 mins from the city centre. Malvarrosa is famous for its sandy beach, and is full of shops, bars, and restaurants. If you’re looking for something more private, head to El Saler beach, about 13kms outside the city. To get here, you can take a bus from Valencia’s city centre.

Where to Stay: Purple Nest Hostel is where you’ll want to call home while on holiday in Valencia! Whether you want to party or take it easy, Purple Nest offers something for everyone. Participate in their free walking tours, or pub crawls and get to know this Spanish gem!

7. Ischia, Italy

This Italian island is the better version of neighbouring Capri, and is one of the best European destinations for a beach holiday. With plenty of beaches to enjoy, and beautiful historical sights to see, Ischia should be at the top of your list. From Naples, hop on a ferry and in just over an hour, you’ll arrive at one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean! 

Where to Stay: Ischia is a great idea for a day trip from Naples, where you MUST STAY at Ostello Bello! Not only it is very convenient with its location, but it is a hell of a social hostel, so you may even strike a few new friends to get join you for the day! Naples itself is also surround with great beaches and food, so that can be a good combo.

8. Ericeira, Portual

Surf, seafood, and great vibes. Roughly 40 minutes away from Lisbon, find yourself on surfers paradise in one of the most upcoming destinations in Europe. Ericeira features great swell for surf lovers, an exciting expat community with loads of Yoga and wellness events to mingle, and a large array of sunset concerts along the coast joining surfers, skaters, yoggies, and musicians, making it a great place to make new friends.

The city is also famous for its delicious fishing culture, so expect yourself to end your days sipping on green wine and munching on sardines watching the sunset.

Where to Stay: Wotels is one of the most popular places to hang out in Ericeira, with an active environment, a skateboard ramp, volleyball court, and yoga classes, you don’t have to go far to soak in all the vibes of Ericeira.

Wot Ericeira Surf hostel.

9. Marseille, France

Next on our list for the best European destinations for a beach holiday is Marseille! This French party city boasts a sunny climate year round, great nightlife, captivating culture, and incredible beaches. And being a classic fishing city, you’ll want to indulge in their delectable seafood. 

For the nature lovers, visiting the nearby Calanques National Park is a must. Stretching over 8,500 hectares of land, it’s home to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches. You can participate in a range of water activities here, such as snorkelling, kayaking, or a taking leisurely boat tour. 

Where to Stay: If you’re staying in Marseille then check in to Vertigo Vieux Port Hostel – centrally located and with an artistic flair, you’re bound to have an enjoyable stay here. 

10. Catania, Italy

Not only for being in the heart of Sicily, one of Italians most famous islands, but because the full scenario of hanging out at the beach with the scenario of an active vulcano as a background, makes it an iconic spot to rest your head while living la dolce vita.

Catania is also home of an amazing fish market, where you can taste some of the best delicacies of Italian coastal culture, and of course… ARANCINI ! Fried rice balls with goey mozzarella inside, making it a great snack for an after beach/pre party evening.

Being in an Island this is also a great chance to visit Palermo and other fantastic destinations along the island, like Trapani, Messina, or Cefalu.

Where to Stay: Ostello degli Elefanti is undoubtedly your best choice. Sitting right at the main plaza, with a cool terrace with homemade cocktails and great vibes, here’s where you will find the leads for your night out with your super tan.

 

Finished reading our guide to the 10 European destinations for a beach holiday? Then what are you waiting for? Book a hostel and come visit us.

Europe is full of amazing destinations for a beach holiday, and we’re sure you’re now inspired to start planning! If you’re looking for more inspiration or helpful information for your vacation, check out more blog posts here. And for all the latest news at Famous Hostels, follow us or subscribe on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Youtube.

…