Wondering about the best places to visit in summer? There’s literally no better time to take a vacation if you’ve got the right places. From the mountains to other fabulous summer spots, there are several amazing ideas that you can use to shape your travel plans this season. Be it solo, couples, or even families with kids, some destinations fit the bill in terms of fulfilling summer getaways.
Interestingly, some of the top summer travel destinations in 2025 will be influenced by trends like growing preferences for experiential travel (immersive and cultural experiences), calmcations (wellness retreats, digital detox, etc.), multi-generational travel, slow tourism, and sustainable travel. On that note, let us take a look at some of the top places that you can visit this summer, local finds, and places to stay.
Top 12 Summer Travel Destinations and Insider Tips
If you’re planning a summer vacation anytime soon with your family and friends, here are some of the top destinations that you simply cannot miss!
1. New York City, USA
Who doesn’t love going to New York? It truly is one of the top summer holiday destinations if you’re looking to have a blast with your loved ones! You’ll fall in love with the vibrant atmosphere, watch free movies in the park, explore the bustling waterfront, or even enjoy all the cultural and historical sites to your heart’s content.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
- Exploring the Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Shakespeare in the Park
- Go kayaking on the Hudson River
- Check out museums like the American Museum of Natural History or the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Local Tip:
Use public transportation to avoid congestion and navigate the city easily (subways and buses).
Where to Stay:
Bank Street Apartment is a good place to stay, just next to the White Plains Metro-North railway station. It offers spacious apartments with walk-in closets, washing machines, dryers, central cooling/heating systems, flat-screen televisions, and free wireless broadband access. The 24-hour fitness center, courtyard with barbecue zones, and indoor swimming pool are also available.
Book your apartment in New York right away and enjoy a memorable summer holiday!
2. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is one of the best summer holiday destinations you’ll come across, more for its amazing flower displays, traditional culture, and bustling festivals. From rooftop beer gardens and museums to mind-boggling department stores and fireworks festivals, there’s a lot to enjoy here.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Attending a festival (Matsuri), including the Sanja Matsuri, Gion Matsuri, and Tenjin Matsuri. They offer glimpses into traditional Japanese culture, food, and performances.
- Enjoy the summer evening fireworks displays (Hanabi) in Tokyo.
- Visit numerous rooftop beer gardens with stunning views and the lovely flower parks and gardens (Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Ueno Park).
Local Tip:
Take advantage of the occasional evening showers to take a walk in the park and enjoy street food amidst cooler temperatures.
Where to Stay:
Kotobuki Serviced Apartments is an ideal option, with its proximity to several train stations and spacious apartments with all necessary furniture, air conditioning, and flat-screen televisions. Enjoy fabulous views from the balcony and cook meals in well-equipped kitchens. A washing machine is also provided for maximum convenience.
Choose the best serviced apartments in Tokyo and start planning for your summer trip right away.
3. Paris, France
The City of Love is undoubtedly one of the best summer vacation spots that you’ll ever find! It comes alive during this time, with its longer days for sightseeing, multiple festivals, pulsating events, and relatively pleasant weather.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Paris-Plages: The Seine River banks transform into sandy beaches during the summer with umbrellas, activities, deck chairs, and whatnot!
- Open-air cinema at La Villette
- Fête de la Musique (21st June), which is a mega music festival covering all major venues and street corners
Local Tip:
Cash in on the summer sales, usually between late July and August. You can get great deals on clothing and accessories at local boutiques and department stores.
Where to Stay:
The Heart of Saint-Germain-Rue du Dragon is strategically located in the prime Saint-Germain area. It offers plush fixtures, a well-equipped kitchen, contemporary appliances, and a soothing environment. From this stylish and refined apartment, you can access several art galleries, cafes, and other landmarks nearby.
Book your Paris serviced apartment and enjoy home-like comfort fused with hotel-like service and amenities.
4. San Diego, USA
San Diego is definitely one of the best places to go in summer, with its gorgeous beaches, lovely weather, and plenty of outdoor fun. You can go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, check out fabulous tide pools and sea caves, enjoy watching a Padres game or simply enjoy the city’s laid-back vibe.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Paddling through the La Jolla Cove and exploring the sea caves.
- Tidepooling at low tide, discovering crabs, anemones, sea stars, and other marine creatures along the way.
- Watching a baseball game at Petco Park and tasting the signature fish tacos.
- Spending a day at Balboa Park with its gardens, museums, and the San Diego Zoo.
- Exploring the Coronado, La Jolla, and other beaches.
