Where to go to the sea in June – the best destinations in Europe: Croatia, Mallorca, Malta, Albania, Cyprus, French Riviera, Montenegro, Sicily.
June is still low season, when the beaches are not yet full, and the water in the sea is already suitable for swimming. Of course, the water does not warm up to comfortable temperatures. But some southern resorts can already become pleasant for a seaside holiday.
June is the most profitable summer month, because prices in hotels and apartments increase sharply in July-August, due to the holiday and vacation season. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to relax only in the summer, it is better to choose June, namely its second half. It is not so hot yet, the sea is much warmer, and there are not so many people on vacation yet.
Here is a list of countries where you can have a great and not very expensive vacation at sea in June.
Velvet season – the best places to relax at sea in September
Malta
Water temperature in June: +22-23°C
Air temperature: +25-27°C
Malta is a great option if you’re seeking warm destinations in Europe in June. This island country, situated in the Mediterranean Sea, offers the perfect blend of culture and seaside vacation, satisfying even the most discerning travelers. In June it is not exactly warm here – even during the day it is hot and the water is very warm for swimming in the sea.
Malta is also full of historical sites and monuments. With a long history and a location at the crossroads, you can expect a variety of influences in architecture, cuisine or culture. Valletta, the capital of Malta, is the perfect place for sightseeing and strolling among colorful balconies. A must-see is St. John’s Cathedral with its stunning interior. The narrow streets of Valletta and the neighboring towns of the Tri-City provide shade – so you will not be too hot to walk around the city at this time.
When you visiting Malta, don’t miss the opportunity to also take a ferry to its second island, Gozo, which also offers plenty to see and do, but is more laid-back and relaxed than the main island. And there are a couple of nice sandy beaches too.
You can also try scuba diving, a popular activity in Malta, which allows you to see impressive underwater sites such as the Blue Grotto. Or simply buy a boat tour, which costs around 10 euros, and will take you to the arch of the Blue Grotto from the water.
How to get to Malta:
The national airline, Air Malta, offers direct flights to the island from many European destinations. There are also a large number of flights from budget airlines such as Ryanair and WizzAir.
Where to stay in Malta:
- Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa≫ – The hotel is in a good location near the large sandy beach of Mellieha, with a bus stop nearby, many restaurants, and views of the sea and the church.
- Pretty Bay Apartments≫ – The apartment is located next to Birzebbuga beach, with a nice terrace and sea views. There is a large free parking lot 5 minutes walk from the apartment. From this beach to Valletta 25 minutes by bus – and you are in the heart of the events of the Maltese capital.
- Lilly’s Sea view, beachfront apartment≫ – A well-maintained apartment on the island of Gozo, located right on the seafront near Marsalforn Beach. The apartment is fully equipped with all the necessary things and household appliances. In addition, there is a balcony with a sea view, where you can enjoy breakfast or a glass of wine.
More information about traveling to Malta
Makarska Riviera, Croatia
Sea water temperature in June: +22°C
Air temperature: +27°C
A fantastic place to spend a summer holiday in Europe is undoubtedly the breathtakingly beautiful nature of Croatia. For many years, the Makarska Riviera has held the title of the sunniest place in Croatia – ideal for anyone who loves to soak up the sun and get a good tan. In addition, the beaches of the Makarska Riviera are simply incredible beauty. Most of them are pebble beaches with crystal clear water and are surrounded by fragrant pine forests.
You can choose any town on the Riviera: the amazingly beautiful Brela, or the neighboring quiet town of Baška Voda, where it is very pleasant to relax in beautiful apartments by the sea. If you prefer to be in the atmosphere of a more active city – choose the “capital” of the Riviera – Makarska. There is more cultural program here, there are many shops and supermarkets, as well as entertainment for adults and children.
If you plan to travel by car, you can explore the entire coast. Go to the nearest town of Omiš with sandy beaches and an incredibly beautiful canyon formed by the Cetina River. Or drive to Dubrovnik, which is located in the far south of Croatia and is its historical and cultural pearl.
How to get to Makarska Riviera:
There are several options: car, bus or air flights, to the nearest airports. The nearest airport is Split, a little further away is Zadar Airport, where low-cost airlines fly and the prices for their flights are very low.
Where to stay on the Makarska Riviera:
- Villa King Apartments – apartments within walking distance from the central Soline beach in Brela.
- Апартаменти Izabela – These apartments are located just a few minutes’ walk from Ikovac Beach in Baška Voda. Each unit has its own equipped kitchen, a balcony with sea views and air conditioning. The host is very friendly and helpful, and guests consistently praise the cleanliness of the apartment.
- Апартаменти Rivana: we lived here because the price and quality were just perfect. I recommend the two-room apartments on the 2nd floor – beautiful view, space, beautiful rooms and kitchen. This is a quiet part of the city on a small hill, there is a private parking for 3-4 cars, a barbecue.
