12 Best European Islands For Vacation
100European Islands for a Unique Vacation
© Stephanie Hicks 2010
You want to go to Europe to explore the wide variety of culture and arts throughout the continent's many countries, but the idea of lounging on the beach somewhere sounds equally enticing. Why not do both?
Don't go fight the crowds at all the popular "hot spots" in Europe. For your next vacation, consider visiting one of the exotic European Islands. It will be a unique travel experience that you won't soon forget!
I love Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal, in particular. All of these countries include islands within their territories. As you move away from the mainland, you'll discover island life is as varied as the countries' flags and traditions.
Here's a list of 12 of the best European islands for vacation. Take your pick among locations in the Mediterranean or Atlantic. Don't forget to pack the sunscreen and camera!
12 European Islands You Won't Want to Miss
- Tenerife (Spain, Canary Islands)
- Sardinia (Italy)
- Madeira (Portugal)
- Santorini (Greece)
- The Azores (Portugal)
- Fuerteventura (Spain, Canary Islands)
- Sicily (Italy)
- Ionian Islands (Greece)
- Šibenik Islands (Croatia)
- Iceland
- Malta Island (Malta)
- Ibiza (Spain)
Why Travel to a European Island?
Some of the European Islands featured here are territories of mainland countries, and others are "stand-alone" sovereign states, including Malta and Iceland. Yet, each of these regions might as well be their own nation.
European cultural influences are evident, and the language or dialect may be "borrowed" from elsewhere. However, when it comes to the sights, sounds and tastes of these islands, you simply have to go there for the experience that mainland cannot match!
For example, one of Spain's Wackiest Festivals, the Burial of the Sardine, takes place each year on the island of Tenerife (within the Canary Islands). If you've experienced Mardi Gras in New Orleans, then I suggest you find a book your cheap flights to Tenerife before next February so you can partake in the bizarre festivities that include parading a dead fish on a throne through town... and lots of drinking and dancing, as well!
Highlights of Tenerife
Tenerife
Although the Canary Islands are an autonomous territory of Spain, they are actually off the coast of the African continent, about 100 km south of the border of Morocco and Western Sahara. Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and offers a wide range of activities from watersports to hiking, photography and unique cultural activities.
Spain's highest mountain, Mount Teide, is found on Tenerife. From the top of this World Heritage Site, you'll have a grand view of the rest of the volcanoes on the island. The region is rich in wildlife and natural beauty. Not surprisingly, tourists love to visit Tenerife - 12 million each year, to be precise!
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Madeira
If you like wine, you'll love Madeira! Winemaking has long been a tradition in this Portuguese region. According to Wikipedia:
Madeira is noted for its unique winemaking process which involves heating the wine up to temperatures as high as 60°C (140°F) for an extended period of time and deliberately exposing the wine to some levels of oxidation. Due to this unique process, Madeira is a very robust wine that can be quite long lived even after being opened.
Like Tenerife, Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal, located in the northern Atlantic ocean. Its about 520 km from the African coast, and 1000 km from the west coast of Europe. Temperatures hover around 70 degrees F year round. Just perfect!
Year-round, tourists flock to the island to enjoy Madeira wine, its abundant, beautiful flowers and the largest fireworks show in the world on New Year's Eve (as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records).
Sardinia
For amazing architecture, fresh, tasty cuisine, and unique culture, the island of Sardinia has it all! You'll step back in time to an ancient era when you visit the Bronze Age stone towers (called Nuraghe), or the Roman bath runs at Fordongianus. The sacred well of Santa Christina is an architectural marvel, as well.
After your sightseeing, be sure to take a walk along one of the gorgeous sandy beaches of Sardinia (Luna Beach is pictured above). Fresh seafood is found in coastal restaurants, or you can enjoy a meal of slow-roasted meat inland.
Local culture is just that -- local! Sardinian festivals are traditional celebrations that have been passed down from generation to generation. But don't worry about crashing the party. Tourists are always welcome. The best known festival in Sardinia is the annual horse race at the beginning of July, called l'ardia di San Costantino.
Santorini
Yes, its true. Santorini is just that beautiful. The island is a popular destination, either on its own, or as part of a Greek isles cruise. Magical and romantic, many couples enjoy Santorini as a honeymoon destination.
Postcard-perfect photos like the one above are signature Santorini. Famous white houses with blue domes are nestled into the cliffs created by eons of volcanic eruptions. You can walk the crater rims or stroll along the magnificent beaches.
Cap off your evening with delicious Greek cuisine and perhaps a glass of ouzo.