Local Tip:
Don’t miss the Mission Bay Park with its volleyball, kite-flying, and dog-friendly areas.
Where to Stay:
Casa Mira View offers plush living experiences with even a dedicated play zone for children with a carousel, train, and more. Pool tables, an onsite bowling alley, and a rooftop spa deck retreat are also in store for you here. Enjoy using the massive pools and fitness center, while experiencing sheer bliss in the confines of your luxurious and soothing apartment.
Book your San Diego serviced apartment for an unforgettable summer holiday ahead!
5. Miami, USA
Another hotspot for summer travellers, Miami offers plenty of sun, sand, and fun in the summer. You also get fewer crowds and several unique activities to choose from, including everything from cosmic roller skating to open-air concerts.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Retro-inspired cosmic roller skating at the Wynwood Marketplace or other venues.
- Open-air concerts at Palapa and silent piano concerts on the beach.
- Exploring Wynwood with its fabulous street art and food trucks.
- Everglades airboat tour to spot alligators and explore a fascinating ecosystem.
Local Tip:
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, take advantage of the lower crowds and visit South Beach and Wynwood Walls on your trip.
Where to Stay:
Paraiso Bayview is centrally located in an exclusive complex and offers a luxurious experience with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors. You’ll fall in love with the stunning views of the city and Biscayne Bay while enjoying amenities like a premium spa with a sauna and steam room, and a resort-style rooftop pool.
Other perks include a Club Room, gymnasium, kids’ room, theater room, billiards room, tennis courts, and concierge. Book your Miami apartment today and enjoy a delightful summer vacation with your near and dear ones.
6. Lake Como, Italy
One of the most iconic summer holiday destinations ever, Lake Como will cast a spell on you with its soothing landscapes, mild weather, and multiple outdoor activities. You can participate in watersports, go swimming, and check out the charming gardens and villas that dot the area.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Enjoying a medieval-era reenactment at Castello di Vezio.
- Take sunset boat tours and capture the stunning landscapes.
- Explore Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, among other historic mansions with their beautiful gardens.
Local Tip:
Don’t miss the Orrido di Bellano gorge for an out-of-this-world experience.
Where to Stay:
Tremezzina is centrally located and offers a charming setting with easy access to boats/ferries for sightseeing. You’ll love this pristine villa with its patio, sliding doors, massive outdoor pool, and well-equipped kitchen.
There’s a lovely garden and shared garage along with stunning lake views. You also get air conditioning, outside dining, deckchairs in the garden, and a lot more.
TheSqua.re offers some of the finest Lake Como villas for a magnificent summer holiday with your family and friends.
7. Banff, Canada
Banff is a great choice for you in the summer due to its warmer temperatures, longer days, and picturesque scenery. Bike, hike, and enjoy the great outdoors to your heart’s content, with forests, snow-laden mountains, and pristine lakes creating a spellbinding backdrop to enjoy throughout your summer holiday.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Cruising on Lake Minnewanka.
- Exploring the amazing Johnston Canyon.
- Savouring the Banff Gondola experience.
- Visiting the Banff National Park to view deer, elk, bears, and other wildlife.
Local Tip:
Take advantage of the Hop On Banff shuttle to conveniently access popular landmarks like Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon, minus any parking hassles.
8. Austin, Texas
Austin offers several novel experiences in the summer that you won’t find anywhere else! Picture swimming in a natural spring or even enjoying some of the country’s best live music. Also, there’s a lot to do in terms of local history, culture, and activities.
Unique Summer Experiences:
- Swimming in Barton Springs Pool with water consistently at 68-70 degrees.
- Checking out the live music scene, including the Blues on the Green free concert series.
- Capturing the Congress Avenue Bridge bats emerging at sunset.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake.
- Hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
Local Tip:
It can get hot at times, so stay hydrated and look for shaded areas during the peak hours. Also, don’t miss the happy hour deals across local pubs and restaurants.
Where to Stay:
West Highland Mall Blvd Apartment is an ideal location for your summer vacation, offering luxurious and contemporary apartments near the Highland MetroRail and ACC Highland.
You’ll also find plenty of local stores, restaurants, and entertainment options nearby. Some of the top amenities here include concierge services, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and cabanas.
Check out the amazing lineup of serviced apartments in Austin and make your trip doubly memorable.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
One of the most unique summer travel destinations, Reykjavik offers the midnight sun, milder climates, and ample daylight hours for you, enabling better sightseeing on your trip. From whale watching and highland tours to vibrant city life, there’s a lot to enjoy on your next vacation here!
