Some of the Best Kayaking Day Trips in Europe

Kayaking day trips are a wonderful way to explore the exquisite beauty of Europe. A paddling trip in a European city’s harbor gives a new perspective of an ancient town. Or glide through turquoise seas, awestruck by towering cliffs and sea caves. Overall, kayaking day trips in Europe offer a unique way to explore the continent’s natural beauty, historical sites, and diverse cultures from a different perspective.

The kayaking day trips here are exciting ideas for exploring lakes, rivers, and the ocean in different European countries. Most are suited for paddlers of all skill levels. As with any kayaking trip, check the weather and only go out in conditions that match your paddling ability. A guided kayaking trip is an excellent choice for beginners as the guides cover paddling and safety skills.

Related post -> 25 Best Kayaking Day Trips in the US

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Kayaking Day Trips in Europe: Greece

Mani Peninsula, Greece

by Me of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Sea kayaking along the Mani Peninsula is a kaleidoscope of turquoise water, stunning sea caves, and mountain scenery. The Mani Peninsula is a remote part of the Peloponnese Peninsula. The charming village of Kardamyli on the Messenian Gulf is the starting point for a sea kayaking trip on the Mani.

A local outdoor adventure company offers several sea kayaking tours along the coast of Greece. Their sea kayaking day trip from Kardamyli on the Mani Peninsula takes about 3.5-4 hours and includes a typical Greek lunch. The distance covered is an easy 6 miles (10 km).

A highlight of the kayaking trip certainly is the visits to sea caves along the paddling route. After ducking under an opening in a cliff, an immense cavern opens up with stalactites cascading from the ceiling.

The most stunning cave to visit on the trip is the Blue Cave. First, after leaving the kayaks near a sea ledge, you climb into the dry part of the cave. Next, you explore the cave until you see a cerulean blue grotto. You can swim in the gorgeous water illuminated by natural light. The photos of swimmers in a starfish pose are priceless.

After the sea kayaking trip, make sure to see the fortified tower houses and the beautiful 18th-century church of Old Kardamyli. In addition, hiking the trail cypress and olive tree-lined trails through traditional villages is a spectacular outdoor adventure in Kardamyli.

Santorini Island, Greece

by Suzie of Greek Island Bucket List

The hugely popular island of Santorini is a fantastic place to kayak. Participants will paddle along the breathtaking caldera taking in years of history embedded in the cliff on either a daytime or sunset trip.

The sea caves and beaches along the lava rocks are waiting to be discovered. Kayakers will pass the famous White Beach with its white cliff backdrop. Alas, the sand isn’t white. It’s Santorini’s famous black volcanic sand but it makes for a striking contrast. 

Tours carry on until Mesa Pigadia Beach where there’s an extended stop for refreshments and swimming. While the guide is putting together a picnic of fresh and local produce, trip-goers can snorkel above streams of warm volcanic springs.

Swimming amongst the scuba divers and boat trippers, tour participants can take in the local fauna. Creatures to look out for include black sea urchins, beautiful jellyfish, and a variety of Mediterranean fish.

Once lunch is done the tour reverses. Depending on the weather and the timing of large ships coming into Santorini’s port the guide may make a stop at other sea caves. If the water is calm, it’s possible to see the bottom of the sea through the crystal waters. 

No experience is needed for this trip, and everyone is paired up in a double kayak. However, it is unsuitable for non-swimmers or under 14’s. Trips are available to book in the morning and for sunset. Both options last around seven hours and usually include hotel pick-up and drop-off. 

Kefalonia Island, Greece

by Me of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

This gem of a Greek island is located in the Ionian Sea west of the Peloponnese Peninsula. Kefalonia sea kayaking is an excellent way to enjoy the crystal clear waters. The stunning seacoast has limestone bluffs, stone arches, and sea caves to explore by kayak.

The outfitter Sea Kayaking Kefalonia has day trips and multi-day expeditions for all abilities. The Argostoli Lighthouse to Minies day trip traces the southwest coast of Kefalonia. The 6-mile route takes 5-6 hours with lots of stops for swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise water. It is suitable for beginning kayakers and families.

The kayaking trip starts at the beautiful ivory Lighthouse of Saint Theodoroi near Argostoli. Soon the ochre-colored sea arches dot the coastline. The boaters can follow the guide through the arches for an exhilarating adventure.

