The most enchanting beach towns in southern Europe - The Guardian has recently published a list of the 12 best beach towns in southern Europe. 

What are you waiting for? Take a look and start packing!

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Šibenik, Croatia - The ancient town located in central Dalmatia, Croatia, is the gateway to the Krka National Park and the Kornati Islands.

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Šibenik, Croatia - In addition to its beautiful beach, be sure to visit the 15th-century St. James's Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage. The cathedral features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

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Zadar, Croatia - Located on the east coast of the Adriatic Sea, the Croatian city boasts a number of laid-back beaches and plenty of Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian historical references.

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Zadar, Croatia - Be sure to visit Nikola Bašić's underwater art installation. If you're looking to party, you'll love Zadar's buzzing nightlife.

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Sanremo, Italy - The so-called 'City of Flowers' is known as the Monte Carlo of Italy. It's worth going there not only because Sanremo's casino dates back to 1905, but also because the city isn't exorbitantly expensive as Monaco.

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Sanremo, Italy - The Italian city is a popular destination for families. Though beware that, like in many other places in Italy, you have to pay a fee to go to certain beaches in Sanremo.

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Sciacca, Sicily - The Sicilian town founded by the ancient Greeks has a beautiful harbor. You can also chill in the majestic Piazza Scandaliato, in the heart of the city.

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Sciacca, Sicily - According to The Guardian, the tourism industry is the most important right after fishing in Sciacca.

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Viana do Castelo, Portugal - Located in the north of Portugal, Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city surrounded by Santa Luzia hill, with a basilica at the top.

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Viana do Castelo, Portugal - The Portuguese city is perfect for those looking for a mix of architectural styles, which range from baroque to art deco in the historic center. In Viana you will also find several wild beaches.

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Peniche, Portugal - The city, located in central Portugal, is home to several sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs.

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Peniche, Portugal - Peniche is also known a world-renowned surfing mecca. Its most famous beach is Supertubos.

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Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Spain - Sanlúcar de Barrameda is located in the province of Cadiz, in the autonomous community of Andalusia. In this city you'll find palaces, churches, and a castle, which for centuries was the Duke of Medina Sidonia's home.

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Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Spain - In August, horse races take place on the sands of Playa de la Calzada, when the tides are low.

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San José, Spain - The white houses remind us of the Greek islands, but San José is actually located in the municipality of Níjar, province of Almeria, Andalusia.

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San José, Spain - The Spanish city is the perfect destination for those looking for crystal clear waters. Make sure you visit the magnificent Playa de los Genoveses and Playa de Mónsul.

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Galaxidi, Greece - Near this picturesque fishing village you will find the ruins of Delphi, on the edge of Mount Parnassos, where the Delphic Oracle is.

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Galaxidi, Greece - At night you can party in Profitis Ilias, a beach very popular with young crowds.

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Volos, Greece - Volos is located on the northern coast of the Gulf of Pagasitikos, in central Greece. The city has the iconic Mount Pelion as a backdrop.

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Volos, Greece - Take a night stroll along Argonafton's promenade and get lost in the enchanting streets of Ermou.

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Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France - Located between Biarritz and the Spanish border, the fishing village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz combines Basque charm with beautiful beaches. It's the perfect place for a family vacation.

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Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France - The region became popular centuries ago. In 1660, Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Spain got married at St Jean de Luz’s John the Baptist church. This was one of the greatest royal weddings in history, according to The Guardian.

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Sète, France - In this French port city you can go for a stroll along the promenade and alleyways, or simply sit in a café, eat seafood, and enjoy the Mediterranean life.

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Sète, France - The Guardian also mentions some local festivities worth attending. The Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Festival takes place in the beginning of July. But if you happen to visit Sète in August, you can enjoy the water jousting tournaments on the canal, which have been happening since 1666!

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