The Most Glamorous Places to Summer in Europe
Iconic Mediterranean hotels that define European summer — sun-drenched terraces above the sea, long lunches overlooking harbors filled with yachts, and grand historic properties that have welcomed travelers for generations.
From the pastel cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the quiet elegance of Lake Como and the legendary glamour of the French Riviera, these are some of the most iconic places to stay across the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a celebratory trip, or simply dreaming of your next escape, these hotels capture the timeless allure of summer in Europe.
Le Sirenuse, Positano
Courtesy of Le Sirenuse
Perched above the colorful cliffside town of Positano, Le Sirenuse is one of the most recognizable luxury hotels on the Amalfi Coast. The historic red façade, terraced gardens, and sweeping Mediterranean views create a setting that feels almost cinematic.
Days here unfold slowly — morning espresso on a balcony overlooking the sea, afternoons by the terrace pool, and candlelit dinners at La Sponda, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant illuminated by hundreds of candles each evening.
Why it’s special
Iconic Amalfi Coast views
Legendary terrace pool
Michelin-starred dining at La Sponda
La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Mallorca
Courtesy of La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
Hidden among olive groves in the Tramuntana mountains of Mallorca, La Residencia offers a quieter and more romantic interpretation of Mediterranean luxury.
The hotel is made up of traditional stone manor houses scattered across terraced hillsides overlooking the sea. Guests spend their days wandering through gardens filled with citrus trees, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying long dinners overlooking the mountains.
It’s a place where the pace slows and the beauty of Mallorca takes center stage.
Why it’s special
Located in the artistic village of Deià
Belmond’s signature understated luxury
Stunning mountain-to-sea views
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, French Riviera
Courtesy of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
Few hotels capture the spirit of the French Riviera quite like Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Located at the tip of the Cap d’Antibes peninsula between Nice and Cannes, the property has long been synonymous with Riviera glamour.
The hotel’s legendary rock-carved seawater pool, perched dramatically above the Mediterranean, has become one of the most iconic images in luxury travel.
For decades, the hotel has hosted artists, filmmakers, and travelers seeking the timeless elegance of the Côte d’Azur.
Why it’s special
Legendary French Riviera institution
Cliffside seawater pool carved into the rocks
A favorite during the Cannes Film Festival
Villa d’Este, Lake Como
Courtesy of Villa d’Este
Originally built as a 16th-century aristocratic residence, Villa d’Este remains one of the grandest hotels on Lake Como.
The property’s formal gardens stretch along the lake’s edge, and its famous floating swimming pool has become one of the most photographed scenes on the lake.
Days here revolve around boat rides across Como, elegant lunches overlooking the water, and evenings spent watching the sun set behind the mountains.
Why it’s special
Historic palace turned luxury hotel
Iconic floating pool on Lake Como
One of Italy’s most celebrated grand hotels
Hotel Il Pellicano, Tuscan Coast
Courtesy of Hotel Il Pellicano
On a secluded stretch of the Tuscan coast near Porto Ercole, Hotel Il Pellicano has long been an insider favorite among travelers who appreciate understated Italian glamour.
Terraced gardens cascade down toward the sea, where a private beach club and saltwater pool overlook the Mediterranean. The hotel’s relaxed elegance has attracted artists, designers, and travelers seeking something slightly more intimate than the Riviera.
Why it’s special
One of Italy’s most stylish seaside hotels
Famous beach club and striped umbrellas
Secluded Tuscan coastal setting
Courtesy of Cheval Blanc St-Tropez
Located directly on the beach in Saint-Tropez, Cheval Blanc offers a refined and contemporary take on Riviera luxury.
With its pale terraces, private beach club, and Guerlain spa, the hotel blends effortless Mediterranean style with the polished service the Cheval Blanc brand is known for.
It’s an ideal base for experiencing the energy of Saint-Tropez while still retreating to a peaceful seaside setting.
Why it’s special
Private beach overlooking the Mediterranean
Guerlain spa exclusive to the hotel
Modern luxury in the heart of the Riviera
