Best Places to Visit in Europe in June

June is one of the best times to explore Europe. The days are long, the weather is warm and the energy of summer is in the air — but without the crowds that come later in the season. Whether you're heading to a coastal escape or a history-filled city, June offers the perfect mix of sunshine, blooming scenery and early-summer festivals that make every moment feel a little more magical.

Whether you're exploring the ancient streets of Rome, relaxing along the coast in Split and Crete or soaking up the long daylight hours in Copenhagen and Oslo, each destination has something special to offer. Here’s a closer look at the best places to visit in Europe in June — plus a few unforgettable excursions to make your trip even more memorable.

1. Rome, Italy

Best for: Ancient Wonders & Vibrant Piazzas

In June, Rome basks in the golden glow of early summer. The long days are perfect for exploring landmarks like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona, with evening strolls leading to wine-filled terraces and gelato by the Tiber River. Outdoor cafés spill into the streets, offering prime spots for people-watching while sipping espresso or Aperol Spritz.

Don’t miss the chance to explore Rome’s quieter corners, like the orange garden on Aventine Hill or the lesser-known Baths of Caracalla. Even a simple walk in the Trastevere district turns into a cultural experience, full of street musicians, warm lights and the scent of fresh pasta in the air.

• Excursion idea: Take a guided early morning tour of Vatican City, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica, before the day’s crowds roll in. The peaceful setting makes the experience even more powerful.
• Insider tip: Visit the Aventine Keyhole — a tiny, easily missed peephole in a green door that perfectly frames St. Peter’s Basilica through a garden and archway. It’s a magical, off-the-radar moment.

2. Split, Croatia

Best for: Seafront Promenades & Ancient Palaces

Split seamlessly blends ancient heritage with the laid-back vibe of a seaside city. The centerpiece is Diocletian’s Palace, a living museum where Roman walls house bustling shops, bars and cafés. In June, Split is alive with open-air concerts, waterfront events and the smell of grilled seafood drifting from konobas (local taverns).

Beyond the palace, the Riva Promenade is where locals and travelers gather for sunset cocktails or ice cream walks under rows of palm trees. In the nearby Marjan Forest Park, panoramic viewpoints offer sweeping views over the turquoise Adriatic dotted with sailboats and islands.

• Excursion idea: Sail to the Dalmatian Islands, stopping in Hvar for its trendy waterfront and Brac for its famous Zlatni Rat beach. It’s a full day of turquoise waters, fresh seafood and coastal charm.
• Insider tip: For a quiet beach day near the city, skip the popular spots and head to Kasjuni Beach, a pebbled cove tucked into Marjan Hill where locals swim in crystal-clear waters.

3. Crete, Greece

Best for: Beaches, Mountains & Minoan Ruins

June is one of the best times to visit Crete, when the island is lush and sunny without being too hot. Wander through Chania’s Venetian harbor, hike the dramatic Samariá Gorge or unwind at Elafonisi Beach, where pink-hued sands meet clear, shallow waters. The landscape transitions from mountain villages to olive groves to hidden coves that feel like your own private paradise.

In the evenings, locals gather at tavernas to enjoy long, slow meals and lively conversation. The scent of grilled lamb, fresh herbs and sea breeze lingers in the air as bouzouki music plays softly in the background.

• Excursion idea: Take a boat trip to Spinalonga, a tiny island fortress with a fascinating history and panoramic views of the sea. It’s an easy, peaceful escape with postcard-worthy scenery.
• Insider tip: Visit the hilltop village of Argyroupoli, where natural springs run through a series of stone terraces and local taverns serve fresh trout caught directly from the spring-fed pools.

4. Bordeaux, France

Best for: Vineyards, River Cruises & Gourmet Delights

In June, Bordeaux is buzzing with flavor — literally and culturally. The city is a dream for wine lovers, but it's also rich with neoclassical architecture, leafy boulevards and modern art spaces. Stroll along the Garonne River, browse the markets at Place des Capucins and visit the Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with a panoramic tasting room.

