Top Islands in Europe Perfect for a Long Weekend Getaway

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If you would like to enjoy a sun-drenched week or two beside the sea, then there are a number of European islands worth escaping to. The Mediterranean offers fairly hospitable temperatures throughout the year, and, if you are willing to travel outside of the traditional holiday season, you might find that you are able to pick up a holiday at a knockdown price. Read to find the best European islands for a weekend getaway<./strong>

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The Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza)

This Spanish Archipelago has long been a favorite among British holidaymakers. It is accessible from the UK, thanks to excellent flight connections. Furthermore, there is an island here for just about every taste. Adventurous souls might traverse the Tramuntana mountains in Mallorca (featured photo); while those looking for a few secluded days of peace and quiet might prefer Menorca, and its tranquil, sheltered coves.

Beach way to Illetas paradise beach Formentera, Ibiza. Photo source: depositphotos.com.

Malta and Gozo

There are two Maltese islands that are really worth considering. Most obviously, there is Malta itself – but you might also consider the neighboring sister island of Gozo. Both are small enough to be explored thoroughly over the course of a single holiday. Here, you will find a culture and history that are quite unlike anything else in the region. Whatever your budget and whatever your preferences when it comes to resorts, there are hotels in Malta worth checking out.

Traditional colorful Maltese balconies and yellow walls at Valletta, Malta — Traditional colorful Maltese balconies and wellow walls at Valletta, Malta. Photo source: depositphotos.com.

The Cyclades

If you’d like a distinctly Greek experience, then the islands that make up the famous Cyclades are all worth traveling to.

There are thirty-three to choose from, ranging from tiny islets to larger, well-developed paradises like Santorini and Naxos. Expect iconic white houses, pure sandy beaches, and plenty of interesting ruins. You can easily get a flight here from Athens. Consequently, you can visit the Cyclades also as part of a wider tour of the mainland. Or, you can travel between the islands on a cruise ship, a ferry, or a chartered yacht. The choice is yours!

Santorini Island with typical Greek architecture with white walls and blue roofs — Village on Santorini Island with typical Greek architecture of white walls and blue roofs. Photo source: depositphotos.com.

Corsica & Sardinia

Finally, we should consider two islands that belong to major European nations. Interestingly, both islands offer a culture that is slightly different from that of their parent countries.

Differences between Corsica and Sardinia

Corsica, a French island, is more rugged and rocky, and perfect for hikers and other explorers. On the other hand, Sardinia, which belongs to Italy, is great for fans of meat, seafood, and cheese. Therefore, visit any of the amazing restaurants that dot the coastline. Here, you can expect to find food that is fresh and endlessly vibrant.

city of Bonifacio build on high rocks on Sardinia Italy in the Mediterranean Sea — Bonifacio is built on high rocks on Sardinia Italy in the Mediterranean Sea. Photo source: depositphotos.com.

What These Two Islands Have in Common

What the two islands have in common is that they’re fairly sizeable. Furthermore, they offer plenty of coastline, and countless beaches. Unless you intend to stay for weeks on end, you are unlikely to be able to see everything in a single trip. It is therefore worth being discerning about exactly which parts of the region you favor.