There’s no shortage of choice for beach lovers this summer. Europe once again holds the record for Blue Flags, a recognition that highlights the quality of both beach and sea, with new arrivals and long-standing confirmations. If you then consider that even the beaches without the recognition are usually stunning (even if they lack some of the features needed to earn the Flag), you just have to draw lots and… go! Today, we’ll take you on a quick tour of the confirmed locations, those that not only retained their Blue Flag status but have even added new, high-quality beaches. Since this list contains thousands of beaches, we can’t compile a complete list. However, we invite you to book your holidays in these European regions and countries.
Spain at the top! The best beaches in Europe
There are 794 Blue Flag-recognized beaches in Spain this summer. This means that Spain has not only maintained last year’s record but has also expanded it with new locations added today.
Thanks to their spectacular coastlines, crystal-clear waters and mild climate that welcomes visitors for much of the year, Spain’s Mediterranean and Atlantic beaches offer equally high-quality services and environmental protection. The extraordinary landscapes do the rest. Spanish policy is very careful to ensure assistance, inclusiveness, and strict but fair laws to protect all beachgoers—including those with disabilities, nudists, and the LGBTQ+ community. Finally, the cleanliness of the beaches and seabed guarantees the healthy beauty that the Blue Flag seeks.
Among the most famous beaches are certainly those on the islands, such as Ibiza and Formentera, as well as Gran Canaria and other locations in the archipelago of the same name. The coasts of Valencia, Andalusia, and Galicia are the confirmations of the Blue Flag, which has consistently returned to the Spanish list for years. But the beaches of Catalonia should not be underestimated either, where the undisputed queen reigns supreme: Barcelona.
To discover the wonders of Spain’s beaches, the reference airports are definitely Barcelona (BCN), Seville (SVQ), Valencia (VLC), and all the island airports, which you can easily find on our website.
Greece will never disappoint you
Greece’s beaches are the Mediterranean’s main tourist attractions, and among the most popular destinations, awarded the Blue Flag over the years, are the Halkidiki peninsula and the island of Crete. Both have been confirmed this year, with their spectacular beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a perfect balance between pristine nature and quality tourist services.
Halkidiki, located in northern Greece, is characterized by a unique geographical configuration that resembles a hand with three fingers outstretched into the Aegean Sea: peninsulas of Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. Its beaches are famous for their golden sand and turquoise sea. Kassandra is the liveliest area, ideal for those seeking beach resorts, clubs, and sports activities. Among the most renowned beaches are Kavourotripes, with its white rocks and clear water, and Kalogria, perfect for families thanks to its shallow, safe seabed. Crete, the largest Greek island, boasts some of Europe’s most spectacular beaches. Among long sandy stretches and rocky coves surrounded by nature, places like Elafonissi stand out, known for its characteristic pink-tinged sand and shallow waters. Equally evocative is Balos, a lagoon of azure and emerald hues offering breathtaking views. Vai Beach, meanwhile, is famous for the largest natural palm forest in Europe, creating a unique, exotic atmosphere.
To reach these and other destinations, you can fly to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) or Heraklion Airport (HER) and from there, travel with the best private transfer services.
Four regions confirmed in Italy
Liguria, Sicily, Sardinia, and Campania represent four extraordinary destinations for lovers of the Italian sea. Each has unique characteristics that contribute to making Italy’s coastal heritage among the most beautiful and appreciated in the world, which is why the Blue Flag, here, is a prestigious symbol that continues to be recognized.
Liguria (Genoa Airport – GOA) is famous for its rugged and picturesque coastline, where mountains overlook the sea. Ligurian beaches are often nestled between cliffs and picturesque villages. Places such as the Cinque Terre, Sestri Levante, Sanremo attract thousands of visitors every year. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, boasts an extraordinary variety of beaches. Its coasts alternate between long stretches of golden sand, rocky or pebble bays and spectacular coves. Among the most famous are Taormina, Scala dei Turchi, San Vito Lo Capo, and the beaches of Syracuse and Ragusa. Even the smaller islands, such as the Egadi and Aeolian Islands, offer breathtaking scenery and seabeds rich in marine biodiversity. The most popular tourist hub, here, is Catania Airport (CTA).
Sardinia is often considered one of the most enchanting seaside destinations in the world. The Costa Smeralda is probably the most famous area, but the entire island boasts places of extraordinary beauty, such as La Pelosa in Stintino, Cala Goloritzé, and Cala Mariolu. Many Sardinian beaches are surrounded by pristine nature and offer an ideal environment for relaxation, snorkeling, and diving. Cagliari Airport (CAG) is the island’s main hub. Campania (Naples Airport – NAP) also boasts a valuable coastal heritage. The Amalfi Coast, with its spectacular terraces overlooking the sea, is home to enchanting beaches such as those of Positano and Amalfi. Equally renowned are the beaches of the island of Capri, with its unique views.
For a unique experience…
This year, Blue Flag coasts also include the eternally beautiful beaches of Croatia, some iconic summer tourist destinations in Anatolia, Turkey, and the Nordic beaches of the Lofoten Islands. Choosing from hundreds of Caribbean-like islands along the Croatian Adriatic, losing yourself in the exotic Turkish beaches, or even choosing to dive into a cooler but equally beautiful sea—like that of Scandinavia—will certainly be unique experiences to crown a summer of sun and salt!
