Summer is the perfect time to escape and explore! With travel becoming increasingly accessible, many are eager to “unplug” and “get away from it all,” as highlighted in a recent Ipsos survey. So, the question remains: Where To Travel To This Summer? As a travel professional, offering a diverse range of vacation packages is crucial. This guide presents 21 amazing destinations, from bustling cities to breathtaking natural wonders, ensuring there’s an ideal summer adventure for every traveler.
Finding Summer Vacation Inspiration
Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube are goldmines for summer vacation ideas. Tailor your search to uncover hidden gems, popular attractions, and unique experiences to craft unforgettable itineraries for your clients.
RateHawk’s travel guides are also excellent resources, offering curated recommendations for beach getaways, tropical escapes and city breaks.
Choosing The Perfect Summer Destination
Selecting the best summer vacation spots depends on your clients’ individual needs and preferences. Families with young children will likely have different priorities than couples seeking a romantic getaway or groups of friends looking for adventure.
Consider factors like budget, weather, potential crowds and desired activities. Asking the right questions will help you pinpoint the perfect destination for each traveler.
21 Top Places to Travel in Summer 2025
With increasing accessibility, travel has never been easier! From Europe to South America, we’re sharing 21 destinations perfect for any budget and travel style. Whether it’s a family trip, solo adventure, or honeymoon, here are some of the best places where to travel to this summer.
1. Puerto Rico
Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a popular Caribbean destination offering sandy beaches, mountains and warm weather. June is ideal for avoiding peak season crowds (December to April). US residents don’t need a passport to visit.
August temperatures reach the mid-80s, while September sees more rainfall. Must-see attractions include Tortuga Beach, San Juan National Historic Site, and Cayo Icacos.
2. Florence
Where to stay: Hotel degli Orafi
Italy is a classic summer destination, and Florence is like stepping back into the Renaissance. May to September offers warm temperatures, but also the biggest crowds.
Florence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perfect for weekend getaways, solo travel or a multi-city Italian vacation. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Uffizi Gallery, and Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze.
3. Machu Picchu
Where to stay: Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel
Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ideal for adventure seekers and history buffs. Summer offers the best weather for hiking the Inca Trail.
Guides are required for visiting Machu Picchu, and ticketing systems limit daily tourists. Cusco, Peru’s historic capital, is a great base before or after climbing Machu Picchu.
4. Cyprus
Where to stay: Royal Apollonia by Louis Hotels
Cyprus is a Mediterranean island, often overshadowed by Italy and Greece. While great year-round, it has milder temperatures than places like Corfu.
Must-see attractions include the Tomb of the Kings and Kourion Amphitheatre. Experience Cyprus like a local by exploring seaside villages, scuba diving, and enjoying meze platters. The Festival of the Floor is a big summer celebration.
5. Rio de Janeiro
Where to stay: Arena Leme Hotel
June to August are some of the coldest months in Brazil, but its tropical climate means warm weather year-round. Spanish tapas are also a popular cuisine.
Visit Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, and the Centro district. Summer is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro for more competitive pricing.
6. Amalfi Coast
Where to stay: Hotel Aurora
The Amalfi Coast has been a popular summer destination since Roman times. It’s famous for its picturesque coastal views.
Sorrento is a romantic resort town, and Positano offers luxury with pink beaches and fashionable restaurants. Ravello, dating to the 5th century, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
7. Barcelona
Where to stay: The Social Hub Barcelona Poblenou
Barcelona offers a city break and a beach vacation. Famous for its nightlife, Barcelona’s gothic architecture makes it a must-visit city.
The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is expected to finish in 2026. Immerse yourself in Spanish culture by dining at a traditional tapas bar.
8. Paris
Where to stay: Snob Hotel
Paris hosted the 2024 Olympics, making it a popular travel destination. Paris’ transport network makes it easy to stay in the city and take a day trip to Disneyland Paris.
Whether watching the sunset along the Seine or discovering the city’s music scene, the City of Lights requires a stop at the Eiffel Tower, where the lights sparkle for five minutes every hour.
