Europe is filled with places we return to time and time again, from the sun-soaked Greek Islands to the colourful towns of the Amalfi Coast. But sometimes, discovering somewhere new can make a summer holiday feel even more special. Whether you’re looking for turquoise bays, incredible food, atmospheric old towns, or simply a slower pace, these European destination swaps offer a fresh take on some much-loved holiday favourites.
Love the Greek Islands? Try Montenegro
With its glittering Adriatic coastline, dramatic mountain scenery, and beautiful waterside towns, Montenegro is an easy place to fall in love with. The UNESCO-listed old town of Kotor sits at the edge of a spectacular bay, surrounded by steep mountains and winding streets filled with cafés, churches, and hidden squares. Further along the coast, Budva brings golden beaches, waterfront restaurants, and a livelier holiday atmosphere. It’s a wonderful choice if you love the relaxed rhythm of a Greek island escape but fancy discovering somewhere with a completely different landscape.
Love Croatia? Try Albania
Albania’s coastline is home to some of the most striking scenery in the Adriatic, with clear turquoise water, secluded coves, and laid-back seaside towns dotted along the Albanian Riviera. Spend your days exploring beaches around Himarë and Ksamil, before heading inland to discover the cobbled streets and traditional architecture of Berat or Gjirokastër. There’s a real sense of adventure to travelling here, making Albania perfect for those who like their beach holidays with a little more exploring along the way.
Love the Amalfi Coast? Try Puglia
Italy’s southern heel has a charm all of its own. Puglia is a landscape of ancient olive groves, whitewashed towns, rustic farmhouses, and beautiful stretches of coastline. Wander through the narrow streets of Ostuni, stop for lunch overlooking the harbour in Monopoli, or swim beneath the cliffs at Polignano a Mare. The pace here feels calm and relaxed, with long lunches, warm evenings, and plenty of opportunities to explore by car.
Love Mallorca? Try Sardinia
Sardinia takes everything we love about a Mediterranean island holiday and gives it a distinctly Italian twist. Its coastline is filled with powder-soft beaches, rocky coves, and brilliantly clear water, while inland you’ll find mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and plenty of places to linger over fresh seafood and local wine. The glamorous Costa Smeralda is perfect for stylish hotels and beautiful beaches, while the island’s quieter south and west coasts offer a more peaceful side of Sardinia. It’s ideal for anyone who loves the ease of Mallorca but wants somewhere that feels just that little bit different.
Love the Algarve? Try the Croatian islands
Croatia’s islands are perfect for travellers who like to combine lazy beach days with a sense of discovery. Hvar has a vibrant harbour lined with restaurants and bars, Brač is home to beautiful beaches and charming villages, while Korčula offers vineyards, hidden coves, and one of the prettiest old towns in the Adriatic. Rather than staying in one place, you can hop between islands and enjoy several different sides of Croatia in one holiday. Think slow mornings by the sea, afternoons exploring tiny villages, and long dinners overlooking the water.
Or swap the season instead
Sometimes your favourite destination doesn’t need replacing at all. Travelling in May, June, or September can reveal a different side to places such as Greece, Spain, Italy, and Portugal. The days can still be beautifully warm, but the atmosphere often feels calmer, giving you more time and space to explore. You might find yourself wandering through quieter old towns or enjoying a favourite beach at a much slower pace.
To start planning your next European escape, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.
A winter escape doesn’t have to mean returning to the same familiar resort or travelling for long hours in search of some sunshine. A short flight can bring you to Atlantic islands, Moroccan coastlines, and Mediterranean towns where mild days are made for exploring at an unhurried pace. These places each have their own character, from volcanic trails and harbourfront cafés to ancient landmarks and long, breezy beaches.
Touring holidays come in all kinds of shapes: you might travel solo, follow a planned route by rail, sail between ports, or combine several stops into one trip. The right style depends on how much structure you enjoy, how far you want to roam, and whether you’d rather plan the details yourself or leave them to someone else. Here are five approaches to consider, with destinations that suit each one.
Trade winter’s chill for an island stay at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, set across three islands in South Malé Atoll. Its collection of beach, reef, and overwater villas offer different ways to settle into the tropical location, while the 45-minute yacht transfer from Velana International Airport means your holiday can begin even quicker. Once you arrive, the choice is yours: head straight for the beach, take a dip in your private pool, or ease into the holiday with a long lunch and an afternoon at the spa.
Finding your match...
