Travel & Tourism

What to Do in Estonia: 9 Ideas for Outings and Activities to Discover

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Nestled between the Baltic Sea and Russia, Estonia is a land of contrasts where medieval history blends with cutting-edge technologies. Known for its varied natural landscapes and rich culture, Estonia attracts an increasing number of visitors each year. Whether you’re after outdoor adventures or cultural explorations, there’s always something to discover. So, what to do in Estonia? Here is a guide to the best activities to try.

1. Explore Tallinn Old Town

Exploring Tallinn‘s Old Town plunges you into the heart of Estonian history, in one of the best-preserved medieval ensembles in Northern Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it captivates with its cobbled lanes, its ramparts and towers. From Toompea Castle, the seat of the Parliament, the viewpoints at Kohtuotsa and Patkuli offer a unique panorama of the Baltic Sea.

Every building tells a chapter of the past, between Scandinavian and German influences. This major cultural region of Estonia reveals itself on foot, by exploring Gothic churches, pastel façades, and historic cafés, to understand how Tallinn became the emblem of an identity that is both medieval and modern.

2. Visit the Kalamaja and Telliskivi district

Visiting the Kalamaja and Telliskivi districts allows you to grasp Tallinn’s contemporary transformation, where industrial heritage yields to urban creativity. Former working-class neighborhoods, Kalamaja has preserved its colorful wooden houses, typical of the region, while Telliskivi houses galleries, studios, and restaurants that reflect the country’s artistic vitality.

In these renovated former warehouses, Estonia in the throes of a cultural revival expresses itself through design, gastronomy, and music. A short walk from the old town, this area perfectly illustrates the dialogue between 19th-century heritage and the modern aspirations of a country oriented toward creation and innovation.

3. Discover Kadriorg Palace and Park

Discover Kadriorg Palace and Park means visiting a landmark of Estonian history. Built for Catherine I the Russian, this Baroque palace, surrounded by French-style gardens, bears witness to the imperial era and European influence on the territory. The park, vast and well-kept, invites a stroll, while the nearby Kumu Art Museum displays works tracing the evolution of local and international creation. This part of Tallinn reflects the richness of Estonian cultural heritage, between aristocratic architecture and contemporary artistic expression, in a tranquil setting where the Baltic Sea is never far away.

4. Explore Estonia’s landscapes in Lahemaa National Park

Exploring nature in Lahemaa National Park offers a valuable glimpse into Estonia’s northern face. Located to the east of Tallinn, this park protects a mosaic of forests, bogs (like Viru) and rugged coasts. Visitors can follow hiking trails, observe local wildlife, and discover historic manors that testify to Estonian rural life.

5. Discover history and culture in Tartu

Discovering history and culture in Tartu means visiting Estonia’s intellectual capital, at the crossroads of tradition and research. Located on the banks of the Emajõgi River, Tartu stands out for its university founded in the 17th century, and for cultural institutions such as the Estonian National Museum, dedicated to Estonian history and culture. In winter, the city takes on a hushed atmosphere, offering soft days punctuated by breaks in cafés and bookstores. This learned city, at the heart of the Tartu Region, provides a comprehensive view of Estonian identity: open, cultivated, and deeply rooted in its land.

6. Enjoy the beaches of Pärnu

Making the most of Pärnu’s beaches means discovering Estonia’s seaside facet. Considered the country’s summer capital, Pärnu attracts with its fine-sand beach that stretches along the Baltic Sea. Here, relaxation blends with sociability, between strolls along the waterfront, moments spent in a pub, and wellness treatments in the many spa establishments. The charm of Pärnu’s beach lies in the balance between leisure and serenity, in a preserved natural setting. The town center, with its colorful wooden houses, reflects the spirit of a region where the easygoing way of life accompanies every season.

7. Discover the Estonian islands

Discovering the Estonian islands lets you escape to the country’s most preserved territories. Accessible by ferry from the mainland, and then connected to its neighbor Muhu by a road causeway, Saaremaa Island houses Kuressaare Castle and its windmills, symbols of the largest island of Estonia. Further north, the Hiiumaa Island charms with its untouched nature, its operating old lighthouses and its soothing landscapes. Exploring Hiiumaa in winter offers a unique experience, between silence and raw beauty, while in summer, coastal hikes invite contemplation. These islands, true cultural regions, embody the intimate relationship Estonia maintains with the Baltic Sea, between isolation and authenticity.

8. Experience a traditional sauna

Experiencing a traditional sauna in Estonia means taking part in a fundamental daily-wellbeing practice of Nordic tradition. In the countryside or on the islands, the wood-fired saunas preserve an ancient ritual, symbolizing purification and sociability. Whether on the western coast, in Pärnu, on the Saaremaa Island, or in the forests of Soomaa Park, this experience offers a moment of absolute relaxation, in harmony with Estonian nature. The sauna, often associated with a rustic setting, illustrates the deep bond between inhabitants and their land, where warmth becomes a way to reconnect with what matters.

9. Participate in a local festival

Taking part in a local festival in Estonia helps to understand the country’s cultural vitality across its regions. Events like the Viljandi Folk Music Festival or Tallinn’s Öllesummer celebrate music, arts, and sociability. Visitors can meet art enthusiasts, discover traditional customs, and appreciate the richness of a modern Estonia that remains proud of its roots. These festivals are major cultural gatherings for exploring a country where artistic expression, memory, and celebration come together in one breath.

10. Tallinn KGB Museum: memory of a still-surveilled Estonia

The KGB Museum in Tallinn is one of the most singular places in Estonian tourism, offering a rare immersion into Estonian history during the Soviet era. Located in the former Viru Hotel, in the heart of the capital, this museum reveals the KGB’s surveillance methods, at a time when Estonia was under the control of the Soviet Union.

There you discover secret rooms, hidden listening equipment, and original documents illustrating the country’s strategic position within Northern Europe. This visit, which echoes frontier tensions visible from Narva Castle to the Baltic Sea, helps to understand the complexity of the national past. A true historic rendezvous, the KGB Museum stands as an essential stop for anyone wishing to visit Estonia with a cultural and memory-oriented approach.

In conclusion, Estonia is a destination rich in varied activities and discoveries, whether you’re exploring its medieval treasures, its natural landscapes, or its dynamic culture. Whether it’s a short break or a longer stay, there’s always something to discover in this unique Baltic country. Explore the seasons with activities suited to each, and immerse yourself in the Estonian experience.

What to absolutely see in Estonia? Between wild nature and medieval heritage

Discovering Estonia means roaming a territory where wild nature dialogues with preserved heritage. From Tallinn, with its Old Town encircled by ramparts and crowned by the Toompea Castle, to the fishing villages of the west coast, the country reveals a mosaic of cultural regions marked by history.