9. Bali
Where to stay: FOX Jimbaran Beach Hotel
Bali’s best weather is during the dry season of April to September, with crowds arriving from July to August. It’s a popular choice due to its affordability.
Stay cool at Waterbom Bali, explore the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and get in touch with nature at the Bali Safari and Marine Park.
10. Rome
Where to stay: The Independent Hotel
Rome offers some of the best dining experiences. Get up close with Roman artifacts or taste freshly prepared pasta.
Must-see spots include the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Basilica, Palatino, and the Colosseum. Explore other cities in Italy, including Pompeii, Florence, and Pisa.
11. Yellowstone National Park
Where to stay: Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins
The popularity of “Yellowstone” has made the national park a must-see destination. Spot wildlife, stargaze, and climb to the top of Mt. Washburn.
There are over 140 miles of shoreline for boat rentals, with stagecoach adventures to experience the national park’s history.
12. Vancouver
Where to stay: Executive Hotel Le Soleil
Vancouver is a Canadian city easy to explore with public transport and is popular for families with kids.
Must-see locations include Stanley Park, Science World, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and Granville Island Public Market.
13. Mexico
Where to stay: W Mexico City
Mexico is unique with fewer crowds during the summer. It’s an ideal choice for travelers looking for all-inclusive resorts and a chance to experience Mexican cuisine.
Cancun is ideal for a beach vacation with its exotic nightlife, while Oaxaca is best for those who want to explore Mexico’s heritage.
14. Charleston
Where to stay: Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, Autograph Collection
The picturesque streets of Charleston transport you to a bygone era of southern glamour. This U.S. city is considered an up-and-coming destination for international travelers.
Charleston hosts several festivals throughout the year, focusing on jazz music, antiques, and the city’s literary heritage.
15. Monte Carlo
Where to stay: Fairmont Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo continues to fascinate travelers from around the world. The gorgeous views from the seaside look as if they’re from an Old Hollywood movie.
Most tourists choose to stay in Nice and take the train into Monte Carlo.
16. Morocco
Where to stay: Hotel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura
Morocco is another destination that experiences its low season during the summer. July and August are some of the best times to visit for more affordable flights and accommodation.
Book any outdoor activities for the morning and be prepared for the hot temperatures.
17. New York City
Where to stay: Arlo SoHo
New York City is one of the most popular summer getaways for UK tourists. This urban landscape instantly captures your imagination as a focal point of the American Dream.
Plan a day trip to Coney Island, catch an outdoor concert, or see the city from above at the Top of the Rock.
18. South Africa
Where to stay: Hotel Sky Cape Town
May to October is considered the best time to visit South Africa, especially if you’re planning a safari.
Kruger National Park is a popular choice for safaris, while Durban is ideal for whale watching.
19. New Zealand
Where to stay: Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
You can take advantage of competitive pricing and better offers by exploring this country from June to August. If you want a snow vacation this summer, check out Te Waipounamu for some of the best skiing in New Zealand.
Book a cruise in the Bay of Islands to see dolphins up close or experience Maori culture in Taupo.
20. Tokyo
Where to stay: Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
June to August is when humidity is at its highest in Tokyo, but you’ll get to experience an array of local festivals, including Odaiba’s “Tokyo Bay” festival.
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture or plan a visit to one of its many theme parks, from Tokyo DisneySea to Sanrio Puroland and Tokyo Joypolis.
21. Athens
Where to stay: Brown Kubic Athens Hotel
Greece remains one of the most popular countries in Europe for international travelers, and is the perfect starting point to explore the Greek islands.
Visit the home of the original Olympic games or sample its iconic street food. There are plenty of free museums to explore.
Make Summer Travel Affordable with RateHawk
RateHawk offers access to over 2.5 million hotels internationally. Create summer vacation packages with everything you need on one platform, from car rentals to transfers and airline tickets. Help your clients bring their dream vacation to life with a world of hotel options and packages to suit every budget. Start with RateHawk today!
