3 Summer Holidays With A Difference
July 23, 2015
Let's face it, even in summer, we're not guaranteed our fair share of sunshine in the UK. Whilst we occasionally enjoy extended periods of glorious weather like we did in 2018, it's much more common for the sun to only put his hat on sporadically.
So, why not give yourself much more chance of feeling the warm glow on your skin this summer? We've collated some of the sunniest cities in Europe to ensure your 2019 holiday is served sunny side up.
According to various sources and surveys, the Maltese capital of Valletta is the sunniest city in Europe. The rays reflect beautifully off the UNESCO-listed fortified walls and the azure seas all around, giving you plenty to explore during those daylight hours. The fantastic weather also helps the flowers in the Upper Barrakka Gardens welcome visitors in full bloom.
Summer Highlight: Malta Music Week, 9th - 13th July 2019
A cheaper alternative to Nice and Monaco, Marseille also has the added benefit of having more sunshine hours than both of these cities on the French Riviera. What you chose to do with an average of eight per day is completely up to you, but a look around the port and a visit to Notre Dame de la Garde should be high on the list. Just ensure you reach the latter via the regular bus service or the fantastic weather may soon become a hindrance. If you want to do nothing more than bask in the sun's rays, head out of the city by boat to the stunning Calanques National Park.
Summer Highlight: Bastille Day Celebrations, 14th July 2019
Whilst Madrid gets quite a bit of sunshine too, no major Spanish city can better the hours enjoyed by Seville. Along with admiring the Moorish architecture at places like the Real Alcazar, one of the best things to do in Seville when the sun is shining is relax in the many parks. Both Parque Maria Luisa and Parque del Alamillo are pleasant spots to unwind or take a walk and, when you need a break from the heat, it's the perfect excuse to head to an air-conditioned tapas bar to enjoy some modern twists on this traditional culinary treat.
Summer Highlight: La Romeria del Rocio, 8th - 10th June 2019
The fact that Athens receives an average of 7.8 hours of sunshine a day is not the only reason to visit this summer. It was also named best European city break destination for 2018 and continues to delight visitors with a mix of historic and modern attractions. Whilst you may want to visit the iconic Acropolis in the hours before the sun is at its peak (or it can be stifling), there are plenty of other things to do in the heat. Head to the southern suburbs to enjoy a day at the beach, quench your thirst at one of the many juice stalls that continue to pop up across the city or take your seat in one of the open-air cinemas that are so popular with Athenians on summer nights.
Summer Highlight: Athens And Epidaurus Festival, 5th June - 10th August 2019
Germany may not be at the top of your list when it comes to sunny destinations, but the fact that Rust is the sunniest place in the country means that you shouldn't rule it out. That's especially the case when you learn that this small town on the edge of the Black Forest is the home of Europa-Park, a 240-acre theme park offering more than 100 attractions. There are six themed hotels on site and 15 areas based on different European countries, each featuring rides and shows for the whole family. Read our report from the time we spent at Europa-park to learn more.
Summer Highlight: Paddington On Ice, Three Times A Day Throughout The Summer
