Buying a seaside property is a timeless dream, and Europe offers an incredible variety of coastal destinations. From the rugged shores of the Stockholm Archipelago to the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean, there’s a perfect spot for every taste and budget. This guide, compiled from insights from international real estate agents and property experts, highlights some of the best European seaside resorts to buy a home in 2025, providing a comprehensive overview of each location, its property market, and practical information for potential buyers.
Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retirement spot, a profitable rental investment, or a family-friendly holiday home, these 20 destinations offer a compelling blend of natural beauty, local culture, and sound investment potential. We’ve focused on what makes each location unique, from the authentic charm of an Italian fishing village to the sophisticated elegance of the French Riviera, ensuring you have all the details you need to make an informed decision. As you’ll discover, the best seaside resorts in Europe are not just about the beach; they are about a lifestyle, a community, and a sound investment in your future.
Tropea, Calabria, Italy
Perched on dramatic limestone cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea in Southern Italy’s Calabria region is a true gem. Often called the “Amalfi Coast without the crowds,” it combines medieval charm with pristine, turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Its historic old town, filled with narrow alleys and Baroque churches, offers a genuine Italian experience. The area is gaining popularity among international buyers and digital nomads drawn by its affordability and authentic lifestyle. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and improving infrastructure, Tropea is a rising star in Italy’s second-home market.
- Buying Property: Look for character-filled apartments in the historic center or newer homes in the Marina district. For panoramic views, villas in Capo Vaticano are a great option.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from around €130,000, with detached homes and sea-view villas from €250,000.
- Getting There: The nearest airport is Lamezia Terme International Airport, about an hour away.
Castiglione della Pescaia, Tuscany, Italy
Located on Tuscany’s southern coast, Castiglione della Pescaia is a beautifully preserved seaside town blending medieval history with beachside elegance. Its hilltop fortress overlooks pine forests and one of Italy’s cleanest coastlines. It’s a favorite summer escape for wealthy Italian families but maintains a relaxed, liveable atmosphere. The area offers a mix of stylish beach clubs, local markets, and proximity to natural parks and wine estates. This is a premium destination for those seeking Tuscan luxury by the sea.
- Buying Property: Property options range from charming homes in the medieval upper town to secluded villas in exclusive areas like Punta Ala and Roccamare.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start around €250,000, while detached villas can exceed €500,000.
- Getting There: The town is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Pisa International Airport.
Rethymno, Crete, Greece
Situated on Crete’s northern coast, Rethymno is a beautiful town that blends golden beaches with stunning Venetian architecture. Its old quarter is a maze of charming alleyways and vibrant cafés, all watched over by a 16th-century fortress. Despite being a larger town, Rethymno feels intimate and is popular with expats and second-home owners who appreciate its authenticity and slower pace of life. It offers a liveable environment with a year-round atmosphere, good local healthcare, and access to nearby mountain villages and historical monasteries.
- Buying Property: Explore the Old Town for charming apartments or the seafront for modern options. Nearby villages like Adele and Platanes offer quieter alternatives.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from €150,000, with stone houses or villas from €250,000.
- Getting There: Rethymno is about an hour from both Chania and Heraklion airports.
Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
One of the Algarve’s most vibrant and scenic towns, Lagos offers a perfect mix of dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and a lively marina. With a rich history and a friendly expat community, it is a fantastic destination for both holiday homes and permanent relocation. Unlike some resorts that close down in winter, Lagos maintains a year-round atmosphere, with excellent restaurants, golf courses, and opportunities for surfing and hiking. Its blend of Portuguese authenticity and modern comforts makes it a perennial favorite.
- Buying Property: Look for sea-view villas in Porto de Mós, modern apartments near Meia Praia, or charming homes in the historic town center.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start around €250,000, while detached villas with pools start from €500,000.
- Getting There: Faro Airport is about an hour’s drive away.
