10 best places to visit in Europe in June

For Europe, June is the month when summer really starts to kick in: all those glorious rays of sun peeking through the clouds, the flowers in bloom, al fresco dining and beer gardens are open again! If this is your preferred travel time, then these are the best places to visit in Europe in June. 

Is June a good month to visit Europe?

Absolutely. The weather is nice and warm all over the continent, and June is also the month right before the big Euro Summer craze really hits, so while there will still be crowds (it is still Europe after all), you’ll be able to avoid the brunt of it. It’s when a lot of music festivals, film festivals, flower festivals – all the festivals – take place throughout the continent, providing plenty of good vibes.

Prices are slightly cheaper compared to peak summer as well, and if you book far enough in advance you can get some really great deals on your flights and accommodations. As June is the start of peak season, most attractions if not all will be open for your viewing pleasure! So, really the question is, why shouldn’t you visit Europe in June?

Where has the best weather in Europe in June?

Europe’s summer weather is pretty consistently immaculate, but if you want to avoid rain at ALL COSTS (are you a Brit abroad?) then your best bets are destinations along the south and southeast of the continent. Think Balkans, Mediterranean coast, islands! Though mainland Europe, and even the northern Scandi countries will show a lot of sun and t-shirt weather.

1. Provence, France

Average temperature: 22°C

This southern region of France is any romantic’s dream, and it covers the Côte d’Azur, Camargue, the Souther Alps, and cities like Nice and St. Tropez. Lavender fields, aged castles, vineyards, and plenty of sun – you can stroll the villages, sniff the perfumes and flowers, and salivate over the incredible pastries! With the nearby French Riviera and the Calanaques in Marseille, there’s no shortage of glitzy things you can do. Emily in Paris producers found their way here, so you know it’s good!

2. Lake Como, Italy

Average temperature: 25°C

June is wedding season for many people, and there’s nowhere that says ‘fall in love and travel the world with me forever’ than the sweeping lakes at the foothills of the Italian Alps. Lake Como is quite famous, you’ll likely have seen it in many TV shows and movies like Succession and The Talented Mr. Ripley. But seeing it in real life is totally different!

Live la dolce vita on a boat or in a villa on the flanks of the mountains. 

3. Crete, Greece

Average temperature: 28°C

The Greek islands are a pure and total dream all year long, but in June, when the sun is golden, the crowds have thinned, and you have the beaches and catamarans to yourself – well, it doesn’t get much better than that! Sweat on a worth-it-walk through the blindingly white buildings and devour some of the freshest seafood around. The crystal clear waters of Crete are unmatched, so bring your bikini and trunks (several pairs!!!!).

4. Split, Croatia

Average temperature: 26°C

With jutting coasts, unique Mediterranean landscapes, and lots of gelato to be consumed, Split in Croatia is one of the best places to visit in Europe in June. Split is a popular destination in Croatia with plenty to do: take boat tours and day trips to the nearby islands, visit the ancient Roman Salona Amphitheatre and Diocletian’s Palace, or make a stop at the quirky frog museum – there’s really nothing like it.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Average temperature: 20°C

Known for the colourful street of Nyhavn and all the adorable coffee shops and interior decor stores, Copenhagen is idyllic at all times of year – but the summer months really make this Danish gem shine. Bike rides, art museums, delicious food and minimalist-style shopping, Copenhagen is Instagram-worthy and so gorgeous in June! Just watch out for the sun, it’s deceptively strong.

6. Cappadocia, Türkiye

Average temperature: 25°C

Have you seen those photos of colourful hot air balloons dotting the dusky canyon skies with blustery clouds in the background and a city below? And, have you seen those photos and dreamt of going there? Well, you can! It’s Cappadocia in Türikye and you can get your own fairytale hot air balloon, but you can also visit some historic Bronze Age homes and hike up the arid cliffs.

7. Lisbon, Portugal

Average temperature: 24°C

A colourful sea-front city with some gorgeous old and modern architecture, and pastel de natas you can devour at any corner, Lisbon is one of the best places to visit in Europe in June. The temperatures are hot but not too crazy (by Portugal standards), and you can easily spend your days lounging by the beach or popping into any of the many museums. Make sure to feast your eyes on the azulejo – those intricate blue tiles that the city is known for (and take plenty of pics for your photo dump!). 

8. Budapest, Hungary

Average temperature: 23°C

With the historic baths to relax in and plenty of iconic ruin bars to dance the night away, Budapest has no shortage of things to do, and you can traipse around under the sun for lots and lots and lots of fun. Spot some filming locations from shows like Shadow and Bone or head to the Origo Studios for a glimpse at future films, and then take a walking tour to soak up the city’s iconic city. Don’t forget to look across the Danube at the Parliament Buildings which sparkly like a litany of stars. 

9. Vlorë, Albania

Average temperature: 29°C

Albania may not be at the top of your list for European countries to explore in June, but it absolutely should be. Turquoise waters, sheer white cliffs speckled with greenery, and amazing affordable prices all around – Albania is a hidden gem in Europe, and Vlorë’s relaxing shores and hiking trails will prove it to you. 

Want a kick of star power – or something close? Travel with Contiki and we’ll take you to farm-to-table restaurant good enough for Dua Lipa herself! Delicious food, and even more delicious views.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

Average temperature: 12°C

While it’s on the cooler side of summer, Iceland has something totally unique which is absolutely worth travelling for – the midnight sun. The days stretch for hours and hours and hours, which makes sightseeing so easy. Waterfalls, fjords, black sand beaches, the wonders of Iceland really don’t end.