Banish the blues this fall by planning a spectacular sailing adventure for next spring. Each of these sensational European destinations promises picturesque scenery, gourmet gastronomy and an alluring atmosphere that will make you want to stay forever.
You’ll find a wide range of yachts for sale in Europe of all shapes and sizes if you’re ready to upgrade and don’t want to sail from the US. Simply buy your vessel, organize your crew and fly to your preferred starting point. Alternatively, you can look at hiring private charters which come ready-made with experienced crews.
Discover our top four dreamy destinations for your bucket list.
Best Destinations for Sailing in Europe in the Spring
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1. French Riviera
Experience unrivalled glitz and glamour sailing along the French Riviera. This luxury location is a popular spot for the rich and famous due to its superior shops, hotels and restaurants.
Begin in Monte Carlo, Monaco’s thriving administrative area famous for its extravagance and international F1 races. Time your visit for 22nd – 25th May to see the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, an event that’s as exhilarating to watch as it is to race. Other must-see attractions include the museum housing the private car collection of the Prince of Monaco, Port Hercule and the spectacular royal gardens.
Continue along the coastline to the pretty village of Théoule-sur-Mer, stopping at swanky Saint-Tropez and Cannes which is famous for its ten-day international film festival held each May.
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2. Dalmatian Coast
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast encompasses historical cities, mountain-backed pebbled coves and a series of breathtaking islands set just offshore. This is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a little bit of everything.
Discover Dubrovnik, the city that became famous as the backdrop for the hit series Game of Thrones. The UNESCO-recognized Old Town is a maze of terracotta-roofed buildings, narrow stone streets and broad squares full of chatter and charming cafés.
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From here, sail north to Split, briefly passing Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is the largest city on Croatia’s coastline with staggering architecture including Diocletian’s Palace and Saint Domnius Cathedral.
There are plenty of outdoor attractions to enjoy too, from beaches and the inland Krka National Park to the nearby island Hvar famed for its 13th-century hilltop fortress and Renaissance cathedral.
3. Corfu
Largest of the Greek Ionian Islands, Corfu has much to offer visiting travelers, especially sailors. Glittering emerald and sapphire waters lap the shoreline, in parts white-sand beaches, rocky coves and dramatic cliffs covered in lush vegetation, and there are plenty of towns and villages with a fascinating rich heritage.
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In the northeast, you can enjoy exhilarating water sports to your heart's content and hike through the rugged hills.
Springtime conditions are perfect for climbing Mount Pantokrator which provides panoramic views and is topped with a centuries-old monastery. Sail just beyond the southern shore and you’ll discover Paxos, a tiny seven-by-three-mile island most spectacular when circumnavigated at sunset.
Remember to spend some time away from the coastline too. The Old Town is excessively charming with colorful buildings, stalls selling traditional goods and a buzzing atmosphere. You can walk the streets on a guided tour or pedal your way around independently.
4. Balearic Islands
You might know the Balearic Islands as lively destinations for party-goers, but there is no shortage of peaceful places to unwind if the bars and nightclubs aren’t your speed.
Of the four islands, Mallorca is the largest, renowned for its fabulous beaches which range from little-visited golden stretches framed by pine trees in the north to the bustling resort-backed beaches in the south. You’ll find it hard to believe you’re not in the Caribbean when relaxing on the pure white southern sands!
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Menorca is the second-largest island and has a more laidback atmosphere than its lively neighbors. This is the best place for wildlife tours such as horseback riding in Cala Mitjana and peaceful water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling and scuba diving.
The quiet towns have traditional markets rather than busy bars where you can sample mouthwatering fresh seafood and authentic dishes.
While Ibiza town is undisputedly rowdy, especially during the summer, the rest of the island is largely tranquil. You can stay at elevated boutiques on private beaches away from the crowds or escape the urban completely at characterful villas and yoga retreats in rural villages with unspoiled sea views.
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