To the north, the Viru bog and the primeval forests of Lahemaa National Park invite contemplation, while to the south, Tartu, on the banks of the Emajõgi River, charms with its university atmosphere inherited from the 19th century. To the west, the Saaremaa and Hiiumaa islands recount Estonian history through their windmills, old lighthouses in operation, and beaches pounded by the Baltic Sea. Each of these places bears witness to an Estonia in the heart of Northern Europe, authentic and diverse.

Is it possible to visit Estonia in 3 days?

If three days feel short, a trip to Estonia within this timeframe can still cover the essentials, provided you plan your itinerary well. In about an hour’s drive from Tallinn, you reach striking natural spaces like Lahemaa National Park. In the capital, Tallinn’s Old Town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, concentrates most of Estonia tourism, between museums, cobbled lanes and the medieval ramparts. For an urban escape, the route from Tallinn to Tartu, the country’s intellectual heart, or toward Pärnu, a seaside resort famed for its fine sand and great venues. In three days, you can thus feel the balance between culture, nature and well-being that characterizes Estonia in contemporary times.

Is Estonia a beautiful country? A harmony between history and landscapes

Yes, Estonia is a beautiful country in both geographic and cultural terms. Located in northeastern Europe, its strategic position between the Baltic Sea and the Nordic countries gives it a distinctive identity. The Soomaa hiking trails offer a glimpse of bogs, primary forests, and the famous fifth season, when the wetlands flood. In Pärnu, the summer capital, the fine-sand beach and wellness establishments attest to a serene way of living. In the northeast, Narva and the Ivangorod Fortress recall medieval heritage and the richness of Estonian history. Thus, the beauty of Estonia lies in this union between preserved nature and memory of the past.

Is it safe to travel in Estonia currently?

Estonia is today considered one of the safest countries in Northern Europe. Its tourist infrastructure is modern, public services are efficient, and travel conditions are particularly favorable. Visitors can move freely between the regions of Tartu, Pärnu or Saaremaa without difficulty. Even in winter, when temperatures drop, transportation remains reliable. Traveling in Estonia thus offers a serene experience, suitable for both art lovers and enthusiasts of wild nature. Estonia, located on the European continent, remains a safe and welcoming destination for all travelers.

This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence, then corrected, supplemented, and validated by the editors.

AI-Powered Drone Could Revolutionize Sea Rescue in France by Summer 2027

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“If you’re in trouble, we will drop a buoy,” proclaims from the air an AI-powered drone, hovering a few arm’s lengths off the shore at Valras-Plage (Hérault) in southern France, where this device designed to detect drowning risks is currently being tested. The three heatwaves that have swept France since May have driven up drowning figures. In two and a half months, 274 people have died in the sea, in rivers, or in private pools, not counting non-fatal drownings that could leave serious after-effects.

Near Béziers, along the Mediterranean coast, Instadrone, a company specializing in the use of drones in industrial settings, aims to broaden its activity to monitoring bathing areas. It has thus received backing from the intercommunal authority and from the Valras station, which are financing the ongoing tests. Those tests should pave the way for the necessary authorizations within about a month, with a view to a full rollout by the summer of 2027.

An autonomous drone to detect the early signs of distress

“Dropping lifebuoys with a drone has been done for five years in the Landes region. But it was always in manual mode. We are bringing full automation,” explained to AFP by Instadrone’s founder, Cédric Botella, at the foot of the main lifeguard post, just steps from the station’s casino. The device appears as a large metal box, inside which a drone is ready to take off at any moment, day or night, notably thanks to its thermal camera.

In patrol mode, its mission is to “cover the 2.5 km stretch of beach by flying behind the breakwater, flying along the shoreline, without flying over swimmers but directing its cameras toward them, while avoiding filming people on the beach”, adds Mr. Botella, a former judicial police officer who has turned to entrepreneurship.

“If it detects erratic behavior, such as someone who ‘blocks the flow’, it will approach and send them an audio message saying that help is on the way. If needed, it will drop a buoy that inflates automatically on contact with water”, continues Botella.

Other scenario: a lifeguard spots someone in difficulty, or someone alerts them. In that case, the lifeguard, who will be trained in this new technique, will take control of the drone and send it to the exact location to assess the situation. Finally, “if during a midnight swim there is an incident, there will be an emergency number that will allow us to trigger the drone immediately and locate the person”, he also notes.

A reinforcement for lifeguards, including off-season

In cruising mode, the system costs around 2,000 euros per month for the community that adopts it, according to the entrepreneur, who hopes for its generalization. “Life has no price”, remarks the mayor of Valras-Plage, Daniel Ballester, who strongly backs the initiative and came to observe the latest tests.

“It won’t replace humans, but it opens up new ways to stay operational,” adds the official, who hopes to extend coastal monitoring to morning and evening hours and to times of the year when beaches are not watched by rescuers.

In May, the early arrival of a heat wave in France had drawn an unusual influx of visitors to the Mediterranean and Atlantic shores while beaches were not yet monitored, posing safety challenges.

This Discreet Seaside Resort Attracts Chinese Leaders

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Every summer, the highest Chinese leaders almost completely disappear from the public scene for about ten days. Far from the luxurious destinations favored by many heads of state, they retreat to a modest seaside town in the northeast of China. Behind this discreet tradition lies a place steeped in history, closely linked to the Communist power for more than 70 years. Between state secrecy, political heritage, and popular tourism, Beidaihe remains a unique symbol of how the Chinese regime operates.

An ordinary seaside resort turned the power’s summer refuge

At first glance, Beidaihe has nothing of an elite destination. Located about 300 kilometers east of Beijing, this coastal town features sandy beaches, seafood restaurants, and Soviet-inspired villas. Each year, nearly 50 million Chinese tourists stay there, while around 50,000 Russian visitors also come to enjoy its coastline.

But, every summer, the scenery changes quietly. From July onward, security measures tighten at the station in anticipation of the leaders’ arrival. Drones are banned, private boat excursions are suspended, and hot-air balloon flights are no longer allowed. It is usually at the beginning of August that the top Chinese officials, including Xi Jinping, withdraw from the public arena for 10 to 14 days, unless there is a national emergency.

For historian Rana Mitter, interviewed by CNN, this choice is far from trivial. “They do not want to give the impression that they are going to a luxurious place where corruption could be possible”, he explains. According to him, “going to a very traditional and fairly modest station is a good way to symbolize this, whereas going to a five-star hotel in Hainan or to an international Caribbean complex would not have the same effect”.

