Sometimes the best kind of holiday isn’t about checking off landmarks or racing from one attraction to another. It’s about slowing down, unplugging, and simply taking in your surroundings.
When looking for where to go for a peaceful escape, look no further than Europe. Here, you’ll discover an endless supply of tranquil corners that invite you to breathe a little deeper and soak in the stillness. Whether it’s coastal serenity or countryside charm, here are some of the best places to stay in Europe for a relaxing getaway.
Tuscany, Italy
There’s a magic to Tuscany that’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it. Maybe it’s the way the landscape rolls out like a patchwork quilt of vineyards and cypress trees. Or the way time seems to stretch on in a place where tradition and beauty go hand in hand.
Small towns like Pienza or Montepulciano are perfect for slowing down. Everything feels timeless, from the rhythm of village life to the scent of fresh bread wafting through narrow stone streets. It’s the kind of place where no one’s in a rush, and even the bells tolling from the church tower feel like they’re in no hurry.
Visitors will find that days in Tuscany unfold gently, making it the perfect place for a peaceful escape. Enjoy morning walks through dewy vineyards, lazy afternoons with a book under an olive tree, and evenings filled with local wine and stories shared over candlelight.
Hvar, Croatia
Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is famous, but Hvar offers a gentler rhythm, especially outside the summer party crowds. Tucked away from the lively harbour scene, the island reveals its quieter side with lavender fields, hidden coves, and olive groves that stretch toward the hills.
Spend your time wandering through the old stone villages in Hvar, allowing you to slow down and take in the beautiful surroundings. Early mornings here feel like a scene from a postcard with picturesque vistas and a peaceful atmosphere. This makes it perfect for anyone who finds joy in simplicity, sunsets over the sea, long swims in crystal-clear water, and unhurried meals on vine-covered terraces.
What’s great about Hvar is that once you have spent some time recharging, you can easily explore more of the coastline by hopping on Croatia cruises, which offer a laid-back way to discover other scenic spots along the Adriatic.
Milos, Greece
While the more famous Greek islands get much of the spotlight, Milos keeps a lower profile. This volcanic island in the Aegean is full of soft, surreal landscapes, quiet fishing villages, and beaches that feel like private retreats.
There’s something deeply calming about life on Milos. The pace is slow, the air smells of sea salt and wild herbs, and the sunsets feel like they last forever. Most visitors find themselves lulled into the island’s rhythm, wandering through the whitewashed alleys of Plaka, swimming in turquoise water, and sharing long, quiet meals by the sea.
If a peaceful escape means walking barefoot down to a secluded beach or watching the stars in silence, Milos might just be the perfect place to stay.
Marbella, Spain
Forget what you’ve heard about Marbella’s flashy nightlife. Just beyond the glitz, the surrounding hills and coastline offer a completely different story, one that’s much slower, quieter, and ideal for relaxation.
The Andalusian countryside near Marbella is where things really mellow out. Rolling hills covered in olive trees, picturesque villages perched on ridges, and narrow roads that lead to serene mountain views. This is where mornings begin with golden sunlight streaming through open shutters, and afternoons pass in the shade of an orange tree.
For those who love a mix of nature and Spanish culture, this region delivers. Plus, when looking for the ultimate retreat, there are some incredible villas from The Luxury Villa Collection that provide that much-needed space to truly unwind and relax.
The Algarve, Portugal
Yes, parts of the Algarve are tourist-heavy, but venture a little farther from the main towns, and you’ll discover a coast that feels almost untouched. Think golden cliffs, sleepy fishing villages, and stretches of beach where the only sound is waves hitting the shore.
The western Algarve, in particular, offers a sense of space and solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. The sea breeze is constant, the skies are wide and open, and time feels like it’s on pause. This area is tailor-made for quiet walks along rugged trails, early morning yoga with an ocean view, or simply sitting on a rock and watching the tide roll in.
Nature lovers will also appreciate the slow beauty here. Enjoy endless opportunities to sit back and unwind while marvelling over exceptional seaside vistas or watching the world go by from the quaint towns.
How to Plan a Relaxing Escape
Planning a peaceful escape isn’t just about picking a quiet destination. It’s about creating space for calm. That starts with choosing the right kind of place to stay. Look for small guesthouses, countryside villas, or remote cottages. The goal is fewer crowds, more connection to nature, and a setting that encourages rest.
Timing matters too. Visiting in the shoulder seasons, spring and early autumn, can make all the difference. Fewer tourists, mild weather, and more affordable rates all add to the relaxed vibe.
Finally, think about what brings you peace. Is it hiking along coastal trails? Long baths in a countryside cottage? Reading for hours without checking your phone? Let those things guide your plans. A relaxing escape is less about what you see and more about how you feel while you’re there.
No matter how you choose to spend your relaxing getaway, there are a ton of incredible destinations to suit an array of itineraries throughout Europe. Whether it’s a sun-drenched island in Greece or a misty hilltop village in Italy, you’ll discover plenty of beautiful places waiting to be discovered.
