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While European destinations like London, Paris, and Rome remain the most popular for this summer, these are the destinations that are currently trending with American travelers.
The travel booking platform Hopper just released a new report with the top European destinations of the summer, including those that are now surging in popularity.
From Mediterranean beaches and islands to cool-weather destinations perfect for escaping the sweltering summer heat, here are the top trending places to go in Europe right now.
7. Bergen, Norway
Starting off the list we have Bergen, Norway. This coastal city is a great summertime destination for beating the heat and enjoying cool, mild weather instead.
It’s also a haven for lovers of the outdoors, being known as the “gateway to the fjords.”
But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room — Norway is an expensive destination (one of the priciest in the world!) So if you’re not planning to splurge this summer, let’s look at a more affordable destination…
6. Cagliari, Italy
Cagliari is the capital of the island of Sardinia, which consistently ranks as having some of the best beaches in Italy (and all of Europe for that matter!)
It can also be a surprisingly affordable destination, especially if you go later in the summer.
While Sardinia may be under the radar for many American travelers, it’s a popular vacation hotspot for Italians and other Europeans, especially during the months of July and August.
Save Sardinia for September, and you can enjoy the island with far fewer crowds (and cheaper prices!)
5. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is another island destination that is heating up this summer with a record-breaking number of visitors.
It’s easy to see why travelers are flocking to this island full of stunning beaches and fun nightlife.
Like Sardinia, I’d actually recommend going to Mallorca later in the season (September or even early October are still warm enough to swim in the Mediterranean!)
4. Olbia, Italy
Yet another entry on this list goes to Sardinia, Italy — the city of Olbia on the northern end of the island, to be exact. Personally, I prefer Olbia to Cagliari.
It’s about one-third smaller and close to some of the island’s best beaches.
So this would be my top pick for where to stay in Sardinia between the two cities.
3. Inverness, Scotland
If the idea of baking in the sun on a beach in Italy or Spain this summer makes you sweat, why not plan a trip to Inverness, Scotland instead?
Inverness is the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, one of the most stunning regions in the world famed for its dramatic scenery.
And it’s also another great destination to escape the heat and enjoy milder weather while you explore the mystical beauty of the Highlands.
2. Nice, France
Many tourists in Nice come from cruise ships and only have one day to try to squeeze in a bunch of sights along the French Riviera.
My suggestion? Base yourself in Nice for as long as possible (at least four days, but even longer if you can!) and take day trips along the coast.
Monaco, Menton, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Antibes, Cannes, Èze, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are just a few of the amazing day trips you can easily do by train or bus from Nice.
1. Funchal, Portugal
The final entry on this list is cheating just a little bit since it isn’t on the mainland, but Madeira is still an autonomous region of Portugal, which makes it part of the EU.
Funchal isn’t actually in mainland Europe at all—it’s located on the island of Madeira off the northern coast of Africa.
But this breathtaking island is just a 1 hour and 45 minute flight from Lisbon, making it an easy getaway. Known as the “Hawaii of Europe” it’s not hard to see why travelers are loving this island.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
