30 Most Interesting Travel Destinations to Enjoy this Summer

Before you know it, summer will arrive and this is the time to get cracking on your travel plans. Here is a list of some exciting places to consider.

Iceland

Go here in the winter and you will come back as a snowman, but, it is one of the best countries to visit in the summer. From the geothermal spa at the Blue Lagoon, the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall to whale watching and witnessing the northern lights, this country is a perfect blend of nature and adventure.

Tip: Make sure you have an itinerary and visit as many cities as you can!

Koh Samui, Thailand

Avoid the more obvious spots in Thailand and head to this beachy paradise. Dance the night away at the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan, visit the Chaweng and Bophut beaches, see the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo, go for sea kayaking or scuba diving. At the end of the day, unwind with a relaxing Thai spa therapy.

Tip: Carry copious amounts of sunscreen.

Granada, Nicaragua

Granada is a colorful city with amazing architecture. Founded in 1524, it’s also the oldest city in Central America, with its cathedral constructed in 1583. Wander the streets and take in the colonial-style structures stop for a bite to eat in the town square serving delicious vigoron, a local pork and cabbage dish.

Tip: The roads are bumpy so if you have car sickness, carry proper medication.

Bhutan

Getting to Bhutan is challenging and expensive, but the country has preserved its culture as tourism infiltrated its lands only 40 years ago. On the streets, traditional dress is still very much preferred, while native Dzongka-style architectural features can be seen all around. Taktsang Palphug, or the Tiger’s Nest, is the highlight, perched on the edge of a cliff. This 320-year-old monastery is considered one of Bhutan’s most sacred religious sites.

Tip: Bhutan gets rainfall in the summer so carry appropriate clothes.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An has been wonderfully preserved and is connected via canals. Hoi An is a confluence of culture and tradition with its marvelous array of food, architectural marvels and chic décor. Take a walk on the Japanese Covered Bridge and stroll around the Ancient Town; learn something interesting at the Museum of Trade Ceramics; visit the Quan Cong Temple or go on a cycling tour.

Tip: Take a cooking class and pick up stellar Vietnamese cuisine skills.

Port de Soller, Spain

This underrated gem in Spain is a postcard-perfect village. Surrounded by the Serra de Tramuntana, a mountain range on the island of Mallorca, Post de Soller has a beach promenade with cafes and restaurants offering mouth-watering meals and quaint shops to satisfy every holiday shopper. Don’t forget to take the trolley ride and experience some of the most sublime sunsets.

Tip: Soller is known for its oranges and lemons. Ask your hotel to arrange an orange field tour.

Nara, Japan

Nara is often overlooked, but it is abundant in ancient Buddhist temples, shrines and glorious gardens. Wander around the meandering streets of Naramchi, an old merchant district where many of the townhouses have been transformed into restaurants and cafes. If you are at the Nara Park, you can see friendly deer, discover an 8th century temple and walk through a tranquil garden.

Tip: This is the birthplace of Sake so do visit Harushika, a 131-year-old brewery.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a photogenic, walled city built between the 12^th and 14^th centuries. It is accessed through a narrow passage from the sea, with a backdrop of mountains and sapphire-blue waters along with a rich history. See the 17^th century clock tower and town gates and the 12^th century Tryphon Cathedral.

Tip: Stay within the old town for the most authentic Kotor experience.

Seychelles, East Africa

Set in the Indian Ocean, this paradise is an archipelago of 115 islands. With smooth white sand beaches, shimmery shores, and crystal clear waters, Seychelles is one of best summer holiday destinations in the world. Visit some of the islands — Curieuse Island, Aride Island; see the Bicentennial Monument; laze around at the Anse Lazio Beach and go snorkeling in Sainte Anne Marine National Park.

Tips: For the best views, hike along the Anse Major Trail.

Marseilles, France

Located in the Provence region, Marseille is a beautiful port city with more than 1500 years of history. Due to its pleasant climate in July, it is the best summer spot. Explore the Old Port that has seen trading activities for more than 2,600 years! Notre-Dame de la Garde, Palais Longchamp and the Marseille Cathedral are some places to see. Go kayaking in Old Port, try caving and hiking at Calanque de Morgiou or just walk around the city.
Tips: It gets very busy in July so make all your bookings well in advance.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Bordered by France, Belgium, and Germany, Luxembourg is a beautiful country and Luxembourg City was once a walled fortress atop a steep hill. Although a large part of the wall has disintegrated, the city is still breathtaking. The city center has many shops and the public transportation is among the best in the continent.

