Home to winding cobblestone streets and waterfront bars, this

Croatian fishing port will make you feel like you’ve stepped
straight into summer – regardless of the season. The historic
Church of Saint Euphemia sits in the heart of the town; for a small
fee, climb to the top of the church’s bell tower and take in
360-degree views of town and the sea. Spend the rest of your day
sampling regional olive oil, cured meats and wine al fresco. Day
two? More of the same.

With rows of pastel-coloured buildings and a harbour full of
luxury yachts, this fishing village is quaint but monied. Taking a
trip to this little Italian Riviera gem comes with a hefty price
tag, but it’s postcard-worthy views are what you’re after. If
you’re up for a bit of a steep hike (and a stiff drink), check out
Al Faro di Portofino. Located right next to the Faro lighthouse,
this cocktail bar is a prime spot for enjoying limoncello at
sunset.

Don’t expect clear skies and warm weather from Denmark’s
second-largest city – you’re in Scandinavia, after all. A
cutting-edge, dynamic town with a number of beaches relatively
close to the city centre,
Aarhus will pander to most visitors. For the art lover, the
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is the hot ticket in town. For the food
connoisseur, check out one of the city’s Michelin-starred
restaurants, namely Gastromé and its impressive seasonal menu,
where current offerings include pommes soufflé and oscietra
caviar.

Valletta was named the European Capital of Culture in 2018 – an
impressive title for such a tiny city, positioned in one of the
world’s smallest countries. Valletta’s size shouldn’t phase you –
scouring the city’s baroque architecture and daily cultural events
is sure to keep you entertained. The Mediterranean destination is
also known for year-round sunshine, making it ideal for a
pre-summer holiday minus the crowds.

You don’t need to visit during
Asilah‘s annual arts festival to understand why the coastal
town has garnered a reputation as one of
Morocco‘s top creative hubs as well as surf haven. Quaint
streets and Mediterranean-influenced architecture aside, the town
isn’t just a visual delight. Alongside a wide array of traditional
Moroccan fare, the region’s proximity to the Iberian Peninsula
means that Spanish-inspired plates also abound.

Lisbon may be the traveller’s go-to when seeking out a seaside
Portuguese destination, but lately
Portugal’s “second city” has been stealing the spotlight – and
understandably so. If you’re after a long weekend defined by river
cruises, window shopping and lots of wine, Porto
is the place to go. Book lovers be make sure to check out Livraria
Lello. The bookstore is one of Portugal’s oldest and was frequented
by J.K. Rowling when she lived here.

Fans of sunshine, grandiose cathedrals and lively bohemian
neighbourhoods will feel right at home in Mallorca’s capital city.
Tapas tour by day; cocktail bar hopping by night. If you’re a
culture buff, the city’s museums and galleries should be at the top
of your to-do list. Located in the heart of
Palma‘s old town, Palau March Museum is a work of art on its
own right – the former palace now operates as a gallery and
features a selection of classic and contemporary works.

Sicily‘s
capital deserves to be high up on your holiday itinerary. To start,
the port city of Palermo’s pristine coastlines and numerous
cathedrals are beguiling whiles its culinary offering is also
second-to-none (and we don’t just mean the cannolis). You can’t go
wrong with a stroll through one of the city’s four ancient street
markets. Visit Ballarò for a colourful selection of fruits and
vegetables at a bargain you can’t beat.

Menton is often dubbed the “pearl of France”
and it’s not hard to see why. Sitting on the French Riviera in
close proximity to Italy, the coastal town boasts year-round sun
and a whimsical charm, setting it apart from France’s bustling
cities. While tourists flock to Nice and Monaco, take advantage of
this gem’s natural beauty. Prioritise Menton’s botanical gardens –
Fontana Rosa is as picturesque as it gets.

Though Margate
tends to be the place to go in Kent, Whitstable is half as
populated and no less charming. Take a walk down Harbour Street and
you’ll come across cosy cafés and old-school shops. Be sure to stop
by one of the town’s pubs while you’re there too – The Monument is
perfect for a pint and a bite to eat. What better place to get into
the summer spirit than with good old fish and chips by the
seaside?