Next are the sea caves. The Sea Urchin Cave has a collapsed roof so light spills in to reflect the clear green color of the water. It’s like you enter a grand ballroom with an emerald jade floor.

Before long, you arrive at a silky sand beach below towering limestone cliffs. When paddlers swim and snorkel, the guide spreads out a classic Greek lunch for all to enjoy. The one-way paddling trip ends at Minies Beach with a shuttle back to your car.

Besides kayaking, other outdoor adventures of Kefalonia include hiking, snorkeling, caving, and motorboating to remote beaches along the coast. Or take a guided tour of the best sights on the island.

Kayaking Day Trips in Europe: Spain

Costa del Sol, Spain

by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

Kayaking in Nerja is a fantastic adventure for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. This coastal town on Spain’s Costa del Sol offers crystal-clear waters, stunning cliffs, and hidden coves, making it an ideal kayaking destination. The trip typically lasts about 2-3 hours and covers a distance of approximately 3.5 miles (6 km), providing ample time to explore the beautiful coastline and its treasures.

One of the highlights of kayaking in Nerja is the breathtaking scenery. As you paddle along the coast, you’ll encounter dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and pristine beaches only accessible by water. The clear waters allow you to see the underwater world teeming with marine life, including fish and sometimes even dolphins. The cliffs and caves are home to various seabirds, adding to the area’s natural splendour.

This kayaking trip suits all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned paddlers. The Mediterranean’s calm and relatively shallow waters make it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find something to love about this adventure.

In addition to kayaking, Nerja is close to Frigiliana, a picturesque village known for its whitewashed houses and charming streets. Other nearby natural attractions include the famous Nerja Caves, where you can marvel at impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Overall, kayaking in Nerja offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation, making visiting the region a must-do activity.

Costa Tropical, Spain

by Joanna of The World in My Pocket

Kayaking in La Herradura, in the south of Spain along Costa Tropical, is a great way to explore the coast and the cliffs dropping sharply into the water. This is also the only way to visit some of the remote caves under the cliffs, which have a stunning bioluminescent ocean floor. 

Take a guided kayaking tour, which includes an hour of snorkeling as well. The tour departs straight from the beach and heads through some of the rocks along the way, toward the cliffs. The sea is calm but the current is quite strong. This is why it is recommended to go with a guide and not on your own. The views are stunning, as most of this area is Cerro Gordo National Park. Therefore, there are no buildings or constructions on the cliffs. The top is covered with vegetation and trees. 

You don’t need to be experienced to go kayaking here, but you do need a certain strength to paddle against the current. There are two caves that you can visit, by going inside with the kayak. The cave has no dry area, so you must stay inside the kayak the entire time to enjoy the scenery there.

Snorkeling here is fun as well. There are a lot of different species of fish, a beautiful reef, and the sea is very warm – you don’t need a wetsuit.

Kayaking Day Trips in Europe: Portugal

Benagil Cave, Portugal

by Me of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The rocky coast of Portugal near Carvoeiro in the Algarve has many incredible sea caves. The Benagil caves are between two spectacular beaches, Praia de Benagil and Praia da Marinha.  The most famous Benagil Cave has two entrances facing the sea and an eye overhead that allows light into the cave.

The best way to explore the coastline is by sea kayaking into the Benagil Cave. You will be able to paddle into some of the smaller caves and land inside to explore. If you arrive by sea kayak, you can pull up on the sand beach inside and enjoy the gorgeous colors of the sea and the sand.

The kayak trip launches from Benagil below a wonderful restaurant overlooking the bay. At first, you paddle past the huge Benagil Cave to explore more of the coastline. There are several sea caves to paddle into. The Pirate Cave has a sand beach for landing to explore the dimly lit cave. There are also caves that you paddle through without landing. All have fascinating geological formations such as a fossilized starfish.

The turnaround point is at Marinha beach after paddling through the magnificent sea arches there. The kayak tour then stops at Benagil Cave on the return to the starting point. While the motorboat tours can enter the cave, only kayakers can land to admire the sandy beach and the light streaming through the cave ceiling. The golden walls and ceiling glow overhead.

The sea kayaking tour to Benagil Cave takes 2 hours.

