Best Summer Getaway Destinations in Europe

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Summer is the perfect time to explore new parts of Europe. Every year, millions of travellers head across the continent to make the most of the summer holidays, and in 2025, European tourism broke records once again. According to Eurostat data, tourist accommodation in the European Union recorded over 3 billion overnight stays throughout the year, proving that Europe remains one of the most visited destinations in the world.

With longer days, great weather, and endless food and cultural options, weekend getaways are the perfect way to relax. From cities with thousands of years of history to charming little coastal towns, Europe has something for everyone, whether you are looking to unwind by the sea or head out into nature.

What's more, many of these destinations are best enjoyed at your own pace. In most cases, hiring a car is the best way to discover hidden beaches, enjoy scenic drives, or visit nearby towns well away from the main tourist crowds.

We’ve rounded up some of the best European destinations for an unforgettable summer getaway.

Lisbon: A Perfect Mix of The City and The Beach

The Portuguese capital has become one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. Lisbon offers history, amazing food, incredible viewpoints, and nearby beaches that let you mix sightseeing and relaxing all in one trip.

Exploring neighbourhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto is a must. With its cobbled streets, iconic yellow trams, and views over the River Tagus, the city has a completely unique charm.

Lisbon is also ideal for a weekend break because many of its main sights are easy to get to on foot. The Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and Commerce Square are some of the most popular places to visit.

One of the best things about a trip to Lisbon is how easy it is to do day trips nearby. Sintra, with its stunning palaces and gardens, and Cascais, right on the Atlantic coast, are both well worth a visit. Hiring a car with CarJet makes everything a lot easier, giving you the freedom to explore the Portuguese coast at your own pace.

Budapest: One of Europe's Best-Value Destinations

Budapest is one of the most surprising cities in Europe. Divided by the River Danube, the Hungarian capital mixes rich history, impressive architecture, and a brilliant nightlife scene.

The city really comes alive during the summer. The outdoor seating areas along the river are packed, and the famous 'ruin bars' become one of the main social spots for travellers from all over the world.

Some of the top sights include the Parliament building, the Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Chain Bridge. Budapest is also famous for its thermal baths, like Széchenyi or Gellért, which are perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

The city is also well known for being very affordable compared to other European destinations, making it an ideal choice for a cheap summer break.

Prague: a European City Break that Never Disappoints

Prague is one of those cities that looks like something off a postcard. Its historic old town, beautiful bridges, and medieval architecture make it one of the most stunning destinations in Europe.

Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Old Town Square are just a few of the top sights you can't miss. Plus, the city has a fantastic atmosphere in the summer thanks to its beer gardens, festivals, and outdoor markets.

One of the best things about Prague is that it’s very easy to see in just a few days. This makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a short break where you don’t have to spend ages travelling around.

It’s also a brilliant destination if you love food and drink, as the Czech Republic is world-famous for having some of the best beer on the planet.

Split: Beaches, Islands, and a Mediterranean Feel

Croatia has been one of the top European summer destinations for years now, and Split is easily one of its most interesting cities.

Located right on the Adriatic Sea, Split offers a great mix of beaches, history, and nightlife. Diocletian's Palace, right in the heart of the historic centre, is one of the city's main highlights and one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world.

It is also incredibly easy to take boat trips from Split to some of Croatia's most famous islands, such as Hvar or Brač.

If you want to explore the Dalmatian coast at your own pace, hiring a car is a great idea. Places like Trogir or Krka National Park are relatively close by and are well worth a visit.

Dubrovnik: One of the Most Stunning Cities on the Adriatic

Dubrovnik is easily one of the most photogenic cities in Europe. Its medieval walls, the Adriatic Sea, and its stone-paved streets make it a truly unique destination.

The city gets incredibly lively during the summer, especially in the evenings. Plus, spending time on the nearby beaches and taking boat trips are some of the most popular things to do here.

Walking along the city walls is a must, as they offer some of the best views over the Adriatic.

That said, it’s best to avoid the middle of the day during July and August, as it can get incredibly hot and the tourist crowds increase significantly.

Valletta: A Charming Mediterranean Break

Malta is one of the most well-rounded destinations in the Mediterranean for a short summer break. Valletta, its capital, offers plenty of history, culture, and a really international atmosphere.

The city is incredibly easy to explore on foot and is packed with historic buildings, fortifications, and viewpoints overlooking the sea.

However, the best parts of Malta are usually found outside the capital. The beaches, coves, and natural areas scattered across the island are beautiful. Places like the Blue Lagoon or Mdina are absolute must-sees.

Having a hire car makes it easy to discover the less touristy spots and get around different areas of the island comfortably.

Amsterdam: Canals, Culture, and Summer Vibes

Amsterdam is one of the most visited cities in Europe, especially during the summer months. Its canals, bikes, and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect destination for a short break.

During the summer, the city’s parks and outdoor seating areas really come alive. Plus, the longer days mean you can make the most of the top sights, like the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, or a boat cruise along the canals.

The city is also an excellent base for day trips to other parts of the Netherlands, especially if you have a car.

Ljubljana: Europe's Most Underrated Summer Destination

Slovenia is one of the most surprising countries in Europe, and its capital, Ljubljana, is perfect for a quiet, alternative break.

The city has a relaxed feel, plenty of green spaces, and a lovely historic centre that’s great for exploring on foot. Plus, it’s incredibly close to some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Lake Bled, the Julian Alps, and the Postojna Caves are just a few of the most popular places to visit from Ljubljana.

This is exactly why Slovenia is one of those destinations where hiring a car makes all the difference, as it allows you to discover all kinds of spectacular scenery in no time at all. And remember, if you book a hire car with CarJet, you can compare hundreds of companies to get the absolute best prices.