Ever traveled somewhere that completely missed the mark?
Maybe Instagram filters tricked you into thinking Texas has picture-perfect waters or perhaps you didn’t get the memo on a jellyfish invasion.
Lots can go wrong no matter what type of trip you book, but when it comes to splurging on a nice beach getaway, you should expect the best of the best.
If you’re ready to put your passport to use, then Europe is a great choice for a summer getaway.
According to a new report released by the European Commission and the European Environment Agency, there are 3 stunning countries that stand out amongst the rest in terms of pristine beach destinations.
One in particular came back with impressive results – over 99% of beaches being rated as ‘Excellent’.
These 3 stunning countries have the most pristine beaches in Europe:
3) Cyprus
Cyprus may be a blip on the map, but it’s one of the most incredible European beach destinations. Set in the midst of Greek and Turkish island lies a self-governing nation ready to rock your socks off.
Cyprus has become trendier over the years, but is still often overshadowed by other Mediterranean powerhouses.
Lined with luxe resorts, otherworldly blue waters, and phenomenal cuisine rivaling Greece and Turkiye, it’s no wonder this small island has made a name for itself.
Heck, it’s become popular enough to reopen the ‘ghost town‘ of Varosha in a controversial move to make more room for beachgoers.
Until then, vacationers can fly into the resort town of Paphos or Larnaca for easy exploration around this Mediterranean paradise with some of the clearest water in the world.
And guess who just booked a cheap flight? That’s right, yours truly. See you in fall, Paphos!
2) Greece
Are we shocked? Greece has become a bucket list destination across the board, not just for the ancient country’s stellar beaches.
Island-hopping is one of the best ways to experience Greece, but so is staying put in the nation’s historic cultural cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.
It seems every year, more and more Greek gems are being discovered rather than sticking to the popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes.
Wherever you go, you should know you can’t really go wrong for premiere beach vacations. Just keep in mind that Greece becomes insanely hot this time of year!
But hey, that’s all the more reason to enjoy the eye-popping blue waters found throughout the entire coastline stretching from the mainland to over 6,000 islands.
However, not even a noticeable fraction are inhabited.
I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Greece, and my personal favorite place to go is Crete. Yes, even over the world-famous Santorini.
The laid-back seaside town of Chania was amazing for cheap stays, incredible seafood, and some of the best wine I’ve ever had.
My advice would be to avoid eating along the main promenade for overpriced menus and scope out where locals eat.
1) Croatia
France, Spain, and Italy may still be the top destinations that come to mind when booking your next Euro trip, but Croatia isn’t far behind.
Popular cities, such as Dubrovnik, are all but guaranteed to see hordes of travelers invading their historic, charming streets and divine shores.
And those who do visit are in luck as 99.1% of the 894 sites tested along Croatia’s mesmerizing coasts were ranked ‘Excellent’, giving this beautiful country bragging rights over all of Europe’s beaches.
Like both Greece and Cyprus, visitors can expect to be wowed by picture-perfect blue waters and top-notch resorts, and it goes without saying in the Med, of course, but the best wining and dining imaginable.
There are endless options this summer for a Croatian beach vacation, including some lesser known islands just off the coast, like Hvar.
However, most tourists stick to what they know here, so expect some crowds. On the bright side, with beaches this nice, fighting for elbow room from time to time isn’t so bad.
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