Odds are, most of us have a Europe trip planned this summer – or are at least tempted to book one. Aside from the over-saturation of tourists, there’s really no better time to hop across the pond – especially since your workload has finally slowed down. Just in time for that last-minute vacation crunch, Lonely Planet has named its best European spots for 2015, as chosen by their team of Europe-based editors and authors. Here’s what they think you should check off your travel bucket list. Akureyri, Iceland Iceland has gained major traction in the travel destination department as of late, especially in the south of the country. But perhaps less known is Akureyri, Iceland’s second biggest urban area (without the big city feel, assures Lonely Planet), where you’ll find a chilled out vibe below the surrounding snow-capped peaks. 
Leipzig, Germany You may want to get to Leipzig before the hipsters inevitably invade (not that we don’t love a little hipster here and there). Described by Lonely Planet as the “new Berlin,” they call Leipzig a “ramshackle yet chic city” that’s a hub for students, artists, and entrepreneurs. To mark 1000 years since the city’s first documented mention, the city will be filled with festivals and exhibitions this summer. 
The Azores, Portugal If sustainable tourism’s your thing, you’ll find it within Portugal’s chain of nine islands that lie about 150km west of Lisbon. While their coworkers ponder spreadsheets, outdoor-loving YPs can climb Mt. Pico, Portugal’s highest mountain, take in the stunning marine life of the nutrient-filled waters, or explore the region via bike or hike. 
Malaga, Spain Malaga is probably already an option for this year’s Europe trip. I mean, it has all the ingredients of a quintessential European vacation: beaches, Instagram-worthy seafood, culture, and a rich history. And by culture, Lonely Planet points to The Museo Picasso, Museo Carmen Thyssen, and this year’s opening of the Pompidou Centre’s first branch outside France.
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Belgrade, Serbia If you’re looking to party, but want to avoid Barcelona and Berlin, you probably won’t be disappointed in Belgrade. You can shake off the hangover with things like a visit to the 2300-year-old Kalemagdan Fortress, the Royal Palace, or to one of the handful of museums. You can also explore the city via kayak, bike, or underground tours. 
Piedmont, Italy Italy is a typical choice when it comes to that Euro summer vacation. But a less typical option is the scenic slopes of Piedmont, Italy. If you have a thing for mummies and seriously ancient artifacts, Piedmont’s Egyptian just completed a five-year revamp. Of course, you could always opt to sip the day away in one of the many wineries. 
Baku, Azerbaijan Located on the Caspian Sea between Russia and Iran, Lonely Planet describes Azerbaijan’s capital Baku as having a “Dubai-meets-Paris glitz.” Calling it “one of the continent’s fastest-changing urban spaces,” the architect-lovers will find no shortage photo ops. Case in point: the three blue Flame Towers skyscrapers in Baku’s medieval Old City that appear to burn one another each evening in a must-see light show. 
Amsterdam, The Netherlands It would be disappointing if Amsterdam didn’t make the list – everyone should do it at least once in life. Aside from the countless opportunities to get into the best kind of trouble, the bike-centric city is filled with canals, restaurants, museums, and – of course – the Anne Frank House. Lonely Planet highlights this year’s Sail Amsterdam event (August 19 to 23), which attracts thousands of visitors and features tall ships (some of which you’re welcome to board), nautical-themed performances and concerts, and probably ample opportunities for making use of your café purchases. 
Tromsø, Norway According to Lonely Planet, “Tromsø‘s star has been rising and rising in recent years.” In the winter, it’s pretty much an Arctic wonderland – featuring everything from skiing, to dogsledding and reindeer racing. In the warmer months, you can hike, kayak, whale watch, and golf your way through the mountainous landscape. The city’s culture scene is also rising along with its star, with no shortage of festivals, museums, and theatre. 
Porto, Portugal When it comes to Portugal, Porto is all the buzz these days. Described by Lonely Planet as Lisbon’s “bright, soulful, party-loving northern sister,” Porto is also of Europe’s most affordable destinations. Perks include things like port tasting, medieval lanes now filled with street art (and hipsters) and cafes boutiques and galleries, restaurants you won’t forget, and WHAT a view. 
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