Unique Summer Activities:
- Whale watching tours, spotting humpback, minke, and blue/fin whales.
- Exploring the Icelandic highlands, which are otherwise inaccessible in winter.
- Watching puffins in their peak breeding season.
- Diving or snorkelling in Silfra.
Local Tip:
Don’t miss swimming in one of the city’s geothermal pools under the midnight sun. It is a signature experience that you won’t find elsewhere.
Where to Stay:
Garðabær Service Apartment is strategically located near the city center and the airport. You’ll find several public transportation facilities, cafes, restaurants, and stores nearby as well. Some of the top amenities include appliances, a well-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and more.
Book your Reykjavik serviced apartment and enjoy a blissful time on your summer trip.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon stands out as a summer destination for its pleasant warm weather conditions, lovely beaches, and amazing cultural attractions. From surfing and beach hopping to checking out signature Fado music, there’s a lot that you can do here!
Unique Summer Activities:
- Going surfing at spots like Cascais and Ericeira.
- Exploring the famous Alfama district with its maze-like pathways and signature Fado music.
- Exploring Sintra, a town straight out of a fairytale with its gardens and palaces.
Local Tip:
Don’t miss sunset picnics at Miradouro, with lovely views. Get hold of some local cheese, wine, and bread for a wonderful experience.
Where to Stay:
Castle View Serviced Apartment, Baixa is an excellent place to stay near the city center with spacious layouts and plush furnishings. Free Wi-Fi, cable television, air conditioning, and a well-equipped kitchen are some of the key amenities that you will find here.
Find amazing serviced apartments in Lisbon and enjoy amazing experiences on your summer holiday.
11. Athens, Greece
Athens is a spectacular summer destination that you’ll enjoy, with its sunny and warm weather along with its pulsating nightlife and lovely beaches. From bustling markets to authentic cuisine, there’s plenty to savor here indeed.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Explore the Athens Riviera and its gorgeous beaches.
- Check out the rooftop bars with the lovely views of the Acropolis.
- Take advantage of the extended hours at several historical sites like the Ancient Agora and the Acropolis.
- Attend outdoor concerts like the Megaron Concert Hall’s summer series.
Local Tip:
Don’t miss visiting the Central Market on Athinas Street for savoring authentic Athenian delicacies.
Where to Stay:
Granikou Apartments is the best place to stay for you with its modern design and advanced technologies. Keyless entry and a guest management platform are some key features along with a well-equipped kitchen, private balconies, amazing views, and flat-screen televisions.
You will find the best Athens serviced apartments with strategic locations and great amenities.
12. Barcelona, Spain
This is one of the best places to visit in summer for sure, with its lovely beaches, outdoor activities, pleasant weather, and festivals and street performances to keep you happily engaged! Barcelona in summer is a fabulous hotspot with its sunny climes and bustling atmosphere.
Unique Summer Activities:
- Explore the wonderful Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
- Spend a day frolicking at the Barceloneta Beach and check out the mosaic-filled marvel that is Park Güell.
- Visit the Carmel Bunkers with their lovely sunset views and authentic local experiences.
Local Tip:
Bypass the crowds thronging Las Ramblas and venture to the Mercat de Sant Antoni for a pleasant experience.
Where to Stay:
Barcelona Nou Apartments offers a cosy atmosphere with spacious bedrooms, bright living spaces, and maritime-themed design elements. Recharge your batteries and enjoy easy access to some of the biggest landmarks in the city from your apartment.
TheSqua.re offers the best Barcelona apartments to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Why Choose Serviced Apartments for Summer Stays?
Serviced apartments are ideal options for your summer vacation, offering a lot more space and privacy than regular hotels. They come with flexible lease terms and are ideal for extended/longer stays, while giving you several hotel-like amenities like laundry and maid services, well-equipped kitchens, and more.
Some apartments even have concierge services along with receptions, in tandem with access to gyms, swimming pools, and F&B facilities. At the same time, you can also expect flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi, and plush furnishings for a memorable stay.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Go This Summer?
Now that you’ve got an idea of the best places to visit in summer, which one will you choose? Take your pick from the options listed above and combine the local tips with serviced apartments as your accommodation options for better travel experiences. Book your apartment early to avoid the last-minute rush and plan your itinerary to coincide with the biggest summer festivals and events at the destination you choose.
Sounds interesting? Explore amazing apartments for summer vacation destinations.
