Summer Holidays 2026: The Best Travel Destinations in Europe by Ferry
Travel Guides
June 22, 2026
Summer Holidays 2026: The Best Travel Destinations in Europe by Ferry
Summer holidays in Europe are nearly upon us, and many families are already planning their vacation. Destinations that combine relaxation, culture, and great food are especially popular this year. And there’s no better way to reach them than by ferry. Ferries offer a comfortable way to travel, plenty of room for luggage, the option to bring your own car, and routes across large parts of Europe — the ideal setup for a relaxing summer break holiday.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the most popular countries and vacation regions for the summer holidays in 2026 and show you why ferry travel is such a great way to get there.
Contents
Overview: Summer Holidays in Europe 2026 (Selection)
Wondering how long are the summer holidays in each country this year? Here's a quick overview of some of the most popular holiday destinations Europe summer travelers are drawn to in 2026:
| Country | Summer Holidays 2026 Start | Duration | Regional Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | approx. mid-June to late July | 6–7 weeks | Staggered by state |
| France | Early July 2026 | 8 weeks | Nearly the same nationwide |
| Italy | Early/mid-June 2026 | 10–13 weeks | Regional differences |
| Spain | Mid/late June 2026 | 10–12 weeks | Regional differences |
| Greece | Mid-June 2026 | 11–12 weeks | Minimal differences |
| Netherlands | July 4–18, 2026 | 6 weeks | Staggered by North/Central/South |
| Denmark | Late June 2026 | 6 weeks | Minor differences |
| Sweden | Mid-June 2026 | 10 weeks | Slightly different by municipality |
| Finland | Early June 2026 | 10–11 weeks | Hardly any differences |
| Norway | Mid/late June 2026 | 8 weeks | Slight regional shifts |
Germany
Germany remains one of the most popular destinations for summer holidays in Europe in 2026. Cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich make for great city trips year after year. And while the south draws crowds with the Alps, idyllic lakes, and picturesque towns, the coastal regions up north offer long sandy beaches, cozy seaside resorts, and plenty of activities.
Along the Baltic coast, you'll also find several ferry ports that connect to Scandinavia or the Baltic states. Crossings from Kiel, Rostock, or Travemünde to Sweden, Denmark, or Finland are especially popular. Many travelers use these routes to turn their summer break holiday into a European road trip.
France
France has been one of Europe's most beloved destinations for years, and it's a top pick again for the summer holidays in 2026. The country impresses with incredible variety, from the lavender fields of Provence to the beaches of the Côte d'Azur to the rugged coastline of Brittany.
Travelers looking for an unforgettable city trip naturally head to Paris. The French capital has an abundance of museums, landmarks, and cozy sidewalk cafés for exciting, jam-packed vacation days. Bordeaux is also one of the most beautiful corners of France and attracts visitors thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage Site, with landmark buildings and stunning architecture.
For beach lovers, the coastal regions are especially appealing — and they also provide plenty of options for onward travel by ferry. Along the Atlantic coast and the English Channel, surfers, nature lovers, and food enthusiasts find ideal conditions, with Brittany standing out for its wild coastal scenery, small fishing villages, and outstanding cuisine.
Ferry ports in the area, such as Calais, Saint-Malo, or Cherbourg, offer regular connections to England, Ireland, and the Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey.
The French Mediterranean coastline is the epitome of effortless glamour, where sun-drenched days meet a lifestyle defined by elegance and ease. Iconic destinations such as Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez evoke images of glittering yachts, golden beaches, and long, leisurely lunches by the sea. Yet beyond the spotlight, there’s a more tranquil side to the region. Families often gravitate towards the quiet charm of Occitania or the wild beauty of the Camargue, where life slows down—while still allowing for indulgent day trips into the Riviera’s most dazzling towns.
Further west along the coast, southern ports serve as gateways to a wider Mediterranean adventure. From Toulon, Sète, Marseille, and beyond, ferries depart regularly to some of the region’s most alluring destinations.
