Europe is a treasure trove of destinations perfect for villa holidays. Whether you’re dreaming of sun-soaked coastlines, peaceful countryside retreats or dramatic island views, there’s something for every traveller looking to enjoy a home-away-from-home experience.
Villa holidays offer a sense of space, privacy and local immersion that hotels simply can’t match. Picture lazy mornings by your private pool, dinners on the terrace with local wine, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. From the Mediterranean’s azure waters to the vineyards of Tuscany, a well-chosen villa can transform a simple holiday into something unforgettable.
In this guide, we explore five of the best European destinations for villa holidays. These spots combine stunning scenery, rich culture and a wealth of villa options to suit families, couples and groups. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a big family gathering, these are places worth putting at the top of your list.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany offers villa holidays straight out of a postcard, such as rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and charming stone farmhouses surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Staying in a Tuscan villa allows you to slow down and savour the simple pleasures: wine tastings in Chianti, exploring Renaissance towns like Florence and Siena, or enjoying a leisurely lunch under the pergola with locally made pecorino and fresh bread.
The region is steeped in culture and history, yet it remains delightfully rustic in its day-to-day life. Many villas come with private pools and panoramic views, making them ideal for families or romantic escapes. You can spend your mornings visiting medieval hilltop towns and your afternoons lounging by the pool with a glass of local red. Food lovers will find Tuscany irresistible, thanks to its hearty cuisine and world-class wines. A villa in Tuscany is more than accommodation; it’s a gateway to the Italian way of life.
Majorca, Spain
Majorca is the ultimate villa holiday destination for sun-seekers, offering a perfect mix of Mediterranean charm, golden beaches and rugged mountain views. Whether you’re after a coastal villa overlooking turquoise coves or a rural retreat in the Tramuntana mountains, villas in Majorca never fail to provide both style and seclusion.
The island is well-loved for its vibrant towns like Palma, full of tapas bars and boutique shops, and its peaceful inland villages where life moves at a slower pace. Families will love the shallow beaches of Alcúdia, while couples may gravitate towards the romantic ambience of Deià.
Beyond the beaches, there are vineyards, hiking trails and traditional markets to explore. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to uncover hidden coves and off-the-beaten-track eateries. The appeal of Majorca lies in its variety. Whether you want relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it all here. For a memorable, sun-soaked escape, Majorca is hard to beat.
The Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is Portugal’s sunniest region and a firm favourite for villa holidays, thanks to its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and relaxed pace of life. From lively resort towns like Albufeira to the peaceful fishing villages of the eastern coast, the Algarve caters to a wide range of travellers.
Villas here often come with large terraces, private pools and lush gardens, which are ideal for lazy afternoons and alfresco dinners. The region’s coastline is perfect for exploration, whether you’re into sea kayaking through caves, surfing, or just beach-hopping by car. Golfers will find world-class courses, while foodies can enjoy fresh seafood in traditional tascas.
The Algarve also makes a great choice for families, with plenty of waterparks, boat trips and sandy beaches safe for swimming. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and a villa to call your own, it’s easy to see why so many return here year after year.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is one of Europe’s most iconic islands, and it’s easy to see why. With its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches and sunsets that light up the caldera, this volcanic island is a dream location for villa holidays. Luxurious travel in Santorini only adds to the experience, so you can indulge in the island’s dramatic beauty while enjoying privacy and elegance.
Many villas are carved into the cliffs, offering infinity pools and terraces with jaw-dropping views over the Aegean Sea. Whether you’re in Oia or Imerovigli, you’ll find spots that feel tailor-made for romance and relaxation. Santorini also offers a rich history, from ancient ruins in Akrotiri to centuries-old wineries producing crisp Assyrtiko wines.
For those seeking tranquillity, the village of Pyrgos provides a quieter charm away from the crowds. A villa here offers a front-row seat to one of the most stunning settings in Europe – perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries or a truly indulgent getaway.
Provence, France
Provence is a region that seems tailor-made for villa holidays, with its lavender fields, sun-drenched vineyards and stone villages perched on hilltops. Renting a villa here offers an authentic taste of rural French life, such as morning visits to local markets, long lunches under olive trees, and evenings sipping rosé as the cicadas hum.
The Luberon and Alpilles regions are particularly popular, offering a mix of cultural sites and natural beauty. Explore towns like Gordes or Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, both brimming with character and charm. Many villas in Provence are beautifully restored farmhouses with shutters and terracotta roofs, oozing rustic elegance.
You will find yourself settling into the slower pace with ease, taking joy in the small details: freshly baked baguettes, local cheeses and scenic drives through vineyards and orchards. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Provence provides the perfect setting for a relaxing and enriching escape, far from the demands of modern life.
Where to Stay?
Villa holidays in Europe offer an unbeatable combination of comfort, privacy and cultural immersion. From the sun-drenched shores of Majorca to the cliffside elegance of Santorini, each destination featured here brings something special to the table.
Tuscany charms with its rustic beauty and rich cuisine, the Algarve delivers family-friendly fun with a laid-back vibe, and Provence captures the romance of rural France. A villa holiday allows you to travel at your own pace, live like a local, and create lasting memories in some of Europe’s most beautiful settings. Whether you’re planning a summer retreat, a special celebration, or just need a break from the usual routine, these five destinations are ideal places to unwind and reconnect.
