The 7 Best Coastal Towns in Europe

When going abroad, you’ll likely either choose a well-known coastal resort or a vibrant urban city to explore or stay in, thanks to the abundance of attractions these places tend to offer. But did you know that small coastal towns can offer you the same fulfilling and memorable experience, but with a more laid-back and intimate vibe that’s perfect for those who aren’t interested in wild nights out or bustling city life. 

Europe is one of the best places for coastal regions, from its beautiful Mediterranean, Adriatic and Dalmatian Coastlines to its picturesque harbours and islands. Many European countries offer the best coastal towns and villages, from quaint fishing villages to coastal paradises that mirror the best tropical resort you’ve likely ever visited. 

Quaint fishing villages to vibrant party towns: Europe's best coastal towns

7. Oia – Santorini, Greece

When visiting Santorini, or any of the Greek Islands for that matter, you’ll likely have heard of Oia – the beautiful and charming village that is a hit with both locals and tourists on the Greek Island. What makes Oia so special are its classic whitewashed houses, its beautiful bay, dining scene and the stunning views over the Aegean Sea.

Oia is known for its beauty and its abundance of things to do, from beautiful hidden gems to well-known tourist spots. Check out the St Nicholas Castle, the Domaine Sigalas winery/vineyard, the many art galleries and the winding cobbled streets that make this town so sought after as a holiday destination.

6. Izola, Slovenia

Slovenia is rife with beautiful coastal towns and villages, one of the most picturesque of which is Izola. Izola offers a laid-back yet vibrant way of life, with its colourful houses, bustling marina and a number of beautiful beaches.

As for things to do, check out the winery, Tunnel Entrance attraction, Besenghi Palace and Muzej Izolana, which is dedicated to the lengthy maritime history of the town. Check out Izola on your next trip to Slovenia – it may not be as wild and large as Ljubljana or other Slovenian cities, but it is just as memorable and fulfilling. 

5. Sarandë, Albania

Not only does Albania offer a rich history, culture and nightlife scene across most of its cities, but it also features small coastal towns and cities overlooking the Mediterranean/Ionian sea, including Sarandë, one of the most beloved. 

Sarandë looks and feels like your favourite tropical beach or coastline, with sun loungers topped with straw umbrellas, a range of beaches, rugged cliffs with colourful buildings and a vibrant and lively beach promenade, complete with bars, restaurants and cafes. The town also offers a number of historic sites that are perfect for walking tours or sightseeing, and there are UNESCO heritage sites and well-known Greek Islands within 2 hours from the town.

4. Hvar Town, Croatia

Hvar Town is one of the most celebrated towns in Croatia – if Hvar isn’t popular for its nightlife, it’ll be for its medieval architecture and lively main square, as well as its beaches.

Hvar Town is also known for being a ‘party’ town, with a lively nightlife and party scene that people come from far and wide to experience. By day, Hvar is a charming coastal town with much to offer, but by night, it comes alive with both tourists and locals who are looking to dance the night away. 

3. Positano – Amalfi Coast, Italy

When thinking of Italy, you’ll likely think of the Amalfi Coast, notable for its stunning cliffs and colourful buildings. Positano is a town within the Amalfi Coast region, characterised by its beautiful landscapes and views, cliffside restaurants and bars, and its busy town centre.

Positano offers the perfect blend of beachside relaxation and town centre attractions, with its town featuring scenic hiking trails, restaurants, 5-star hotels, wineries and sporting venues. Being part of the Amalfi Coast, if you get bored of Positano at any point, but we don’t see how or why you would, you can have most of the Amalfi Coast’s towns and beaches right nearby. 

2. St Ives – Cornwall, UK

Widely known in both the UK and beyond, St Ives in Cornwall encapsulates everything that a charming seaside town should be, with its abundance of beaches lined with azure-coloured water, its beautiful colourful houses and boats, and a number of things to do and see. Stroll through the town centre, and you’ll find art museums, pottery studios, amusement arcades, a wildlife park and a number of high-quality restaurants, bars and cafes. 

But, if you don’t want to explore the town, you’ll be more than fulfilled just relaxing all day on one of the beaches. It truly is a simple and laid-back way of life here, and it’s safe to say St Ives deserves to be celebrated for its charm and buzzing atmosphere. 

1. Saint-Tropez – French Riviera, France

Tthis stunning and celebrity-endorsed French town has everything to offer its locals and visitors, from markets and amusement parks, to historic cobbled streets, museums and Baroque architecture and, of course, an idyllic stretch of coastline.

Lined with azure crystal clear water, yachts and buzzing promenades, Saint-Tropez’s beaches are far more than you could’ve expected from a small town. Saint-Tropez will more than likely satisfy you to your inner core, and provide you with everything you could possibly need, including 5-star hotels, restaurants and cafes, and a vibrant market and shopping scene.