It may be getting a bit chilly here in New Zealand but Europe is well and truly into summer, which means longer days, a livelier nightlife and sunshine are all on the cards. With so many options, deciding where to head to can be tricky. To help you out, we’ve rounded up some of the most vibrant towns for an incredible European summer. From picture-perfect Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera to the lesser known town of Annecy in South France, these spots are bursting with colour.
Cinque Terre, Italy
The astounding collection of five seaside villages cascading down Italy’s Riviera is what makes Cinque Terre so special. The UNESCO World Heritage fishing towns are perched high above and shine with bright, varied colours, as if they were painted by an artist. It’s a perfect place to put on your trainers and explore the rugged coastline by walking from village to village. The easiest way to reach Cinque Terre is by train, as all five towns connect directly with Genoa, Pisa and Rome.
Where to stay: Stay at the Cinqueterre Residence
Annecy, France
This charming, tucked away town is located by a mountain-fringed lake in the south of France. The best way to uncover the area is by strolling along the winding canals, pastel-coloured houses and flower-decked bridges. On market days, the cobbled pedestrian streets come to life with shoppers out and about, shopping for fresh produce, cheese, wine, antiques and arts and crafts. Learn about France’s rich history by taking a trip to the medieval Château d’Annecy, once home to the Counts of Geneva, which now contains a museum with regional artefacts.
Where to stay: Stay at the L’Impérial Palace
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen’s famous Nyhavn Canal, with its exuberant stretch of chromatic and narrow townhouses, is one of the trendiest and most animated spots to visit in Europe. Start your day with a typical Danish breakfast platter, consisting of coffee, rye bread, mini pastries, cheese and charcuterie. Work off your morning feast by hiring a bike to visit the town’s sites, including Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid bronze sculpture, the Christiansborg Palace and the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle in more depth, and be sure to enjoy the great nightlife the city has to offer.
Where to stay: Stay at the Absalon Hotel
Porto, Portugal
Home to Port wine, Porto is a must-visit destination for any wine lover who loves colourful cities. Be ready to befriend charismatic locals and learn about the city’s fascinating culture, architecture and gastronomy. Walk along the River Douro (river of gold) by the historical Ribeira Square, where you can sit down for a wine on a warm summer evening or cross the river to visit the local port wine cellars. For something a bit different, take a helicopter tour to discover Porto‘s stunning architecture such as the Arrábida Bridge from up above, or jump on a cruise along the river for a cheaper alternative. Fun fact: Porto was the city author J.K. Rowling was residing in whilst working on her first book, which makes it the birthplace of Harry Potter!
Where to stay: Stay at the Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa
Reykjavik, Iceland
Known for being Europe’s smallest and coldest capital city, Reykjavik’s colourful cityscape, dotted with multicoloured houses is like a kaleidoscope. The array of colours is an ingenious way for the locals to counteract the long periods of darkness felt during the winter months. Come summertime, however, the city experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight, making it an out-of-the-ordinary travel destination. Enjoy a number of popular summer activities including whale-watching, fishing, horse riding and trips to the many natural wonders nearby, such as the oldest parliament in the world, Thingvellir, the iridescent blue waters of The Blue Lagoon, the geothermal fountain geyser Strokkur and Vatnajökull National Parks.
Where to stay: Stay at the Apotek Hotel by Keahotels
*The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) are per night per room for double occupancy for the above and were found on nz.KAYAK.com on 7 June 2017 for travel in August 2017, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The flight prices (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) for one return economy seat and were collated on 7 June 2017 for travel in August 2017 from New Zealand to the destination listed, unless specified otherwise. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
