Formentera, Spain
Everybody has heard of Ibiza; every summer, it transforms into one of Europe’s wildest party islands. However, few people are aware of Formentera, an old haven for hippies located just half an hour away via ferry to the south. This lesser-known gem boasts some of Europe’s finest shores yet remains much quieter. Once the tourists head back to Ibiza on the late-afternoon ferries, you can enjoy the solitude here—particularly during months like May, September, or October. You can either rent a bicycle or stroll from one beautiful spot to another, including Playa es Pujols which features upscale beach clubs and bars not commonly seen even in popular spots like San Antonio, known as the nightclub hub of Ibiza.
Piran, Slovenia
Ditch Italy and explore Slovenia instead—especially Piran, the coastal gem often called Little Venice. This place offers all the charm without breaking the bank or dealing with massive crowds (it’s best visited outside July). Much like Venice, Piran boasts winding cobblestone streets dating back 1000 years, which lead down to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You’ll find elegantly suited waitstaff serving up fresh-caught seafood at outdoor eateries, alongside bustling old-town plazas filled with cafés and vibrant bars. Once part of the Venetian Republic until the end of the 18th century, Piran retains an unmistakably Italian vibe. From here, witness the sunrise illuminate Italy before watching the sunset paint Croatia in hues across the horizon.
Faroe Islands, Denmark
As the mercury climbed nearly 1.5 degrees over the last couple of scorching European summers, seeking out refreshing retreats seems like a wise move. There’s hardly anywhere as refreshingly cool as the Faroe Islands, nestled midway between Iceland and Scotland in the North Atlantic and just a quick hop by air from Britain. This archipelago consists of 18 islands with fewer people than sheep grazing about. Authorities keep visitor counts under control. During summertime, anticipate around 20 sunlit hours per day along with moderate temperatures averaging in the high teens. No spot on these islands lies further than five kilometers away from the shoreline; meanwhile, an abundance of fjords and cascading falls await your exploration.
Tropea, Italy
Walk cautiously along the Amalfi Coast — it becomes overcrowded during summertime with throngs of tourists from around the world — and head down south towards Calabria instead. Even though no coastal area in Italy remains entirely free of crowds nowadays, Tropea provides better bang for your buck and has ample beach space where you can spread out your towels. Though just a quaint little town, Tropea boasts breathtaking views; its ancient hilltop village (legend says even Hercules laid claim to founding this place) gazes over the Tyrrhenian Sea, situated on what is known as the Coast of the Gods. The local vibe persists here too, with residents going about their lives amidst vibrantly painted historical structures connected by charming cobbled lanes.
Andros, Greece
It’s peculiar how a Greek island just a short two-hour trip away from Athens manages to remain one of Greece’s hidden gems, yet that’s exactly what Andros is like. Board a ferry departing from Athens and prepare to marvel at your surroundings because Andros is lush with vegetation! Unlike many other Greek islands which tend to be arid, gritty, and have earth-toned hues, even the ancients referred to this verdant haven as an oasis.
Ydrousa
(“aquatic”). Boasting a rugged inland terrain with verdant valleys scattered throughout, this region stands out as Greece’s premier spot for hikes. Expect idyllic white-sand shores typical of Greece, complemented by open-air seafood eateries along ancient cobblestone pathways. In contrast to popular destinations like Mykonos, crime rates here remain minimal—and lodging costs are also pleasantly low, with some homestays available for under $150 per night.
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