Calheta & Ponta do Sol, Madeira, Portugal
Located on Madeira’s sunny southwest coast, Calheta and Ponta do Sol are two of the island’s most sought-after spots. Calheta features one of the island’s only sandy beaches and a sleek marina, while Ponta do Sol is a picturesque village known for its famously sunny microclimate. Both towns offer a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by lush valleys and hiking trails, all within a 30-minute drive of Funchal. They are becoming increasingly popular with remote workers and retirees.
- Buying Property: Villas with panoramic sea views can be found in the hills above Prazeres and Arco da Calheta. In Ponta do Sol, the town center offers a more traditional setting.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start around €200,000, with sea-view villas with pools from €400,000.
- Getting There: Madeira Airport is roughly 45 minutes away by car.
Viana do Castelo, Norte, Portugal
On Portugal’s Costa Verde, Viana do Castelo is a hidden gem that combines historic elegance with Atlantic beaches and green hills. Its medieval center, beautiful tiled mansions, and iconic hilltop basilica give it a unique character. The town is less touristy than the Algarve and offers a slower pace of life, fresh seafood, and excellent value for money. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking an authentic Portuguese experience within easy reach of Porto.
- Buying Property: The historic center offers charming apartments, while the hills of Santa Luzia provide villas with stunning sea views.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start around €160,000, with detached homes from €280,000.
- Getting There: Porto Airport is about 45 minutes away by car.
Rovinj, Istria Peninsula, Croatia
Often compared to Italy’s Cinque Terre, Rovinj is a stunning Venetian-style port town on Croatia’s Istrian coast. Its old town, with its pastel façades and baroque church, is a timeless masterpiece. The area is known for its narrow cobbled streets, working fishing boats, excellent gastronomy, and a strong Italian cultural influence. With Croatia’s entry into the EU and Schengen Zone, Rovinj has emerged as a stable and desirable choice for both lifestyle buyers and long-term investors.
- Buying Property: The Old Town is full of charming apartments. For modern homes and easier parking, look in Borik or Centener.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments in the Old Town start from €250,000, with sea-view houses or villas from €500,000.
- Getting There: Pula Airport is about 40 minutes away.
Protaras, East Coast, Cyprus
Located on the eastern tip of Cyprus, Protaras is a sun-soaked resort known for its soft sandy beaches and turquoise waters, including the famous Fig Tree Bay. It is more peaceful and family-friendly than nearby Ayia Napa, with a well-planned, modern infrastructure. Protaras is increasingly appealing for international buyers seeking a high-quality second home or a rental investment in a safe, accessible location. The island’s low taxes and English-speaking legal system make property ownership straightforward.
- Buying Property: Look near Fig Tree Bay and Pernera for easy beach access. For better value and a more traditional feel, the nearby town of Paralimni is an excellent option.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from €160,000, with modern villas with pools from around €350,000.
- Getting There: Larnaca International Airport is about 45 minutes away.
Biarritz, Anglet and Bayonne, France
This area on France’s Atlantic coast offers a sophisticated blend of surfing, history, and architectural elegance. Biarritz has a rich history as a playground for European aristocracy, with Belle Époque palaces and a vibrant scene. Anglet is a world-class surfing center with pine forests and golf courses, while Bayonne offers a more traditional Basque vibe with its half-timbered houses and historic center. This region provides a unique combination of coastal lifestyle and urban sophistication, all within a short distance of each other.
- Buying Property: In Biarritz, seafront apartments and villas near landmarks are in high demand. Anglet offers architect-designed modern homes, while Bayonne’s historic center provides cultural authenticity at a more accessible price.
- Budgets: A two-bedroom apartment can be found from around €250,000, with houses from €450,000.
- Getting There: Biarritz Airport is right in the middle of the area.
La Baule-Escoublac, Loire Atlantique, France
La Baule is a glamorous slice of France’s Atlantic coast, home to a nine-kilometer stretch of golden sand lined with Belle Époque villas and luxury boutiques. It offers a classy, less crowded alternative to the Riviera, with a mild oceanic climate and a sophisticated lifestyle. It’s an ideal destination for beach lovers and foodies. The nearby town of Le Pouliguen offers a quieter, charming harbor feel with a local market and sheltered beaches.
