Sitting in the sun while sipping on a locally made wine is a great way to spend your summer holiday, and experts have shared where you'll find the best vineyards in Europe.
Spain's Rioja region came out on top for summer 2025, with the wine territory beating celebrated locations like Tuscany and Bordeaux.
This is according to the 2025 Vineyard Mini-Break Index by travel insurance specialists Quotezone.co.uk.
It looked at leading wine regions across Europe and examined wine territories known for combining scenic beauty with exceptional food and drink offerings.
Rioja in Spain topped the list in the new research
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A range of factors were considered, including the typical cost for vineyard tours, wine purchases and three-star accommodation across each region.
Weather data was another crucial component, with temperature averages and rainfall probability factored into the rankings.
Industry recognition also influenced scores, with researchers counting awards from prestigious competitions including the Decanter World Wine Awards and World's Best Vineyards listings.
Travel insurance expert at Quotezone, Helen Rolph, explained: "Wine tourism is on the rise, and with many travellers looking to visit beautiful vineyards and wineries across Europe this year, we've created the 2025 Vineyard Mini-Break index to help holidaymakers decide which destinations offer the best value for the experience."
Top wine regions for summer 2025
- Rioja, Spain
- Piedmont, Italy
- Tuscany, Italy
- Bordeaux, France
- Douro Valley, Portugal
- Rhone Valley, France
- Champagne, France
- Burgundy, France
- Tokaj, Hungary
- Mosel, Germany
EUROPEAN TRAVEL
Tuscany is one of the most popular wine regions in Europe
| GETTYHelen added: “Our index revealed that the Rioja wine region in Spain is the number one wine destination in Europe, which came as quite a surprise as it’s not as well-known as some of the other competitors including Bordeaux, Tuscany and Burgundy.
"Rioja offers great weather and is also well represented in different industry awards and rankings, all while offering premium-quality wines at a reasonable average price."
Italy's Piedmont territory secured second position, celebrated for Barolo and Barbaresco production. The region represents nearly 20 per cent of Italian wine exports, with 44,000 hectares dedicated to viticulture. Wine bottles there average £24.90, whilst three-star accommodation for couples begins at £42 nightly.
Tuscany followed in third place, attracting visitors with its Sangiovese-based reds and picturesque terrain. August temperatures reach 24.5 degrees typically, with hotel rooms available from £40.
France's Bordeaux, famed for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot varieties, placed fourth despite strong representation in industry rankings. Portugal's Douro Valley completed the top five, offering warm conditions and budget-friendly wines.
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