Outside the city, the surrounding vineyards are in full bloom. This is the time to tour historic châteaux, sip full-bodied reds under shady oaks and picnic in the rolling hills. The pace is elegant but easy — you’ll feel like you’re inside a wine label.

• Excursion idea: Head to the Saint-Émilion wine region for a day of wine tasting, underground cellars and cobbled lanes surrounded by rows of green vines. It's a must for food and wine lovers.
• Insider tip: Stop by Marché des Quais on a Sunday morning for oysters and wine straight from local producers — it’s a weekly ritual for locals and one of the best-kept foodie secrets.

5. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Best for: Island Beaches & Historic Charm

Palma is the sun-kissed soul of Mallorca. June offers warm, beach-ready weather without the summer rush, making it an ideal time to explore the island’s historic and natural beauty. Stroll through the Gothic La Seu Cathedral, shop artisan markets in Santa Catalina or relax on golden beaches like Cala Major and Can Pere Antoni.

There’s a coastal energy to the city — from tapas bars buzzing late into the night to street musicians performing in moonlit plazas. Mallorca also boasts dramatic inland scenery, with olive-dotted hills, quiet villages and terraced valleys just a short drive away.

• Excursion idea: Ride the historic wooden train to Sóller, a charming town nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains. Enjoy the slow, scenic journey through citrus groves and hilltop vistas.
• Insider tip: Head to Es Baluard Museum’s rooftop café for sunset drinks — locals love it for the view of the cathedral and harbor and it’s rarely crowded.

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

Best for: Long Days & Waterfront Fun

Copenhagen sparkles in June, when locals ditch their coats and head outdoors to soak in every hour of sunlight. Bike rides along the harbor, music drifting through the air and cozy cafés buzzing with life — this is the season Denmark comes alive. Nyhavn’s colorful houses, boat-filled canals and fresh seafood stalls feel straight out of a postcard.

The city is also famous for blending old and new — think historic palaces next to bold Scandinavian design studios or Viking history displayed in sleek, modern museums. On a sunny afternoon, head to Superkilen Park or Islands Brygge for a swim and street food from around the world.

• Excursion idea: Enjoy a canal boat tour through Copenhagen, passing the Little Mermaid, modern waterfront buildings and hidden neighborhoods you might not see on foot.
• Insider tip: Grab a picnic and head to The King’s Garden (Kongens Have) — locals lounge on the grass under rose-covered trellises while street performers keep things lively. It’s a favorite sunny-day hangout.

7. Oslo, Norway

Best for: Fjord Views & Summer Energy

Oslo in June feels light and inspiring. With up to 18 hours of daylight, you can fill your day with everything from kayaking along the Oslo Fjord to visiting museums like the Fram, Kon-Tiki or the striking Munch Museum. The city’s green spaces and coastal paths make it easy to balance cultural outings with natural beauty.

One of Oslo’s greatest charms is how seamlessly it blends urban life with the outdoors. Locals picnic in Frogner Park, hike trails in the Nordmarka forest and dine alfresco along Aker Brygge with views of the harbor. Even a ferry ride to one of the small islands — like Langøyene or Hovedøya — feels like a mini-vacation.

• Excursion idea: Take a fjord cruise through the Oslo archipelago, passing tiny islands, colorful summer cabins and forested inlets for a truly Norwegian experience.
• Insider tip: For a quiet view of the whole city, hike up Ekebergparken, a sculpture park on a hill overlooking Oslo — it’s where Edvard Munch was inspired to paint The Scream and the view is still just as breathtaking.

Why Visit Europe in June?

The best places to visit in Europe in June — like Rome, Crete, Split and Palma de Mallorca — combine warm weather, blooming landscapes and a vibrant, pre-peak-season energy. It’s the perfect time to visit famous landmarks without the crowds, enjoy beaches before they’re packed and take part in local festivals and outdoor activities. From sipping wine in Bordeaux to hiking gorges in Crete, June offers a balance of adventure and relaxation across the continent — all under sunny skies and long, golden evenings.