Lonely PlanetAug 4, 2026Tiny islands in Europe that you can only reach by ferryThere is no better way to put some distance between you and the world than by hopping on a ferry to a small, low-key island. These five fit the bill.15 things in this storyIllas CíesSightPart of a national park with beautiful beaches.Praia de RodasSightOne of Spain's most beautiful beaches.Faro de CíesSightLighthouse offering incredible views of the coast.ElsewhereIsla de TabarcaSightTabarca, SpainSmallest inhabited island in the Mediterranean.Platja de TabarcaSightTabarca, SpainMain sandy beach on Isla de Tabarca.Nova TabarcaNeighborhoodTabarca, SpainTown with 18th-century walls, target of pirate raids.Mar AzulRestaurantTabarca, SpainTry the island's classic dish, caldero de Tabarca.Cape ClearSightCape Clear Island, IrelandHourglass-shaped island where Irish is spoken.Fastnet RockSightCape Clear Island, IrelandLighthouse on Ireland's southernmost point.Channel View Bed & BreakfastHotelBaltimore, IrelandCharming and warm accommodation in Baltimore.Cala MinniolaSightLevanzo, ItalyBeautiful swimming cove with clear blue water.Grotta del GenoveseSightLevanzo, ItalyCave with over 12,000-year-old prehistoric paintings.RachiSightTelendos, GreeceMountain that beckons rock climbers.PothaSightTelendos, GreeceSunken city with ancient remnants.Agios Konstantinos chapelSightTelendos, GreeceOffers a fantastic sunset view.Read the full piece at Lonely Planet →
