The places, most named first
From the 8 guides that rank for "best beaches in europe"
Named by 3 of 81. The AlgarveLong counted among Europe's best beach destinations, and good outside summer too.Beaches include the Ria Formosa barrier islands and coves between Benagil and Ferragudo.Best beaches in The Algarve
Named by 2 of 82. FormenteraA ferry trip from Ibiza reaches Formentera and its clear water.Listed as a place to try paddleboarding.Named by 2 of 83. CorsicaPlage de Peru is described as good for swimming and rarely busy.Secluded bays suit a romantic getaway.
Named by 2 of 84. IbizaKnown worldwide for its big clubs, so it suits a beach trip with nightlife.Named for its nightlife among Europe's beach destinations.Best time to visit IbizaBest beaches in Ibiza
Named by 2 of 85. French RivieraNice is more city than beach, while Cannes has the better beaches.Antibes is home to the Mediterranean's largest marina.Best time to visit French RivieraBest beaches in French RivieraBest places to visit in French Riviera
Named by 2 of 86. Amalfi CoastPositano holds the most dramatic stretch of the coast, with cafes and a beach.Naples airport is the gateway to the coast.Best time to visit Amalfi CoastBest beaches in Amalfi CoastBest places to visit in Amalfi Coast
7. Hydra and SpetsesTwo islands a few hours from Athens with a slow pace.A pick-up truck taxi can take you to a private beach.
8. PelionParalia Fakistra beach is reached on foot and backed by a waterfall.The beach has no cafes, bars or shade, which keeps visitor numbers down.9. SicilyBeach days come with Greek temples and Roman mosaics nearby.Cefalu has a golden bay backed by historic sights.Best time to visit SicilyBest beach towns in SicilyBest beaches in Sicily
10. Cinque TerreFive coastal villages that are almost impossible to reach by car.Now a protected national park where no new building is allowed.Best time to visit Cinque TerreBest beaches in Cinque Terre
11. PorquerollesA car-free national park island, a short ferry from the French Riviera.Plage Notre-Dame has fine quartz sand, with no lifeguards, sunbeds or shade.
12. Diamond BeachBlack volcanic sand with chunks of glacier ice washed up on the shore.Not a swimming beach: bring warm layers.
13. UlcinjHome to Velika Plaza, a 13 kilometer sand beach, unlike Montenegro's usual pebbly coves.Has an old town on a rocky hill with sunset views.
14. LebaWide sandy beaches that run for kilometres with free public access.A relaxed seaside vibe, and it is outside the main Mediterranean resort circuit.
15. YstadUnspoiled stretches of soft white sand lie either side of town.Dedicated cycle paths link the beaches.16. Gran CanariaPlaya de Guigui is remote and reached only by a long hike.Nothing is nearby, so bring food and water.Best beaches in Gran Canaria
17. NaxosKastraki beach offers both quiet stretches and busier parts with a taverna.
18. The CycladesWindier waters and many islands to explore.
19. Dalmatian CoastSplit is the gateway to the Dalmatian islands.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name May to June and September to October as the best time to visit Europe.
