Recently updated on January 22nd, 2020 at 08:22 pm
Throughout the year Europe entices visitors to its idyllic shores, with coastal stretches spanning an astonishing diversity of landscape and culture. Take in the dramatic ocean views from Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher, rejoice in the glamour of France’s Cote d’Azur and discover Greek wine in Santorini; these are some of the most breathtaking coastal destinations in Europe.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Recognised for its idyllic fishing villages where colourful houses cling to the cliffs, the rugged Cinque Terre coastline is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, also encompassing the vineyards and countryside that backs this stretch of coast. Travel from La Spezia to reach this isolated spot and stroll through its atmospheric villages.
Travel to Cinque Terre with Trafalgar on the Northern Italy including Cinque Terre trip.
Sicily, Italy
Combining ancient fusion culture with dramatic scenery, Sicily leaves quite an impression on those who visit. The most dramatic landmark on this Italian island is without doubt the stratovolcano Mount Etna, which sits on the east coast with vineyards within its foothills. On a visit to the city of Palermo, spend time soaking up the laidback character of coastal Mondello region.
Explore Sicily with Trafalgar on the Southern Italy and Sicily trip and the Best of Italy and Sicily.
Cornwall, England
This unique patch of southern England is characterized by its rugged coastline of windswept cliffs, hidden coves, and charming harbour towns. From the medieval Tintagel Castle to the isolated St Michael’s Mount, the region’s coastline has a fascinating history of smugglers and folkloric tales to uncover.
Travel around Cornwall with Trafalgar on the Best of Devon and Cornwall trip.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Situated off Scotland’s northwest coast, the remote Isle of Skye isn’t often the first of the many coastal destinations in Europe to come to mind. But with its pristine coastline of cliffs and bays, and dramatic mountainous backdrop, it’s certainly one of the most captivating spots to explore.
Venture to the Isle of Skye on a Scottish Trafalgar journey, such as the Best of Scotland, Highland Trail inspired by Outlander, Scottish Highlands, Islands and Cities, and Celtic Filmscapes.
The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Dubbed the Wild Atlantic Way for its remarkably wild landscape and exposure to the Atlantic Ocean, Ireland’s west coast is well worth discovering while seeking out local landmarks along the way. Perhaps the most famous spot along the route is the Cliffs of Moher, which reach heights of over 700 metres above the waves.
Travel along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way on the Best of Ireland, Amazing Ireland, Secrets of Ireland, Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle, and the Irish Experience.
French Riviera, France
The Cote d’Azur, known to many as the French Riviera, spans France’s southeastern coast, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. In this region, it’s the chic resort towns that attract the most attention, in particular Saint Tropez and Cannes. But there are small peaceful enclaves to seek out too, exhibiting the coast’s cultural riches as well as its natural beauty.
Soak up the French Riviera on the Highlights of France, Wonderful France and Best of France itineraries.
The Algarve, Portugal
Golden bays and whitewashed coastal towns have long made the Algarve one of the most enticing coastal destinations in Europe. But there’s plenty more to discover than these picture-postcard Portuguese views; The Algarve has a string of beaches and bays to explore with history within its seafront towns, and stellar coastal cuisine.
Visit the Algarve with Trafalgar on the Best of Portugal and Highlights of Spain and Portugal.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
On Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, both mountainous terrain and historic towns overlook the Adriatic Sea. Split is the coast’s main draw, with the 4th century Roman fortress Diocletian’s Palace at its centre, and a vibrant restaurant and bar scene to discover after the sun goes down.
Travel to Croatia’s Adriatic Coast on the Croatia and Bosnia Herzegovina trip, The Balkans and Venice, and Highlights of Austria, Slovenia and Croatia.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini surprises many of its visitors with its volcanic landscape; black sand beaches fringe the island’s shores, vineyards are cultivated on volcanic plains, and whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches cling to the rocky terrain. And this isn’t all there is to discover, with the island’s sumptuous Greek cuisine proving equally compelling.
Get to know Santorini on the Greek Island Explorer, Greek island Hopper, Athens and the Aegean, and Ancient Lands.
Image credits: Cover photo of Vernazza in Cinque Terre © iStock / bluejayphoto. Coastal views from Vernazza in Cinque Terre © iStock / bluejayphoto. Cefalu in Sicily © iStock / master2. Lulworth Cove in Cornwall © iStock / peterkent. Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye © iStock / Iaminut. The Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way © iStock / Elena Petrova. Menton on the French Riviera © iStock / Freeartist. Lagos in Portugal © iStock / Smileus. Village near Split in Croatia © iStock / anshar73. Santorini © iStock / marchello74.