Summer is right around the corner, and we can already feel the excitement building up. If you’re looking for summer vacation ideas for that unforgettable adventure, then you’re in the right place. 

 

Whether you’re looking for adventure in the city or in the great outdoors, these top summer destinations are unarguably some of the best places to travel in the summer. Keep reading and start your summer travel planning today!

top summer destinations, Santorini, Greece

7 of the Top Summer Destinations for This Year

When it comes to summer vacation ideas, you can really do just about anything if you’re willing to travel to the ends of the earth. After all, if you’re going to explore far and wide, summer is a great time to do it.

 

Since the weather is more forgiving in some parts of the globe while it’s hot here in the US, summer is the best time for certain destinations like Japan. And while there are many incredible destinations to visit, these are some of the top summer destinations.

top summer destinations, Santorini, Greece
Santorini, Greece

Greece

Ah, the land of the gods, where ancient history meets stunning landscapes. Greece is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a mix of culture and natural beauty.

 

Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are popular tourist hotspots. But, don’t miss out on exploring the smaller islands like Milos, Naxos, and Zakynthos.

 

When it comes to top summer destinations, you may find Greece to be humid and hot. But it’s actually one of the best times to visit!

 

With temperatures in the low 80s F and cool evenings, it’s much like late spring, making it one of the best places to travel in the summer!

Isle of Sky, Scotland, UK, top summer destinations
Isle of Sky, Scotland, UK

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a country filled with history, culture, and attractions that make it a must-visit destination for many travelers. From the bustling streets of London to the serene countryside of Scotland, there’s something for everyone.

 

When visiting the UK, it’s essential to check out some of the iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace. But, if you’re feeling lucky, why not add a visit to a land-based casino to your itinerary?

 

Land-based casinos offer an immersive experience where you can enjoy the thrill of gambling and socialize with other players. In the UK, there are several to choose from, such as the Hippodrome, the Empire, and the Aspers.

 

These casinos offer a range of games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and slot machines. However, if you’re new to gambling, it’s a good idea to try it out virtually before jumping into a traditional one. Online casinos offer the same excitement and games as land-based ones but from the comfort of your own home. You can practice and learn the games before trying them out for real money.

 

One of the many online options available in the UK is 32red online casino UK, it offers a range of games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and slot machines, as well as a live dealer section for a more immersive experience. Of course, this is just a suggestion. You’re really going to want to be exploring!

 

And keep in mind that in addition to the above, when summer travel planning for a trip to the UK, it’s mindful to remember that the weather is cool and feels more like early to mid-spring in the US. That said, it’s a great spot to escape the heat of the US!

top summer destinations, Osaka
Osaka, Japan

Japan

Don’t ignore summer vacation ideas in Japan! Japan is a country that truly has it all – from bustling city streets to serene natural landscapes, there is something for everyone.

 

When visiting Japan, be sure to check out some of the country’s most famous landmarks, including the ancient temples in Kyoto, the towering skyscrapers in Tokyo, and the serene gardens in Osaka. 

       

Food lovers will be in paradise in Japan, with a range of delicious dishes to try. Sushi, ramen, and udon noodles are just a few of the many dishes that you must try during your visit.

 

For a unique culinary experience, try visiting one of the country’s many izakayas – casual Japanese pubs where you can sample a range of small dishes and drinks.

 

One of the most relaxing experiences in Japan is taking a dip in one of the country’s many hot springs or onsens. There are thousands of hot springs across Japan, each with its own unique properties and healing benefits.

 

Some popular hot spring destinations include Hakone, Kusatsu, and Beppu.

 

If you’re visiting Japan in the springtime, be sure to catch the famous cherry blossom season, which starts in late March and lasts until early May. During this time, the country’s parks and streets are adorned with beautiful pink cherry blossoms, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

 

The weather and blossoms make Japan one of the absolute best places to travel in the summer!

top summer destinations, Vancouver
Vancouver, Canada

Canada

Canada is a country known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly people, and diverse culture. If you’re looking for summer adventure travel and breathtaking views, then Canada is the place to be.

 

One of the most popular attractions in Canada is the Canadian Rockies, a stunning mountain range that spans over 4800 kilometers and offers endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and camping.

