8 Hidden European Islands That Are Perfect for Summer Escapes

ByRachna Chandira

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Couple watching sunset on a secluded European beach, symbolizing peaceful summer escapes.
Asad Photo Maldives/Pexels

Tired of packed beaches and tourist crowds? Europe is home to stunning islands that remain blissfully under the radar. These lesser-known escapes offer crystal-clear waters, unspoiled nature, and authentic local charm without the chaos. Whether you’re craving seaside serenity, rugged hikes, or romantic sunsets, these eight hidden islands deliver unforgettable summer getaways across different travel styles and budgets. It’s time to trade the tourist traps for quiet coves and peaceful beauty.

1. Vis, Croatia

Turquoise water fills a narrow cove on Vis, Croatia, viewed from above.
Fede Roveda/Pexels

Vis invites you to slow down and soak in the Adriatic’s quiet beauty. Once closed off as a military base, this Croatian island now charms visitors with rolling vineyards, secluded coves, and fresh seafood served at harborside taverns. Explore stone villages untouched by time, take a boat to the glowing Blue Cave, or simply relax on beaches without the crowds. Its slow pace and authentic feel make it ideal for couples seeking intimacy or solo travelers craving a peaceful coastal escape.

2. Gozo, Malta

Limestone cliffs surround the clear Inland Sea on Gozo Island, Malta.
Artur Roman/Pexels

Just a short ferry from Malta, Gozo feels like stepping into a slower, sun-drenched world. This rugged island offers ancient temples, sweeping cliffs, and peaceful beaches with far fewer tourists. Hike along dramatic coastal trails, swim in the crystal-clear Inland Sea, or wander the Citadel for panoramic views. With its mix of history, nature, and relaxed pace, Gozo is perfect for couples looking for adventure or travelers seeking a quiet Mediterranean getaway.

3. Île de Porquerolles, France

White-sand beach and turquoise water on car-free Île de Porquerolles.
PHILIPPE SERRAND/Pexels

Located off the French Riviera, Île de Porquerolles feels like a secret summer postcard. With no cars allowed, you can bike past olive groves, sip rosé at seaside cafés, and swim in uncrowded bays. This eco-protected island is perfect for a romantic escape with a sustainable twist. It’s where quiet elegance meets nature’s best, all just a ferry ride from the mainland.

4. La Gomera, Spain

Palm-lined valley and volcanic cliffs on La Gomera, Canary Islands.
John Arellano Riera/Pexels

Tucked off the French Riviera, Île de Porquerolles is a serene summer escape where nature takes center stage. With no cars, you’ll bike through olive groves, explore eucalyptus-scented trails, and relax on quiet beaches with turquoise waters. Sip chilled rosé at a seaside café or snorkel in crystal-clear coves. As part of a national park, the island offers an eco-friendly retreat ideal for couples seeking romance, sustainability, and a break from the mainland’s glitz, all just a short ferry ride away.

5. Elba, Italy

Small boats bob in a pastel-painted harbor on Elba Island, Italy.
1195798 – pixabay/needpix

Famous for Napoleon’s exile that blends rich history with stunning coastal charm. Nestled in Tuscany’s waters, the island offers peaceful beaches, pine-covered hills, and colorful seaside villages. Hike scenic trails with sea views, snorkel in crystal-clear coves, or sip espresso in quiet piazzas. Despite its beauty, Elba remains off the radar for many, making it a perfect escape for travelers craving authentic Italian summer vibes without the crowds.

6. Saaremaa, Estonia

Historic wooden windmills stand on a grassy hill on Saaremaa Island.
Oskar Kadaksoo/unsplash

If you’re seeking a quieter kind of summer, Saaremaa delivers Nordic serenity and raw Baltic charm. Estonia’s largest island is rich with old windmills, rustic stone churches, and peaceful coastlines untouched by mass tourism. Pedal through pine forests, unwind in a traditional smoke sauna, or explore the medieval Kuressaare Castle. With its cool sea air and slow rhythms, Saaremaa is perfect for nature lovers, introspective travelers, and anyone looking to escape the noise of the modern world.

7. Hydra, Greece

Donkey waits on Hydra’s cobbled harbor with whitewashed homes behind.
Denys Gromov/Pexels

Hydra offers a peaceful slice of Greek island life, where cars are banned and donkeys serve as taxis. This timeless retreat invites you to slow down, wander whitewashed lanes, sip coffee at harborside cafés, and swim in rocky, crystal-clear coves. Artists and romantics flock here for its beauty, quietude, and golden sunsets over the Aegean. With no traffic and no rush, Hydra is perfect for those craving a serene, storybook escape steeped in history and understated charm.

8. Mljet, Croatia

Monastery sits on an islet in a turquoise lake on forested Mljet Island.
DeLuca G/Pexels

Mljet is Croatia’s lush tranquil gem, an island where nature takes the lead. Covered in dense pine forests and edged by turquoise saltwater lakes, much of it lies within a serene national park. Paddle across Veliko Jezero, cycle forest trails, or visit the Benedictine monastery on its tiny island. With few crowds and endless green landscapes, Mljet is a peaceful haven for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone dreaming of quiet, sun-soaked moments far from the tourist rush.

Rachna Chandira is a travel writer and communications professional known for her culturally rich and emotionally resonant storytelling.
With a background in development journalism, she brings a nuanced perspective to her writing, focusing on people, place, and purpose. Her work spans India, Southeast Asia, and Europe, often exploring slow travel, solo adventures, and underrepresented local narratives.
From crafting immersive city guides to curating thoughtful itineraries, Rachna combines journalistic depth with a storyteller’s heart. She views travel as a way to connect cultures, inspire empathy, and leave a meaningful impression on readers seeking more than just destinations.