Your unique Summer bucket list in Europe – the best experiences

Summer in Europe is pure magic. From tanning on sunny Mediterranean beaches to sipping Aperol Spritz in charming old town squares and admiring breathtaking landscapes, the continent offers an endless array of unforgettable experiences. But let’s be honest – everyone seems to visit the same places. The Greek islands, Amalfi Coast and French Riviera are stunning, but they’re also packed with tourists. So if you’re looking for something different, this is the Summer bucket list in Europe for you.

Forget the usual beach getaways and overcrowded hotspots. Instead, I’m taking you off the beaten path, to sip Port in Porto, wander through England’s dreamy lavender fields and explore fairytale villages of the Tuscan countryside. Whether you crave cultural enlightenment, fun activities or breathtaking landscapes that aren’t swarming with selfie sticks, this list is packed with unique and unforgettable experiences.

Get ready to discover a different side of Europe – one that’s just as charming and magical, but with fewer crowds, and a lot more originality.

Summer bucket list in Europe – 10 best experiences

Since I already mention it, let’s start with:

1. Drinking Port in Porto

Porto is a dream for wine lovers, and there’s no better place to experience its signature drink than right where it’s made. The best place to taste Port in Porto is in the historic wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. In the famous wineries like, Sandeman, Graham’s Port Lodge, Croft or Ferreira you can learn about the history of Port and naturally, taste the wine.

Looking for more things to do in Porto? Check out my “11 best things to do in Porto” blog post. Visiting a winery is naturally one of them.

I visited Ferreira winery and was very happy with my choice. The tour was informative, our guide was professional and the wine was super delicious. I can definitely recommend this experience.

On the way to Vila Nova de Gaia, while walking along the promenade of Duoro River, you’ll see plenty of rabelo boats – traditional boats that were originally used to transport the barrels of wine across the river. Don’t forget to snap a photo.

2. Roadtripping in Tuscany

Summer in Tuscany is like a dream. Rolling hills, golden sunsets and endless vineyards – it’s simply an ideal place for a road trip. Driving through this timeless landscape in summer means rows of cypress trees, sun-drenched countryside and that perfect, hazy evening light that makes everything glow. The roads wind through historic towns, past olive groves and ancient farmhouses. With every turn, Tuscany reveals another postcard-perfect view, making it one of the most scenic road trips in Europe.

Planning a road trip in Tuscany can be a little bit stressful though – there is so much to see. If you want to save yourself some time…and stress, check out my perfect 7 day Tuscany road trip itinerary.

Having done the Tuscan road trip twice, I could honestly do it again. There’s something magical about this region. Just look at this view!

Road tripping and having a picnic in the Tuscan countryside is definitely a “must-do” experience for your Summer bucket list in Europe.

3. Stroll through Warsaw Old Town

Warsaw’s Old Town is a place where history and resilience come to life. Rebuilt from ruins after World War II, its pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled streets and lively squares feel like stepping into another era. There’s no bad time to visit the Polish capital, but Warsaw is at its best in Summer. Imagine the sounds of street musicians, the clinking of glasses from outdoor cafés and the distant hum of the Vistula River. With its blend of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture, every corner tells a story, making a simple stroll through this UNESCO-listed district an experience rich in atmosphere and summer charm.

If you don’t know much about Poland or Warsaw. I’m here to help!

Learn everything you need to know before visiting Poland and plan your perfect one day in Warsaw!

4. Hike the beautiful Dolomites

Jagged peaks, emerald-green meadows and crystal clear alpine lakes – the Dolomites are a hiker’s dream. In summer, the mountains come alive with wildflowers, the air is fresh and crisp, and the dramatic landscapes seem almost otherworldly. Countless trails wind through towering limestone cliffs, past rustic mountain huts serving hearty local dishes, and up to breathtaking panoramic viewpoints. Whether bathed in golden morning light or glowing pink at sunset, the Dolomites in the Summer are a place where nature’s beauty feels truly untamed.

Ooh that’s very poetic, but very true! Just look at that!

Not much of a hiker? No problem! You can simply take a cable car to Alpe di Siusi and stroll around there! The views are magnificent!

Don’t forget to visit the famous Lago di Braies. It’s very popular, but for a good reason. Its turquoise waters, framed by towering limestone peaks and dense pine forests, together with wooden rowboats, create a scene like from a dream. For an even more amazing experience, be there early in the morning when the mountains and the trees create a picture-perfect reflection on the lake. To must-do’s I’ll add renting a boat and a stroll along the shore. It’s very easy, but super picturesque.

5. Visit lavender fields in England

I know, I know – when you think of lavender fields in Europe, probably Provence in France first comes to mind. But English lavender fields can be as delightful. Unlike their famous French counterparts, these fields offer a quieter, more intimate experience. Imagine endless rows of purple, stretching toward the horizon, swaying gently in the summer English breeze. Whether wandering through the rolling fields of the Cotswolds or the tucked away farms of Kent and Surrey, the sight of lavender in full bloom is a simple yet enchanting summer escape.

