Planning your first trip abroad can be exciting as well as daunting. Luckily, many European coastal locations serve as the ideal choice for first-time travellers. With plenty of familiar comforts and easy-to-navigate streets, any pre-travel anxiety can be kept at bay when choosing one of the following destinations.
Benidorm, Spain
Located on Spain’s gorgeous Costa Blanca, Benidorm has long been a favourite among British holidaymakers. Expansive sandy beaches stretch along the popular town’s coastal line, offering both lively and tranquil atmospheres to suit different preferences.
The town’s well-developed tourism infrastructure is ideal for travelling newbies, with English widely spoken and a variety of accommodations available. Attractions such as Aqualandia and a vibrant nightlife scene make Benidorm holidays a reliable choice for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
Cascais, Portugal
Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Cascais combines the ease of a beach retreat with traditional Portuguese culture. This quaint fishing village boasts beautiful beaches like Praia da Rainha and a charming town centre filled with shops and restaurants.
Its proximity to the capital makes for stress-free day trips, with consistent trains running throughout the day. Cascais is an excellent option for those looking to explore both seaside and urban Portuguese settings.
Nice, France
France’s Côte d’Azur is renowned for its turquoise waters and luxury hotspots, and Nice serves as an accessible gateway to this stunning Mediterranean region. Take a stroll on the iconic Promenade des Anglais or spend an afternoon wandering around the vibrant markets. A quintessential French experience isn’t complete without tasting local delicacies such as salade niçoise or fried courgette flowers.
Its abundance of English-speaking services and efficient public transport routes make it particularly welcoming for newcomers. Staying in Nice will provide you with a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like Monaco and Cannes.
Sorrento, Italy
Sorrento’s beautiful views and rich history make it the ideal spot if you’re craving an authentic Italian getaway. Recognisable by its narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes, the leisurely pace of life here invites casual exploration and slow travel.
Make sure to visit other gems along the Amalfi coast or the island of Capri, and if you’re a history lover, take a trip to Pompeii. Take advantage of the plethora of guided tours available, each helping you to immerse yourself in Italian culture with confidence.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s beauty ranges from its UNESCO-listed Old Town to its delightful, pebbled beaches. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, tour around the city’s medieval walls where many of the series’ scenes were filmed. With most of the tourist spots well-signposted and encircled by these walls, making your way around as a newcomer is simple.
Furthermore, Dubrovnik’s increasing popularity as a holiday destination has led to improved flight connections too.