Óbidos Lagoon, Portugal

by Sonia at Carey On Travels

Óbidos, Portugal is a charming hilltop medieval town and castle located just over 1 hour from Lisbon. Most visitors take a day trip from Lisbon to Óbidos to see the beautiful 13th-century walled city and head right back to Lisbon. However, most people overlook the beautiful outdoor activities available just a few minutes from the walled city. 

The Lagoa de Óbidos (Óbidos Lagoon) is just a 10-15 minute drive from the historic walled town. It offers a refreshing break from the heat and the crowds often found in town. The lagoon is large and its waters are protected from the Atlantic waves just beyond. This peaceful retreat is suitable for kayakers of all levels. Kayak for just an hour or enjoy a half day of kayaking and birdwatching. There are a wide variety of bird species common to the lagoon, including herons, egrets, spoonbills, and flamingoes. Don’t forget your binoculars! 

A local outfitter on the north shore offers lessons for new kayakers and rentals for those more experienced. The school offers casual lunches (burgers, salads) outside on the lawn. Further, you can kayak into the inlet on the southeast corner of the lagoon to find a slightly bigger outdoor restaurant, “O Covão dos Musaranhos.”  A half-day guided kayak tour will take you past the islands to special nooks in the lagoon.

Also, try paddle boarding or sailing on the lagoon, or explore nearby Papoa Island in Peniche, with stunning views of the Berlengas Islands. 

Ponte da Piedade, Portugal

by Ana of We Travel Portugal

Lagos, a picturesque Portuguese town located on the Algarve coast is an idyllic setting for a kayak trip. This part of the Algarve is famed for its stunning coastline and the focal point is Ponta da Piedade, a rocky headland around 2.5 km outside of the town. 

Most kayak trips heading to Ponte da Piedade depart the historic Forte da Ponta da Bandeira.  You will then be guided along the coast to discover hidden beaches, secret grottoes, incredible rock formations and cliffs. The iconic Ponta da Piedade is often said to be more beautiful from the waterline than it is from above. Its striking rock arches and sea stacks are able to be seen up close with the waves gentling lapping them. Many of these stacks, cliffs, and formations, have their own names and local legends and folklore.  Therefore, an experienced guide really helps with getting to know the area – even if these tales sound a little bit whimsical. Most trips are around 2.5 to 3 hours long. 

The warm and sunny climate of the Algarve means that kayaking is enjoyable nearly year-round. Although, the local conditions should always be confirmed before booking any last-minute trip! For both beginners and experienced kayakers, the waters around the Lagos are inviting and manageable. For complete beginners, there are a few options to make your trip a little more enjoyable and less tiring.  Some operators will tow kayakers on the return journey.

Kayaking Day Trips in Europe: Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

by Carmen of Basic Economy B

Photo by Basic Economy B

Located on the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik, Croatia, is an excellent place for kayak day trips in Europe. The coastal scenery and crystal-clear waters feel straight out of a postcard. The seas along Dubrovnik’s coastline are calm and clear, which makes them ideal for many different kayaking skill levels, including beginners.

There are many kayaking tours available in Dubrovnik, and visitors can select the ones that best match their fitness levels and skills. Many 2-3 hour tours are very popular, but there are several options for half-day and full-day tours. Most of the two-hour options will involve paddling around Lokrum Island, just off the coast of Dubrovnik, an approximately 7-kilometer paddle.

The highlight of both shorter and longer tours is seeing the well-preserved medieval walls and red-roofed buildings that make up Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Game of Thrones lovers will recognize the UNESCO World Heritage site from the many scenes filmed in Dubrovnik. Floating in the sea on a kayak offers unparalleled views of the historic city nestled in picturesque cliffs.

Participants in tours are also often offered the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the clear waters. There, you can see many species of fish and potentially even some sea turtles. The lucky visitor may encounter a dolphin or two.

Thanks to the calm waters, travelers of any type would enjoy kayaking in Dubrovnik, especially nature lovers and photographers. Beyond kayaking, visitors may want to explore Lokrum Island on land instead of from the sea. The island is known for its botanical gardens and lush vegetation and is accessible via a quick ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s harbor.

