Europe is full of huge possibilities and options for every type of traveler, from thrill seekers and cultural lovers to families and gourmets. With more than 50% of travelers from all over the region consider food an incentive to travel, according to a new research by Agoda – one of the fastest growing digital travel platforms – here are some of the prominent tourist destinations that may motivate you to embark on a European trip this summer.
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Cinque Terre, Italy
This beating coastal region will take you to ancient Italy. Cinque Terre includes five villages along the Ligurian coast with its authentic italyn ambiance – think for example rugged coasts and fishing harbors, sparkling sea fronts, and delicious italyn dishes filled with fresh items after daytime fishing trips.
Necessary activities:
italyn-style – use the pesto! Pesto sauce comes originally from Cinque Terre, and there are many opportunities for you to learn from the professionals. For a delicious lunch, eat the most delicious food at Nissen Dorma Restaurant in Manarola Village, where you can then take part in a pesto training course.
Explore the five villages, each with its own unique charm – go from one village to another on foot, enjoy the stunning natural landscapes, or book a day cruise through the feature of tourism activities via the finest site or application, and sail in the charming waters of the Gulf of La Spezia.
Residence:
Options include a poetic sea view villa, such as the villas at La Pavona, a luxury collection villa in the elegant village of Monterosso al Mare, a five-minute walk from the beach, but far from the hustle and bustle. Alternatively, you can stay in a charming hotel like the Grand Hotel Portovenere, located on the seafront of Portovenere, overlooking the island of Palmaria.
Malacca, Spain
With more flights from the Middle East to Malacca than ever before, it is now an ideal opportunity to visit one of the most amazing and unique tourist destinations in Spain. Soft white sandy beaches, delicious local cuisine, and elegant seaport make all of Malacca a poetic destination, but there is so much more to this coastal city than Al Ain does not describe.
Necessary activities:
Replace your light sole with walking shoes, and join the Caminetto del Rey tour via Agoda.com. Because it’s only for the brave and adventurous, this tour takes participants across a 100-meter-suspended track over the river, but towering imaginative views make it worth sharing. Learn a new skill, enrolled in a cooking course to learn how to prepare the famous Spanish rice dish Pia, and head to the Picasso Museum in honor of the 20th-century artist born in Malacca.
Residence:
To enjoy stunning sea views just a stone’s throw from the beach, look no further than the luxury Gran Hotel Miramar. For the city goers, stay in the newly renovated 19th-century Hotel Palacete de Alamos.
Porto, Portugal
Portugal’s second largest city is rooted in the world of culture and is one of the best places to see medieval architectural creations. The Douro River flows through Porto, painting a scenic backdrop of vibrant restaurants lining its banks.
Necessary activities:
The best way to see the glamorous views of Porto is undoubtedly by hiking on a bike. Take a guided tour to discover the city’s hidden sights, fine sandy beaches, or enjoy local tours and try authentic dishes on a family-friendly dining tour. History lovers will find their place in the library of Liveraria Lillo, the place that is said to be the inspiration behind Hogwarts School in Harry Potter novels by author JK Rolling, with its beautiful architecture and stunning interiors. And by the sea, you can take the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious seafood at a seafood restaurant in Porto – there is something for every taste.
Residence:
With over 1,300 properties to choose from on agoda.com, you can find a place in the heart of Porto like the Intercontinental Hotel Porto – Palacio das Cardosa, originally a historical palace, or Infante Sagres, a luxury hotel with stunning views of the city.
Budapest, Hungary
The historic Hungarian capital Budapest has a rich cultural heritage, with some of the world’s most impressive monuments and castles, as well as the natural hot springs found there.
Necessary activities:
While in Budapest, sail into the world of rich traditional Hungarian culture, from learning how to prepare local dishes like gulash soup during a cooking course, to trying the famous Hungarian folkloric dance. Relax in natural thermal baths – while there are many to choose from (1,000 in fact), the Sakini Bath is one of the largest natural springs in Europe. From Budapest, a short drive away, masterpieces of natural and man-made beauty emerge, including ancient castles and the picturesque Lake Balaton. Enjoy live music evenings, or take a sightseeing cruise over the waters of the Danube.
Residence:
Enjoy the city center vibrancy at the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest with its classic twentieth century design. For those who prefer a more city-inspired atmosphere and expressions of fast-paced working life, head to The Loft Budapest.
Kotor, Montenegro
Being known for its virgin and quieter version of its Dubrovnik neighbor, Couture has attracted the attention of tourists from all over the world over the past few years. Kotor Bay overlooks the stunning Adriatic Sea, with its pebbled streets, elegant beach-side restaurants, and stone buildings marked by its red roofs.
Necessary activities:
Visit the UNESCO-listed Berast, a stone-built city on the edge of the bay with traditional boats lining up along the beach. Book a coastal tour of Bucca Bay and swim in the crystal waters of the Blue Cave. The private Montenegro Marina, a short drive from Kotor, features fine shops and Mediterranean restaurants. You must try Al Busto Giusto Restaurant, which offers one of the best types of pizza with dough in Montenegro, and to enjoy the wonderful views of the Gulf while eating fresh seafood, head to De Gustibus.
Residence:
The five-star Abraustar Heritage Grand Hotel is conveniently located, just five meters from the bay – after all, is there a better place to stay than an 18th-century palace? For those who want to enjoy sightseeing in Tivat, a 20-minute drive from Couture, The Chedi Lustica Bay Hotel is the perfect choice.
Santorini, Greece
The stunning scenery of the island with its blue and white buildings always makes it the perfect backdrop for any romantic setting. However, Santorini abounds in more than just unique scenery and azure waters, it is home to the most magnificent volcanic natural formations.
Necessary activities:
Get the most out of the scenic Santorini, visit the island’s volcano, hot springs, and mud baths. Discover archaeological sites such as the ancient city of Minoan, which was destroyed by the volcanic eruption in 1613 BC. Explore Santorini on a luxury sailing boat, where you will visit the black volcanic beaches, and the oldest lighthouse in Greece. Do you like hiking and dining? Take part in a hiking and cooking experience, which offers great views of both sides of Santorini, before knowing the secrets of traditional Greek cuisine.
Residence:
Elite Suites Suites in Oia are attractive and contemporary villas on the cliff side. And for those who prefer to be in the midst of a loud atmosphere and nights sleep, Aressana Spa Hotel and Suites in Fira can be chosen.
Majorca, Spain
Majorca is vibrant in summer with its numerous music festivals and various evenings. The island’s capital, Palma de Mallorca, blends vibrant neighborhoods with an abundance of restaurants and art and cultural events that attract many visitors. Along the coast, its 262 white sandy beaches and sparkling seas are an ideal destination for a special family vacation.
Necessary activities:
After relaxing on one of Mallorca’s beautiful beaches, explore Palma and its medieval streets. It is a great place to buy stylish clothes from well-known designs, eat local delicacies, or visit one of its many art galleries. Take some time to communicate with nature in Mondrago National Park or visit Hydropark Alcudia Water Park for the perfect family vacation.
Residence:
Choose a quiet and relaxing place after a long day of wandering and exploring, and head to Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden – the majestic retreat with its secret garden. For a more modern option, the Nakar Hotel features a rooftop infinity pool with an enchanting view of Palma.
7 European destinations for an unforgettable summer vacation
Cinque Terre, Italy
Malacca, Spain
Porto, Portugal
Budapest, Hungary
Kotor, Montenegro
Santorini, Greece
Majorca, Spain
