Europe is a stunning destination year-round but summer in Europe is exceptionally breathtaking. I studied abroad in Spain, lived in Croatia, traveled around Italy by train, spent a few months backpacking Europe, and made countless other trips around the continent.
Depending on which countries you’re visiting (as Europe is huge and diverse), you’ll run into mild temperatures and HOT days—so, as with most trips, it’s important to pack layers for all occasions.
Use my packing ideas below, but revise as needed based on your destination for summer in Europe!
Summer in Europe Details
Location: Western Europe
Travel Dates: May through August
Season: Summer (Months of June through September)
Weather: The weather in Western Europe during the summer is enjoyable, with July and August being the hottest months typically reaching over 90 degrees Fahrenheit (or 32 degrees Celsius). If you don’t enjoy the heat, opt to visit in May and June, or September and October.
Don’t miss my roundup of The Best Summer Destinations in Europe!
What to Pack for Summer in Europe
Essentials
1. Sun Hat // You’ll definitely need a wide-brim hat to protect you from the rays, and to keep you shaded while exploring those cobblestone streets. Plus they’re très chic, no?
2. Head Scarf // A headscarf is a great accessory for any summer outfit, as it can polish a look or you can add it as a fun accessory to your bag. It can also provide *a tiny* bit of warmth in case it gets chilly at night.
3. Sandals + Sneakers // You’ll spend lots of time walking, so I highly recommend bringing at least one pair of comfortable and supportive (and cute!) sandals and sneakers.
4. Sunglasses // Of course, you’ll want sunglasses—opt for some with UVA and UVB protection for your eyes.
5. Day Bag // You’ll want something durable and comfortable to carry throughout the day with your belongings and photography gear.
6. Tinted Moisturizer // Sunscreen is key and the days can get pretty toasty, so I like opting for a tinted moisturizer.
My Travel Photography Gear
(Perfect for Female Travelers!)
As a female traveler, there are a few things that are important when choosing photography gear. The first is size: I don’t want to lug around a big camera or have a camera so large that it draws unnecessary attention to myself.
Read More
Tops + Layers
7. Light Jacket // Although European summers are warm, a light jacket is perfect for chilly nights or windy days.
8. Denim Jacket // I love layering outfits with denim jackets because they’re typically cooler than sweaters or cardigans, plus they’re cute!
9. Blouses // I always bring a few blouses to mix and match. You’ll want comfortable and lightweight fabrics for those hot days.
10. Tank Tops // Again, you’ll want comfortable fabrics and a few options to mix and match with bottoms. Plus, tank tops are great for layering!
Bottoms
11. Shorts // You can never go wrong with a pair of denim shorts!
12. Comfy Shorts // I opted for some comfortable fabric shorts rather than denim shorts since they can be a bit uncomfortable on hot, hot days.
13. Denim Pants // For colder nights or going out in some cities, a pair of denim will be perfect.
14. Skirt // I love pairing a high-waisted skirt with a tank or blouse and a strappy pair of sandals.
Outfits
15. Sundress // Pack 2-3 sundresses—they’re easy to throw on and go.
16. Maxi Dress // Maxi dresses are great for long days because they’re comfortable and can work for many occasions. Pair with a hat and you have a cute outfit in minutes.
76. Jumpsuit // A comfortable jumpsuit can be an easy outfit for excursions or strolling around town.
18. Romper // For really warm days, I opt for a romper over a jumpsuit.
19. Activewear // Bring some sports bras and activewear tops to wear while hiking or day excursions. Leggings are perfect for active days, lounging and layering under tunics.
Swim
120. Bikinis // I’d recommend bringing 2-3 swimsuits, especially if you plan on being in the water a lot, or near the ocean. These are my favorites for this summer!
21. One-Pieces // I love a good onesie! Here are my current picks.
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Yassss, to leggings! I like to layer stuff with them too as it’s good for all weathers, plus I like to keep myself covered to avoid the sun!
Leggings are ALWAYS a god option and yes—too much sun can become an issue!
Kiki, so glad to see your post in my email! Your baby boy is adorable and has grown so much. I am from the states, in London now, and flying to Paris next. What I want to say is thank you so much for including cute clothes and different outfits in your “what to pack for summer” post. I am so tired of reading, time after time, these kind of post from others and all they show is BLACK and only a few core pieces that you can mix and match. That is so not me—like you I want to wear cute, happy colors for summer and bring an assortment of dresses and skirts and shorts, etc….not some kind of stream lined boring pared-down selections. To me Paris warrants a beautiful dress or two in pastel colors that stand alone, not part of a practical core wardrobe………….Have fun on your travels!! And thanks for always looking so pretty and appropriate for where ever you land!!
Aw what a sweet comment! Thank you Cate!