Rovinj, Croatia

by Me of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The Croatian city of Rovinj is the perfect place to enjoy a kayaking day trip in Europe. Rovinj is located on the west shore of the Istrian peninsula with an expansive view of the Adriatic Sea. Sea kayaking in Rovinj yields waterline views of the old city, island exploration, and stunning coastline scenery.

The paddling trip begins at a beach in the bay across from the Old Town. A local outfitter has quality kayaking equipment and will guide you through the waters of the Bay of Rovinj. A journey over to the old historic city is the first leg of the tour. The view from the water level is stunning with the different colors of the buildings standing out like cut-outs against the sea.

Next, you reach St. Catherine Island, a large island in the bay with many parks, gardens, and beaches. A paddle around the island reveals magnificent cliffs fringing the turquoise water. A stop on the island to walk the trails is a nice break from the boat. You can swim or jump off the cliffs if you are brave enough.

It’s possible to see jumping dolphins as you paddle in the bay. There are many boat tours to see the dolphins, however, to view them up close by kayak is magical.

Besides day trips, sunset kayak trips are popular. The sunsets of Rovinj are famous, therefore, to see the colorful show from the cockpit of a sea kayak is amazing.

Kayaking Day Trips in Europe: Lakes

Lake Hallstatt, Austria

by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Hallstatt, Austria looks like something straight out of a fairytale village, with colorful gingerbread houses that are tucked onto the slopes of the Alps, overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Hallstatt.

One of the best things to do in Hallstatt is to get out on the water with a canoe or kayak and take in the spectacular sights from there. The lake stretches less than four miles long at the foot of the Alps, with mostly gentle waters, so this is definitely more of a leisurely paddle. Still, there’s plenty of things to see along the way beyond the UNESCO Heritage Site village and the impressive Gosaukamm mountain range. Look for lake trout, swans, and, if you’re lucky, deer along its shoreline. 

If you don’t have your own kayak, you can rent one in the neighboring town of Bad Goisern from May through September. The paddle to Hallstatt from there is approximately a five-mile round trip (or three-plus hour) paddle. Bring a lunch with you and eat it out on the water, while taking in the views of the colorful buildings of Hallstatt.  

The streets of the village can get extremely packed from mid-morning to mid-afternoon in the warmer months, given the influx of tour buses from Salzburg and Vienna—so getting out on Lake Hallstatt is an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful town and its scenery, but without all of the crowds!

Kolovesi National Park, Finland

By Ossama at Awesome Traveler 

Finland is known to be one of the world’s happiest countries, making visiting this island country worthwhile. There is no better experience than kayaking at Kolovesi National Park in Finland.

This national park is a paddler’s paradise because the rocky cliffs tower over the lake channels, forming the Saimaa Lake system. The narrow waterways are fun to paddle and ancient art painted on the rocks adds to your kayaking trip experience.

If you are lucky enough, you can encounter a Saimaa ringed seal, an endangered lake seal. Kolovesi National Park is the best place to spot those unique and adorable creatures. You can also find many other animals along the way, such as red foxes and Eurasian badgers.

The Vaajasalo and Mäntysalo islands make up most of the national park, so you will pass by them if you kayak in Kolovesi. Stop to hike a nature trail on Mäntysalo Island accessible only by water. As you glide around the national park, you can spot magnificent sheer cliffs separated by narrow bays and straits.

The best time to kayak in the national park is during the peak season between July and August. However, if you want to escape the tourist crowd and witness the fall foliage, visit in October or early November.

Lake Annecy, France

by Joanna of Overhere. EU

Lake Annecy in France is an excellent place to kayak due to its calm waters and stunning alpine surroundings. The lake is known for its clean water, often considered the purest in Europe!

The highlights of kayaking on Lake Annecy include breathtaking views of the French Alps, picturesque villages along the shore, and the chance to see diverse wildlife. Paddlers might spot fish swimming beneath them, birds such as herons and swans, and occasionally even otters. The scenery features a mix of lush forests, towering peaks, and serene beaches, offering varied and beautiful landscapes to explore.

A typical kayaking trip on Lake Annecy can vary in length, but a popular route is from Annecy to Talloires, covering about 10 kilometers (6 miles). This journey usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace with time to enjoy the sights and take breaks.

This kayaking trip is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. Beginners can comfortably navigate the calm waters close to the shoreline, while more experienced kayakers will appreciate the stunning environment and longer routes available. Families, couples, and solo adventurers will all find something to enjoy.

