What Is The Best Beach In Europe? Here Are 15 Beaches We Love

Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, but what is the best beach in Europe? Well this list of the 15 best beaches in Europe is just a small sampling of what the continent has to offer.

From secluded coves to bustling seaside towns, from white-sand beaches to black-sand beaches, Europe has something for everyone. 

What Is The Best Beach In Europe? Here Are 15 Beaches We Love

Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, but what is the best beach in Europe? Well this list of the 15 best beaches in Europe is just a small sampling of what the continent has to offer.

From secluded coves to bustling seaside towns, from white-sand beaches to black-sand beaches, Europe has something for everyone. 

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary, some experienced hints and tips, or just craving a delicious food adventure, we’ve got you covered!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary, some experienced hints and tips, or just craving a delicious food adventure, we’ve got you covered!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary, some experienced hints and tips, or just craving a delicious food adventure, we’ve got you covered!

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The Best Beach In Europe Girl on the beach

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-packed European beach holiday, these 15 beaches are sure to inspire and delight you.

Let’s go! 15 Best Beaches in Europe

Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy  

The rugged coastlines of Sardinia are home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe.

Cala Goloritze, situated in the Gulf of Orosei, is one such beach that is accessible only by foot or by boat, which adds to its secluded and unspoiled beauty.

The Best Beach In Europe Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy
The Best Beach In Europe Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy

Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain

Located in the Balearic Islands, Playa de Ses Illetes is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and picturesque views of the surrounding islands.

It’s a perfect place to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

The Best Beach In Europe Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy
The Best Beach In Europe Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

Also known as Shipwreck Beach, towering cliffs surround this stunning cove and feature a shipwreck that has become an iconic landmark of the island.

The turquoise waters and dramatic scenery make it a must-visit beach destination in Europe. For an easy flight from Athens, use Skyscanner to search for the best flight deals!

RELATED POST – What to do in Athens in One Day – The Perfect Itinerary

The Best Beach In Europe Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
The Best Beach In Europe Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Zlatni Rat, Brac Island, Croatia

Often referred to as the Golden Horn, Zlatni Rat is a unique beach that changes its shape and position with the tide and winds.

The fine pebble beach and crystal-clear waters attract thousands of tourists every year. From the featured photo below, it’s easy to see why.

Many visitors, curious about the broader coastal beauty of the region, often choose to journey beyond just Zlatni Rat. Some opt for cruises from Dubrovnik by Sail Croatia, which provides a panoramic view of the Adriatic coast. 

The Best Beach In Europe Zlatni Rat, Brac Island, Croatia
The Best Beach In Europe Zlatni Rat, Brac Island, Croatia

Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal

Praia da Rocha is one of the most popular and busiest beaches in Portugal.

The golden sand, clear waters, and picturesque rock formations make it a perfect destination for beach lovers.

While here, I recommend trying these 20 Most Delicious Foods From Portugal.

The Best Beach In Europe Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal
The Best Beach In Europe Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal

Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France

Plage de Palombaggia is a long, sandy beach with pine trees and clear, turquoise waters.

It’s a great spot for snorkelling, kayaking, and other water sports.

The Best Beach In Europe Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France
The Best Beach In Europe Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica, France

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Myrtos Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, with a striking contrast to white pebbles and blue-green waters.

The rugged landscape and cliffs add to its dramatic beauty.

The Best Beach In Europe Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
The Best Beach In Europe Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Don’t miss our EUROPE CITY GUIDES

Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal

Praia da Marinha is a hidden gem in a secluded cove, surrounded by limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

It’s often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Could you imagine yourself relaxing in one of these secluded spots?

The Best Beach In Europe Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal
The Best Beach In Europe Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal

Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy

Rabbit Beach is a tiny, remote island located off the coast of Sicily. It’s accessible only by boat and has been named the best beach in the world by TripAdvisor in 2013.

Here are 15 amazing places to visit in Italy to add to your bucket list.

The Best Beach In Europe Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy
The Best Beach In Europe Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy

Vik Beach, Iceland

Although not your typical sunbathing beach, Vik Beach in Iceland is a black-sand beach surrounded by towering basalt columns and dramatic cliffs.

