Epic summer in Europe

If you’re looking for a vibrant coastal atmosphere that’s bathed in summer sunlight, Portugal’s second largest city is the place for you.

The temperature isn’t the only thing that heats things up in Portoduring the summer months. This city pulses with events throughout the season, drawing crowds from across Europe and across the world.

It can sometimes be a bit overwhelming to find your own piece of sand on one of the beaches that pepper Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.

If you don’t mind trading a ferry ride for a bit of island solitude, you can reach the tranquil, untouched beaches of Dugi Otok, the "Long Island," for a truly relaxing experience. Only a short ferry ride from the ancient city of Zadar on the mainland, rest and relaxation have never felt so close.

When you think about summer in Europe, it’s easy to let your mind wander to the white-sand, blue-water beaches of the Mediterranean. However, you’ll miss out if you don’t look north to the amazing energy of Swedish locals looking to get the most out of a fairly short summer in Stockholm.

Frequent festivals, outdoor events, and a sizzling Scandinavian food scene make Stockholm an awesome summer destination.

The Alps usually conjure up images of skiers carving through fresh, powdery snow, but if you visit in the summertime, you’ll encounter a completely different side of the mountainous region. The peaceful valley of Lauterbrunnen is an ideal place to observe the contrast.

With long, calm nature hikes lower in the valley and extreme sports like base-jumping dominating the steep cliffs, there’s something for everyone in this stunning, Alpine setting.

If the Mediterranean is calling your name, head to one of the most beautiful islands in all of Europe on Italy’s western coast.

The sunsets alone are enough to bring tons of visitors every summer, but the beaches, watersports, dramatic landscapes, and delicious food make it worth every penny.