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While European destinations like London, Paris and Rome remain the most popular this summer, these are the destinations that are currently popular with American travelers.
The travel booking platform Hopper has just released a new report highlighting the top European destinations of the summer, including those currently soaring in popularity.
From beaches and islands of the Mediterranean to cold-weather destinations perfect for escaping the sweltering summer heat, here are the hottest places to go in Europe right now.
7. Bergen, Norway
To start the list we have Bergen, Norway. This coastal city is a great summer destination to beat the heat and enjoy cool, mild weather instead.
It is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and is known as the ‘gateway to the fjords’.
But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: Norway is one duration destination (one of the most expensive in the world!) So if you’re not planning on spending a lot of money this summer, let’s look at a more affordable destination…
6. Cagliari, Italy
Cagliari is the capital of the island of Sardinia, consistently considered one of the best beaches in Italy (and in all of Europe for that matter!)
It can also be a surprisingly affordable destination, especially if you go later in the summer.
Although Sardinia may be under the radar for many American travelers, it is a popular vacation destination for Italians and other Europeans, especially during the months of July and August.
Save Sardinia for September, and you can enjoy the island with much fewer crowds (and cheaper prices!)
5. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is another island destination on the rise this summer with record numbers of visitors.
It’s easy to see why travelers flock to this island full of beautiful beaches and fun nightlife.
Like Sardinia, I would actually recommend going to Mallorca later in the season (September or even early October is still warm enough to swim in the Mediterranean!)
4. Olbia, Italy
Yet another entry on this list goes to Sardinia, Italy – the town of Olbia on the north side of the island, to be precise. Personally I prefer Olbia to Cagliari.
It’s about a third smaller and close to some of the island’s best beaches.
So this would be my top choice for a stay in Sardinia, between the two cities.
3. Inverness, Scotland
If the idea of baking in the sun on a beach in Italy or Spain this summer makes you sweat, why not plan a trip to Inverness, Scotland?
Inverness is the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, one of the most beautiful regions in the world famous for its dramatic landscapes.
And it’s also a great destination to escape the heat and enjoy milder weather as you explore the mystical beauty of the Highlands.
2. Nice, France
Many tourists in Nice come from cruise ships and only have one day to see some of the sights along the French Riviera.
My suggestion? Stay in Nice for as long as possible (at least four days, but even longer if possible!) and take day trips along the coast.
Monaco, Menton, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Antibes, Cannes, Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are just some of the great day trips you can easily take by train or bus from Nice.
1. Funchal, Portugal
The last entry on this list is a bit of a cheat, as it is not on the mainland, but Madeira is still an autonomous region of Portugal, making it part of the EU.
Funchal is actually not on mainland Europe at all; it is located on the island of Madeira off the north coast of Africa.
But this breathtaking island is just a 1 hour and 45 minute flight from Lisbon, making it an easy getaway. Known as the “Hawaii of Europe,” it’s not hard to see why travelers love this island.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