I visited Cotswolds Lavender and even on a gloomy day (see the photo) it was a lovely experience. You can naturally stroll the lavender fields (watch out for bees!), have lavender ice-cream, buy one of many lavender skincare products and even bring a picnic! This year (2025) they will be open from the 18th June until the 6th of August, with peak flowering starting on the 26th of June.

6. Ride a tram in Lisbon

Lisbon in summer is pure magic. Golden light, colourful streets, steep hills and that perfect mix of energy and nostalgia. The city is totally walkable – just beware of the hills, but if you want to have a real Lisbon experience, you should definitely ride the iconic yellow trams. Hopping on the famous Tram 28 is the best way to take it all in, as it clatters through the city’s steep, winding streets, past tiled buildings and hidden cafés. Don’t forget to try delicious pastel de nata and have a coffee in one of the charming cafés.

Whether you’re chasing sunset views from a miradouro (viewpoint) or just soaking up the city’s laid-back vibes, Lisbon in the summer feels like a place you’ll never want to leave.

7. Feed the cats in Montenegro

After spending a month in Montenegro and being scammed at a car rental, I never thought I’d recommend visiting this country. But at least 2 places in Montenegro deserve recommendation: Kotor and Perast.

Speaking of being scammed during your holiday, there’s one thing that is super useful. Insurance! Health insurance in particular. If you want to get the best of the bests, get Safety Wing Nomad Insurance. It covers lost luggage and travel delays too! Read more about it here!

Kotor’s medieval old town, with its maze-like streets, dramatic mountain backdrop and great views from the Ladder of Kotor viewpoint, feels straight out of a storybook. Perast, just up the bay, is a super small town, but its Venetian style buildings and postcard perfect views make it super charming. I had an absolute blast sipping Aperol Spritz at the water edge, looking at a tiny church island floating on the water.

Those 2 gems, Kotor in particular are known for one more thing – an almost ridiculous number of cats. So don’t forget to stop and pet those little feline friends. They will be very grateful.

You can have a quick sneak peak at Kotor and Perast in my Instagram video.

Tip

If you’re thinking of staying for a few days in Montenegro, skip the capital (nothing interesting there) and base yourself in Herceg Novi. It’s a lovely costal town, with a long promenade and few nice beaches. I stayed in this apartment and it was lovely. Kotor would be obviously nice too.

8. Spot the furry cows in Scotland

Scotland’s landscapes are straight out of a crime noir novel. But dramatic mountains, misty lochs and endless rolling green hills get more of a summer romance vibe in June, July and August. It’s definitely the best time to visit this mysterious country. One moment, you’re wandering through the medieval streets of Edinburgh, the next, you’re standing on a windswept cliff, staring out at the endless North Sea.

But what’s the highlight of Scotland? The ridiculously cute, shaggy haired Highland cows. With their long bangs and calm, curious eyes, these “hairy coos” are basically the supermodels of the cow world. Whether you spot them grazing in the Scottish Highlands, near castles, or even posing for photos along country roads, seeing these fluffy icons up close is an unforgettable (and highly Instagrammable) “Summer bucket list in Europe” experience.

9. Snap a photo of Nyhavn in Copenhagen

Another place worth visiting only in the Summer. That’s of course if you don’t like freezing…some people do. 🙂

And I can’t believe that I’m actually recommending a visit to Copenhagen. After living in the Danish capital for a year I…how to say it nicely…I don’t hold this city in high regard. But despite my personal feelings, I can’t deny that Copenhagen is a pretty city to visit. Especially in the summer, when long days stretch late into the evenings. But you know, for like 2 days maximum though.

When in Copenhagen, you can’t (and you probably wouldn’t) miss Nyhavn. This picture perfect harbour is lined with colourful 17th-century townhouses and its canal filled with old wooden boats. In summer, it’s packed with people soaking up the rare Danish sunshine, crammed into waterfront bars with an overpriced Aperol Spritz in hand. The atmosphere is lively, if a bit touristy, but there’s something undeniably charming about it.

10. Make a call from London

But not really. Those famous red phone booths are kind of disgusting inside, so don’t go in.

There is no better time to visit London than Summer. Ok, maybe Christmas, but London in summer is a whole different vibe. Parks are buzzing with life, rooftop bars are packed and the city is finally ditching its usual grey skies. There’s something about strolling along the Thames with an ice cream or catching a spontaneous street performance in Covent Garden that just feels right. Sure, London in Summer might be a little crowded, but between grabbing a pint in pub gardens and admiring sunset views on Primrose Hill, Summer brings out London’s lighter, livelier side. And it’s kind of hard not to fall for it.

That’s a wrap!

Hope you enjoyed my Summer bucket list in Europe. From strolling through Warsaw Old Town to spotting fluffy Highland cows in Scotland, this summer-in-Europe bucket list is all about unique, memorable experiences beyond the usual tourist trail. Instead of crowded beaches and overdone hotspots, it highlights the charm of quieter places, scenic road trips and one-of-a-kind moments that make European summers so special. So enjoy it to the fullest and let me know where you’re going first!

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Hi, it’s Aga, the author of this blog. If you found this blog post interesting, entertaining or useful, please think of buying me a virtual coffee to support the site’s running costs. But if you know me, I might actually spend it on coffee. Thanks!

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