 

Canada is also home to some charming cities, each with its own unique vibe and culture. Vancouver is a coastal city known for its beautiful scenery, world-class dining, and bustling nightlife.

 

Montreal, on the other hand, is a city with a strong French influence, making it a great destination for foodies and art lovers.

 

No visit to Canada is complete without experiencing the magnificent Niagara Falls. Located on the border between Canada and the United States, the falls offer stunning views and a range of activities such as boat tours, zip-lining, and hiking.

 

When it comes to food, Canada is known for its famous dish, poutine. Made with crispy fries, savory gravy, and fresh cheese curds, poutine is a delicious and indulgent treat that is a must-try during your visit.

 

With so many reasons to explore Canada, it’s not hard to understand why it’s one of the top summer destinations for travelers from the US!

Milford Sound, New Zealand, summer travel planning
Milford Sound, New Zealand

New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that offers endless opportunities for summer adventure travel and excitement, making it one of the best places to travel in the summer for adrenaline junkies.

 

One of the most popular activities in New Zealand is bungee jumping, and the town of Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world. With stunning views of the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown offers a range of bungee jumping options for both beginners and experienced jumpers.

 

Another must-see destination in New Zealand is Milford Sound, a stunning natural wonder that offers incredible hiking opportunities. With its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes, Milford Sound is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike.

 

After a day of hiking and exploring, relax and rejuvenate in one of New Zealand’s many hot springs. From the North Island to the South Island, there are dozens of hot springs to choose from, each with its own unique properties and healing benefits.

Morocco, summer travel planning
Morocco

Morocco

Morocco is a country that is steeped in culture and history, offering visitors a truly magical experience. One of the must-visit destinations in Morocco is the bustling souks, or markets, where you can find everything from spices and textiles to pottery and jewelry.

 

The souks are a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors, exotic scents, and the sound of vendors haggling.

 

Morocco is also known for its stunning architecture, which is a blend of Islamic, Moorish, and European styles. The most famous example of Moroccan architecture is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which is the largest mosque in Africa and one of the most stunning in the world.

 

No visit to Morocco is complete without trying some of the delicious Moroccan cuisines. From tagine, a slow-cooked stew served with couscous, to pastilla, a savory pie filled with meat or seafood and dusted with powdered sugar, Moroccan cuisine is a feast for the taste buds.

 

As incredible of a place as Morocco is, however, be sure to prepare for the weather if you’re summer travel planning. It gets very hot off the coast and may not be one of the best places to travel in the summer if you’re planning on late summer travel. 

 

Try to visit as early in the summer as possible!

Peru, top summer destinations
Peru

Peru

Peru is a country that is steeped in history and culture, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a unique and authentic summer adventure travel experience. One of the most famous attractions in Peru is the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, which is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

 

The stunning mountain views and intricate stone structures make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Peru. 

   

Another must-visit destination in Peru is Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Take a boat ride on the lake and visit the floating Uros Islands, which are made entirely out of reeds.

 

You can learn about the unique lifestyle of the Uros people, who have been living on the floating islands for centuries.

 

Peru is also known for its delicious cuisine, with ceviche being one of the most popular dishes. Ceviche is a seafood dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and served with onions and peppers.

 

It’s a refreshing and delicious dish that is perfect for a hot day.

 

Peru is one of the top summer destinations not only for its adventure, culture, and food but for its weather! When the heat of summer in the US is raging, it’s like a cool spring day in Peru!

 

In Summary

These are just a few top summer destinations to add to your summer travel bucket list. No matter where you go, make sure to pack your sense of adventure and an open mind.

 

Hopefully, this list has inspired you and you’ll be summer travel planning away! 

Author

Christa Thompson is the Founder and Chief Editor of The Fairytale Traveler. She started traveling the world in 2003 when she attended a summer abroad study at the University of Cambridge in England. Since then, her wanderlust has been fierce. Her three passions in life are her son, traveling, and being creative. The Fairytale Traveler brand gives Christa the opportunity to do all of these things and to live intentionally every day. "It's never too late to believe in what you love and to pursue your dreams." -Christa Thompson

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