I advise you to read more about holidays on the Makarska Riviera:
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Sea water temperature in June: +22°C
Air temperature: +26°C
Another famous Italian destination that is perfect to visit in June is the picturesque Amalfi Coast, located near Naples in the south of the country. It is one of the most breathtaking parts of the Mediterranean, with crystal clear water, impressive mountains, and charming towns.
The most picturesque part of Amalfi stretches between Positano (known for its colorful buildings glued to the mountainside) and the town of Amalfi (the cultural and historical center of the region).
In the summer, the place is crowded with tourists, and getting around can be a bit difficult. However, in early spring, there are not so many people yet, but the weather is already favorable for both excursions and relaxation in coastal towns. You can even swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, as the water is getting warmer after the winter months.
Another advantage of visiting the Amalfi Coast in April is the prices, which are much lower than in high season. It is also easier to find a nice accommodation or restaurant to enjoy during your stay there.
The best way to get around is to drive along the coast by car, or even by bus, to admire the breathtaking panorama of the area. There is also a wonderful hiking trail, the Path of the Gods. It is a cool and easy route, if you want to spend a day in nature, enjoy this 7 km hike to the top of the Lattari Mountains.
How to get to the Amalfi Coast:
The nearest airport is Naples, about 60 km north of the Amalfi Coast. There are many flights from budget airlines such as Ryanair and WizzAir. The only way to get from Naples to popular cities like Positano or Amalfi is by rental car or bus.
Where to stay on Amalfi Coast:
- Locanda Costa D’Amalfi≫ – Hotel located on the outskirts of Amalfi, away from the crowds, but close to the highway to Positano. Very nice rooms with sea view and private terrace, small garden and private parking. Suitable for those traveling by car.
- Casa Gilda Positano≫ – The hotel is in a great location in Positano. The rooms have incredible views from the balcony and garden. There is a beautiful private beach nearby. The hotel is a bit out of the way from the city center – a leisurely 20-minute walk.
- Hotel La Tonnarella≫ – A wonderful atmospheric hotel in a colonial style for people who appreciate comfort in the lap of nature. Terrace with sea view, there is an elevator to the beach, located in the bay. Restaurant with exemplary service and haute cuisine.
More information about the rest on the South of Italy:
Cyprus
Sea water temperature in June: +24°C
Air temperature: +28-30°C
If you are looking for a nice beach holiday, Cyprus is one of the best places to visit in June. The so-called island of Aphrodite, located in the easternmost part of the Mediterranean Sea, attracts visitors with sunny weather and temperatures of up to 30°C. It is one of the warmest places in Europe, with the water already warming up nicely at the beginning of summer and not as hot as in July and August.
Those who love the sea and beach holidays are in for a treat. Cyprus offers a variety of beaches, from sandy to pebbled. The most beautiful of them, such as Nissi Beach, are located near Ayia Napa, on the south-eastern side of the island.
On the other side of Cyprus, you will find a more varied landscape, including rocky formations by the sea. But you can find ideal spots for sunbathing and swimming all along the coast.
If you are tired of spending time on the beach or want to diversify your vacation with sightseeing, Cyprus has many interesting places that impress with their stunning nature and history. The island is also a great place for hiking, both along the coast and inland, into the beautiful Troodos Mountains.
How to get to Cyprus:
Cyprus has two international airports – Larnaca and Paphos, where Ryanair and WizzAir fly from many European cities. You can buy quite cheap tickets in June, but you need to search in advance. Then you can move around Cyprus by rented car (note – traffic is on the left side here), or by buses and taxis.
Where to stay in Cyprus:
- Kefalos Beach Tourist Village≫ – hotel with a pool in Paphos near Aphrodite Beach.
- Vassos Nissi Plage Hotel & Spa≫ – hotel near the famous Nissi Beach.
- Flokkas Hotel Apartments≫ A very nice apart-hotel in Prataras, not far from the beach of the same name.
Kotor, Montenegro
Sea water temperature in June: +23°C
Air temperature: +24-26°C
Kotor is one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans, and it’s so easy to fall in love with it. Summer in Montenegro starts two weeks later than in other countries. So mid-June is just the beginning and there are no large crowds of tourists here yet.
The old town may seem quite compact, but it is dotted with interesting places, beautiful churches and palaces that belonged to wealthy families between the 15th and 18th centuries. Wandering around is a real pleasure, and it’s so easy to feel like time has stopped within these walls.
But the real highlight of Kotor is its location – in the Bay of Kotor. The view of the bay from the top of the St. John’s Fortress is especially impressive. To climb to the top, you need to overcome 1350 steps, but it’s worth the effort because the panorama you will see is simply breathtaking. Luckily, you don’t have to climb all the way to see it – the views are perfect from halfway up.
