The Subdued Summer Circuit
Low-Key and Quiet(er) Escapes in Europe.
Looking for a summer escape that has it all—crystal-clear blue water, endless sunshine, postcard-perfect towns—but without the cliché itineraries or influencer stampede? These destinations deliver all the magic without the madness.
Think of them as the effortlessly cool younger siblings of the more overexposed hot spots: just as beautiful, rich in culture, and full of charm—but a little quieter, a little less traveled, and refreshingly off the Instagram circuit. No overpriced beach clubs, no jostling for the "perfect" sunset snap—just laid-back beauty and authentic vibes.
Whether you’re dreaming of picking lavender in a sun-drenched field, catching world-class waves, sipping wine at a tucked-away vineyard, or swimming in hidden turquoise coves, these under-the-radar gems are ready to surprise you—in the best way.
Antibes, France
Seen Score: 10
Recommended length of stay: 1+ week.
Last Seen: Summer 2024.
Antibes is a solid 10—no notes, just pure French Riviera perfection. It’s one of those places that makes you question why you’ve ever vacationed anywhere else. With its dreamy Antibes old town, sparkling coastline lined with mega yachts, world-class art, and seafood so fresh it basically swims onto your plate, Antibes is easily the crown jewel of the Côte d’Azur.
Think of it as everything people wish Nice would be—minus the gridlock, crowds, and tourist traps. Antibes is quieter, chicer, and feels effortlessly, authentically French. If you're wondering where to base yourself along the Riviera, this is your spot.
What to do in Antibes: Start with the Cap d’Antibes coastal walk—a breathtaking one-hour trail hugging the sea, winding past rocky cliffs and hidden coves, ending with a dip in the ultra-exclusive Billionaires Bay.
Or charter a boat or yacht and spend a day cruising the Riviera like it’s your full-time job. Back on land, carve out time for the Musée Picasso Antibes—Pablo himself lived and painted here. The town is dotted with ceramic studios and cozy galleries that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a living watercolor.
Every turn is photo-worthy: vine-draped alleyways, sun-drenched plazas, quaint cafés, and boulangeries. It’s one of those towns where “just walking around” is the main event—and a totally satisfying one at that.
For a splurge, grab a drink at the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc—where old-school glamour lingers (and where Sofia Richie recently got married). Or head a few minutes down the coast to Juan-les-Pins, Antibes’ more relaxed neighbor, known for beach clubs and resort-style buzz.
Evenings shine at the Provençal market in Antibes. Grab a lobster roll or savory crepe, sip on a crisp glass of rosé, and watch golden hour turn the streets into a movie scene.
Pro tip: The train station just outside the old town’s ramparts makes exploring easy. Go west to Cannes for upscale beach clubs and red carpet energy, or east toward Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Èze, and Villefranche-sur-Mer—each more charming as you approach the Italian border.
If you’re renting a car, take a quick 30-minute drive to Saint-Paul-de-Vence—a must-see medieval village packed with art galleries, cobbled lanes, sweeping valley views, and enough Provençal wine to make you cancel your return flight.
Bottom line: For coastal France without the chaos, Antibes is your answer.
Cascais, Portugal
Seen Score: 8.1
Recommended length of stay: long weekend
Last Seen: Spring 2025.
Cascais you later! Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, this coastal stunner feels like stepping right into a postcard. This polished yet relaxed town boasts golden beaches nestled between cobblestone streets, lively plazas, and charming local bars.
Take a dip just steps from your seafood lunch, sip on a caipirão (Portugal’s herbal answer to a mojito), or watch fishermen’s boats bob in the harbor while enjoying grilled octopus or prawns that taste like summer in every bite.
Craving more? Try high-end canned sardines (don’t knock it till you try it), dig into rich codfish stew, or savor other local seafood delicacies—best paired with a crisp glass of vinho verde and an ocean breeze.
While parts of Cascais cater to tourists, wander a bit and you’ll find its quieter side: winding alleys, cozy cafés like The Coffee or Euphoria, and hidden corners full of old-world charm. When happy hour hits, grab a cocktail at Hotel Albatroz with panoramic views that might have you Googling “how to move to Cascais.”
At night, the town buzzes. People fill the plazas, pubs come alive, and spots like Solo Club keep the party going late. For dramatic Atlantic vibes, head to the cliffs at Boca do Inferno, or escape the crowds with a boho drink at Palaphita Cascais.