- Buying Property: Look for classic villas or smart apartments near the beach. The port area of Le Pouliguen offers both charm and sea views.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start around €350,000, with houses from €650,000.
- Getting There: The nearest international airport is Nantes, about an hour away.
Menton, Alpes-Maritimes, France
Located on the eastern tip of the French Riviera, right on the Italian border, Menton blends the glamour of the Côte d’Azur with a relaxed, garden-filled charm. Known as the “Pearl of France,” it boasts a uniquely mild microclimate. The town features subtropical botanical gardens, pastel-hued Belle Époque buildings, and a famous Lemon Festival. Its sheltered position makes it a great choice for year-round living, with easy access to Italy, Monaco, and Nice.
- Buying Property: The Garavan district is highly prized for sea views. The Old Town offers charming, historic homes, while areas just inland provide a quieter, more walkable lifestyle.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from around €350,000, with houses from €700,000.
- Getting There: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is just over 40 minutes away.
Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
The Stockholm Archipelago is a vast, enchanting collection of over 30,000 islands just a short distance from Sweden’s capital. It offers a unique mix of Nordic nature and stylish Scandinavian living. Many islands are car-free, fostering a peaceful, off-grid lifestyle. Summers are bright and golden, while winters offer a serene, reflective beauty. This is the dream location for a summer house (sommarstuga) and is increasingly being discovered by international buyers who appreciate its low-key charm and high quality of life.
- Buying Property: Property ranges from charming cottages to year-round villas. Vaxholm is great for ferry access, while Möja and Runmarö are perfect for nature lovers.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom cottages start around €250,000, with sea-view houses from €500,000.
- Getting There: Most islands are reached by frequent ferries from central Stockholm.
Estepona, Costa del Sol, Spain
Historically overshadowed by nearby Marbella, Estepona is now firmly on the radar of foreign buyers. This former fishing village has evolved into a perfectly rounded resort that blends Andalusian charm with modern amenities. Recent investment has included the pedestrianization of its old town, the creation of new cultural hubs, and the development of luxury hotels and beach clubs. Estepona offers a long sandy beach, a picturesque old town, and a lively marina, making it a well-rounded destination for any type of buyer.
- Buying Property: Look in the old town and port area for central locations. The New Golden Mile offers modern complexes, and golf communities are to the west.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from €250,000, with townhouses from €400,000 and villas from €500,000.
- Getting There: Malaga Airport is about 50 minutes away, while Gibraltar is around 45 minutes away.
Orihuela Costa, Southern Costa Blanca, Spain
A favorite with British and northern European homeowners, Orihuela Costa is a collection of small beach resorts and urbanizations known for its expat-friendly atmosphere and excellent value. It offers a vast choice of properties within walking distance of the beach and lively promenades, with a wide range of bars and restaurants. It’s a year-round destination with excellent golf courses and marinas, making it a great option for those seeking a vibrant but affordable community.
- Buying Property: Popular beach areas include Punta Prima, Playa Flamenca, and La Zenia. For more residential options, Villamartín and Los Dolses are popular choices.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from €150,000, with townhouses from €225,000 and villas from around €300,000.
- Getting There: Alicante Airport is about 40-45 minutes away.
Santa Eulària des Riu, Ibiza, Spain
Located on the east coast of Ibiza, Santa Eulària des Riu is the island’s sophisticated, family-friendly resort town. It is known for its upscale marina, art galleries, and peaceful atmosphere, a stark contrast to the party-centric west. It’s popular with year-round residents and second-home owners who want to enjoy the beauty of Ibiza without the chaos. It offers a more cultured lifestyle with boutique shopping, wellness retreats, and stylish beach restaurants, all while being a short drive away from the rest of the island’s famous attractions.
