Beautiful European beaches and stunning landscapes make for memorable vacations. Even though Europe is the second-smallest continent, it has plenty of islands.
The Greek islands are internationally renowned for their beauty and turquoise waters. However, there are many countries on the continent that have stunning islands to explore.
Some UK islands can even rival their Mediterranean counterparts in wild beauty and remote escapism…
Porquerolles
You’ll find an archipelago consisting of four small islands known as the Iles d’Hyeres just off the blue Mediterranean coast of France. The largest is Porquerolles.
Porquerolles has been a designated National Park since the 1970s. You can see the entire Riviera before it was built up by going here.
It’s beautiful, spoiler alert. If you’re looking for a relaxed holiday, there are two islands to choose from: Ile du Levant and Ile du Levant. You don’t really have to bring anything as it’s a natural island.
Capri
Capri is one of the must-see European islands. Italy’s appeal extends from north to south. The high-fashion streets of Milan, the artistic streets of Florence, and the picturesque waterways of Venice all draw crowds. The most stunning parts of Italy can be found in the south.
The island of Capri is no exception. It is only a short boat ride away from the Amalfi Coast. The limestone cliffs, towns lined with lemon trees, and the Blue Grotto make this one of the most photographed places on Earth.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
Lanzarote has 300 days of sunshine each year. It is frequently listed as one of the top vacation destinations. It’s also well-known for its stunning landscapes. This is one reason why so many film directors choose this area as their backdrop. Stanley Kubrick filmed portions of 2001: A Space Odyssey here in 1968. The legendary Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodovar chose Lanzarote for 2009’s Broken Embraces starring Penelope Cruz.
For any Lanzarote itinerary, the first stop should be Cesar Manrique’s studio home and garden, which were built into an old volcanic flow. Bright white walls and lush greenery fill the home, as well as beautiful decor including an outdoor swimming pool. When the ocean calls divers will be amazed by Museo Atlantico. This museum features over 300 lifelike sculptural scenes. It’s located 12 meters underwater, just off the coast of Coloradas Bay. This is a great way to learn about the island’s marine life.
Lanzarote’s volcanic geology is similar to the rest of the Canary Islands. A guided tour to Timanfaya National Park will allow you to see the area where temperatures can reach 600 degrees at just 30ft under the surface. Black sand beaches are a hallmark of volcanic islands. However, there is plenty of white sand. The south coast has the most beaches that are suitable for bathing. Playa Dorada and Papagayo, both nearby, are popular choices. Famara is further north, set against 1,500ft pinkish rock cliffs, it is a magnet to surfers who want to ride the huge ocean waves.
Corfu
The Mediterranean can be visited at any time weather-wise. However, if you want to enjoy a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters, make sure to visit in summer. Spring and fall are great times to relax if you want to avoid the tourist season.
The remains of Venetian fortresses, Greek temples, and ancient churches are all great attractions for history buffs. Explore the streets of the Roman village Kassiopi, or the Esplanade central to the eponymous Corfu Town.
You can soak in mineral mud at the Canal D’Amour. Legend says that Nymphes waterfalls attracted mythological beauty of the same name to the village, where they would bathe in the crystal clear waters. Overall, all of these factors make Corfu one of the most beautiful European islands.
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Paros
While Santorini’s blue-domed buildings, whitewashed houses, and stunning sunsets make it a popular destination, it can also be expensive and crowded, especially in the summer high season. Paros, with its stunning beaches and whitewashed villages, is another solid option.
Paros, much like Santorini attracts both wine and food lovers since the island has thousands of acres worth of vineyards. Local wines are mostly white Monemvasia blends or red mantilaria varieties. You can also indulge your palate with honey, fresh mizithra, honey, roasted local mackerel, and even a Greek-style pumpkin pie.
Paros is only a short ferry ride away from Santorini so you don’t need to travel to the island. Paros has an airport (PAS) and it is possible to fly from Athens to the island in 45 minutes.
Madeira, Portugal
Madeira is one of the most famous European islands. It is the ideal getaway for those looking for a relaxing weekend away. The island is where Cristiano Ronaldo was born. You will love it. It has a beautiful harbor, modern architecture, and beaches.
Fly to Madeira or book a cruise. Or you can travel from the mainland. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is worth a day trip due to its beautiful castles and beaches. You can take the bullet train to Lisbon in just 2 hours and 30 mins, allowing you to visit quickly.
Final thoughts
There are many beautiful European islands, and it all comes down to your personal preferences for what you would like to do.
Are you a tourist who has been to any of these islands? Would you recommend a place we should have included? Please leave your comments below.
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