For a splashier dinner, book a seaside table at Maré by José Avillez—where the ocean practically joins you at the table. If you have a car, take a scenic drive to Praia da Adraga, a rugged beach framed by huge boulders and crashing surf that feels like a Bond film set.
If time allows, don’t miss nearby Sintra. Just 30 minutes inland, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a fairy tale come to life, with misty forests, hidden gardens, and castles like the iconic Pena Palace. Pro tip: book tickets in advance and take an Uber—parking is notoriously difficult.
Cascais may start as a quick Lisbon day trip—but you’ll wish you’d booked a few extra days.
Comporta, Portugal
Seen Score: 7.4
Recommended length of stay: long weekend.
Last Seen: Spring 2025.
Comporta, Portugal, is the ultimate escape for those seeking a subdued summer vibe. Just two hours south of Lisbon along the stunning Alentejo coast, it’s the kind of place that makes you wonder how it’s stayed so under the radar. With its raw, rugged beauty, Comporta feels untouched and effortlessly cool—think barefoot luxury with a bohemian twist.
Getting to Comporta requires a car, a great playlist, and maybe a brief existential crisis on a dirt road—but once you arrive, the change is undeniable. The pace slows, your shoulders drop, and suddenly your phone doesn’t seem nearly as interesting. This is Comporta travel at its finest—no blaring beach clubs, no influencer photo shoots, just understated style and salty sea air.
The village of Comporta and nearby spots like Carvalhal and Brejos are dotted with whitewashed cottages, boutique hotels, and low-key villas blending seamlessly into the landscape. The vibe? Chill, not flashy.
Days in Comporta revolve around sun, sea, and sand. Claim a sunbed at the best beach clubs in Comporta—Praia da Comporta, Carvalhal, or Pego Beach—and settle in. Swim, surf, read, nap, and repeat. For the active traveler, gentle surfing or long walks through rice paddies and pine forests offer peaceful ways to explore this hidden gem. But truly, doing nothing here feels like doing everything.
When golden hour hits, the town softens. Grab a table at Restaurante Sal, Sublime Beach Club, or Comporta Café, where house music hums and rosé flows freely—all while you stay barefoot and salty from the beach. For authentic local eats beyond the sand, try Sado or Gomes, known for fresh, unfussy Portuguese fare.
For overnight stays, Sublime Comporta and Quinta da Comporta are minimalist heaven—five-star perks wrapped in soothing neutrals, infinity pools, open-air yoga decks, and spas so good that relaxing becomes the main event.
Pro tips: Book early, especially in summer. While Comporta feels like a secret, it’s a popular one. And yes, you’ll need a car—not just to arrive but to explore the spread-out beaches and nearby villages.
Mallorca, Spain
Seen Score: 7.7
Recommended length of stay: long weekend.
Last seen: Summer 2022.
Mallorca isn’t just crowded beaches and busy resorts—it’s a laid-back island full of stunning natural beauty, charming villages, and unforgettable food and nightlife. If you want the perfect Mallorca travel guide to a subdued summer, explore the island’s quieter treasures.
Start in Pollenca, a historic town known for its art scene and cobblestone streets—ideal for leisurely strolls and soaking up authentic local life. Nearby, Fornalutx, often named one of Spain’s prettiest villages, charms with stone houses and fragrant orange groves. For a memorable meal, hit Es Turó, a local hotspot serving fresh, elevated Mallorcan cuisine with spectacular views.
Beach lovers will adore Cala Deià, a small cove with crystal-clear waters and a boho-chic vibe—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. Add Cala Molí, a tranquil, secluded beach and one of Mallorca’s best hidden gems. Beyond these, Mallorca offers tons of secret coves waiting to be explored—perfect for lovers of undiscovered beaches.
When hunger strikes, check out Mallorca restaurants like La Bodeguilla in Palma, known for fresh Mediterranean flavors, or Ombu Tapas, where traditional tapas meet modern creativity. For cliffside dining, book a table at Cas Patro March, perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the sea.
For accommodations, the Belmond Hotel in Deià offers luxury surrounded by olive groves and mountain views—a perfect mix of tranquility and elegance. Another great pick is Bikini Hotel, known for chic style and beachfront location, ideal for a relaxed yet vibrant base.
For a low-key night, sip cocktails at Chapeau 1987 or Bar Abaco. Or dance under the stars on the rooftop at Cuba Hostel, a lively spot where locals and travelers mix. Feeling bold? Venture over to Magaluf for mega clubs like BCM and Tito’s, where the wild nightlife scene is a whole other level—though it tends to attract a younger crowd.