If the crowds of cruise ships in the Old Town get too big during the day (which they can be if more ships arrive), you can easily escape them by taking a stroll along the Bay of Kotor. The towns along the coast of the bay are usually emptier, but the views are no less stunning. And there are more beach-like places to sunbathe and cool off in the water.
You can also take a day trip to nearby Perast, famous for its artificial island with a church right in the middle of the Bay of Kotor. Or to Lovcen National Park, which offers incredible mountain views.
What is the best way to get to Kotor?
The easiest way is to fly to the nearest airport in Tivat – EasyJet and some European tour operators fly here. Or cheaper Ryanair and WizzAir to the capital of Montenegro – Podgorica. Then – either rent a car to see as much as possible in the Bay of Kotor, or take a taxi from Tivat, or an intercity bus from Podgorica.
Where to stay in Kotor:
- Casa Nuova≫ – very clean small hotel in Kotor with beautiful views of the bay.
- J & P Apartments Orahovac≫ – aparthotel in Kotor, has clean rooms with necessary amenities, such as washing machines and dishwashers. The rooms have a view of the sea and mountains, are very cozy and have everything you need for a stay.
- Casa Vita Nova≫ – rooms with fantastic views of the bay, a Mediterranean terrace garden and interiors finished to a very high standard. This hotel is the perfect place for a peaceful and/or romantic break in Perast.
Useful articles for preparing a trip to Montenegro:
French Riviera – Côte d’Azur
Water temperature in June: +23°C
Air temperature: +24-26°C
Another of the best places to visit in Europe in June where the weather is perfect but there are still few people is the French Riviera. This stretch of the Mediterranean coast to the Italian border guarantees perfect weather and enough sunny days to enjoy both sightseeing and relaxing on the beach.
However, if these events don’t interest you, there’s nothing to worry about. You can easily escape the hustle and bustle and hide away in one of the smaller, charming towns where you can enjoy the joys of a slow life in a beautiful setting.
The best places on the Côte d’Azur, which perfectly combine history, culture and relaxation, are Nice, Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cannes, Menton and Monaco. You can also travel inland from the coast and see even more charming small towns such as Grasse or Vence. And at the end of June, lavender blooms in Provence – an incredible sight that is worth seeing with your own eyes. Huge fields of lavender, go in rows beyond the horizon.
Having finished exploring all the attractions, you can relax on the beach. The water in the sea is already warm enough and the pleasant weather will allow you to have a good time here.
How to get Côte d’Azur:
The most convenient and largest airport is located in the capital of the Riviera – the city of Nice. Many airlines fly here from different parts of the world. And you can also get here by major low-cost airlines, which have enough flights in the summer. Then cheap buses run along the Cote d’Azur – from Nice to Menton and the other way around. There is also a train running along the entire coast, including a stop at the Monaco train station.
Where to stay in Côte d’Azur:
- Trocadero≫ –nice hotel in Nice, honest two stars for your money. Location: in the center, not far from the beach, next to the train station (get to Monaco and Cannes quickly and without problems), next to the tram stop to the airport. There is air conditioning, which is very important in the summer.
- Le Vallaya Suites & Spa≫ – The hotel in Menton has a great location near the Plage pour les Chiens. The room has everything you need, very new, very clean renovation. The hotel has a small pool with hot water, very cool courtyard.
- Hotel Verlaine≫ – Nice hotel in Cannes, new, clean, all amenities are there. In the peak season in Cannes, good value for money. 5 minutes walk to the beaches and promenade.
What to read about vacationing in France:
Sicily
Sea water temperature in June: 23-24℃
Air temperature: +27-28℃
Sicily is Italy’s largest island and a melting pot of culture and history, with stunning beaches. And one of the best places to visit in early summer. You’ll find a great mix of charming towns and picturesque wineries, a wealth of ancient ruins and archaeological sites. So keep in mind that Sicily is a place that’s not just about the beach.
One of the best things about the island is its amazing beaches. With over 1,000 kilometers of coastline, there’s no shortage of secluded pebble coves and stretches of sandy beach. One of the best is Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo, with its long stretch of soft white sand and some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen.
In addition to the beaches, Sicily is home to some incredibly picturesque towns. Admire the baroque churches of Ragusa, or relax in the medieval seaside resort of Cefalu. I also highly recommend visiting a small town called Marsala, where salt has been mined in Sicily for centuries.
For those looking for adventure, Sicily offers the opportunity to climb Mount Etna – one of the most active volcanoes in the world. In addition, a trip to the nearby Aeolian Islands is a 100% chance to see a volcanic eruption.
How to get to Sicily:
There are two major airports on the island – Catania and Palermo, which are served by Ryanair, WizzAir, EasyJet and other airlines. We then traveled by rented car, because public transport is not very reliable, and the island is large enough to waste time on trains and buses and have time to see as much as possible.
