The Most Stunning Summer Sunsets

Venice, Italy

There is an eternal, melancholy charm to Venice that's only emphasised as the sun sets. The dying magenta and tangerine tones reflect off the regal plazas, winding streets and glittering canals. The best places to catch it? We'd recommend the Accademia Bridge, which arches over the city's Grand Canal. From here, you'll have a view of the elegant Santa Maria della Salute in one direction, and the gentle bending of the canal towards the Rialto Bridge in the other.

Santorini, Greece 

Santorini’s clusters of white-washed buildings, sprawling Aegean Sea and dramatic caldera all make for the ideal sunset backdrop. In the picturesque town of Oia, climb the cobbled streets to find plenty of traditional tavernas and casual terraces from which to watch the rose-tinted light flood across the sky. If you’re brave, choose some authentic ouzo as an accompaniment. 

Honolulu, Hawaii

For some of the most spectacular sunsets over the ocean, head to the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Stretch your legs in the process by taking the half-hour hike up Diamond Head, a volcanic cone. You'll enjoy 360° views of the cityscape as well as the famous Waikiki Beach. Alternatively, travel just north of the city to find the Nu'uanu Pali lookout, which will offer you panoramic views of the idyllic coasts.

Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska has many secrets, and the fact it boasts some of the most impressive sunsets in the world is only one of them. The clear skies of the USA’S northernmost city, Anchorage, make it the perfect place to watch them from. Seeing the sky bloom with hazy reds and oranges over a landscape of majestic forests, placid lakes and snowy peaks is unmissable. For the best view, check out Flattop Mountain in Chugach State Park. From here, you’ll be able to watch the sunset over the Anchorage skyline and Cook Inlet. In the summer, you might even be lucky enough to enjoy some live music at the same time.

Reykjavik, Iceland 

Good news for sunset-seekers in Iceland – you won't have to stay up late to catch it. In the winter, the sun sets at around 4 pm in Reykjavik. We recommend walking to a rocky area called Grotta, which sits at the end-point of the Seltjarnarnes peninsula. From here, you’ll be able to see the formidable Esja Mountain, as well as the small town of Akranes. Stick around after sunset, because the northern lights have been known to dance here in the winter.

Malibu, California

Sun, sand and sea is all a part of the lifestyle in laid-back Malibu, where ultra-healthy eateries and hip coffee shops pepper the shoreline, and surfers duck in and out of the waves. From Point Dume State Beach, you’ll have unrivalled views of the Pacific Ocean. Keep your camera ready, because you might even spot dolphins poking their heads out of the water. Nearby is El Matador State Beach, where you can watch the sun disappear behind rugged rock formations.

Inverness, Scotland 

Sometimes, the best views are waiting right on your doorstep. Dotted with dramatic hills and majestic lochs, Inverness is an awe-inspiring place to watch the sunset. If you’d like to enjoy the stunning scenery of the famous Loch Ness, head to Dores Beach or Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic ruins. From this 1,000-year old castle, you can soak up the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the loch and watch as the sun sets gently over the hilly promontory. The good news is that you can’t lose, even if the infamous Scottish weather kicks in – this spot is almost more bewitching in the wind and rain. 

Get your cameras at the ready and join us on a cruise to discover some of the world’s most beautiful sunsets. Choose from Mediterranean, Hawaiian, Alaskan, UK and Asian cruises.