Europe's Least Appealing Beaches in Greece, Spain, and Italy You Might Want to Skip

While the UK may have its fair share of less-than-ideal beaches, European destinations also have some less-than-appealing shores.

From high-rise buildings to overcrowded tourist traps and noisy bars, these beaches in Greece, Spain, and Italy might not offer the relaxing getaway you want.

Laganas, Zante, Greece
Laganas Beach, located on the bustling Laganas Strip in Zante (Zakynthos), is notorious for being a party hotspot. While the weather can be warm, the beach is often filled with rowdy tourists recovering from the previous night’s festivities.

The one-mile stretch is inundated with crowds heading to bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, making it chaotic and crowded. Outside this nightlife zone, there are more traditional tavernas and family-friendly resorts, but unfortunately, the reputation of the main strip often overshadows them. One reviewer described the area as "filthy" and "overpriced," urging travellers to reconsider bringing their families here.
However, there’s no reason to skip Zante entirely. The island boasts many beautiful beaches, including quieter and more family-friendly spots like Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) and Gerakas Beach. These beaches offer stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful surroundings. Zante has much beyond Laganas, with plenty of spots catering to those seeking a serene, scenic escape.

La Línea de la Concepción, Spain
Situated on the border between Spain and Gibraltar, La Línea is known for its expansive beaches, but high-rise tower blocks and an oil refinery often mar the scenery. With oil tankers dotting the horizon, the beach doesn’t exactly offer picturesque views. Additionally, the area has a reputation for high crime rates, particularly after dark, with one reviewer on TripAdvisor warning visitors to stay in groups and be cautious of street crime.

Albufeira, Portugal
Once a charming fishing village, Albufeira in Portugal has transformed into a crowded resort town dominated by bars, nightclubs, and budget accommodation. Praia da Oura beach, located near the party-heavy Strip, tends to be packed with hungover visitors soaking up the sun before another night out. The beach is more about recovering than relaxing, and the surrounding tower blocks only add to its unappealing atmosphere.

Ploče, Croatia
Located between Dubrovnik and Split, Ploče Beach is often described as "urban" due to the surrounding industrial landscape, including a petrochemical port terminal and grain silos. Though there are local amenities, the beach isn’t particularly scenic, and it’s often compared to locations like Coney Island due to the carnival-like vibe and overpriced restaurants and bars. It’s not a destination for a quiet beach day.

Kemer, Turkey
The central beach in Kemer, Turkey, is covered in large pebbles, making it uncomfortable for sunbathing and difficult for children to play. While some hidden beaches around Kemer offer a more peaceful experience, the central beach is often crowded, and its rocky terrain makes it less than ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.

If you’re seeking a serene and scenic beach vacation, these spots may not be the best choice. But don’t worry—there are always alternative destinations in each region that offer a much more pleasant experience.

Source: The Mirror link

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