The Azores, Portugal
The Azores
If you haven't heard of the Azores, you're not alone. The 9-island archipelago, a territory of Portugal, is one of the most undiscovered European islands. Stunning natural beauty greets you and may even make you wonder whether you should keep the secret of the Azores to yourself so that it doesn't get overrun by tourists....
If you like spending time outdoors, the Azores is the place to visit. Hike along trails to reach waterfalls, calderas and tiny seaside villages. All you'll need are a pair of sturdy shoes and a camera! While there, be sure to walk to Sete Cidades on São Miguel, the main island. The village is nestled within a caldera, flanked by one blue and one green lake. Another favorite destination is the fajas, or coastal plains, of São Jorge. Visit Faial, which is a favorite among the yachting community and stop at the famous Peter Café Sport.
Amazingly, you can get to the Azores in just 4 hours via plane from Boston!
Fuerteventura
If you like Tenerife, you may want to extend your vacation to the Canary Islands with a visit to Fuerteventura, one of the Canary islands. The island is very popular with water sports enthusiasts, in large part due to the strong winds that propel sailboats across the waves.
Surfers love the giant swells and the beaches are simply amazing. Take your pick among clean, pristine white or black volcanic beaches. There are even guided walking tours along the sands.
Just 70 miles off the coast of Morocco, a trip to Fuerteventura is an island vacation like nothing you've ever experienced.
Sights in Sicily
Sicily
Sicily is the large Italian island being kicked by the "boot" that is the mainland country. Practically a nation in itself, Sicily is steeped in history, art and excellent wine! Forget what you've read or heard about this island with a storied past. The people there are friendly and helpful, and while your travel experience will have an Italian flair, it will also be uniquely Sicilian!
Sights you'll want to visit when in Sicily include the rumbling volcano - Mount Etna, the city of Sciacca in southwestern Sicily to enjoy amazing ceramics and its Carnival, and Ragusa province in which you'll find many small towns and ornate churches. Bella!
Natural beauty abounds in Sicily, as well. Miles of vineyards cover the hills, as well as olive groves and citrus trees. The rugged mountainous landscape kisses the deep blue sea, allowing vistas that surely inspired some of the beautiful art you'll enjoy when you travel to Sicily.
Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands are a group of Greek islands that are also called the Heptanese, the "Seven Islands." Located off the west coast of Greece, in the Ionian sea, the islands consist of:
- Corfu (Kerkyra)
- Paxos (Paxi)
- Lefkas (Lefkada)
- Ithaca (Ithaki)
- Cephalonia (Kefalonia)
- Zante (Zakynthos) and
- Cerigo (Kythira)
Though the islands are now part of Greece, they have a storied history with influences from a number of European countries. The experience is a unique blend of Greek and Italian culture.
Visitors agree that the lush green landscapes (Corfu has the highest rainfall in Greece) are a beautiful contrast to the blue seas.There are cruises and guided tours available through the Ionian Islands. You'll soon see why the poet Homor declared the Ionian Islands a paradise in The Odyssey.
Šibenik Islands
The Šibenik Islands, within central Dalmatia where the Krka river empties into the Adriatic Sea, are a jewel in a dense archipelago of islands. Part of Croatia, they were heavily fortified to ward off the attacks of the Yugoslav Army and the Serbs during the Croatian War of Independence (1991-1995). The four main fortresses can be viewed, and all architectural damage from the recent war has been repaired.
- Tvrđava Sv. Nikole
- Tvrđava Sv. Mihovila
- Tvrđava Sv. Ivana
- Tvrđava Šubićevac
The relatively small population allows the natural wonders of the islands to shine through. Be sure to visit the islands of the Kornati National Park, the Krka National Park and the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Waterfalls like the one shown above are even more stunning in real life!
In town, the central church in Šibenik, the Cathedral of St. James, enjoys recognition as a World Heritage site. Stroll through the streets to find many restaurants serving local fare (lamb, turkey, baked dishes and more). Dolac quarter in the town center is said to have over 100 cafés with live music.
You may want to plan to visit the Šibenik Islands during one of the annual festivals. The International Child's Festival starts the last week in June, and the Day of St. James, the patron saint of the city, is commemorated each year on July 25.
Iceland
Iceland may not be the first location that comes to mind when you consider European Islands. Yet the island nation will not disappoint tourists looking for a fresh alternative to traditional travel plans.
The scenery is pure and unmarred, given that its the largest uninhabited area in Europe. Enjoy birch forests, deserts of black sand and boiling pools of mud. The hot springs allow for outdoor swimming year round. Oh, and yes, there is that volcano too! The one with the name that no one can pronounce (Eyjafjallajökull).