Tip: Get the Visit Luxemborg Pass to save time and money.

Lisbon, Portugal

This capital city has seen a tourist boom in the recent years, but it is still one of the more affordable destinations. Lisbon offers you a tranquil environment with Portuguese calçadas (traditional mosaic walkways), delectable treats and wistful melodies (fado) in the Alfama district with its cobblestoned streets. Walk around Chiado, the trendy district with the oldest bookstore in the world. The city has great weather all year round and each night, it comes alive with lights and music.

Tip: Forget your calorie count for a day and try the pasteis de nata, authentic Portuguese custard tarts.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Playa del Carmen is at the heart of the Mayan Riviera. This city with many trendy resorts has lots of lovely beaches and tranquil waters. The reefs offer diving and snorkeling opportunities. Walk around Avenida 5 – the central street in town – with its many cafes, souvenir shops and fashion boutiques.

Tip: Taxis from Cancun to Playa del Carmen can be expensive so book your airport transfers in advance online.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is a dusty and fun city. Most visitors come here for the Temples of Angkor. Take a quick tuk-tuk ride out of the city center and visit the historic site. The city itself has places to unwind with bars, pubs and colorful restaurants.

Tip: It can get very hot during the summer so save yourself from the scorching heat of the sun and carry big sun hats.

The Azores

Made up of nine volcanic islands, scattered across the mid-Atlantic, it is one of the world’s greatest whale watching destinations. The pleasant climate is appropriate for outdoor activities, so trek for five hours to the peak of volcanic Mount Pico or go for a more leisurely walk along the crater lakes. The landscape is also peppered with underground caves, and some of them have pools and waterfalls underneath them.

Tip: Don’t just go here for the scenery. Try the amazing seafood and wines from the vineyards.

Serranía de la Macarena, Central Colombia

The national park of Serrania de la Macarena has mountains, jungles and grasslands, as well as an incredible display of flora and fauna. Most people come to see the stunningly beautiful Caño Cristales river. A tributary of the much larger Guayabero River, the river is known as “The River of Five Colors”, due to its appearance. Aquatic herbs growing on the riverbed turn the water a range of different colors.

Tip: Carry a mask because you will want to see underwater.

Newfoundland, Canada

If your idea of a perfect summer vacation involves lounging on the beach, then this place is not for you. This Canadian island offers spectacular scenery, charming villages and pristine wilderness. Be proactive and try to spot moose, caribou, black bear among other creatures. Take the boat or kayak tour, and you could have the interaction of a lifetime with Humpback whales. George Street has several pubs and bars, with more than two blocks dedicated to music and revelry.

Tip: Do visit Cupids, the 400-year old village. This was the first English colony in Canada.

Marrakech, Morocco

Shaped by trading, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, Marrakech is a place steeped in history and culture. Bask in the beauty of the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, dating back to the 12th Century. The 19th Century Bahia Palace also attracts attention due to its grandiose design.

Marrakech is a frenetic city and the main market place, Jemaa el-Fnaa, although a unique sight, is quite cramped. Think of the most outrageous thing to buy, and you will get it here. Want to have a Marcel of your own? Look for the monkey seller. At night the city is cooler with delicious food stalls around every corner. If you want to escape the heat, Marrakech is not for you. But if you want to travel to a city replete with exuberance, book your tickets now!

Tip: Sharpen your haggling skills.

Ksamil, Albania

Situated along the Albanian Riviera, Ksamil in Southern Albania has crystal clear waters, isolated beaches and beautifully peaceful restaurants. Go see the Syri I Kaltër (the Blue Eye) – a lake where bubbles create colors that resemble an eye, and visit Butrint, an ancient city that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tip: Some beaches rent out umbrellas and beach lounges for a couple of euros and if you go after 3 p.m. they are usually cheaper.

Iquitos, Peru

The most inland port city in the world, Iquitos is also one of the largest cities in the world that cannot be reached by road. The architecture is fascinating, with a number of mansions from the 1920s and 30s, and the city’s island neighborhood of Belen is somewhere you need to be. Recently, Iquitos has been known for its large number of shamans who brew ayahuasca tea, a powerful hallucinogenic made from jungle plants.

Tip: Try ayahuasca at your own risk!

