New Report Ranks Top Coastal Cities To Visit In Europe

It’s summer and travelers are planning for a sun and sand vacation in Europe, but which destinations should they visit? A recent survey sent to 3,500 travelers by Which? has ranked European coastal locations based on various factors they look for when traveling. Among the factors are affordability, friendliness of the locals, safety, tourist attractions and more. Meanwhile, some of the cities listed below are well-known destinations, others are more off-the-beaten-tourist-path locations that could be tops this summer. Read on to find out about the top coastal destinations in Europe for 2023 and beyond.

1. Valencia, Spain – top coastal destination in Europe

While Spain is generally popular with travelers some cities are more popular than others. In this case, Valencia on the southeastern coast has been ranked as number 1. This beautiful city is known as being a peaceful and quiet destination and for its City of Arts and Sciences, with futuristic structures including an oceanarium, planetarium and interactive museum. The city has several excellent beaches (pictured top), with some located close to Albufera Park, a wetlands reserve featuring walking trails and a lake. As a quieter alternative to popular cities like Barcelona or Madrid, Valencia literally has something for everyone.

2. Porto, Portugal on the River Douro

Like every year, 2023 is seeing crowds of tourists in the beautiful city of Porto in northwest Portugal on the River Douro. However, while it is busy, it is still much calmer than frantic Lisbon. For one thing, the weather is slightly cooler and is a lot more affordable than Portugal’s capital. Meanwhile, the city is renowned for its foodie scene and the medieval Ribeira district with its cobbled streets lined with cafés and merchant’s houses. Moreover, Porto is famous for its port wine production and as a gateway to other cities in Portugal

3. Venice, Italy – popular coastal location in Europe

With its canals, lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces and crossed beautiful bridges, Venice has always been a favorite. It’s one of those destinations that are popular all year round. Meanwhile, the city is a foodie heaven with its delicious fresh pasta and a delight to explore on a gondola ride through the canals. Moreover, Carnival in Venice is a spectacular (if crowded) event. It also gives easy access to other parts of Italy with its public transport.

4. Tavira, Portugal

Heading back to Portugal, Tavira is a small, lesser-known city on the Algarve coast. Tavira straddles the Gilão River which heads through the lagoons of Ria Formosa Natural Park. Meanwhile, Tavira Island has a long, sandy beach, along with salt pans that attract spoonbills, flamingos and other wading birds on the beach. In the city center, a visit to the medieval Tavira Castle offers fabulous city views.

5. Pollença, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

Located in the north of the island of Mallorca, Pollença is a serene and lesser-known place to visit a little inland from the coast. With its pretty architecture and narrow, winding streets, the town is perfect for exploring, stopping off in little cafés along the way. Just down the road is the Port of Pollença, with pretty fishing boats, and easy access to excellent beaches. Meanwhile, the town is close to Cap de Formentor and Alcúdia.

Read more about the survey carried out by Which? here including the following ranked coastal destinations in Europe:

6. Chania Town, Crete, Greece
7. Rhodes, Greece
8. Syracuse, Sicily, Italy
9. Barcelona, Spain
10. Lisbon, Portugal