- Buying Property: Focus on properties in the peaceful hillside suburb of Siesta or chic villas in Jesus. Seafront homes near the Passeig Marítim are also highly sought after.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from around €400,000, with detached houses or villas from €850,000.
- Getting There: Ibiza Airport is 25 minutes away by car.
Los Alcazares, Costa Calida, Spain
Los Alcazares is a thriving resort on the Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon. The area is gaining popularity as house-hunters discover that their euros stretch further here than on the more developed Costa Blanca. The town is still very local and attracts as many Spaniards as it does foreigners. Its 7km of sandy beaches and calm, tidal-free waters make it an ideal spot for families and water sports lovers. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with less exclusive but high-quality golf courses nearby.
- Buying Property: Newer homes are found in the Los Narejos area. For a more traditional home, head to the original old town.
- Budgets: Apartments start from €125,000, with villas from €275,000.
- Getting There: Murcia Airport is just 30 minutes away, with Alicante around an hour’s drive.
Castellón Coast, Costa Azahar, Spain
Spain’s Costa Azahar—the “Orange Blossom Coast”—offers some of the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets. The Castellón stretch is refreshingly low-key and affordable, with long, uncrowded beaches and authentic Spanish seaside towns. The area is gaining attention due to improved transport and the development of luxury, sustainable communities like Porta de Mar. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with over 300 days of sunshine and proximity to the vibrant city of Valencia.
- Buying Property: Explore Benicàssim for its lively atmosphere, Oropesa del Mar for family resorts, and Porta de Mar for modern, eco-conscious homes.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments start from €160,000, with modern villas from €770,000.
- Getting There: Castellón Airport is 25 minutes away.
Kalkan, Antalya Province, Turkey
Nicknamed the “Saint Tropez of Turkey,” Kalkan is a desirable resort set in an amphitheater-shaped bay. The views alone are enough to win over house-hunters. The old town is a beautifully preserved gem with narrow streets, boutiques, and over 100 restaurants, many with stunning terrace views. Kalkan is an internationally acclaimed gastronomic hotspot and offers access to beautiful unspoiled beaches, including the famous Patara, which is part of a national park.
- Buying Property: The higher up the hillside you go, the better the view. Komourluk and Kalamar Bay are popular areas on either side of the center. Ortaalan is a newer district known for luxury villas.
- Budgets: Two-bedroom apartments from £225,000, with villas starting from £375,000.
- Getting There: Dalaman Airport is the nearest, with transfers taking about 90 minutes.
St Julian’s, Malta
St Julian’s is a buzzing resort on Malta’s central east coast. It’s a lively, year-round destination with luxury hotels, modern apartments, and some of Malta’s best nightlife and shopping. The resort is set around a series of bays and offers a mix of leisure amenities, making it ideal for couples, resident professionals, and families who enjoy being at the center of the action. Its location makes it perfect for exploring the rest of the island’s historical and natural wonders.
- Buying Property: Look for modern apartments and luxury homes in the town center or surrounding bays.
- Budgets: This is a premium market, with prices varying greatly depending on the property’s location and size.
- Getting There: Malta International Airport is a short drive away.
Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland
The colorful harbor town of Kinsale in County Cork is one of Ireland’s most picturesque coastal destinations. It is known for its beautiful Georgian and Victorian buildings, narrow streets, and bustling marina. Kinsale is a culinary hub, often referred to as the “Gourmet Capital of Ireland,” with a wide range of award-winning restaurants and cafés. It’s a great choice for those seeking a sophisticated, year-round lifestyle with a strong sense of community. The area offers a mix of sailing, fishing, and golf, and is within easy reach of Cork City.
- Buying Property: Look for colorful Georgian townhouses in the center or modern homes overlooking the harbor. Surrounding areas offer a more rural feel.
- Budgets: Prices in Kinsale are higher than the national average, reflecting its desirability.
- Getting There: Cork Airport is about a 20-30 minute drive away.
