There are few things in life as mesmerising as watching the sky transform into a true kaleidoscope of colour. From displays of dreamy pastels to visions of tropical reds and oranges, sunsets are one of nature’s most magical scenes – and so it’s no wonder there are over 224 million #sunset posts on Instagram! You needn’t travel far to embrace the magic either. Europe just happens to be home to some of the most incredible sunset holiday spots in the world, so whether you’re travelling to Dublin for a fleeting city break, or escaping to Santorini for your summer holiday, we’ve rounded up some of Europe’s best sunset holidays you’ll want to visit.
Balancing the beauty of a city break with the option of a
beach holiday too, Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most popular cities in Europe - and with good reason. Presenting tourists with a bounty of architecture, atmosphere, culture and coast, this energetic Spanish city is a tourist favourite all year long. If capturing the sunset is on your list of things to do when you visit Barcelona, then head to Gaudi’s iconic Park Guell for the very best views. Make your way there mid-afternoon when it’s still light and you can admire the arty details of your surroundings up close, then just before the sun sets, climb to the top of the impressive UNESCO heritage site and prepare to watch the sky change colour.
Take a short flight over the channel and you’ll arrive in Dublin, a cool cosmopolitan city home to a medley of museums, picturesque parks and lively nights full of fun. Embrace the Irish spirit and tick off attractions like Dublin Castle, St Stevens Green and of course, the Guinness Museum, to taste a pint brewed in its hometown. Spend your afternoon’s shopping, sampling Ireland’s diverse foodie scene and try Temple Bar on the south bank for drinks and live music. Finally, take a short drive to one of Dublin’s breath-taking beaches and take in the Irish sunset; the coastline is just under 30 minutes away and provides the perfect retreat after a busy day spent seeing the city.
A Dutch destination filled with culture and charm, Amsterdam holidays are a favourite with couples and groups alike. Brimming with endless reasons to visit no matter the season, explore a mix of museums, galleries, canal-front cafes and more. Whether you take to the water for a canal cruise, choose to cycle the streets like a local, or, simply stroll the historic cobblestones at your own pace, there are so many beautiful ways to experience Amsterdam. To take that all important sunset selfie, watch bright oranges and yellows blaze over the magnificent city from the A’DAM Lookout Tower or the roof of the NEMO Science Museum – we promise you won’t be disappointed!
Travel to Italy’s Venice for romance, artistic wonders and of course, the city’s iconic waterways. It wouldn’t be a trip to Venice without gliding through the intricate arrangement of canals by gondola, so step aboard to pass beneath ornate bridges and take in your surroundings as you drift past pretty ancient palaces and beautiful historic buildings at every turn. When the sun finally sets, a rich golden glow hugs the city and there are notable viewpoints peppered all around. Rialto Bridge stands out as one of the most romantic places to watch a Venetian sunset as the colours naturally reflect in the river and then, when the sunset disappears and the sky turns dark, you’re also treated to a glittering view of the city all lit up at night.
The idyllic Greek island of Santorini is not only famed for its pretty whitewashed buildings crowned with blue tops – it’s also a sought-after destination to seek world-famous sunsets. The quaint town of Oia boasts the best place to watch the sun go down as the flaming rays bathe the town’s buildings in a striking molten orange glow. The higher up you go, the better the view, but, be aware that this is a tourist hotspot and can become pretty crowded by the old castle or windmill, especially in peak season. If you’re hoping to see the sun set somewhere a little quieter (and maybe pop the question), then opt for the scenic village of Imerovigli and head up high to the castle to embrace the setting and enjoy a few moments of calm.
Prague, Czech Republic
Getaway to the lively Czech capital and say hello to a hypnotic blend of old and new. Prague is layered with history, culture and cuisine and it’s also one of the most romantic cities in the world too thanks to its truly alluring architecture. Spend your time marvelling at the sights as you discover the labyrinth of cobbled streets, or embark on a river cruise to experience the charismatic city by water. For couples visiting Prague, end your days of exploring with a romantic evening stroll along historic Charles Bridge. Scenes straight out of a fairytale will greet you as in the distance captivating colours grace the sky right above Prague’s very own enchanting castle.
Tips for seeing the sunset:
• Check what time the sun sets as this will vary all year round
• Arrive half an hour before to find the perfect spot and get settled
• If you’re hoping to enjoy a romantic moment, consider somewhere off the beaten track
• See it with your own eyes instead of through a lens – take a mental picture instead