Cette tradition remonte à 1953, lorsque Mao Zedong, fondateur de la République populaire de Chine en 1949, choisit Beidaihe comme résidence de travail estivale pour les dirigeants communistes. À l’époque, la proximité avec Pékin et l’absence de climatisation dans la capitale rendaient la station particulièrement attractive durant les fortes chaleurs.

A place steeped in history where secrecy remains the rule

Mais Beidaihe n’est pas seulement une destination de vacances. Plusieurs décisions majeures de l’histoire chinoise y ont été prises. En 1958, Mao Zedong y lance notamment les orientations qui conduiront au Grand Bond en avant, une politique économique dont les conséquences provoqueront une famine ayant coûté la vie à des millions de personnes.

Après une interruption durant la Révolution culturelle, les séjours estivaux reprennent après sa mort en 1976. Deng Xiaoping, successeur entre 1978 et 1989, y passe régulièrement ses vacances en famille et ouvre progressivement la station aux touristes étrangers dans les années 1980, alors que la Chine cherche à attirer des devises.

Sous Xi Jinping, le fonctionnement de ces retraites est devenu encore plus opaque. Rana Mitter observe ainsi que “l’époque de Xi Jinping est beaucoup plus mystérieuse, comme beaucoup de choses sous Xi Jinping. Nous ne savons pas vraiment, mais il semble qu’il y ait un consensus selon lequel des réunions se tiennent chaque année”, explique-t-il à CNN.

Le mystère qui entoure Beidaihe intrigue depuis longtemps les observateurs étrangers. Le journaliste allemand Johnny Erling, qui a couvert la Chine pendant près de quarante ans, résume cette fascination en déclarant à CNN : “La politique chinoise est une grande boîte noire et Beidaihe est l’un des noms symboliques de cette réalité. Parce que personne ne sait exactement ce qui s’y passe réellement, mais tout le monde pense savoir quelque chose”.

Au fil de ses visites, il raconte avoir été régulièrement surveillé par les autorités. “La police savait que j’allais venir grâce à mes réservations d’hôtel et aux appels téléphoniques que j’avais passés… ils me demandaient de ne pas y aller… et j’y allais”, affirme-t-il. Lors d’un déplacement en 2018, il remarque même que “la police était déjà sur la plage, faisant semblant de se baigner”.

Aujourd’hui, l’influence politique de Beidaihe semble moins importante qu’autrefois. Pourtant, la station continue d’alimenter les spéculations autour des réunions informelles des dirigeants chinois. Derrière son apparence de simple destination familiale, ce morceau du littoral reste l’un des lieux les plus emblématiques – et les plus secrets – du pouvoir en Chine.

Rowing Through Venice: Discover the Serenissima

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Summary


  • First strokes

  • Since our departure, we zigzag awkwardly

  • “The purest of ways”

  • Like pirates, we slip through a tucked canal

  • The fishermen’s refuge

  • The secret lagoon

  • The Venice of painters

  • Venice by night

Broad-shouldered and bearing the accolades of a Venice-style rower, Elena Almansi, 34, gives her directions in a calm voice. “Your oar must pierce the water like the edge of a knife. Then you pivot it by moving your body forward. Simple, right?” Yes… if you are a true Venetian, cradled from childhood by the lagoon’s sway. For others, like me, the Venetian boat, at first, is a slog. Making this traditional craft of the Doge’s City move in a straight line, even for a few meters, is no small feat.

First Strokes

Hefty as an anchor, my oar measures three meters in length. I must sway it within the hollow of the forcola, a wooden socket with a labyrinthine shape, to propel my craft while steering it. And this while standing, eyes toward the bow, with a head held high, resistant to the splashes. To avoid peeling off into the water, one must add a deft undulation of the hips, legs slightly apart, the way a surfer balances on his board. A balancing pose that has allowed Venetians to roam the lagoon for ages, watching far ahead, above the fog and the reeds. Today, that stance also helps anticipate a crossing with a speeding water-taxi in a narrow canal—sweaty business for sure!

Thus begins my introduction to paddling in lagoonal waters, aboard an authentic local transport boat, distinct from the slender black gondolas that tourists now ride—though the steering technique remains the same. My boat is sturdy, carved from a pale blond wood, measures 7.5 meters, and can carry two to three passengers. Experts call it batela a coa di gambero, “shrimp-tail boat.” My trainer Elena and her partner Jane Caporal, a British woman who has lived here “almost always,” have run these initiations for several years for Row Venice, their 100% women’s rowing club. The proceeds fund the training of young rowers, and the best among them go on to compete in the year’s bustling regattas alongside Elena. For me, this water-level foray is mainly a way to rediscover the City of the Doges away from the crowds, and from a fresh angle, after twenty years of visiting it!

Estonia: Residents Open Windows and Gardens to Sell Food

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Feeling peckish? There is almost certainly a man or a woman selling bite-sized treats from a windowsill. Perhaps their garden has even been turned into a pop-up tea room for a weekend or two. In Estonia, the idea of stopping to eat or drink something at a stranger whose trade is not at all in the restaurant business isn’t altogether far-fetched. It has even become a tradition for twenty years.

Estonia had long been overlooked by travelers from around the world. In 2007, to attract more visitors beyond July, the BBC reports, Hiiumaa Island’s tourism promoters had an idea: to create the Kodukohvikute Päev, literally the “home café day.” They invited residents to open their gardens, balconies, or windows to sell goods prepared by themselves to passersby. A day that fits into a broader historical tradition.

A Day Created Twenty Years Ago in Reference to Estonia’s Late Adoption of Coffee

The idea actually dates back to the mid-1800s. On the island of Hiiumaa, a textile factory had taken up residence there. It belonged to a German baron who largely employed workers from Central Europe. They were accustomed to drinking a lot of coffee. A beverage that Estonians had not yet widely embraced, preferring beer or fermented milk. The influence of foreign workers pushed Hiiumaa residents to drink more coffee, including at the workplace.

So to give a nod to that era, tourism professionals wanted to create the Kodukohvikute Päev. Pop-up cafés were born, and Hiiumaa residents embraced this new way of welcoming visitors. Little by little, the custom spread across the country. It is now available in more than 150 towns nationwide, from April to September.

How to Find a Kodukohvikute Päev to Join in Estonia?

For Estonians, this tradition embodies their warmth toward strangers but is also a way to showcase their culture. “One of the reasons we began organizing this event is that during the summer there are fewer moments when people wear traditional outfits or cook typical dishes like sõir, our cheese”, explains Liis Kogerman, an organizer of a Kodukohvikute Päev in the south of the country.

