Europe’s stunning coastal and lakeside getaways are the perfect contrast to revved-up sightseeing. Of course, you want to see world-renowned art, iconic buildings, and log some café time. To assimilate all that you’ve seen of manmade efforts? Spend some calmer days by the water to let it all settle, and add some invigorating hikes and cycling tours. Seek out the less-visited lakes and seacoasts to immerse yourself in nature and the soothing sounds of waves, waterfalls and streams. From tranquil shores to breathtaking cliffs, these serene spots offer everything from daydreaming in a deck chair to beautiful boat rides, tempting trails, and wonderful wildlife encounters. Pack your water shoes and prepare to relax!
The Official Travel Portal of Europe
Waterside getaways in Europe
Featured destinations
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A splash of joy: Austria's lakes
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Dive into nature, float into freedom.
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Discover Estonia’s Lake Peipsi
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A getaway on the EU’s eastern border.
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Lakeside escapes in Portugal
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Alentejo’s Alqueva: nature, stars, and adventure.
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Discover Bulgaria’s water wonders
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From wild seashores to peaceful lake escapes.
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Swiss lakeside escapes
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Experience nature, culture, and calm by the water.
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Slow, calm lakeside escapes in Finland
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Enjoy Saimaa, Europe's fourth biggest lake.
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Slovakia’s exceptional waterscapes
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Freshwater sports and relaxation
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Poland’s coastal and lakeside getaways
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Waterscapes off the beaten path.
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Retreats by the water in Czechia
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Natural swimming spots, from lakes and reservoirs.
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Slovenia’s secret shores and lakes
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Discover bewitching waterside jewels.
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Ireland’s waterside escapes
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Discover magical getaways by the water’s edge.
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Cyprus, by lake and sea
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Hidden freshwater and coastal gems.
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Croatia’s intriguing escapes
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Lakes and beaches known only to locals.
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Denmark’s coastal charm
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Explore nature’s best-kept secrets.
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Germany’s quiet escapes
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Discover hidden lakes and coastlines.
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Secret coastal spots in Malta
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Hidden bays and seaview trails.
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Montenegro’s beautiful waters
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Secret treasures and delightful discoveries.
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Discover the lakes of Romania
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Enjoy a refreshing holiday.
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Flanders’ hidden coastal gems
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A luscious treasure hunt by the sea.
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Secret coastal gems of Greece
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Nature, cliffs, lakes and serenity await.
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Europe's hidden island gems
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Your insider’s guide to the European outdoors.
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The hidden waters of Spain
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Secret shores, serene lakes, and untamed beauty.
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Coastal gems in the Netherlands
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The Hague, “the city by the sea”.
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