The colorful town of Varenna in Lake Como, which ranks as the No. 1 boating destination in Europe MWE LIFE
Spending a day on a boat exploring scenic, sun-drenched coastlines or jetting off to hidden coves is the ultimate itinerary addition for European vacations.
But where are the best spots to zip around on a motorboat or charter a yacht? To narrow it dow, a boat rental site, turned to its internal data from thousands of boat rentals and charters across Europe to determine the continent’s top boating destinations.
Ahead, the top 10 boating destinations in Europe, according to 2025 report.
No. 1: Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, Italy
Headlining the list is Lake Como, where classic wooden yachts glide past pretty-as-a-postcard villages like Bellagio and Varenna and show off dramatic alpine views. Ride in nostalgic style aboard a meticulously restored Venetian limousine boat, though motorboats are the most popular style on this freshwater lake.
No. 2: Istanbul, Turkey
Panorama view of Istanbul at sunset.
Where Europe meets Asia, Istanbul delivers a one-of-a-kind cruise past palaces, mosques, and glamorous waterfront mansions that line the Bosphorus Strait. With everything from laid-back boat tours to luxe yacht escapes, Istanbul’s centuries-old naval history adds to the maritime interest.
No. 3: Ibiza, Spain
Aerial view of the cliffs and the beach of Cala Vadella, Ibiza, Spain.
Ibiza isn’t just for dance floors. This Baleriac island is a boating paradise with turquoise coves, yacht parties, snorkeling excursions, and day trips to Formentera, an island in the Mediterranean. Rentals start around $130 an hour, and yachts are the most popular style of boat.
No. 4: Sorrento, Italy
Sorrento is a great jumping off point for exploring the Amalfi Coast.
Sorrento’s proximity to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Naples make it a popular spot to rent a powerboat to zip around in on a summer day. Dramatic cliffs, hidden grottos, and stops in port towns are itinerary highlights.
No. 5: Bodrum, Turkey
Aerial view of Bodrum in Mugla Province, Turkey.
Muğla’s coastline, which is home to hotspots like Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye, is the crown jewel of Turkey’s sailing scene. With its Blue Voyage roots, turquoise bays, and dreamy gulet charters, it’s a must-cruise stretch of the Eastern Med. Boat in style aboard this megayacht that can accommodate 45 people and has a hot tub on deck.
No. 6: Palma, Spain
Palma de Mallorca, Spain skyline at the port with yachts in the early morning.
Mega yachts mingle with catamarans on the Mediterranean waters off of Palma de Mallorca. A year-round sailing season, plus international boat shows and regattas, qualify it as one of Europe’s top boating destinations.
No. 7: Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona Harbor at dusk
Travelers can check out landmarks like Sagrada Familia from the water and jet off to beloved beaches like Costa Brava. World-class marinas like Port Vell and Port Olimpic add to Barcelona’s credentials. But one of the most unique experiences you can have is by embarking on a sailing tour that includes tasting submarine wines that have been aged under water.
No. 8: Ornos, Greece
Fishing boats docked at Ornos beach in Greece.
With consistent wind and calm seas, the Aegean is a great spot to sail. Depart from Ornos, which is located on the southwest coast of Mykonos, and head out to chic beach clubs and neighboring islands. Boaters can explore the Cyclades in wooden boats, catamarans or yachts.
No. 9: Split, Croatia
Aerial view of Zlatni Rat Beach in Brac Island, Dalmatian Region
Split is a perfect jumping off spot to Croatia’s island-hopping scene, with access to gems like Hvar, Brač, and Vis. “Croatia’s extensive Adriatic coastline offers over 1,000 islands, and Split is at the heart of this nautical network,” according to the GetMyBoat.com report.
No. 10: Cannes, France
Cannes, France
With superyachts lining the harbor and luxe charters heading to scenic spots like the Lérins Islands and Saint-Tropez, Cannes cracked into the top 10 this year. Peak season hits during major events, like the Cannes Film Festival in May, but its mild weather and swanky vibes keep the boat scene buzzing year-round.
