The Verdict Is In: These Are Europe's 25 Best Beaches
Sarakiniko BeachEurope has beautiful architecture, historic museums and distinct cultures that date back centuries. But Europe also has some truly stunning beaches.
From the islands dotting the Mediterranean to the coasts of France, these European beaches are the absolute best, according to Tripadvisor reviewers. So, which one (or ones) will you be adding to your bucket list?
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Spiaggia La Cinta
"Sardinia is the best place in the world. You can easily compare it with Caribbean beaches and nothing else because the rest is only a nice alternative. But if you are looking for amazing sand and water, this is the place. Every single Sardinian beach is better than any place." — Marcos A.
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Plage de Palombaggia
"The beach lives up to its reputation as one of the best in Europe ... crystal clear water, white sands, easy access ... highly recommended!" — aubergine_man
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Tropea Beach
"A stunning beach with a view to die for! A perfect place for swimming and sunbathing. It can get a bit overcrowded but still worth it. I definitely recommend everyone to visit it." — CharleneAngels
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Kleopatra Beach
"This is a beautiful clean beach with lovely soft sand. The water is clear, and you can see the little fishes swimming. Great for families and the sea is very calm. Lots of places to eat and get drinks from at cheap prices." — Denise R
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Nissi Beach
"We tried quite a lot of different beaches in Cyprus, and this is so far the best. Dry soft sand, smooth access to the water; and water is warm, as the bay is covered from both sides. Very good infrastructure. It’s good for families with kids because of water access." — Fairyteller
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Spiaggia di Sansone
"We visited at the end of August. A bit busy, but heck, it was delightful. People were friendly, the water was perfect, and the scenery was also perfect!" — myworkshed
19. Plage du Sillon
Location: Saint-Malo, France
Where to stay:Quic en Groigne
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Plage du Sillon
"We spent a late summer weekend, and the beach is absolutely beautiful. Clean and no litter. At low tide, there were a few swimmers and a very wide expanse of beach. The sunsets were spectacular." — Janet
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Filey Beach
"Great beach. Walked all the way to Flamborough, had some lunch, then came back to work it off. Will remember next time that the beach is dog friendly, as we could have brought the caravan with us!" — Gary W
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Fig Tree Bay
"This is my favorite place in Protaras ... I will definitely visit it again, but next time, I’ll bring my friends with me." — Eli
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Perranporth Beach
"Absolutely stunning beach, something for everyone — places to sit for those who want to — swimming, surfing, rocks and a lido. Lovely and clean, but does get busy as you would expect. There are quieter areas away from the main section though." — CatieB1980
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Sotavento Beach
"Simply the best beach in Fuerteventura, miles of sandy beach, great for long walks and very safe swimming." — Bobtravelman
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Reynisfjara Beach
"Amazing basalt rock formations and endless black sand beach. Great for a long walk; kids enjoyed climbing the rocks and playing with pebbles. Puffins and seagulls resting on the rocks." — Kala
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Sarakiniko Beach
"I was looking for a place for cliff jumping at the amateur level, and I found it. It's really nice that you have different heights from where you can experience the thrills. And even if you go to relax, that's a really nice area. And the white landscape is like taking you to another world." — beradrian
12. Playa de Ses Illetes
Location: Formentera, Balearic Islands, Spain
Where to stay: Sa Volta Hotel
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Playa de Ses Illetes
"This beach offers crystal clear water and powder white sand! Vendors often walk by selling anything from cups of fruit, to fresh coconuts, to sundresses. You can rent a lounge chair with an umbrella for about 20 euros. You can walk to a couple of nearby restaurants. It’s perfect to relax and watch the world go by, or have a swim and be active." — Msmnm
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Fellsfjara
"The Diamond Beach is one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in Iceland. No two pieces of ice are similar, and the landscape is stunning." — AznNomad
10. Porthminster Beach
Location: St. Ives, United Kingdom
Where to stay:Treloyhan Manor
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Porthminster Beach
"Golden sand, clear water and manicured gardens surrounding — what more could you want? Cafe on the beach and life guard at high season." — Debbie T.
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Kleftiko Beach
"Cannot recommend enough. We used POLCO sailing, and it was just a totally magical day with breathtaking scenery." — Rahla S
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Plage de Santa Giulia
"Clear waters. Safe for small kids. Feels like a lagoon ... very nice shades of blue. Can go snorkeling close by and see some fish. Very clean water and beach." — PWP
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Have to Say About Elafonissi Beach
"There’s no doubt in my mind that this is a must-see beach while you're in Crete. While it can get very crowded, make sure you go early in the morning in order to get a parking spot and have a beach spot in the sand as well ... The beach is crystal clear, and the sand is pink." — Charles Nguyen
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Balos Lagoon
"Gorgeous view, adorable goats, a must-visit. It can get pretty crowded, so in order to get a good parking, I suggest getting there in the morning. Also, in order to get to the beach, you have a pretty rough path to walk, so I suggest wearing proper shoes instead of flip flops." — Irina G
5. Bournemouth Beach
Location: Bournemouth, United Kingdom
Where to stay:The Orchid Hotel
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Bournemouth Beach
"As pretty much everyone else agrees, Bournemouth Beach is stunning and full of close bars to help keep everyone hydrated. We found a spot and stayed there all day! Can't wait to go back!" — James S
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About La Concha Beach
"Anyone could spend an entire week on this gorgeous beach and find new adventures. The funicular up to the top of Monte Igueldo. The restaurants along the beach. The blue and white stripe beach cabanas to rent. Riding bikes on the boardwalk. Swimming, etc. And the best tapas restaurants in Old San Sebastian." — Mary B
3. Praia da Falesia
Location: Olhas de Agua, Portugal
Where to stay: PortoBay Falesia
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Praia da Falesia
"Amazing location and views! Easy to reach by the stairs from the hotels. Nice restaurant nearby, very clean beach. Love the sea!" — Ramita K
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Playa de Cofete
"Beautiful beach, incredible! Not the easiest to get to, but worth it! The views driving to the beach were lovely. Nice little restaurant there to take some refreshment. The whole area is worth a visit." — andyT072016
1. Spiaggia dei Conigli
Location: Lampedusa, Islands of Sicily, Italy
Where to stay:Cala Palme Lampedusa
What Tripadvisor Reviewers Say About Spiaggia dei Conigli
"One of the best beaches to visit in the world; you will never forget great views and clean environment!" — omar p