The Euro Summer Explained
From sipping Aperol Spritzes at a beach club in Greece to strolling through the charming old town markets of France, the “Euro Summer” trend has taken over social media in recent years. But have you ever asked yourself, “what does that mean?” Well, you’re in luck. Below I have all the answers you need whether you’re planning your own Euro Summer getaway or simply wondering what this trend is all about.
First things first, what does Euro Summer mean? Well, it’s in the name. It’s about spending your summer travelling around Europe, think Island hopping in Greece, strolling along the French Riviera or even visiting the Trevi Fountain. The term has gained traction over the years with the introduction of social media, our favourite pop princess Dua Lipa often shares images from her European getaways, totally not jealous!!
Dua Lipa
Euro Summer isn’t just a trend, it’s a lifestyle full of linen garments, beach bags, the perfect pair of sunnies and soaking up the rich cultural history of European cities. The perfect thing about Euro Summers is that they can be tailored to you and your preferences, not a fan of beach clubs and water sports? No problem, head to a city and enjoy historic architecture and local restaurants and coffee shops.
The idea of a Euro Summer has been romanticised throughout history and the pop culture world. Audrey Hepburn plays the restless Princess Anne in the 1953 movie Roman Holiday who ditches her royal duties to experience all there is to offer in the beautiful city of Rome. Gossip Girl has a two-episode arc set in the fashion hub of Paris where Queen B Blair Waldorf falls in love with a Prince, a girl can dream, and who can forget the summer film of all summer films Mamma Mia, filmed around the gorgeous island of Skopelos, Greece.
With the rise of influencers documenting their own Euro Summers the trend has expanded beyond being a simple term, it’s become a lifestyle. The Euro Summer lifestyle is all about slowing down, and taking a breath, relaxation and rejuvenation, in essence taking time to be with yourself. Think of it as having a late breakfast after enjoying the sunrise whilst lying in bed, listening to the birds chirp and the ocean’s movements. Floating in the ocean whilst the sun beams down on your skin, lunchtime becomes an experience rather than a necessity, drinking with your loved ones whilst watching the sun set. Euro Summer is about forgetting schedules and routines and living in the moment, taking the time to be present and enjoying everything a country or city has to offer. It wouldn’t be a Euro Summer without diving
headfirst into your destination’s local cuisine, enjoying freshly baked pizza in Rome, sharing tapas in Barcelona, or tucking into grilled seafood freshly caught in Rhodes. Long lunches, afternoon Aperol Spritzes and late dinners are essential when partaking in the Euro Summer lifestyle.
Another defining aspect of the trend is the fashion that comes with it. Think flowing sun dresses, linen trousers, statement sunglasses and even co-ord sets, relaxed and effortless. Straw hats and woven bags are all the rage now and can be the perfect accessory to complete any summertime fit.
At its core, Euro Summer isn’t just about Instagram-worthy posts, that is a fun aspect though, it’s about slowing down and enjoying life. Euro Summers give you the opportunity to leave routines behind and surround yourself with beautiful scenery, delicious food, and most of all good company. The magic of a Euro Summer begins with being present in the moment whether that’s snorkelling in the ocean, enjoying coffee whilst strolling through a market, or even watching the sunset on the beach.
If you’re wondering where to go for your own Euro Summer, below is a list of the top hotspots to visit and some of the things they have to offer.
Amalfi Coast, Italy – Beautiful scenery, authentic Italian food and hiking tours.
Santorini, Greece- Archaeological sites, crater diving, wine tasting in local vineyards and island hopping.
Nice, France – Walk the streets of “Vieux Nice,” outdoor food and floral markets and snorkelling in the French Riviera.
Barcelona, Spain – Vibrant nightlife, Picasso Museum, sunset paddleboarding, and walking the Gothic Quarter.
Dubrovnik, Croatia – Cable car tour of the coastal line, Kravica Waterfall tour, cave diving and visit the filming locations of The Game of Thrones TV series.
So, pack your bags, grab your passport and get ready to slow down, Euro Summer is waiting.