Feeling Frazzled? Discover the Most Relaxing Destinations in Europe

NATALIE HOWARD - Celebrity Cruises writer

28 January 2016

Perast at Boka Kotor bay, Montenegro

If you’re in the mood for a spot of peace and quiet, but don’t fancy travelling too far, you’re in luck. To get you inspired for your next holiday, we’ve put together a list of the most relaxing destinations in Europe. From the crystal clear waters of Southern France, to the charming architecture of Montenegro, you’re bound to find your new favourite happy place. So, all you have to do now is book your trip, unplug from the digital world and find peace of mind at our top destinations for chilling out.

Marseille, France

In the seaside city of Marseille, stunning beaches, breathtaking scenery and great restaurants are in abundance. For somewhere secluded and away from bustling civilisation, make the journey to Sugiton Calanque, a limestone cove that protects a stunning pool of turquoise water and golden sand. Take a relaxing swim or snorkel alone, and feel any stresses and worries disappear.

The seaside city of Marseille is home to stunning beaches, breathtaking scenery and great restaurants are in abundance.

If you fancy stretching your legs, enjoy a gentle hike along Mount Puget, a limestone mountain that remains fairly undiscovered by tourists, and makes for the perfect escape. Just leave your phone behind, and take the time to appreciate the awe-inspiring sights as you stroll towards the top.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FRANCE

Mykonos, Greece

One of the beautiful islands in Greece’s Cyclades, Mykonos is perfect for beach bums and those of you in need of a little R&R. For the ultimate in sun worshipping, look no further than Panormos Beach, where the warm water, soft sand and delicious cocktails make it the perfect retreat for some TLC.

Mykonos is perfect for beach bums and those of you in need of a little R&R.

If you’d prefer somewhere even more secluded, make the journey to Kapari Beach, a hidden cove-like beach that’s protected by the hills. Calm, peaceful and quiet, you can either unwind on the sandy shore or dip into the sea for a swim in the crystal clear sea. And…relax.

Walking is the best way to explore the rest of the island, and at a nice pace it’s also the most relaxing way too. Start your journey at Ano Merá, a charming village that’s home to the red-domed church and monastery, Panagia Tourliani. From there, you can walk to Marathi Lake, a serene part of Mykonos that you’ll never want to leave.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GREECE

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Although it’s often recognised as a city of vitality and vibrancy, Dubrovnik is also a great place to take some time out for yourself. For a relaxing trip, be sure to take the city’s cable car from the city’s walls, all the way to Mount Srđ. As you ride up to the mountain’s summit, you’ll be treated to the magnificent views of Dubvronik below, as well as the smattering of small islands surrounding its coast.

Dubrovnik is a great place to take some time out for yourself.

For a truly tranquil experience, enjoy a kayak trip to the Betina Cave Beach, a small cove that is only reachable by sea. Plus, it’s also the perfect spot for a gentle swim in the sea, without the worry of being interrupted. Once you’re back on dry land and in need of a bite to eat, be sure to head over to the city’s harbour, where a long stretch of bars and restaurants will be waiting for you.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CROATIA

Kotor, Montenegro

A coastal city in Montenegro, Kotor is a charming and historical place to treat yourself to some me-time. When exploring this city, the best place to begin is the Old Town, a quaint medieval site that’s nestled amongst the hills and sheltered by the city’s ancient walls. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town is home to serene churches, architecture and restaurants, where you can get lost in the history of Kotor. One of the best places to dine is Galion, a lovely seafood restaurant where you can look out onto Kotor Bay and listen to the calming live music.

Kotor, Montenegro, is a charming and historical place to treat yourself to some me-time.

Look past the docked boats of the city’s bay, and you’ll spot the majestic islands of Gospa od Skrpjela and Sveti Djordje, two places you can easily access by a boat. Gospa od Skrpjela is home to the Roman catholic church Our Lady of the Rocks; just wander inside to admire the interiors, or take a moment to learn from the onsite museum. Regardless of what you decide to do, you’ll be left feeling completely isolated from the rest of the world.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MONTENEGRO