Whether you’re dreaming of the rugged landscapes of Corsica, the turquoise waters of Sardinia, the vibrant shores of Mallorca, or venturing further afield to Morocco and Tunisia, the journey begins right here on France’s southern coast.
Italy
Italy has long held its place as one of Europe’s most coveted summer destinations, and in 2026, its appeal shows no sign of fading. With its rich cultural heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and postcard-perfect coastlines, it continues to captivate millions of travelers seeking the ultimate European escape.
Along the Adriatic coast, visitors are greeted with expansive sandy beaches, an abundance of hotels, and a lively mix of activities. For those seeking a more relaxed stay, the coastal regions of Tuscany and Liguria offer charming seaside towns steeped in Mediterranean charm. Meanwhile, southern Italy offers a compelling blend of authenticity and beauty, with regions like Puglia and Calabria enchanting visitors through their exceptional cuisine and unspoiled landscapes.
Italy’s extensive ferry network opens the door to endless exploration. From the port of Civitavecchia, a key gateway to Rome with connections in every direction, to the vibrant port of Naples, where ferries cross the stunning Gulf of Naples, the options are vast. Add to that scenic hydrofoil journeys along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, and it becomes clear — there’s a perfect itinerary for every kind of traveler.
Related Article: Budget day trips in Italy by Ferry
The Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily continue to rank among the best summer holiday destinations. Sardinia captivates with its crystal-clear turquoise bays and powdery white sand beaches, often hailed as some of the finest in Europe.
Sicily, by contrast, offers a rich tapestry of experiences — from historic towns and dramatic volcanic landscapes to a vibrant culinary scene rooted in centuries of tradition. Convenient ferry connections from ports such as Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Naples make reaching these islands both simple and scenic.
Beyond the coast, Italy’s iconic cities remain as compelling as ever. Destinations like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan continue to draw visitors from around the world. For culture lovers, these cities offer an unrivalled array of famous landmarks and artistic heritage.
Spain
Spain continues to stand as one of Europe’s timeless summer favourites, providing sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cities, family-friendly resorts, and exceptional cuisine. With its reliably warm climate and expansive coastline, it’s no surprise that Spain once again ranks among the most-booked destinations for summer 2026.
While iconic cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville remain perennial highlights, the Costa del Sol in Andalusia continues to draw travelers in search of sunshine and style. Coastal hotspots like Málaga and Marbella combine golden beaches with a lively atmosphere and outstanding gastronomy. From this southern stretch, ferries also provide easy connections to Morocco, opening the door to venture into North Africa.
Related Article: Traveling From Spain to North Africa by Ferry
Ferries play an essential role across Spain in general, especially for trips to the Balearic Islands. Ferries connect mainland Spain regularly with Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and other islands. Departures sail from ports like Barcelona, Valencia, or Dénia.
The Canary Islands are also a popular option. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote offer pleasant temperatures year-round and striking volcanic landscapes, with plenty of opportunity for island hopping.
Greece
Greece remains one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations, and in summer 2026 it is set to captivate travelers once again. With its crystal-clear waters, ancient landmarks, and extraordinary island landscapes, Greece offers a travel experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.
The Greek islands of the Aegean and the Ionian are particularly sought after, each offering its own unique charm. Crete, the largest of them all, stands out for its incredible diversity, with everything from idyllic beaches and ancient ruins to dramatic mountain backdrops, making it perfect for families and active travelers.
Meanwhile, islands such as Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini, and Mykonos continue to enchant visitors with their distinctive character, vibrant atmospheres, and, of course, the irresistible flavours of authentic Greek cuisine.
Related Article: Best Time to Visit Mykonos
The Greek mainland should not be overlooked. Although the islands steal the spotlight, the capital of Athens also deserves recognition. This historic metropolis has three ferry ports: the main port of Piraeus in the south, the port of Rafina in the east, and the port of Lavrio in the southeast. From there, you have access to nearly every Greek island.
Start your summer holiday the right way. Book your ferry tickets today in just a few clicks and reach your destination in style. For more inspiration, check out our travel blog or follow us on Instagram. Happy travels!