In addition to kayaking, Lake Annecy offers other interesting attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Gorges du Fier, a dramatic canyon with a walkway above the river, or climb the La Tournette peak – the highest mountain in the area. The lake area is also ideal for swimming, cycling, and paragliding, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Also, you can take a fun Segway ride around the lake.

Kayaking Day Trips in Europe: Rivers

Soca River, Slovenia

by Me of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The emerald green SočaRiver is renown as the most beautiful river in Europe. Kayaking day trips on the Soča are some of the best in Europe for gorgeous mountain scenery.

The river has different sections of whitewater suitable to the paddler’s ability.  Beginners will enjoy the slower moving water flowing through the spectacular Soča Valley. The center of whitewater sports is the charming town of Bovec, with numerous outfitters and tour companies for kayaking and rafting the river. There is also hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the area.

For paddling trips on a milder whitewater stretch, outfitters have inflatable sit-upon kayaks that are stable and easy to paddle. They provide helmets, wetsuits, booties, splash jackets, and lifejackets for safety and comfort. After a shuttle to the river put-in, the trip starts with paddling instruction and orientation to the river.

A professional guide leads you down the river, sharing stories of the local natural and cultural history. As you glide along the aquamarine green-colored water, the Julian Alp’s majestic slopes tower around you. One section is a literal scene from Narnia, as the movie was filmed here. 

Kayaking tours on the Soča River last about 3 hours.

Hamble River, England

by Sara of Big Adventures with Little Feet

The kayak route starts from Hamble village all the way up the River Hamble to The House and Jockey Pub, or you can do it in reverse if you prefer.  You’ll need to time it so that you go up the river with the tide coming in and then down the river to the sea with the tide going out.  The tide can be strong and it can be busy with sailing yachts.  It’s about 2-3 hours round trip if you do the entire route, and longer if you add some extra breaks in.

It’s fun to kayak past the yachts and check out what people are up to on them.  As you kayak close to the shore, you’ll go past some mud flats and marshes that have amazing wildlife and birds. There are also shipwrecks that poke out of the mud at low tide. There’s even a cool boat that looks like a pirate ship!  If you need a break along the way, or perhaps a cold refreshment then you can pop into The Jolly Sailor which has a small pontoon to tie the kayak to.

If you have your own kayak then you can launch anywhere along Hamble River. Two favorite places to launch are either Hamble Foreshore or Swannick Car Park. Both are easy to get to with space to get your equipment out.  Both have paid car parks but they’re pretty inexpensive. 

You can rent kayaks at the YMCA Fairthorne Manor.  Don’t miss the ice cream boat floating around by Manor Farm Country Park pontoon.

My recommended essential gear for a warm weather kayaking day trip with links

Clothes

Wide brim hat or baseball cap

Longsleeve paddling shirt

Quick dry shorts

Teva or Chaco sandals

Gear

Waterproof phone case

Dry bags

Reef safe sunscreen

Water bottle

Sunglasses with floating retainer

Logistics of Kayaking Day Trips in Europe

A car is often needed to access the starting and ending places for kayaking day trips in Europe. I use and recommend Discover Cars for your European car rental. Discover Cars works with reliable local car rental companies to give you the best price and rental experience. I’ve used them often and have always been happy with the car rental.

Staying in touch with home

I’ve become a fan of E-sim cards for communication on international trips. An E-sim card can be bought online and easily installed on your phone before you travel. When you reach your destination, you simply turn on the E-sim in your settings and have data to use when you are away from Wifi. There is certainly abundant Wifi in Europe, but when you are on a paddling trip or another outdoor adventure, an E-sim is essential.

I use an Airalo E-sim card for all my international travels. They are significantly less expensive than my phone carrier’s international charges. Plus, it’s easy to top them off when you run low on data.

Wrap Up of the Best Kayaking Day Trips in Europe

Having kayaked worldwide, I can attest to the diversity of paddling areas in Europe. From frigid waves of northern lakes to sunny, tropical waters of the Mediterranean, each kayaking trip is unique. These kayaking day trips in Europe can generally be enjoyed by people of all paddling abilities.

Certainly, there are many more outstanding kayaking day trips in Europe. Please tell me about your favorites in the comments.

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