It’s a unique and stunning destination for beach lovers willing to brave the chilly Icelandic weather. The best way to explore Iceland is with your own wheels!

Check out our Complete Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland; it covers some essential tips to know before you go!

And another tip is to consider buying an eSIM to stay connected in Iceland. Affordable, convenient and reliable for your trip to one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

RELATED POST – How to Visit Iceland on a Budget – Best Money Saving Tips

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The Best Beach In Europe Vik Beach, Iceland
The Best Beach In Europe Vik Beach, Iceland

Playa de Muro, Mallorca, Spain

Playa de Muro is a pristine, white-sand beach stretching over 5 miles along the coast of Mallorca.

It’s a popular destination for families, thanks to its shallow, clear waters and numerous beachside amenities.

The Best Beach In Europe Playa de Muro, Mallorca, Spain
The Best Beach In Europe Playa de Muro, Mallorca, Spain

Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland

Reynisfjara Beach is another black-sand beach in Iceland, famous for its towering basalt sea stacks, thundering waves, and rugged cliffs.

It’s a breathtakingly beautiful destination that’s also home to a colony of nesting puffins. This best beach in Europe has to be seen to be believed.

The Best Beach In Europe Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
The Best Beach In Europe Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland

Nissi Beach, Cyprus

Located in Ayia Napa, Nissi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus. Its white sand and turquoise waters make it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

The Best Beach In Europe Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
The Best Beach In Europe Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece
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Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

Sveti Stefan is located on a small peninsula on Montenegro’s southern coast, near the town of Budva.

The beach is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains, crystal-clear waters, and soft pink sand. 

The Best Beach In Europe Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
The Best Beach In Europe Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Scotland

Luskentyre Beach is a hidden gem on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Its white sand, turquoise waters, and stunning mountain backdrop make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

It’s also a great spot for wildlife watching, with otters, seals, and dolphins often spotted in the waters.

Want to see more of Scotland? Check out the best small group tour operator in Scotland and the UK – Rabbies Tours. 

We toured the Scottish Highlands with Rabbies, and had a great trip. Read our Review of Rabbies Tours here.

The Best Beach In Europe Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy
The Best Beach In Europe Cala Goloritze, Sardinia, Italy

Get Connected with eSIM

Get connected easily on your travels—buy an eSIM! It works like an app: buy it, download it, and get connected in minutes! It’s easy, affordable, and convenient. Keep your original phone number, too!

In conclusion, Europe has a plethora of beautiful beaches that cater to every kind of traveller.

Europe has everything whether you’re looking for a secluded cove or a bustling seaside town.

The list of the 15 best beaches in Europe is a great starting point for anyone planning a beach holiday in Europe.

What is your favourite or best beach of Europe? Let us know in the comments. 

Travel Tips for Europe

We have many travel guides and tips for Europe— an incredible continent!

Are you travelling on a budget? These ten cheapest European countries will help you plan an itinerary that lets you see as much as possible while there.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel long-term (or at least until the money runs out), these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Europe, and our food map of Europe will inspire your culinary journey.

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies, a couple of them are located in Europe.

Here are 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe and it’s good to know these 7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe too.

These top 6 travel hacks to save money are great to read when planning your travels.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries, or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM. The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Check out our Group Tours first for any upcoming European departures, or view Tourradar for great deals on group tours in Europe.

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

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Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights: We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 AccommodationBooking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance: We recommend Heymondo (Get 15% off Heymondo) & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation: Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go. 

🚘 Car Rental: We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours: We now offer Group Trips; view them here! Alternatively, we recommend searching the Tourradar website. For Europe, Expat Explore is a good choice. *Get 5% off when you quote code VERYHUNGRYNOMADS to your Expat reservations agent. (*Valid for new clients only).

📸 Day Tours & TripsGetYourGuide & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks, and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 LuggageOsprey Farpoint 40L Backpack or Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack: Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good power bank.  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers.

🐶 Become a House Sitter: Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE & Revolut are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶 Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM lets you get connected when you land at your destination. We LOVE this product! Use code MARTIN9009 to get $3 off your first Airalo eSIM (new users only) OR click here to SAVE 15% off your eSIM(valid till 31/12/2025).

✅ Check out our Travel Gear and Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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