If you find yourself in Estonia this summer and you wish to participate in a Kodukohvikute Päev, know that these events are locally organized. You’ll need to check with local tourist offices or on social media to see if the region where you are staying has one planned during your holidays. You can search for the keyword “Kohvikutepäevad” online to obtain precise information on how they unfold.

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Top 10 Used Cars for a Summer Road Trip

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We have selected the ten used cars that fit these criteria, cross-checking reliability data from J.D. Power and ADAC with BPM Cars’ insights, a multi-brand dealership group that partnered with this ranking.

What Makes a Real Road-Trip Car

Four criteria separate the contenders. First, trunk space: below 450 litres and a family’s suitcases spill over onto the rear seat. Next, fuel consumption, measured at 130 km/h, which can vary widely between models of similar size. Comfort for long distances—seats, soundproofing, adaptive cruise control—makes the difference between arriving fresh or drained. Finally, reliability: a breakdown 800 km from home can ruin a holiday more reliably than poor weather. Our selection, focused on the brands distributed by BPM Cars’ network, the partner in this ranking, does not tell you how to plan the departure; the mandatory preparation steps, including maintenance, tires and equipment, are detailed in BPM Cars’ road-trip preparation guide. It indicates which car to put into the equation, and road safety recalls the non-negotiable rule: a break every two hours.

The Top 10 Road-Trip-Ready Used Cars for Your Vacation Drive

1. Volvo V60 (2018-2022)

The wagon that looks after its crew. Volvo’s seats are a benchmark that ten hours on the road confirm, and its safety equipment ranks among the most complete on the market. The 529-litre boot is square and swallows the vacation logistics. The D3 and D4 diesels, followed by the B4 mild-hybrids, cover the distance while calling for about 5.5–6.5 L/100 km on the highway. Price ranges from €22,000 to €32,000 depending on the year. Network maintenance isn’t cheap: a full history and a solid warranty are welcome at purchase.

2. Suzuki Swace Hybrid (2021-2024)

The wisest hybrid wagon of the moment, and the most overlooked: the Swace is the technical twin of the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports, produced on the same British assembly lines with the same 1.8 122 hp hybrid powertrain, reputed among the most durable on the market. About 5 to 5.5 L/100 km on long journeys, enough to link Paris to the Basque coast with a single tank, and the Crit’Air 1 badge to cross metropolitan areas. Its 596-litre boot swallows family luggage, and its conspicuity on the used market makes it a bargain, around €17,000 to €22,000. Discover the Suzuki universe at BPM Cars.

3. Alfa Romeo Stelvio (2020-2023)

The SUV that loves the road as much as you do. The sharpest chassis in its class, a responsive steering feel, and a sedan-like balance: the Stelvio turns winding national roads into driving pleasure, without sacrificing its 525 litres of boot. The 2.2-litre diesel from 160 to 210 hp stays thrifty over long stretches, around 6–7 L/100 km. Prices range from €28,000 to €40,000 for facelifted years from 2020 onward, the best finished and most reliable phase of the model’s career. A well-documented history is essential, as electronics can be finicky at times. Our used Stelvio guide details the versions to target.

4. Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid (2021-2023)

The XL format for the family road trip: up to seven seats, a boot over 630 litres in five-seat configuration, and a 230 hp hybrid powertrain that remains smooth on long stretches, from the outskirts to the hairpins of the Cevennes. Like the Tucson, it comes with Hyundai’s five-year unlimited-mileage warranty, transferable to the second owner, a genuine safety net far from home. Expect to pay €30,000 to €40,000 depending on year and trim. Its size—about 4.80 metres—requires a little care in village parking, the only real bottleneck of all this space. Discover the Hyundai universe at BPM Cars.

5. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate (2018-2022)

The rolling palace of the ranking: 640 litres of boot space, reference-level sound insulation and a suspension tuned for long legs. The 220d diesel, powered by the reliable OM654 four-cylinder, runs down to around 5.5–6 L/100 km at a steady legal speed—an economical long-distance performer. Expect to pay between €28,000 and €42,000 depending on year and mileage. It’s the choice of travelling families and heavy-mile drivers; in town, its 4.93-metre length requires broad maneuvering. See the E-Class Estate at BPM Cars.

Good to know. Several models in this ranking regularly pass through BPM Cars’ guaranteed stock: a 200-point check, 12 to 36 months of warranty, and a complete maintenance history, so you can head off with peace of mind. Discover the used stock.

6. Hyundai Tucson (2021-2024)

The compact SUV that heads off on vacation with its warranty: five years of unlimited mileage, transferable to the second owner, ensuring travel coverage. Its boot ranges from 546 litres to 620 litres depending on engine, and its spacious cabin makes it a true family car, with hybrid versions showing smooth and economical behavior on long stints. Expect to pay €20,000 to €28,000. See our used Tucson guide to pick the right version.

7. Jeep Compass (2021-2023)

The road-trip spirit par excellence: generous ground clearance, rugged look, roomy interior and a 438-litre boot. The 1.3 turbo petrol with 130 or 150 hp gets the job done without fuss, and the plug-in hybrid 4xe adds all-wheel drive for steep forays. Prices range from €18,000 to €26,000 for recent years, with higher figures for 4xe. For the latter, check the charging history; the simple petrol remains the rational choice. See the Compass at BPM Cars.

8. Mercedes GLC (2020-2022)

The highway is its realm. Attentive soundproofing, long-haul seating and effective adaptive cruise: the GLC makes 1,000 kilometres down to the south a routine trip. ADAC places it at the top of its reliability class, and the OM654 diesels, the 200d and 220d, are frugal around 6.5 L/100 km at legal speed and among the brand’s most enduring. Expect to pay €32,000 to €45,000, avoiding the plug-in hybrid 350e from this period, which is less reliable. See the GLCs at BPM Cars.

9. Volvo XC60 (2018-2022)

The raised driving position of the SUV, plus extra Volvo comfort. The XC60 inherits the long-haul seats and safety repertoire of the V60 in a taller, more accessible package for children and grandparents alike, with a 505-litre boot. The D4 diesels and mild-hybrids B4 hold the distance, priced between €25,000 and €38,000 depending on year. The same recommendation as for its wagon cousin applies: a complete history and a solid warranty make a difference at purchase. Discover the Volvo universe at BPM Cars.

