Europe – one of the most beautiful, cultural and historical continents to grace this earth. Visiting during the months of June-August is something truly special, as it’s the peak of summer. However, if you are chasing the sun and don’t want to be limited by one summer season, then you’re in luck because you are about to find out about the top seven cities that receive the most sun throughout the year. If it’s a year-long tan you’re after, then it’s time to get reading.
This article aims to first shed light on the top 30 sunniest cities in Europe, courtesy of a study by Holidu, the holiday rental portal, and then do a deeper dive into the top seven. It will then offer a little bit more information about what you can do in each city, when is the best time to go and how to make the most of your stay.
The Top 30 Cities in Europe with the Most Sun
To give you a quick overview of the cities in Europe that enjoy the most sun and that should be on your checklist if you’re in the mood for some vitamin D, here you have the list:
Cartagena, Alicante, Malaga, Murcia, Granada, Catania, Sevilla, Cordoba, Marseille, Madrid, Saragossa, Athens, Palma de Mallorca, Nice, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Bari, Rome, Palermo, Montpellier, Naples, Messina, Turin, Lisbon, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Valladolid, Bologna, Milan, Porto, Padua and Genoa.
The above cities are all in order, with Cartagena winning the race with an average temperature of 19.1 degrees in the year and 283 hours of sun per month. Actually, to give you a better idea about Cartagena, how about a deep dive into the top seven sunniest cities starting right at the top of ranking – in the heart of this Spanish city.
Cartagena
Cartagena is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. It is based on the Mediterranean coast, making it a great place if you like to go swimming or sailing, as it is also a port city. In the southeast region of Spain, this city gets a lot of sunshine during the year. Its old Roman style is what draws many in, which still stands from the 1st century BC. The best months to go, or at least the hottest, are between June and August. However, if you want to catch it when it’s a little less busy, the months of May and September, so just before and after peak season, are a good choice, making it easily one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Alicante
One of the best places to visit in Europe – an oasis on the beach. Think endless yellow sandy stretches, with warm sea weather and no current. Again, this is a port city and is situated in the Costa Blanca and is the capital of the Alicante province. It’s known for its narrow houses that make you feel like you’re walking in medieval times, plus its colourful houses and exciting nightlife are quite the treat.
Malaga
A proper city in the heart of Spain, also with access to the beach, this city manages to bring in the exciting and busy life of city sessions; however, it also brings in the relaxed vibes of the beach. You see skyscrapers, cruise ships and people playing volleyball, all within one spot.
Murcia
This is actually quite well-known for its university. Which is why visiting it during June-August is a treat because most students go back home and therefore, the city somehow manages to feel a little empty, even though it’s the peak summer time. The Gothic and baroque style features throughout the inner parts of the city and it’s the architecture that will blow you away. Walking through the city streets with the sun glistening down on you is the perfect getaway.
Granada
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this is a stunning spot to visit. Whether you’re there during the peak summer season or prefer visiting it during spring, autumn or winter, this city is a joy. When you step into this city, it’s like you’ve gone back in time. Think of fortresses that line the hills, beautiful patios everywhere you look and green, thick and luscious mountains surrounding you.
Catania
The first city to be mentioned that isn’t in Spain – it’s a wonder. This is an Italian stunner and is located on Sicily’s east coast. You won’t believe it but this city has an active volcano, Mt. Etna, so when you look around, all you see are blue skies, terracotta roof tiles and then a distant volcano as the backdrop.
Seville
A stunning city in Spain, where the sunshine makes a lot of sense because there is a beautiful river, the River Guadalquivir, that runs through the whole city. This offers an escape from the heat and is a beautiful spot to sit down with a picnic. This is a city meant to be walked through and marvelled at. For moments when it becomes too hot, find shade under one of the many beautifully built bridges.
Go Where the Sun Always Shines
There is nothing better than going away on a trip or settling in a region where the sun is always shining. You get to go out, experience the world, become part of nature, all without having your dreams being rained on. Sunshine puts you in a better mood, it lifts the spirits and that’s why visiting one of Europe’s top 30 sunniest cities is a marvelous idea.
Now that you know all the places, which one will you visit first?