Bali, Indonesia

The honeymooner’s heaven, Bali has everything to offer — mountains, volcanoes, temples, reefs and beaches. Don’t miss the sunset views from the Tanah Lot Temple and take a tour of the Ubud Monkey Forest and Mount Batur. If you are brave enough to ride the waves, go to the Legian or try other water sports at the Benoa Beach. Simply looking for a relaxing time? Try one of the many yoga retreats. Bali is also for its nightlife and shopping scenes.

Tips: Be cautious stray, wild animals.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

As per the population, Sao Paulo is one of the largest cities in the world. Located in southeastern Brazil, it is famous for its skyscrapers, restaurants and cultural diversity. Some may think it is a concrete jungle, but the city also has some lovely parks and even a part of the Amazon Rainforests.

Tip: The city is infamous of mugging incidents so only use ATMs located inside safe buildings such as shopping malls, movie theaters and gas stations.

Malawi, Africa

Malawi may not be as sought after as Tanzania or South Africa, but the African country is perfect for safaris.  The Bush and Beach Safari includes time in the Majete Wildlife Reserve, comprising woodlands, hills, valleys and forests and houses lions, buffalo, zebras, black rhinos and hippos. The safari allows sufficient time on Lake Malawi at the Pumulani lodge, with its 10 private villas, a pool and the option to go into the lake. You can also go kayaking, swim with the brilliantly bright cichlid fish, or experience the sunset on water.

Tip: Pack bug spray and mosquito repellant. Don’t wear flashy clothes while going for the safari.

Whistler, Canada

Located in the Coast Mountains, this is a great summer destination with its hiking trails and bear tour. Visit the Whistler Blackcomb, Garibaldi Provincial Park, Alexander Falls, and the Whistler Olympic Park. Witness the town’s effervescent culture by going to the art museums and cultural centers, and dine at the Alta Bistro.
Tips: Take a ride in the extremely fast Peak 2 Peak Gondola.

Gdansk, Poland

One of Poland’s oldest cities has an important place in Polish history as the location of the start of World War II and where the fall of Communism in Central Europe began. Visitors flock here for the city center, the museums and beaches along the coast of the Gulf of Gdansk. The Amber Museum in the old prison building and shopping for amber jewelry are some of the things you can do.

Tip:  Go to No To Cyk, a trendy bar styled with old Communist memorabilia.

Kerala, India

Popular known as God’s Own Country, this state is already quite popular among travelers around the world. With hill stations, tea plantations, backwaters, and beaches, Kerala is one of the best holiday destinations in June. Visit Munnar, the Periyar National Park, Fort Kochi, Muzhappilangad Beach and Chembra Peak. Indulge in Ayurvedic treatment, paraglide in Vagamon or stay in a tree house in Thekkady.

Tips: Cruise the famous backwaters on a houseboat.

The Marshall Islands

Even though it is one of the least visited countries, it has numerous breathtaking islands and amazing diving and snorkeling opportunities, along with a rich culture. Stay at a bed and breakfast and take a boat to a nearby isolated island. The best part? No tourism means no crowds.

Tip: Protect yourself from the vicious mosquitos here.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The first things you notice when you land here are the green spaces and clear waterways. Begin by exploring the art collections or Viking history in royal palaces and go onto the delights of Islamic art at a neoclassical mansion. Style is embedded in the veins of this city and there are trendy people around everywhere. With fifteen Michelin Star restaurants, Copenhagen has delicious food to offer.

Tip: Try Stegt Flæsk, the national dish consisting of pieces of pork meat seasoned with salt and pepper and fried until crispy, and served with potatoes and a parsley sauce.

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai is traditionally known as the adventure capital of Hawaii. Apart from snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming, you can also enjoy fabulous boat trips along the Na Pali Coast, where you could encounter dolphins, or try kayaking on the Wailua River. Other experiences unique to Kauai include tubing along the historical water channels of Lihue and zip-lining above the Kauai rainforests. You can also hike in the Kokee State Park or Waimea Canyon or take an aerial tour of the island with helicopters.

Tip: The red dirt in Kauai can leave ugly stains so protect your clothes.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

This coastal gem of Italy is an epitome of natural beauty. The Amalfi Coast is characterized by dense forests, pastel-hued buildings and coastal peaks, and summer is the best time to travel here. Visit the Villa Cimbrone in Ravello and the Amalfi Cathedral; hike at Torre dello Ziro; explore the Ancient City of Salerno; and when you get tired of being a tourist, head to the biggest beach at Positano to relax by the luxuriously blue water.

Tip: Don’t use a car to experience the Amalfi Drive. Rent a moped or take one of the buses.