10. Suzuki Vitara (2019-2023)

The entry ticket for the road trip, between €14,000 and €22,000. Lightweight and frugal thanks to mild hybridization, available with AllGrip all-wheel drive for the Pyrenees’ tracks or Cévennes’ lanes, the Vitara offers high reliability and steady ADAC praise, inherited from a straightforward engine. Its 375-litre boot requires smart packing—soft bags rather than rigid suitcases—and highway noise isolation remains modest. For couples and small families who prioritize the itinerary over luxury, it’s freedom at the best price.

Our selection is made in partnership with BPM Cars. Family SUVs, wagons and recent hybrids pass weekly through the group’s guaranteed stock: 200-point check, 12 to 36 months warranty and a complete history delivered to the buyer. See the available vehicles.

Estate or SUV: Which Should You Pick for the Vacation Road?

For similar overall size, the estate retains the rational advantage: a lower center of gravity, better behavior when loaded, and highway fuel consumption about 0.5 to 1 L/100 km lower than a comparable SUV, thanks to aerodynamics at 130 km/h. The SUV answers with a higher driving position, more relaxed for many drivers, usable ground clearance off the pavement, and easier boarding for children and grandparents. Both schools have their champions in this ranking; to delve deeper, our used estate guide and our guide to 7-seat SUVs detail the best family profiles.

Also read on GEO: all our travel ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which used car should you choose for a road trip?

Reliable choices combine large boot space, fuel efficiency and reliability: Volvo V60, Suzuki Swace Hybrid and Mercedes E-Class Estate on the wagon side; Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe on the SUV side. For a tight budget, the Suzuki Vitara remains unbeatable from €14,000.

Which car uses the least fuel on the vacation road?

The Suzuki Swace Hybrid is the most economical in our lineup: around 5–5.5 L/100 km on long trips thanks to its proven hybrid chain. For diesels, a E-Class 220d or a GLC 220d drops to about 5.5–6.5 L/100 km at a steady, legal pace.

Should you service an used car before a road trip?

Yes, systematically: levels, tires, brakes, air conditioning and the timing belt/chain should all be checked before a long journey. A car purchased from a dealership, serviced and guaranteed like BPM Cars, leaves with these checks already done, making departure preparation simpler.

The ideal road-trip car isn’t the most expensive; it’s the one that arrives with no suspicious noises, all luggage aboard and passengers rested. A proven mechanical, a roomy boot and a transparent history: BPM Cars’ stock brings all three together.


See all BPM Cars opportunities

For short trips, prefer walking or cycling. #MoveLessPolluting

Sponsored article by BPM Cars. The editorial team did not participate in the production of this article.

Top European Beaches for Golden Hour Photography This Summer

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Each summer, thousands of travelers seek the perfect moment to capture coastal landscapes. Among them, the “golden hour”, that brief period after sunrise or before sunset when light is soft and warm, turns beaches into particularly photogenic settings. A study conducted by photography specialists reveals which European beaches offer the best conditions to capture these moments between July and August. And several French sites are among the destinations listed in this ranking.

Germany Dominates the Rankings

To establish this ranking, MPB experts, a platform specializing in second-hand photo and video equipment, analyzed 40 renowned European beaches. They relied on data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) regarding the sun’s position during July and August, examining in particular the average duration of the golden hour, the orientation of the beaches relative to sunrise and sunset, and the variation of the sun’s position over the summer.

The beach of Timmendorfer Strand, located in Lübeck Bay in Germany, takes first place with an overall score of 63.7 out of 100. It offers an average golden hour of 53.1 minutes and stands out especially for its exceptional sunrise alignment, rated at 87.5 out of 100. The sun thus appears almost in line with the axis of the beach, an ideal setup for photographers who want to shoot facing the sea.

Continuing in Germany, Warnemünde Beach near Rostock ranks second in the ranking. It shows the longest golden hour in the study, with an average of 53.4 minutes. Unlike Timmendorfer Strand, it does not stand out for an exceptionally well-aligned sunrise, but rather for a more balanced profile, with identical scores of 42.7 out of 100 for sunrise and sunset. Its wide sandy beach and its lighthouse thus offer shooting opportunities at various times of the day.

Mediterranean Beaches Do Not Fall Behind

The Italian beach of La Pelosa, in Sardinia, completes the podium with a score of 60 out of 100. Although it has a shorter golden hour, estimated at 39.1 minutes, it benefits from a low variation in the sun’s position during the summer (19.7 degrees). This stability makes it easier to plan shoots and allows photographers to reproduce similar light from one day to the next.

Other beaches also feature among the study’s top-ranked. La Concha, in San Sebastián, Spain, places fourth thanks in particular to a good alignment of the sunset (65.4 out of 100). In Spain as well, Playa de las Canteras, in the Canary Islands, and Playa de Muro, in Mallorca, appear in the top 10. Several Greek beaches also stand out, such as Navagio in Zakynthos and Paleokastritsa in Corfu, particularly favorable for sunsets with respective alignment scores of 81.8 and 81.1 out of 100.

Fig Tree Bay in Cyprus, as well as Cala Goloritzé in Sardinia, complete this group of well-positioned Mediterranean destinations. In the Netherlands, Scheveningen and Zandvoort offer some of the longest golden hours in the ranking, with averages of 50.2 and 50.5 minutes respectively, and prove especially suitable for late-afternoon photography.

Three French Beaches Among the Top-Ranked

In France, conditions vary significantly across the coastlines. Étretat Beach, in Normandy, ranks fifth in the European standings with an overall score of 52 out of 100. It notably has the best sunset alignment of the entire study, with a score of 90.1 out of 100. The famous Norman cliffs thus provide a setting particularly well-suited for images taken as the sun sinks toward the horizon.

With an average golden hour of 47 minutes, photographers also have a relatively long window to play with contrasts between the rocks, the sea, and light variations. This kind of landscape enables images where the relief gradually turns into silhouettes while the final glimmers of the day color the sky. On the Mediterranean coast, Palombaggia Beach in Corsica ranks twelfth ex aequo with a score of 49.5 out of 100. It stands out for its sunrise alignment, rated at 75.4 out of 100, but is not suitable for sunset photographs according to the study’s criteria.

The Pampelonne Beach, near Saint-Tropez, shows a similar profile with a sunrise score of 74.6 but a zero for sunset. It ties for fourteenth ex aequo with a score of 48.9 out of 100. Stretching about 4.5 kilometers, this famed beach in the Var department is known for its vast expanse of fine sand and turquoise waters. Its golden hour lasts on average 40.8 minutes, allowing photographers to enjoy morning light that enhances both the coastline and the renowned beach clubs and the pine trees that line part of the shore.

