July 8, 2025: With summer in full swing, travellers are seeking destinations that offer the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and celebration. From coastal retreats to historic cities, these four European getaways promise vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, and memorable culinary experiences. It’s the ideal time to plan that much-needed escape.
Bologna, Italy
Bologna offers a rich mix of culture, cuisine, and outdoor experiences. Summer visitors can enjoy events such as the Porretta Soul Festival, known for its soul and rhythm & blues performances, and the Il Cinema Ritrovato film festival, which showcases restored classics. The city is also recognised as a culinary centre, where travellers can take part in wine tastings and pasta-making sessions through the ‘Grand Tour Italia’ programme. Popular gelato spots include Cremeria Santo Stefano and Gelateria Gianni. Though not on the coast, Bologna offers local escapes from the heat at Piscina Sterlino, Free Beach pools, and parks like Giardini Margherita and Villa
Spada.
Nice presents a vibrant calendar of summer festivals, like the internationally renowned Nice Jazz Festival in July, followed by the Crossover Music Festival in September. Coastal exploration is another highlight, with options to charter boats or join guided tours that visit hidden coves and beaches. Local cuisine takes centre stage with the signature Salad Niçoise, best enjoyed at restaurants like Chez Acchiardo or Le Tchitchou, accompanied by a glass of chilled rosé.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków draws summer travellers with its warm weather, long daylight hours, and dynamic blend of culture and nightlife. The city’s energy peaks in the Old Town and the historic Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, both known for their lively bars and music venues. During the day, visitors can explore cultural landmarks or opt for a bike or scooter ride using local rental apps such as Bolt. For a relaxing activity, kayaking on the Vistula River provides scenic views of the city, including Wawel Castle, and a chance to enjoy Kraków’s green spaces from the water.
Venice, Italy
Venice continues to captivate summer tourists with its canals, gondola rides, and culinary offerings such as cicchetti paired with a spritz. While the city itself offers endless sights, many visitors also venture to nearby islands like Burano and Torcello for a quieter experience. Staying in Venice allows access to a wide range of accommodations while taking day trips during peak hours. To avoid extreme heat and heavy crowds, visits in early or late summer are recommended.
Travellers from India can conveniently access each of these cities through Finnair’s extensive European network. With daily flights between New Delhi and Helsinki, Finnair provides smooth and reliable connections to major cities across Europe, making it easier than ever to plan the perfect summer escape.