Any trip to Iceland has got to include a guided horseback ride on an Icelandic horse. The species were brought to Iceland with the Vikings in the ninth century. You'll marvel at the natural beauty of the untouched landscape, led by Bjarni Páll, who specializes in geology, and his wife Elsa, both from Saltvík. The tour takes you past Lake M vatn, Ódáahraun, the largest lava field in Icelan, and the waterfall Goafoss.
Malta Islands
History buffs and budding archeologists will love visiting Malta! The Neolithic Temples built 1000 years before the pyramids of Egypt were created with 20-ton blocks. Just how the ancient civilizations accomplished this feat is anyone's guess. You'll also want to see St. Paul's island, which marks the spot where St. Paul shipwrecked on the Malta coast. The event is commemorated in the Bible in the Acts of the Apostles! From there, you should visit the places where the Knights of St. John defended Christianity.
Its not just about history, however. Malta boasts some amazing views along its coastlines. Walk along the trails, or consider a boat excursion around the islands for the best vistas.
Ibiza
Whether you want to party at the clubs or take in spectacular scenery, the Spainish island Ibiza has plenty of options. Young adults flock to world-famous clubs including Pacha, Amnesia and Club Privilege. Keep a watch out for celebrities and models...
If drinking and dancing isn't your thing, you can slow down the pace by finding a spot at the Es Vedrà from which to watch the amazing sunsets Ibiza offers up each evening. The uninhabited nature reserve is off the western coast in Cala d'Hort.
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Wow! This piece should be marketed. Thank you for sharing!
These are so lovely, I don't know which one to choose first!
I don't know how you can stop at only 12, although I guess you have to stop somewhere! The only European island I've been to is Crete, which was amazing, but I would also love to visit many of the islands you listed - especially Iceland.
Spain isn't the only place with wacky festivals. I think they have one or two odd festivals on Tenerife too - I remember having a very good time the last time I was there.
Iceland looks very intriguing
Steph, you created a great hub with a full smorgasbord of delectible morsels. I was in Ibiza years ago and it was lovely. The problem we had was getting off the island by boat back to the mainland. We caught a boat to Majorca and flew to Amsterdam. The other destinations will need to stay on my wish list for another while. Cheers.
Iceland looks very intriguing
You know, I'm from Europe and I've never been to Santorini? Shame on me. That place looks stunning. I knew about it for long, but haven't got the time to "pay it a visit". It's on my wish list for a long time now :)
Great hub - I have been to just one of these - Santorini and it was spectacular and beautiful - what great memories. It makes me want to visit some of these other Med islands so bad.
Beautiful! They all sound fantastic. I think I would start out with Sardinia.
Got love those Spaniards! From running of the bulls, to tomato fights, to having a festival for sardines, these people know how to party! The pictures are breath taking,I could vacation in any one of those places! Great hub!
Hey Steph,
this is a great post! I was just* looking for some good christmas-time trip ideas. ICELAND sounds AMAZING!!
Beautiful list! I want to go explore each and every one of them! :)
Great list of islands! I've been to most of them. I would probably add Capri, absolutely beautiful small island with very unique charm and different from Sisily and Sardinia. Oh, I need to go on vacation right now :)
This is a very nice hub! I will try to blog about Philippine Islands then :D
Excellent! I need a vacation!
Great hub! Thanks much,stephhicks.I love natural scenery so much, and I think you also.
All are fantastic. Have you ever tried for Spain beaches, They are creature gift. Enjoy your vacations in the lap of nature...Anyone interested in info regarding rental villas in Spain, get here....http://www.locationvillaespagne.com/
My friend, I can't make any choice for all these place. Because all these place very beautiful. Sorry I am late to know about this. I totally agree with you that these places good for vocation. I hope this can be an alternative for traveling idea. Good work. I vote this Up. Thank you very much.
Prasetio
I've never been to any of them, but I would like to have a vacation on at least one after these - thanks to this great, colorful hub :).
All the pictures are beyond my imagination. Really stunning, I hope to visit one of those place someday.
Beautiful hub and glorious pics!
the pics are really good. the places you hav mentioned looks really interesting. thanks for the informative article.
nice view :]
Great choices! I have few other to add to the list - really worth visiting: Crete and Eolian Islands, especially Lipary and Stromboli :-)
An excellent selection. However, for those of you who have not been to mainland Europe - it should not be dismissed. I live in Spain and there are some truly fantastic places to visit with the key being to avoid the 'tourist' areas (normally on the coast). Try going inland to Granada or Aragon (absolutely gorgeous and full of Medieval fortified villages.
Beautiful hub Stephhicks68!
You gave me some great ideas about where to go for a vacation. I traveled all around the Europe, but I haven't visited most of those places you described.