A Few Tips for Capturing Great Photos

MPB specialists also remind a few simple rules to succeed with your shots during this period. They especially recommend using a tripod to stabilize the camera when light drops quickly, as well as paying close attention to exposure to avoid losing the details of the sky around the sun. They finally suggest choosing an aperture between f/8 and f/11. This setting helps keep the foreground and the horizon sharp and can produce a starburst effect when the sun is partially hidden by an element of the landscape.

What to Do in Sydney: 10 Fun Activities and Outings in Australia’s Largest City

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Nestled on the eastern coast of Australia, Sydney is a vibrant and dynamic city, seamlessly blending modernity with a rich historical heritage. World-renowned for its opera house and the Harbour Bridge, it also welcomes a culturally diverse tapestry and a multitude of unique experiences for visitors. Whether your stay is brief or extended, planning the best possible activities to fit your timeframe and budget is essential. What to do in Sydney? Let’s explore together, through a variety of ideas, the treasures this Australian metropolis holds.

1. Visit the Sydney Opera House

Beyond its iconic status, the Sydney Opera House stands as a cornerstone of any visit to Australia’s principal city and a major cultural landmark for the entire Oceania. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this emblematic 20th‑century structure embodies architectural innovation in its complex design and the bold silhouette shaped like sails. For travelers interested in architectural history or the performing arts, a guided interior tour reveals the technical challenges of its construction and opens access to the performance spaces, the backstage areas, and the technical galleries.

The experience can be extended by attending one of the numerous music, theatre, or dance performances offered throughout the year, making it a true hub where aesthetics, engineering, and contemporary creation converge. The Sydney Opera House integrates into a broader discovery itinerary of the city, alongside the Harbour Bridge, the botanical gardens, and iconic coastal sites like Bondi Beach, illustrating the balance between cultural heritage and natural surroundings in Australia’s tourism landscape.

2. Discover the Harbour Bridge

For travelers in search of a structured yet immersive urban experience, climbing to the summit of the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, via the guided BridgeClimb route, is an iconic activity offering sweeping panoramic views of the city, its bay, and major architectural landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House. This secured route is available in multiple formats, enabling visitors to understand the bridge’s technical features and its role in urban development.

For those who prefer a less physically intensive or logistically integrated approach to a walking itinerary, crossing the bridge on foot remains a relevant option. It allows admiring the bridge’s imposing architecture while gaining expansive views over the harbor, quays, and surrounding urban silhouettes. This site, now a symbol of national identity for Australia, sits at the heart of Sydney’s cultural and landscape infrastructures, bridging industrial heritage, active tourism, and contemporary urban space valorization.

3. Explore the Rocks

The historic district The Rocks, perched at the foot of the Harbour Bridge in the old heart of Sydney, is an essential stop for travelers looking to grasp the colonial origins of Australia. With its cobbled lanes, 19th‑century sandstone buildings, and ancient pubs, this area preserves an urban fabric that bears witness to the region’s earliest European settlements.

The Rocks is a preferred promenade, offering structured access to several cultural institutions, including museums that recount the social and urban history of the city, as well as guided heritage routes. Weekend artisan markets showcase a diverse array of local products, from textile crafts to contemporary design objects, all within a lively ambiance. This pedestrian environment, dotted with cafés, galleries, and quirky shops, embodies living heritage by balancing historical memory with cultural dynamism.

4. Relax at Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach, one of Sydney and Australia’s most iconic beaches, is a must for travelers seeking seaside activities within a structured and accessible setting. Its waves are renowned for consistency and power, attracting seasoned surfers and beginners alike, who can join local surf schools. Beyond surfing, Bondi is defined by a relaxed, friendly vibe, a strong local presence, and a thriving commercial fabric of cafés, restaurants, galleries, and community spaces.

Bondi is also the starting point for one of the region’s most beloved coastal walks, the Bondi to Coogee Walk, which traces clifflines and offers panoramic coastal views while linking several beaches and coves. This natural, safe, well-equipped environment provides diverse possibilities: swimming, sunbathing, sea‑view observation, or participation in sporting and cultural events. Integrated into an urban itinerary that includes major sites like the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, or the neighborhood of The Rocks, Bondi Beach completes Sydney’s tourist offering by combining leisure, accessibility, and coastal promotion within a framework of urban and environmental quality.

5. Stroll through Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour, located along the edge of central Sydney, stands as a major hub of urban tourism and culture, designed as a true centre of entertainment with a wide range of offerings for a broad public. This redeveloped district features a cluster of modern attractions, including the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, which delivers a structured exploration of Australian marine life through immersive installations. The lineup also includes several museums, cultural institutions, shopping complexes, and green spaces, forming a cohesive leisure and services ecosystem.

On the quays, restaurateurs contribute actively to the site’s vibrancy, offering a diversity of cuisines in an open waterfront setting. In the evening, Darling Harbour comes alive with light shows projected on the water and occasional events, boosting its nocturnal appeal within a strategy of enhancing the urban nocturnal landscape. This district, easily reachable on foot from the city centre, naturally fits into an itinerary that includes city landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, The Rocks, or Bondi Beach, adding a playful and family-friendly dimension to exploring Sydney, by connecting culture, entertainment, and urban energy.

6. Explore museums and galleries

Culture enthusiasts will find Sydney rich in museum offerings, centered around institutions that allow exploration of both artistic heritage and natural history of Australia. The Art Gallery of New South Wales, one of the country’s leading public galleries, houses a permanent collection spanning Australian, European, Asian, and Aboriginal art, while regularly hosting international temporary exhibitions.

Nearby, the Australian Museum, the oldest museum on the continent, focuses on natural sciences, anthropology, and regional biodiversity, with educational displays suited to all ages. These institutions, set in the city centre, blend seamlessly into an itinerary that highlights major Sydney landmarks such as the Opera, the Harbour Bridge, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, or Bondi Beach, adding an intellectual and heritage dimension to the tourist experience, structured around celebrating local cultures, visual arts, and scientific research.

7. Enjoy free activities in Sydney

For travelers looking to discover Sydney while keeping to a budget, the city offers a suite of accessible and varied free activities set within a high-quality tourist offering. A stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, a vast bayside landscape, lets you appreciate the region’s botanical diversity while enjoying sweeping views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The coastline invites walking along several routes, notably between Bondi Beach and Coogee, where cliffs, coves, and marine panoramas unfold.

For those interested in urban culture and architectural heritage, the Newtown and Paddington districts offer immersive experiences in contrasting atmospheres: street art murals, independent shops, Victorian houses, and local markets create a lively, accessible tapestry. These free options fit into a broader itinerary that pairs major cultural and natural highlights of Sydney, providing independence, participation, and inclusive discovery through observation, wandering, and authentic city exposure.

