There’s something about a seaside village that shifts your whole rhythm. Mornings stretch out over coffee and a view, afternoons drift between swims and wandering, and evenings settle into long dinners with the sound of water nearby. If you’re drawn to travel that feels slower, more grounded, and a little bit magical, Europe’s coastlines are full of places that deliver exactly that.

Here are a few seaside villages across Europe—some I’ve visited and some that are on my list —where you can exhale and stay awhile.

For many people, the easiest time to take a long trip abroad is in the summer.  Summer in Europe offers endless opportunities to explore charming cities, coastal escapes, and cultural gems. But summer is tourist season in Europe, so destinations can also be quite busy. The key to planning an enjoyable trip is to pick some less-frequented locations, while recognizing that you will have to navigate some crowds. Here are some of the best European spots for women and nonbinary travelers over 50 to consider this summer.