I agree about Croatian islands, you will find untouched nature and clear sea on Kornati. Earth paradise! Love to go there!
Great hub with nice photos. Unfortunately I never had a chance to visit any of these, but if I would get a chance I will certainly go to Iceland.
wow -- well you know I love Iceland and I have always wanted to visit Malta-- don't ask me why:-)
wow great places :)
Amazing Selection!
Great and really comprehensive guide! Going to have to visit a few of those places myself!
Great photos in this hub,absolutely breathtaking!
That's Amazing Places In Europe. Indonesia also has many amazing places, Like Kuta Beach, Sanur Beach, Senggigi Beach, Nusa Dua, Lovina Beach, Borobudur Temples, Komodo Island, Lake Toba, see a lot of interesting places in my hubs. Great..
Beautiful photos and so well written. Thanks for sharing!!
All pictures are beautiful. I am planning to visit Europe this vacation. I like to visit icelands. I heard that Malta island in Europe is best. I love all of your shots. Nice information.
Those places are all fabulous and you did a fantastic job on presenting them. Thank you for such a great, informative and well written hub as well as for the beautiful pictures.
I love your hub! The pics are outstanding and the information is great. You have highlighted so many destinations that I've been dying to visit. Thank you so much for sharing!
really beautiful island!~ nice hub
Very nice places. I haven't been to Tenerife would like to visit it is just that now a days is so easy to travel and so many places to visit that sometime you get confuse from where to start. Thanks for the hub.
I dream of visiting those heavenly places !
Nice hub & guide those who are searching & plan to enjoy their vacation in Europe.
Great information from you. I'll put all these Island on my travel list. I believe this could be an option for travel destination. You have done great research. Good work, my friend.
Prasetio:)
Great hub for people who are planning to enjoy their vacation in Europe. It is hard to choose one island. Actually the pictures you have used are stunning and making this hub more beautiful.
Santorini is one of my islands to visit, this hub inspires me to visit Europe more often, thanks for writing this beautiful hub.
Hey don't forget that the UK is an island! Corsica is also a very beautiful island in the Med to add to your travelling list. Interesting hub and great photos
You have some great places here, but where's mallorca.
I'm moving there next month because I fell in love with the island for its beautiful scenery and friendly people.
But I will certainly visit a few of the islands you have posted here, they look great, thanks for the photo's and videos.
You have opened my eyes to alot of new possibilities.
I adore tropical settings and these are so beautiful!
Thanks for sharing!
Awesome lens thanks for the info
In greece there are so many beautiful places to visit for holidays. Especially islands like paxos. http://www.paxos-travel.com
nice...
Some great info for my next vacation!
I absolutely loved Santorini, magical.
with summer approching i think i should consider one of them. :D
Thanks so much for this hub. I'm seriously contemplating a trip to Sardinia in the near future; your travel tips were very helpful.
Brilliants, I wanted to see that on original hahaha nice hub.
Great information.Thanks for the lovely pictures too.
Lovely places to visit. Voted up. Thanks for sharing.
Breathtaking and beautiful lens with great travel info. I want to go right now! Voted up!
What a wonderful hub!
Omg, That first image from the San Andres beach .... Awesome :)) Been there in February and a storm caught me bathing.. The car was completely covered with sand.
Oh, and the road from where the picture was take... unbelievable. One of the most spectacular roads in Tenerife.
Excellent hub! The pictures are amazing.
Great hub with lots of useful info for my next trip! Or at least the dream of my next trip to Europe! Thanks so much ;-)
This hub has made me crave a holiday for the summer! Beautiful sights. Great article, thanks for the inspiration!
As a traveller, my thumb is up. I have the ideas of few European destinations. I learn few more here.
Thanks :)I still go back to this article for inspiration to get away for the summer, there are so many beautiful places!
I haven't been to any of these places, but I would love to go to all of them. Maybe some day when I'm rich and famous. "wink"
I've been to Sardinia and Ibiza and I loved them both! Just like I loved reading your hub. :)
This is a great hub, Stephanie! Sends the excitement down the spines of travelers: ) I have an immense passion for Europe and personally love beautiful and solitary islands. Now you've just presented to me a cornucopia of choices to kill two birds with one stone. I love the color white, so I'm probably starting off with Santorini...
I had never heard of Ibiza but now I really want to go. Great travel hub!
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BRIAN SLATER Level 5 Commenter 22 months ago
Excellent hub- the one place I haven't been to on your list is the Sibenik Islands, not heard to much about them. But Cephalonia is one of my wifes fav places and Sardinia is one place i would definately go back to although it is expensive from the UK.