The best beaches in Europe in 2025: where to go on vacation

Lonely Planet has named the 20 best beaches in Europe for summer 2025 — and the list includes not only Mediterranean resorts, but also the cold but charming coastlines of the North. Find out where to go this summer for a beach fairy tale

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Beach holidays in Europe are traditionally associated with sunny resorts in the south – the coasts of Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, or Croatia. But in 2025, experts from the world-famous travel guide Lonely Planet decided to change the perception of the ideal beach and presented a selection of the best beaches in Europe, which even included some completely unexpected locations.

The north also has beach magic

First place in this year's ranking went to... Hauklund Beach on the Lofoten Islands in Norway. Despite the cool water (the temperature does not rise above 15°C), this beach impresses with its unreal beauty: creamy sand, sharp granite peaks, and a sapphire sea create the impression that you are on another planet.

“Haukland Beach is otherworldly... but you still can't wait to jump in,” is how Lonely Planet experts described this location.

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A classic Mediterranean vacation

In second place is Cala Goloritze in Sardinia, Italy. It is famous for its turquoise waters, white cliffs, and crystal clarity — the perfect place for snorkeling and photography.

Third place went to West Beach on the Scottish island of Berneray — another unusual but charming location for beach relaxation with views of mountains and desert dunes.

Top 20 beaches in Europe in 2025

1. Hauklund, Lofoten Islands, Norway

2. Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy

3. West Beach, Burneire Island, Scotland

4. Palombazza, Corsica, France

5. Illetas, Formentera, Spain

6. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

7. Arrifana, Algarve, Portugal

8. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain

9. Navajo Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

10. Cala Baix, Mallorca, Spain

11. Île de Porquerolles, French Riviera, France

12. Ráudalsandur, Westfjords, Iceland

13. Praia das Catedrais, Galicia, Spain

14. Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

15. Lara Beach, Cyprus

16. Zlatni Rat, Brač Island, Croatia

17. Dueodde, Bornholm Island, Denmark

18. Kim's Bay, County Mayo, Ireland

19. Myrtos, Kefalonia, Greece

20. Coniglia Beach, Sicily, Italy

This list proves that Europe has many stunning beaches to suit every taste, from wild northern landscapes to classic Mediterranean bays. Each one has its own story and offers unforgettable experiences.

So if you are looking for the perfect place for your summer vacation in 2025, be inspired by this ranking and discover new horizons for your beach holiday.

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