Europe is home to some of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world. If you love cobbled streets, castles and culture then you should definitely consider city-hopping on the continent during the summer months. Of course, travel is far from normal right now and there are many things to consider when going abroad this summer. I’ve listed the best cities in Europe for a summer vacation and their entry requirements so that you can travel safely and luxuriously this summer.

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Paris, France

Well, of course I had to mention the City of Love. It’s one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world, and one of the best for photography lovers. With world-famous sights like the Sacre-Coeur, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tour, you won’t be short of things to do in Paris. There’s a real joie de vivre to this city. 

As one of the fashion capitals of the world, you can bet that the shopping in Paris is next-level. Hit the Champs-Elysees and the Saint-Honore district for the city’s premier designer stores. Check out Boulevard Haussmann, too. There’s something enchanting about getting lost inside Paris’ most fabulous department stores – they even put New York’s to shame! 

As for accommodation, I highly recommend a stay at the Grand Powers, which effortlessly encompasses Paris’ signature charm and style. 

The current situation: right now, partially- or non-vaccinated international tourists are permitted to enter France with a PCR test no more than 72 hours old. If you are fully vaccinated, there is no need to provide a test. There is a curfew in place from 11pm-6am, which means no late-night soirees. 

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a vibrant city with something for everyone. Whether you want to shop, sightsee, party or lay out on the beach, you can do it in this fun and artistic ciudad. 

One of the top things to do in Barcelona is marvel at Gaudi’s colorful and eccentric works. I highly recommend a visit to Park Guell, Casa Batllo and of course the iconic Sagrada Familia is a must. Be sure to check out La Bollqueria Market, too, and eat plenty of tasty tapas. 

Stay at Almanac Barcelona for a refined five-star experience. Alternatively, head to Hotel The Serras if you’re looking for something younger and more contemporary.

The current situation: You must complete an Online Health Control form within 48 hours of arriving in Spain. If you are arriving from a country on Spain’s ‘risk’ list you will need to provide a negative covid test no more than 48 hours old or proof that you are fully vaccinated. Currently, the USA is on the risk list. 

Lisbon, Portugal 

As pretty as a postcard, Lisbon is a charming city with a new hidden gem around every corner. With delicious pastries, good wine, pretty beaches and fetching architecture, there’s a lot to love about this underrated capital city. Visiting Lisbon is less about nonstop sightseeing and more about rambling, exploring and people-watching.

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is one of the best choices for luxury travellers; in fact, it was built with the intention of proving that Lisbon could rival its fellow European capitals in terms of show-stopping hospitality. Alternatively, try the Verride Palacio Santa Catarina, a restored 18th century palace where you’ll really experience the royal treatment. The restaurant and rooftop pool also offer amazing aerial views of the city. 

The current situation: You need a rapid antigen or NAAT test to enter Portugal. Arrivals are subject to temperature checks. Those with a temperature of 38 degrees or more must take a PCR test. If you have travelled to or through India, Nepal, Brazil or South Africa within the past fourteen days you must self-isolate upon arrival for two full weeks. 

Tbilisi, Georgia 

Tbilisi is one of the most criminally underrated cities in Europe. Although I must say, I don’t think that will be the case forever. With a laidback pace and architecture straight out of a Gothic fairytale, Tbilisi is the kind of place that simultaneously charms you and makes you feel right at home. It’s a super cool city where you can drink coffee inside former Soviet warehouses and learn more about Cold War history. 

What many people don’t know about Tbilisi – and Georgia as a whole – is that it’s a total foodie paradise. I’m serious; prepare to loosen your belt. You’ve got to try ‘Georgian Snickers’! They consist of nuts dipped in a sugary grape juice roux and khachapuri, aka warm, cheese-filled bread. Delicious. 

I recommend a stay at the edge Stamba hotel. Formerly a Soviet publishing house, it is now a sleek hotel which combines brutalist architecture with modern “hipster” vibes.

The current situation: Fully vaccinated tourists can enter Georgia without restriction. Those who have not had their vaccine yet must present a negative PCR test no more than 72 hours old. They must then take another test three days after entering the country. Anyone who has been in India within the past two weeks must quarantine for 14 days.

Athens, Greece

I make no secret of the fact that Greece is one of my all-time favorite countries. It’s a truly enchanting country with stunning scenery, amazing weather and some of the best food in the world. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Athens is one of my favorite cities in Europe. You can’t really go to Greece without island-hopping, but its capital city of Athens is a true bucket-list destination, too. 

You really can’t go wrong with a stay at the uber-luxurious Four Seasons Astir Palace. There, you’ll find a world-class spa and stunning views of the Aegean. Alternatively, try the Hotel Grande Bretagne to experience the true grand dame of the Greek capital. 

The current situation: Upon arrival in Greece you must either show a vaccination certificate over fourteen days old or a negative PCR test taken within the last 72 hours. Arrivals from the USA don’t have to self-isolate – happy days!

For more on travel in Europe, check out my list of the best wellness hotels in Europe or the top destinations for digital nomads.