Where to stay in Sicily:
- Villa Greta Hotel Rooms & Suites≫ – wonderful accommodation in Taormina, the view from the balcony is incredibly wonderful – Taormina is right in the palm of your hand.
- B&b Olas Del Mar≫ – boutique hotel near the beach in Cefalù.
- B&B Le Biciclette≫ – guesthouse in the town of San Vito Lo Capo – the beach you’ve definitely seen in the Instagram photo.
I advise you to read about vacationing in Italy.:
Mallorca, Spain
Water temperature in June: +22-23°C
Air temperature: +25°C
Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is another ideal sunny destination to visit in June in Europe. On this island, you will find a great combination of interesting places and beach holidays.
The island is relatively small, but has many wonderful beaches and coves that can be enjoyed during a road trip around the entire island. Or stay in one location near the beach and make radial trips, exploring the beauty of the island.
If you get tired of spending time on the beach and feel like enjoying the natural landscapes, you can go hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana range. The highest peak of the island, Puig Major, is 1436 meters above sea level, so there are many long and short routes here for even the most demanding travelers.
Those interested in historical monuments should pay attention to the capital of the island – Palma de Mallorca, such as: the impressive La Seu Cathedral, the Almudaina Palace, the Arab Baths and other sights worth seeing.
How to get to Mallorca:
Despite being an island, getting to Mallorca is relatively easy. Ryanair and WizzAir fly here from anywhere in Europe. Or you can fly to Barcelona, Madrid and from there take cheap Vueling flights. Or you can take ferries from Barcelona or Valencia to get to the island in your own car.
Where to stay in Mallorca:
- Universal Aparthotel Elisa≫ – hotel located next to the beautiful beach of Alcudia. Spotlessly clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff, rooms are comfortable and have a great view of the pool. The hotel is only a 5-minute walk from the beach and there are many shops and restaurants nearby.
- Apartamentos Parque Mar≫ – A very nice resort with apartments, located near the beach in the bay of Cala D’Or. The white original villas, scattered throughout the green area of the park, are especially pleasing to the eye in contrast to the blue of the sea. The apartments have a kitchen, where there is everything to prepare dinner, but it is possible to eat in the restaurant – the food here is very tasty, especially paella and grilled fish.
- Meliá Calviá Beach≫ -one of the best hotels in the Megalouf resort. Very tasty and varied food, clean rooms, nice soft clean comfortable bed. The rooms have an incredible view of the sea from the balcony. The location of the hotel is simply perfect – there is access to the beach, nice sunbeds, towels, swimming pool.
I advise you to read about beach holidays in Spain:
Albania
Sea water temperature in June: +22-23°C
Air temperature: +25-26°C
In recent years, Albania has been rapidly gaining popularity among tourists who want to relax on beautiful sea beaches and not overpay for their vacation. It is in June, before the crowds appear on the beaches, that you can enjoy all the best offers of the Albanian coast. And at this time it is not too hot, so it is ideal to combine a visit to natural attractions with swimming in the sea and hiking.
With a coastline of almost 500 kilometers, there are many beautiful places to relax. However, the most beautiful part with sandy beaches and crystal clear water is between Vlorë and the southern border of the country. The southernmost seaside town, Ksamil, has a stunning location and the unrealistically turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
But Albania is more than just fun on the coast. There are beautiful ancient cities such as Berat or Gjirokaster (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), numerous ancient ruins throughout the country and the magnificent Albanian Alps in the north – a mountainous area with breathtaking views.
The capital of Albania – Tirana – can hardly be called the most beautiful city. But it has a vibrant atmosphere with numerous cafes and restaurants.
How to get to Albania:
There are two options – how to get to Albania by plane.
The first is to fly to the capital Tirana, where WizzAir, easyJet and Ryanair have fligts. But getting to the coast from Tirana is quite long and difficult. But if you are planning a trip around the country, not limited to the beaches, then rent a car and enjoy the mountain passes.
The second option is to fly to the neighboring island of Corfu, which is located an hour by ferry from the coast of Albania. This way you do not have to travel half the country to the seaside resorts for a long time.
Where to stay in Albania:
Livia’s Guesthouse≫ – The apartments are located in Ksamil, with its own parking and are located 30 meters from the sea. There is a small covered area with a table and benches where you can admire the sea, the sunset and eat outdoors. Everything is clean and tidy, the kitchen has everything you need for self-catering. The location is very quiet and peaceful, although within a radius of 300 m there are a large number of cafes, restaurants, shops and discos. A very good location for any type of holiday.
Erioni Hotel≫ – The hotel is located in Saranda, close to the center and the sea. The rooms are comfortable and worth the price, with excellent service. The breakfasts are traditional European, but delicious and varied.
Useful links for organizing your trip:
Car rental – cheap car through DiscoverCars
Hotels and apartments – I traditionally book on Booking.com
