Ten gorgeous European marinas you must visit

When booking a holiday, we usually think about beaches, all-inclusive, and long-haul flights, but we never really consider getting to our destinations by boat. So, whether you’re after a picturesque backdrop, gorgeous clear waters, authentic local cuisine, or even that spot of nightlife, check out our list of the best European marinas before you book your trip, reports traveldailynews.com.

1. Lefkas Marina – Greece
Lefkas marina is probably one of the most modern marinas within the Mediterranean Sea. Even though it’s under the radar compared to your other Greek islands, Lefkas has so much to offer in terms of culture, with one of its main hidden gems being Egremni Beach.

2. Punat, Croatia
Punat marina is in the south part of the island, Krk, located within a sheltered bay. With olive oil tasting, ziplining, and chances to hire out boats on the marina, Punat is on the beautiful western Croatian coast. Taxi boats are a great way to see the island, with one TripAdvisor traveller saying: “a boat trip has exceeded all my expectations! We went swimming/visited the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen, tried homemade olive oil, watched fish swimming near the water’s surface, and had a fantastic drive back to the shore at sunset”. The water here is stunning, and make sure you snap some gorgeous sunsets here.

3. Aker Brygge, Oslo
With its scenic backdrops, stunning museums, and many eateries, this beautiful marina boasts beautiful walking spots and gorgeous sunsets as the night draws in across the city. The local culture includes the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art and the Nobel Peace Center.

4. Amsterdam Marina, The Netherlands
Amsterdam Marina is close to its inner city, it also has Rotterdam Marina, Regatta Centre Medemblik, Marina Stellendam, and Marina Schokkerstrand as its sister ports nearby. The perfect marina if you’re looking to relax.

5. Port Vauban Marina – France
Port Vauban Marina boasts the most beautiful views. The French Riviera is known for its picturesque backdrops, so visiting here is a must.

6. Gdansk Marina, Poland
With its beautiful boats, this colourful marina boasts top-rated reviews such as being described as “beautiful”, and a “super clean harbour area with nice restaurants and shops on the sidewalk”.

7. Greetsieler Hafen, Germany
Described as a “1938 historic small port”, Greetsieler Hafen is home to a small fishing port. There are lots of cafes and lots of shopping”. With its relaxed and peaceful environment, you can be sure to leave here relaxed and recharged.

8. Empuriabrava Marina, Spain
Empuriabrava is one of the largest marinas in Europe. The Catalonian residential area is stunning, with travellers describing the Empuriabrava Marina as an “ideal location for exploring the Cadaques and Dali country”.

9. Marina Izola, Slovenia
Home to water events at the Austria Cup, the Marina Izola is a beautiful Marina located on the coast of Slovenia, just a few miles next door to its neighbouring Italy.

10. Marina di Portofino, Italy
Known for being an Italian fishing village, Marina di Portofino is a stunning and picturesque marina, located in north-western Italy, between the Ligurian coast and the Gulf of Tigullio.

Read the full article HERE.