Top 10 European Destinations That Are COVID-19 Safe

It's no secret that the coronavirus pandemic has put a halt on many people’s holiday plans. From lockdowns to cancellations, and fear of travelling abroad and contracting the virus, the way we conduct holidays, and where, is changing. It’s still Summer, however, and after up to 4 months in lockdown, many of us want to get out, stretch our legs and travel. To that end, we’re exploring 10 of the best European holiday destinations that are COVID-19 safe.

Malta

The beautiful island of Malta is one rich with history. From Crusaders to Knights, beautiful North African architecture beautiful views of the Mediterranean, Malta is the ideal holiday destination this summer. To top it all off, however, Malta has had almost no coronavirus cases compared to its European neighbours and hasn’t had the healthcare concerns or crises that many others have faced. Strongly dependant on tourism, there’s no time like the present to get away from it all and relax whilst supporting local businesses without worrying about getting ill.

Corfu, Greece

Islands and coastal destinations make up a number of our entries on this list, partly thanks to their relative isolation during the pandemic. Greece overall has been one of the lesser-affected nations in Europe despite concerns about potential outbreaks, and Corfu even less affected. With stunning warmth, beauty, and sun, Corfu promises to combine an appreciation of Byzantine history with the captivating views and natural beauty that made it such an alluring historical fortress in the first place.

Madeira Islands, Portugal

Another island entry, the Madeira Islands have weathered the entire pandemic practically untouched by the virus as a result of Portugal’s strict lockdown. With few cases and no fatalities, Madeira is the perfect holiday destination to stop worrying about COVID-19 and start worrying about your tan line. Kick back and enjoy the dream destination with its amazing views, wildlife, romance, activities and more.

Zagreb, Croatia

Moving to the Balkans, Zagreb, located inland from the Adriatic Coast, has been relatively spared by the pandemic, suffering much fewer cases than other European countries. A historically and culturally significant city in the region, it serves as a central location for those seeking to travel through the Balkans or wishing to see Croatia at some of it’s best. Enjoy a number of beautiful parks, zoos, and castles in the city before taking in the vibrant nightlife that makes Croatia a popular destination for partygoers.

Kotor, Montenegro

Further down the Adriatic, you have the idyllic bay town of Kotor. Coronavirus cases in Montenegro have been very low, but in Kotor, they’ve been absolutely non-existent. Only a few hours from the seaside city of Dubrovnik, and with trendy student-hotspot Mostar only a little bit further afield, Kotor benefits from perfect placement at the bottom of the Adriatic Coast. With stunning views, beautiful geography, and enticing culture, Kotor exists as a beacon to those who want to be able to retreat into nature but with the friendly familiarity of town at the tips of their fingers.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna has grown much over the last 2,000 years and has seen its fair share of conflict, culture, and growth. Today, it stands as a beacon for historians, aesthetes, partygoers, and scientists. Austria, despite being at the crossroads of Western Europe, has not experienced cases of coronavirus at the same extent as its neighbours, and this complements well its reputation for having one of the best quality of life ratings in Europe. With beautiful boulevards and parks, effective public transport, and a rich museum around every corner, Vienna is a must-do for city-breaks.

Warsaw, Poland

Poland has had relatively few cases of coronavirus, thanks to an extensive two-week lockdown after the country reported a handful of cases back in March. Warsaw, the capital, offers its fair share of intrigue and cultural sights, starting with the neo-Stalinist Palace of Science and Culture which pierces the city’s skyline at its centre. Look further and you’ll find rich shopping centres, historical experiences examining the history of Poland, monuments to the Polish Jews that endured the horrors of the Second World War, and countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Riga, Latvia

A famous historical port, Riga now sits at the base of the Gulf of Riga, inland from the Eastern Baltic Sea. Changing hands throughout history between tribes and knights, merchants and kings, empires and autocrats, Riga has endured history to stand testimony to the strength of Latvians and remains the same bustling town it always has been. With beautiful Baltic architecture, bright vibrant colours, colourful local culture and art aplenty, Riga is also one of the least affected places in Europe during the coronavirus pandemic, remaining in the “Green Zone” for the vast majority of the last 6 months.

Vilnius, Lithuania

To the South East of Riga, you come to Vilnius, capital of Lithuania, a city which has been a seat of culture and union for Lithuanians for centuries. Routinely found to be one of the safest capitals in Europe, Vilnius boasts a rich blend of history and artistic opportunities, inviting you to experience both museums and monuments alongside galleries and art installations, as well as living in the heart of beautiful Lithuanian architecture. The City is also reputable for having some of the best nightlife in Eastern Europe and boasts a strong number of bars and restaurants to unwind in.

Batumi, Georgia

If Madeira took you to the Far West of Europe, Batumi is taking you to the Far East. Located in South Georgia, on the Turkish Border, Batumi boasts not only an agreeable climate all year round but almost non-existent cases of COVID-19. Georgia managed the pandemic very well, keeping cases low and deaths lower, with the majority being focused around the capital Tbilisi. Out on the coast, Batumi enjoys the gifts of the Black Sea and being the second city of Georgia, boasting a strong tourist economy around wine, spa facilities, and outdoor activists such as hiking. A cultural paradise, it is often known better as “The Pearl of the Black Sea”.