There’s something about warmer weather and summer Fridays that makes us want to pack a suitcase and travel somewhere new! Whether you’re headed to Europe for the first time or just want new experiences in some of your favorite cities, we rounded up 5 places to visit in Europe in summer. We included our favorite places to stay, the best meals, and the one sight not to miss in each city! If you’re traveling to Europe in the summer, add them to your itinerary!
1. London
Where To Stay
The Hoxton Holborn – This hotel has such a cool vibe, and the bar and restaurant downstairs are always hoppin’! The perfect hotel for a young couple looking to have a good time in London. The rooms are so cute, and we loved the cheeky feel they carried through everything from the wallpaper to the map of London they leave in every room.
The Nadler Victoria – The Nadler Victoria is in such a great location… Literally across the street from Buckingham Palace! It made it easy to sightsee and walk around to some of the most iconic spots in London like Big Ben & Westminster Abbey. The rooms are cozy but comfortable, and we loved having so many restaurant options just off our doorstop!
Where To Eat
Restaurant Ours – Such a hidden gem! The entrance is a little unassuming, but once you’re in, you walk through a tunnel of hanging florals to get to the restaurant space. The food was also amazing. We went for brunch, and the pancakes were sooo good!
Sketch – A must for afternoon tea! This spot was practically made for Instagram. The tea and food is bottomless, and splurge on a mimosa if you’re really feeling fancy. Pro tip: Don’t forget to take your phone when you go to the bathroom. The entire room is an art installation!
Saint Aymes – Head here for dessert after visiting Hyde Park! The coffee is delicious and they have the most Instagrammable milkshakes in all of London.
What To See
Hyde Park in the summer – You could spend a whole afternoon strolling Hyde Park (& people watching)! It’s especially lovely when it’s sunny out, so it’s perfect for summer travelers.
Elizabeth Street – Seriously the cutest street in London! Every doorway is covered in floral installations. Top off your walk with a treat from Peggy Porschen – We loved their macarons!
2. Paris
Where To Stay
Le Narcisse Blanc – Le Narcisse Blanc is the prettiest pink hotel. You’ll feel like a true Parisian! Sip tea in their cozy lounge downstairs and then head to the spa for a relaxing experience in the pool and jacuzzi. Their breakfast was also memorable. We had Eggs Benedict and french toast that changed our lives!
Le Cinq Codet – If ultra-modern hotels are your vibe, stay at Le Cinq Codet! The location is right in the heart of Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower, and the loft-style rooms are beyond cool. They also have an outdoor jacuzzi as part of their spa that is perfect after a day of walking around Paris.
Where To Eat
Pizzeria Popolare – Eat here, trust us. There’s usually a line outside, but it moved fast! We split a bottle of rose, a pizza, and a pasta dish, and it was one of our favorite meals in all of Paris.
Chiquette – This restaurant inside of Le Cinq Codet is such a hidden gem! They just remodeled and reopened with a brand new menu, and it’s ALL delicious. Order the burrata!
What To See
View from Place du Trocadero of the Eiffel Tower – Head to the steps at the Trocadero for an unforgettable view of the Eiffel Tower! Don’t forget to snag an Instagram while you’re there. Pics or it didn’t happen!
The Rodin Museum – We know there are a TON of museums to visit in Paris, but the underrated Rodin Museum was one of our favorites! It has a chill feel and the sculptures and gardens are truly amazing. Pro tip: If you’re new to Paris, get the Paris Museum Pass! You’ll save so much money, and won’t have to feel bad about heading to the crowded Louvre to see the Mona Lisa and then heading out (guilty as charged!).
3. Bordeaux
Where To Stay
Intercontinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel – Right in the heart of Bordeaux, this hotel was the definition of luxury! The rooms were a traditional French style, and the buffet breakfast was the perfect start to a day of wine tasting.
Where To Eat
La Belle Saison – This restaurant on the river was a highlight of Bordeaux for us! They have a great cocktail menu (if you need a break from wine), and the food was (somehow) even better than the view.
La Reserve – Another great dinner option within walking distance of the Intercontinental Hotel! We ordered tapas and we HIGHLY recommend the Croque Monsieurs.
What To See:
Chateau Gruad LaRose – A must-visit chateau if you’re going wine tasting in the Medoc region! They have a one-of-a-kind tower on their property that has the best view of the wine region, hands down.
Chateau Pape Clement – This chateau is the only one inside the city of Bordeaux, and it’s seriously stunning! The wine is great too—make sure you do a tasting!
4. Lisbon
Where To Stay
Feels Like Home Chiado – This hotel was one of our favorites! Our room had the most epic view of Lisbon, and it was within walking distance to so many of the restaurants and bars we wanted to visit. Plus they have cake in the lobby 24/7, so we’re a huge fan.
AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado – We loved staying here so much! The decor is so gorgeous, and the room was perfectly done. Order a sangria at the bar downstairs. It’s delicious and so refreshing!
Where To Eat
Mano a Mano – This restaurant was a last-minute decision, but it ended up being our favorite meal in Lisbon! They have generous wine pours and a spaghetti carbonara that will change your life.
Pastelaria Santo Antonio – Stop here to get the traditional pasteis de nata while you’re walking through the Alfama District! Probably the best pastries we had all trip!
What To See
Alfama District at golden hour – This area of Lisbon is exactly what we picture when we think of Portugal! Colorful buildings, bougainvillea everywhere, and patio bars with gorgeous views of the beach.
Sintra – A day trip from Lisbon, this place seriously reminded us of Disneyland. The castles are unreal! Pro tip: Just get the park tickets to see the outside of the castles – The lines to get in are too long unless you’re there first thing in the morning, and you can see all of the best views from outside!
5. Barcelona
Where To Stay
Majestic Hotel & Spa – This hotel will ruin you for all other hotels. The whole building smells amazing (they have their own custom scent), and the rooms are just beyond luxurious (makes sense, since they’re part of Leading Hotels of the World!). They actually won an award for the best hotel breakfast in all of Europe, and believe us, it did not disappoint. It was the breakfast buffet that kept on giving! Make sure to head to their rooftop pool and bar to see the city from a whole new perspective.
Where To Eat
Rocambolesc – A fun and Instagrammable gelateria? We thought you’d never ask. Stop here when you’re walking down La Rambla!
Bo de B – When people talk about the “best sandwich they ever had in Barcelona,” this is the place they’re talking about. Just trust, and get a chicken sandwich with everything on it!
El Nacional – This place is just plain cool. They have a few different restaurant and bar options inside – We wished we were in Barcelona longer so we could try them all! Order the patatas bravas and Barcelona Bomb from the tapas restaurant.
What To See
Sagrada Familia – If you’re a Barcelona first-timer, you have to see this incredible church. It’s bigger than you could have imagined, and the architecture is so detailed, you could stare for hours and still not notice it all!
Palau de la Música Catalana – A hidden spot on the streets of Barcelona, this is such a pretty place to visit! All of the tiled architecture will make it hard to put down your phone.
Have you been to any of these European cities? Which is your favorite?