8. Navigate Sydney Harbour

Taking a ferry across the Sydney Harbour offers a structured, accessible way to approach the city from a scenic angle, while fitting into maritime transport infrastructure connecting the main coastal locales. The trip to Manly Beach, particularly beloved by travelers, blends efficiency with visual appeal, delivering a succession of iconic viewpoints on the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay quays, and nearby coastal neighborhoods. This crossing also aids in understanding Sydney’s urban geography, organized around its natural harbor, while linking to a renowned promenade, shops, and coastal trails. The ferry thus becomes a standalone discovery tool, complementing land and pedestrian circuits that structure the city’s tourism offer. Integrated into an itinerary that includes other destinations such as Bondi Beach, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, and cultural institutions like the Art Gallery of New South Wales, this mode of transport provides a practical, contemplative, and economically accessible experience for a comprehensive exploration of Sydney’s urban and maritime landscape.

9. Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains

For a day trip outside of Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer a premier retreat for travelers seeking nature, altitude, and scenic heritage within a UNESCO World Heritage framework. Located about two hours away by rail or car, this region of New South Wales naturally extends the urban itinerary toward outdoor activities. The Blue Mountains National Park distinguishes itself with a variety of hiking trails winding through eucalyptus forests, dramatic gorges, and steep cliffs.

Key highlights include the iconic Three Sisters rock formations, panoramic lookouts like Echo Point, and altitude botanical gardens showcasing endemic flora. On-site facilities include interpretive centers and marked routes suitable for different fitness levels. This immersion into nature, complementary to city visits (such as the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, or The Rocks), enriches the traveler’s overall experience by offering an ecological and geographical reading of the Australian landscape, structured around conservation, accessibility, and scenic observation.

10. Savor the local cuisine

Ending a day in Sydney with a culinary exploration adds a sensory and contemporary reading of the city, anchored in cultural diversity and the quality of local products. Renowned for its seafood freshness, particularly in coastal or bayside districts, Sydney also offers a wide range of international cuisines reflecting its cosmopolitan population. For a thematic gastronomic immersion, the Chinatown district offers a collection of restaurants, stalls, and markets dedicated to East Asian culinary traditions, while Tramsheds in Glebe presents a producer market model in an indoor setting, highlighting short supply chains and artisanal know-how.

These places, woven into the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, help shape a day’s end itinerary that blends tasting, local discovery, and social animation. In addition to daytime activities—whether cultural (at the Sydney Opera House or the New South Wales Art Gallery) or scenic (at Bondi Beach, Darling Harbour, or the Blue Mountains)—these gastronomic experiences contribute fully to Sydney’s plural identity, anchoring the traveler in the daily life of a dynamic metropolis, open and committed to culinary excellence.

Sydney is a city with many facets, ready to be explored at any time of year. From the iconic Opera House to the historic lanes of The Rocks, through the sun-kissed beaches of Bondi, each neighborhood reveals its own set of activities and experiences. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this Australian metropolis is sure to meet your expectations, offering a precious memory at every turn. Whether you choose a grand activity or an intimate discovery, Sydney promises a rich and varied exploration, ready to satisfy every visitor’s requirements.

How long does it take to visit Sydney? Building an itinerary tailored to urban and coastal diversity

The city of Sydney can be explored in several formats depending on the ambition of the trip. A stay of 3 to 5 days allows you to discover the essentials: the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, and iconic beaches like Manly Beach. For a more immersive experience, a week enables deeper exploration of cultural neighborhoods, museums, markets, and even a few coastal excursions. The density of experiences on offer requires structuring your itinerary around priorities: nature, heritage, art, or gastronomy.

Is Sydney worth it? A metropolis where culture, nature, and architecture constantly converse

Asking whether Sydney is worth it is to assess a city’s ability to balance urban dynamism with access to natural spaces. As Australia’s economic capital, Sydney stands out for the quality of its infrastructure, the richness of its cultural programming, and the immediate proximity to maritime landscapes. Places like Manly Beach, reachable by ferry, or the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney by the port, illustrate this rare coexistence. For architecture and heritage enthusiasts, the Queen Victoria Building (QVB), carefully restored, embodies the city’s history within a living framework. Sydney thus presents itself as a complete destination—clear, varied, and coherent.

What unusual activities to do in Sydney: exploring the city differently, off the beaten path

Beyond the tourist icons, Sydney hides a wealth of unusual activities to weave into a Sydney guide. For example, you can take a surf lesson at Manly Beach, opt for a guided underground tour of the city’s historic tunnel network, or kayak at sunrise in the bay. Some contemporary art galleries tucked away in repurposed warehouses or urban farms set right in the city center offer a fresh perspective on the city of Sydney. These experiences invite you to step off the usual routes while remaining rooted in the local cultural reality.

What to do in Sydney when it rains: indoor itineraries and sheltered cultural discoveries

Even in the rain, Sydney presents a rich set of activities well suited to shelter and exploration. The Queen Victoria Building (QVB), a historic shopping arcade, pairs architectural exploration with covered browsing. Art, history, or natural science museums welcome visitors inside spaces suitable for all ages. The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, while still accessible, takes on a different, calmer dimension under inclement weather, offering a serene space for contemplation. These places show that rain does not hinder discovery; it simply guides you toward another facet of the city.

What to do in Sydney in 2 days: a concise essentials for a short but dense stay

A 2-day stay in Sydney requires targeted choices. Day one could focus on exploring the Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, and a ferry crossing to Manly Beach, combining heritage, nature, and iconic viewpoints. Day two could be oriented toward museums, the Queen Victoria Building, or a stroll through The Rocks. Even in a brief timeframe, it’s possible to gain a coherent sense of this Australian city’s identity by adopting an efficient itinerary.

What to do in Sydney for free: accessible experiences in an open city

Sydney offers a range of free activities, including visits to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, public beaches like Manly Beach, and coastal walks such as the Bondi to Coogee Walk. Access to national galleries, artisan markets, and occasional cultural events also allows for city discovery without charge. These opportunities outline a generous and accessible destination, even without a large budget.

What to do in Sydney in the evening: urban lights and a dynamic cultural scene

When night falls, Sydney reveals a unique atmosphere where public spaces, cultural venues, and lively districts come alive. Evening strolls around Circular Quay or Darling Harbour offer iconic nocturnal panoramas. Numerous theatres, open-air cinemas, and concerts enrich the nights, while the illuminated Queen Victoria Building (QVB) remains a powerful visual landmark. As night deepens, the city does not slow down: it morphs into a more intimate and animated environment, inviting travelers to extend their discoveries with a vibrant urban energy.

