From a cliff-edge terrace with Vesuvius views to a car-free Greek island with James Bond vibes, our readers share their favorite seaside hotels across Europe that combine glamour, affordability, and unforgettable experiences.
Vesuvius views on the Sorrentine coast
The Hotel Villa Garden in Sant'Agnello is a small, friendly family-run hotel about 25 minutes from Sorrento's center. The cliff-edge dining terrace overlooks Vesuvius, with a stylish pool and crisp decor. They even bring a free glass of rosé while you wait for your taxi.
— Jan Colley
An idyllic island stay on the French Atlantic
L'Hôtel La Jetée on Île de Ré overlooks the fortified port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, with an attractive courtyard garden and coastal-themed rooms. Breakfast is served in the courtyard, and bike hire is nearby for exploring the island. Catamaran trips from the harbor offer a taste of yacht life.
— Anna Kennett
Beachfront bolthole in Galicia, Spain
Hotel Nanin sits right on the beach, with stunning views from rooms overlooking the pool and bay. This spa hotel is a short walk from Sanxenxo, which offers more beaches, restaurants, and a lively promenade.
— Louise
Five-star Italian luxury on the Adriatic
Rimini's competitive prices make five-star stays affordable, like at the Grand Hotel. The annex offers doubles from €120 with access to the pool, gardens, and wood-paneled library. Breakfast features fresh fruit from the local market, and sunloungers on the beach are reserved for guests.
— Penelope
A Biarritz time machine, France
Hotel Eduardo VII in Biarritz is a three-storey wooden building that feels like a private guesthouse. Original features include wood panelling and creaky floors. Breakfast on the sea-facing terrace makes guests feel like movie stars.
— April
Art deco vibes in Corsica
Hotel les Roches Rouges in Piana, built in 1912, offers art deco glamour and breathtaking sea views. The terrace is perfect for watching sunsets over the pink granite coastline, and the restaurant is excellent.
— Laura
An oasis in southern Tenerife
Hotel Reverón Plaza is a 1920s art deco gem steps from the beach. Sip champagne among vintage wrought-iron furniture, admire stained-glass windows, and enjoy 360-degree views from the rooftop pool.
— Erin
Faded grandeur on a car-free Greek island
On Kastellorizo, the Megisti hotel feels like stepping back to the 1960s. Its aged elegance and spectacular natural harbor views include loggerhead sea turtles. Guests half expect James Bond to appear.
— Karen Stewart
Beachside glamour in Norway
Stokkøya Strandhotell on Stokkøya island has a white-sand beach and stylish timber cabins. Days include swimming, hiking, and sauna after a sea dip. Evenings feature local seafood at the beach bar, all at surprisingly affordable prices.
— Sabine
Winning tip: spa bargain on a volcanic Italian island
On Ischia, Hotel Hermitage offers art deco style with four thermal pools and views of the Aragonese castle. At around £90 a night, it includes a balcony, breakfast, and full spa access.
— Clare