10 surprisingly tropical European islands

White sand beaches and aquamarine seas contribute to making some European islands feel surprisingly tropical. Fruity cocktails with little umbrellas add to the charm.

Are these islands tropical by definition? No. However, are these islands tropical in spirit? For sure. Explore 10 surprisingly tropical European islands below.

Blending the beauty of nature with a rich history, Rhodes in Greece is one of the best tropical European islands. 

If warm summers and mild winters are your thing, Rhodes certainly won’t disappoint. Found off the coast of Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Here, you’ll be able to saunter from sandy beaches to Medieval City of Rhodes– a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Rhodes has an array of tropical beaches, perfect for a summer in the sun. If you’re after tranquillity, Tsambika Beach’s velvety sand and outstanding views will suit you just fine. After more of a lively atmosphere? Try out Faliraki Beach – popular for watersports, boasting sandy shores with warm water.

With a population of around 300 people, this quaint island in the Îles d'Hyères, Var, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France, should make your list of islands in Europe to visit. 

If you’re after serenity on your next holiday, the beaches that surround Porquerolles are sure to delight. Explore the eucalyptus and pine tree-lined Plage Notre Dame, dubbed one of the best beaches on the Riviera.

As Porquerolles is part of Port-Cros National Park in France, it’s useful to know that there are some rules to be aware of for your visit. For example, you can’t visit in a car or pick flowers on the island. Giving the island a unique charm, Porquerolles is the perfect destination for a reset.

Despite being the second-largest island on the Maltese archipelago, travellers tend to bypass Gozo in favour of its bigger neighbour.

Be assured though, Gozo deserves just as much press. With mesmerising sunsets and unique architecture, make sure to add this to your list of tropical islands to visit in Europe.

Architectural highlights include the Rotunda of Xewkija, the Ġgantija temples and the Ta’ Pinu Basilica.

If you’re after an adventure, diving is especially popular off the west coast of the island at the Blue Hole.

The variety of terrain and landscape on Madeira makes it possible to fit multiple holidays into one trip. You could undertake strenuous mountain climbing one day and lounge on the beach the next. 

You’ll find it especially difficult to tear yourself away from the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula due to its cliffs, rock formations and expansive views. 

Most of the sandy bays here are only accessible via kayak but it’s worth the journey if you want to go marine diving or to spend a few hours sunbathing in near complete seclusion.

If you love having a choice of beaches, Elba should most definitely feature on your list of tropical European islands to visit. 

With over 100 sandy shores to choose from and clear blue skies, the tranquil scenes are something straight from a magazine. Not sure where to start? 

Spiaggia di Forno is particularly popular, with plenty of opportunities for diving. For a spot of relaxation, Biodola is a wonderful spot on a sunny day.

Close to the Albanian town of Ksamil in the Ionian Sea, the Islands of Ksamil can only be reached by boat and make for a scenic day trip. 

Some of the islands are connected by a raised sandbank and all of them are surrounded by flowing forests of seagrass. 

Meanwhile on land, evergreen forests can be found above clear, aquamarine waters and offer shade from the midday heat. 

The greenest of Croatia’s islands, Mljet is a sensory delight. Dark green Mediterranean woodland is dotted with sun-baked olive orchards and vineyards.

  Only a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik, you’ll discover the Benedictine Monastery of Saint Mary, perched atop the islet at Big Lake.

One of the best tropical islands to visit for a secluded break is La Graciosa. Saunter through the streets of whitewashed houses in Caleta del Sebo before visiting the north of the island to see some volcanoes. 

After more of a relaxed break? Well, the beaches of Playa de las Conchas boast light sands and a warm sea, sure to lull you into tranquillity. 

La Graciosa also has a renowned food scene. Having the freshest seafood, you’ll be able to eat delicious dishes such as grilled octopus, seafood stews and locally caught fish.

Offering a warm atmosphere and relaxing beaches, Sardinia in Italy is an outstanding island to visit in Europe. 

The beaches of Sardinia have an ambience and white sands that offer an undeniable charm. Some standout beaches include La Pelosa, Cala Mariolu and Spiaggia La Cinta all of which offer stunning views and clear seas.

You wouldn’t typically think of tropical and UK in the same sentence. However, the Isles of Scilly offer an unexpected exception. 

Being the southernmost part of the UK, the Isles of Scilly are warmer than the rest of the country, making for an arguably tropical atmosphere. Here, you’ll find clear, vibrant waters, white sand and secluded spots. Perfect for a unique and tranquil getaway.