No Mallorca trip is complete without exploring Palma’s historic center. Wander narrow streets, marvel at the gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria, and enjoy a dynamic mix of traditional and modern dining and bars.
Mallorca’s magic is its balance—peaceful seaside days and vibrant nights, rustic villages and cosmopolitan charm. Embrace the subdued summer where every moment feels effortlessly perfect.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Seen Score: 7.3
Recommended length of stay: 1 week.
Last Seen: Summer 2011.
The Amalfi Coast is famous worldwide for its stunning cliffs, colorful villages, and turquoise seas—but behind the postcard-perfect scenes lies a quieter side, perfect for a subdued summer getaway. Think breathtaking views without the tourist traffic jams (or the guy selling lemon-scented everything).
Skip the busiest hours in Positano and instead find your peace in Ravello, perched high above the sea with gardens so serene you’ll forget your phone exists. Wander through lemon groves or lounge in the lush Villa Cimbrone Gardens, where the views are so good, even the local cats seem to pause and admire.
For a calm beach day, head to tucked-away coves like Marina di Praia, a pebble beach hugged by cliffs in Praiano. Swim in clear waters, soak up the sun, and enjoy the rare luxury of personal space (hint: no inflatable flamingos stealing your towel).
When hunger calls, opt for family-run trattorias like Trattoria da Lorenzo in Atrani, where the homemade pasta and freshly caught seafood remind you that rushing through dinner is not an option here. Pair your meal with a chilled glass of local Falanghina or Lacrima Christi wine—and don’t be surprised if you find yourself slowly mastering the art of doing nothing.
For a peaceful stay, boutique hotels like Hotel Villa Cimbrone in Ravello offer quiet luxury and views so spectacular they practically deserve their own Instagram account. But hey, no pressure—just soak it in.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet aperitivo on a terrace overlooking the sea, watching fishing boats drift by while the sky puts on a show just for you. Later, stroll through softly lit piazzas where gentle music fills the air—perfect for wrapping up your day without the usual nightclub chaos.
Whether you’re hiking the scenic Path of the Gods or savoring limoncello in a sun-dappled courtyard, the Amalfi Coast’s subdued summer side invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and enjoy the Italian coast without the crowd—or the lemon merch overload.
Sitges, Spain
Seen Score: 7.2
Recommended length of stay: long weekend.
Last seen: Summer 2018.
Just a short drive from Barcelona, Sitges, Spain is a hidden gem for American travelers looking to avoid the party crowds of Ibiza, Mallorca, and Marbella. It’s perfect for a subdued summer escape—imagine Mediterranean charm without the noise, and plenty more sangria.
For peaceful beach days, head to Platja de Sant Sebastià, a quiet spot ideal for slow swims and soaking up the sun. If you want a bit more energy but still no wild parties, Platja de la Fragata offers watersports and a relaxed promenade lined with cozy cafés and boutique shops—no inflatable unicorns in sight.
Sitges’ historic center is a charming maze of narrow streets and whitewashed buildings, centered around the graceful Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, which dramatically overlooks the sea. Wander through galleries and museums that showcase the town’s artistic spirit—all without dodging selfie sticks.
When hunger strikes, check out La Zorra or Fragata for delicious local fare.
Cocktail hour is all about chill vibes and expertly mixed drinks. Unwind with a classic mojito or a smooth caipirinha at El Pou. For something more refined, try the signature Sitges Sour at Picnic Bar, or enjoy a sunset drink with a local craft beer or creative cocktail at La Sitgetana Craft Beer.
As night falls, Sitges stays inviting without turning into Ibiza’s louder cousin. Bars along Passeig de la Ribera and the mellow Carrer del Pecat (aka Sin Street) provide the perfect setting to toast the day—without needing earplugs.
Whether you’re after a laid-back day trip from Barcelona or a slow-paced seaside retreat, Sitges is the perfect subdued summer destination—refreshingly off the beaten path and far more relaxed than the usual Spanish party hotspots.
Honorable Mentions
Taormina, Sicily, Italy
Last Seen: Summer 2021.
Alghero, Sardinia, Italy
Last seen: Summer 2024.
Biarritz, France
Last Seen: Spring 2025.
Aix-en-Provence, France
Last Seen: Summer 2024.