For the last few years, every time summer comes around, the internet is abuzz with talk of “Euro Summer” vacations and their endless delights but what is Euro Summer and how does one hop on this trend to enjoy it for themselves?
Euro Summer encompasses the specific delights of a vacation in many of Europe’s most beloved holiday spots as well as her key hidden gem destinations. It is a vibe, an aesthetic, a way of life. It involves different kinds of holidays – from culture-rich city breaks, to sun-soaked seaside escapes, to vacations spent dancing the night away – that can be enjoyed all on their own or all at once in many destinations. Most of all, it is about really enjoying life – good food and wine, relaxation, having time and space to appreciate things – in stunning surroundings. Natural wonders, ancient cities, and major attractions are a backdrop as well as an activity when enjoying a Euro Summer holiday. So, if you want to experience your own dream Euro Summer getaway, here is the Easy Reserve guide to vacation rentals in the best Euro Summer destinations...
Apulia
The so-called, “heel,” of Italy, this southern region remains less chaotic and crowded than some other key sun holiday destinations in Italy but still has all of the charms that make the likes of the Amalfi Coast a key Euro Summer spot. With a truly stunning and dramatic coastline dotted by towns like the impossibly picturesque Polignano a Mare with its tiny little bay and beach in the centre of town and the whitewashed buildings looking over astounding cliffs, you can certainly enjoy a perfect Aperol Spritz or candlelit dinner with breath-taking sea views. Inland, the “White City,” of Ostuni presents a prime example of a pretty and historic little Italian town to wander through and an incredible wine region affords plenty of opportunities to go wine-tasting. Summer festivals and events, meanwhile, offer ample chances to party. Plus booking one of our traditional trulli villas or a villa with pool in Apulia allows guests to enjoy a dreamy getaway of long lazy meals al fresco, relaxed days by the pool, evenings chatting over a glass of wine, and slow mornings with excellent local coffee and a good book. Apulia really has all of the ingredients necessary for a Euro getaway that ticks all of the boxes.
Provence
Provence in France is another all-rounder. This large and varied region is home to the Alps and the beloved and glamorous Côte d'Azur as well as the famous endless fields of Lavender, renowned cities like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Nice, and more. For those who want a little more glitz in their trip and who don’t mind dealing with larger crowds and higher price tags, this incredible part of the world is a true bucket list destination for good reason but heading a little further from key resorts and destinations will lower your costs. Spend your days exploring chic boutiques and enjoying aperitifs while celebrity spotting in those aforementioned iconic cities and get picture-perfect snaps while doing so. Visit world-class museums like the Matisse Museum and Marc Chagall Museum in Nice and soak up art and culture. Head to a beach party or festival to dance all night. Cycle between vineyards with lavender fields that act as the most dreamy backdrops. Book a boating trip in the Mediterranean or take the train along the coastline to Monaco for the day and generally enjoy some of the most elegant, iconic, and unforgettable experiences that this part of France has to offer. Then, when you’re done for the day, return home to one of our beautiful villas in Provence to unwind in peace and comfort.
Istria
There are two Istrias: “blue” Istria on the coast, dotted by pretty seaside towns and impossibly blue seas, and “green” Istria inland, where there are lush valleys, endless vineyards, and stunning landscapes. As a region, therefore, it is ideal for those who want to eat well, explore, get out, and stay active. Compared to some destinations, it has less of a party atmosphere for those who want that element of a European getaway but you’ll still find some clubs and events in Pula and anywhere you go you’ll certainly be able to find somewhere to sit out with a drink as you watch the world go by, the sun set over the water, or locals wander about pretty town streets. For days on the coast, it is a dream, with Croatia boasting the cleanest waters in Europe and Istria boasting a beautiful rocky coastline and dreamy spots to sun, swim, and snorkel. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Adriatic in Istria are sure to take your breath away and historic and popular seaside resorts like Poreč and Rovinj have lots to offer. Pula, meanwhile, with its impressive Roman ruins presents a base with some fascinating attractions and gorgeous backdrops. Our vacation rentals in Istria are equally appealing with options nestled in lush Green Istria, along the coast, with private swimming pools, and more.
Catalonia
Home to Barcelona and her endless cosmopolitan delights, Gaudí wonders, museums, bars, restaurants, clubs, astounding city beaches, football stadium, and more, one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, a stretch of the mighty Pyrénées, a rich foodie culture, and more, Catalonia is a large and diverse region of Spain. For those who book a villa in Catalonia, therefore, there is every sort of Euro Summer option at hand to choose between or sample a little bit of each. Hike the mountains and take in the awe-inspiring surroundings of the mountains. Seek out some of the best restaurants in the world and enjoy long, leisurely meals where you savour the food and your company. Explore the museums, architectural gems, historic sites and more in both cities and towns all around in the region. Work on your tan and spend long days by the perfect beaches along the Costa Brava – it’s all possible with a holiday rental in Catalonia.