This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence, then corrected, expanded, and validated by the editorial team.

This Tiny Spanish Village Is the Best Viewing Spot for August’s Solar Eclipse

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The small village of Avellanosa de Muñó, located in the province of Burgos in northern Spain, is about to break its usual calm to welcome a large number of visitors for an exceptional event. Usually, this hamlet has only a few inhabitants and lacks restaurants or shops. The silence is such that you can hear carpenter bees buzzing around the lavender bushes or hear the songs of the black-and-white swallows weaving between the stone roofs of the nearly deserted streets.

The only notable gathering of the week occurs when a white van, belonging to a neighboring bakery, arrives to deliver bread to the residents. Yet, in a few days, this ordinarily peaceful place will become a must-attend meeting point for astronomy enthusiasts coming to observe the total solar eclipse that will cross the Atlantic on August 12. An exceptional event that has not occurred since 1999.

Avellanosa de Muñó, an ideal place to observe the solar eclipse

Physicist María Teresa López Sánchez told the BBC that it will be the first total solar eclipse visible from continental Spain since 1912. It will only be observable along a narrow band crossing the continent, and Avellanosa de Muñó lies precisely on that trajectory. Added to this is a particularly favorable observing environment with its golden wheat fields, gentle hills, and a wide western horizon that provides an ideal setting, with few buildings and low light pollution.

This small village could thus allow astronomy enthusiasts to enjoy the eclipse in a setting calmer than the usual popular viewing sites. It will occur just before sunset and create a double dusk effect. “It will be like living two sunsets in a few minutes”, the expert explained, who then advised climbing into the caves to gain “a breathtaking view”. Born in Avellanosa de Muñó in 1937, María Teresa López Álvarez has never lived anywhere else. In almost nine decades spent in this village, she has watched it transform over the years.

For generations, the hamlet has lived off dry farming, kitchen gardens, vineyards, and livestock. But with the mechanization of agriculture and the lack of nearby jobs, many residents gradually left the village to join large cities such as Madrid, Bilbao or Barcelona. Raúl Grande Revilla, born here 73 years ago before moving to Madrid during his childhood, will return for the eclipse. He will be accompanied by some family members, forming a group of around twenty people and doubling the village’s population for an evening.

Bookings made years in advance of the solar eclipse

This August will thus mark the return of several former residents of Avellanosa de Muñó. According to the physicist, some of his neighbors will host friends and relatives coming from all over Spain, but also from the United Kingdom, France, or Venezuela. For Lucrezia López, a professor in the geography department at the University of Santiago de Compostela, such occasional events can encourage people to “rediscover a place to which they are already attached”.

The Parador de Lerma hotel, located nearby and housed in the former palace of the Duke of Lerma, has been fully booked for the event since 2022, and Alberto Bosque Coello, from Castile and León’s tourism office, says that the same pattern is happening across the region. “Most of our accommodations are full. In fact, they were booked well in advance” he notes, adding that eclipse specialists were seeking “the best place, not the best known”, because they wanted optimal observing conditions.

When the moment arrives, locals and visitors will head to the caves that overlook the village. With the sun at only eight degrees above the horizon during totality, a clear view to the west will be essential, making the perched caves a privileged place to admire this exceptional celestial spectacle. But the caves are not merely a viewpoint. For generations, this dwindling community has gathered there to watch the sunset, and one former resident even chose to have his ashes scattered there. A place of great sentimental value for the village.

Spain Heat Wave: Why You Should Stay Vigilant Before Your Summer Vacation

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Barcelona, Marbella, Granada… Spain ranks among the most popular summer destinations for travelers each year. But this summer, vacationers will need to exercise extra vigilance. Indeed, a fresh heatwave is set to strike the country, bringing extreme temperatures and several associated risks. Spain’s national meteorological agency, AEMET, foresees the heat wave intensifying, with temperatures expected to climb to a peak on Thursday, July 30, 2026. This comes after a summer that has already been exceptionally hot, with average temperatures from early June to mid-July about 3.3°C above the seasonal norm, making it one of the hottest starts to summer ever recorded in Spain.

According to forecasts, southern regions are expected to be the most affected, notably Andalusia and popular tourist destinations such as Seville. Forecast models indicate temperatures could reach 47°C or 48°C in parts of the region, approaching or surpassing the all-time Spanish record of 47.6°C recorded in Córdoba province in August 2021. Some parts of Catalonia are also expected to see temperatures well above 40°C in the coming days, and popular tourist hubs like Malaga could experience peaks around 45°C. It is therefore strongly advised to check the weather regularly, especially if you are traveling to one of the affected areas, so you can take precautions.

Is it reasonable to travel to Spain this summer?

In addition to the heatwave, several wildfires have also ravaged various regions of southern Europe, notably in Spain. In Almería, Andalusia, a fast-spreading blaze has claimed at least 12 lives and destroyed more than 6,600 hectares. It ranks among the deadliest fires the region has seen in recent years. Another fire broke out in Aragon, near Zaragoza, burning about 15,400 hectares since it began on July 15. In the province of Guadalajara, the La Mierla fire has already consumed over 32,000 hectares. In total, these fires forced the evacuation of 34 municipalities.

The European Commission has deployed this year what it describes as its most substantial wildfire-fighting arrangement, mobilizing 777 firefighters from 14 countries, along with 22 water-bombing planes and 5 helicopters, in high-risk areas, notably in Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Cyprus. For the moment, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued no travel advisories against heatwaves or wildfires in Spain, and no major disruption to air traffic has been reported in connection with the current fires.

However, conditions can change rapidly during a heat wave; it is therefore advised to check your airline’s website before departure and to follow local news once on site, especially if you are headed to Andalusia, Aragon or Castilla-La Mancha. If you are traveling during the hottest parts of the day, take precautions by avoiding sun exposure from around 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., staying hydrated, applying sunscreen, and wearing light clothing.

Cancelling Your Trip to Spain: What Are Your Rights?

Facing the current situation, you might decide to opt for another destination for your summer holidays after all? Here is what you need to know before canceling your stay, along with the rights you have. Refunds and cancellations are generally possible only if the government officially advises against travel to the region, in cases of a nearby wildfire near your accommodation, or if your flight or transport is canceled due to a fire.

Moreover, if you booked your vacation through a travel agency, don’t hesitate to contact them to explore the options available to you. Some agencies may offer flexible solutions even without a formal cancellation, especially if your destination is near a fire. However, remember that canceling as a precaution, in the absence of an official travel advisory against travel, makes obtaining a refund unlikely.

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