As the weather heats up and routines loosen, one question echoes across group chats, family dinners, and office Slack threads: “Where should we go this summer?”
The answer? Anywhere and everywhere.
From beach-hopping in Greece to hiking the red rocks of Sedona, travelers of all kinds are dusting off suitcases and chasing a much-needed change of scenery.
Summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest travel seasons yet. Families are unplugging from screens and throwing away school calendars. College students are celebrating graduation with bucket-list adventures. Remote workers are logging in from beach towns and mountain cabins instead of cubicles. The urge to escape the grind is strong, and the options are endless.
In the U.S., travelers are flocking to picturesque small towns and nature-forward destinations. In Charleston, South Carolina, with its pastel buildings and coastal charm, foodies and history buffs alike are arriving. Out West, Sedona’s red rock trails and spiritual vortexes are making it a haven for hikers and wellness-seekers. Meanwhile, California’s Big Sur continues to captivate road trippers with its cliffside views and rugged coastline.
Globally, the travel buzz is all about value, culture, and stunning scenery. Portugal remains a top pick for its charming cities, great food, and wallet-friendly prices. Japan, now fully reopened to international tourists, is luring visitors in with its futuristic cities and timeless traditions. And Croatia, with its Adriatic coast and Game-of-Thrones-worthy old towns, is emerging as a summer favorite.
When to Go and Why It Matters
The sweet time to travel is mid-June through late August, when school breaks align and the days stretch long into the night. But savvy travelers are instead looking at the “shoulder seasons,” late May and early September, for better prices and smaller crowds. Whether you’re planning a national park road trip or a Mediterranean getaway, flying just a week before or after peak season can mean hundreds of dollars saved and a calmer experience.
Why is summer still king when it comes to vacation time? Longer days mean more time to explore. Paid Time Off (PTO) is easier to coordinate with coworkers. And after months of winter blues and screen fatigue, the psychological reset of new places, people, and experiences feels more essential than ever.
Planning Smart
Of course, summer travel can become chaotic without a game plan. That’s why experts recommend setting flight alerts early using tools like Google Flights or Hopper, which track prices and flag deals. Accommodations, especially popular AirBnbs or boutique hotels, should be booked well in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes or limited availability.
Top Destinations Globally and Abroad
- Cancún, Mexico
Cancún remains a go-to favorite for travelers looking for tropical ease without sacrificing comfort. Known for its turquoise waters, all-inclusive resorts, and nightlife that never sleeps, Cancún is the ultimate “treat yourself” spot. Beyond the resort strip, there’s plenty of culture to soak in, from Mayan ruins at Tulum and Chichen Itza to cenote swimming and authentic street tacos in nearby towns. For travelers looking to blend relaxation with adventure, Cancún offers the perfect mix.
2. Paris, France
There’s a reason Paris never falls off the travel radar. This summer, the City of Light is experiencing a post-pandemic renaissance, with new restaurants, reimagined museums, and riverside pop-ups drawing visitors into its timeless charm. Strolls along the Seine, aperitifs on hidden terraces, and sunset views from Montmartre make Paris the kind of trip that feeds your soul. And with the 2024 Olympics leaving behind upgraded infrastructure, now’s the perfect time to rediscover Paris.
3. London, United Kingdom
London is buzzing with energy this summer, thanks to its ever-evolving arts scene, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods such as Shoreditch and Notting Hill. Whether you’re catching a West End show, enjoying high tea, or exploring historic sites like the Tower of London, the city offers a perfect blend of past and present. Plus, with longer daylight hours, there’s more time to explore royal parks, local markets, and new food halls popping up across the city.
4. Rome, Italy
Rome continues to be one of Europe’s most beloved summer destinations—and for good reason. History comes alive here: the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City are just the beginning. But beyond the monuments, travelers are falling for Rome’s contemporary edge, from buzzing nightlife in Trastevere to modern art galleries tucked into centuries-old buildings. Whether you’re sipping espresso in a piazza or throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, Rome rewards those who slow down and take it all in.
5. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Located at the tip of Baja California, Cabo has become a magnet for travelers wanting sun, sea, and a touch of luxury. Think yacht cruises past the famous Arch, fresh ceviche on the beach, and infinity pools overlooking dramatic desert-meets-ocean landscapes. Cabo’s also growing as a wellness destination, with beachfront yoga classes and holistic retreats becoming increasingly popular. Whether you’re here for the majestic views or the mindfulness, Cabo delivers.
6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
With miles of palm-lined beaches and crystal-clear water, Punta Cana is the ultimate Caribbean escape. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friend groups seeking laid-back vibes with the convenience of all-inclusive resorts. But it’s not just about lounging—eco-parks, zip-lining, catamaran tours, and local cultural experiences offer more than just sunbathing. Punta Cana makes it easy to relax while still keeping the adventure alive.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is having its moment this summer thanks to its artistic roots, beachy lifestyle, and walkable neighborhoods packed with energy. Gaudí’s whimsical architecture sets the backdrop, while tapas bars, open-air concerts, and beach volleyball create the rhythm of daily life. The city’s mix of sun, culture, and food makes it an ideal European escape—especially for those wanting both city thrills and seaside chill in one place.
8. Oranjestad, Aruba
Tucked away in the southern Caribbean, Oranjestad is Aruba’s capital and a hidden gem for travelers seeking vibrant culture alongside turquoise beaches. With its Dutch colonial architecture, pastel-hued buildings, and welcoming locals, it feels like a cheerful blend of Europe and the tropics. Aruba’s constant trade winds also make it a haven for water sports like windsurfing and snorkeling. And thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt, it’s one of the safest bets for sunny skies.
9. Venice, Italy
There’s no place quite like Venice, where summer days mean winding through canals, sipping spritzes in sun-drenched piazzas, and marveling at centuries-old palaces. Though often crowded, new efforts to manage tourism—such as limiting day-trippers—are making the experience smoother for those who plan ahead. Visitors are encouraged to explore beyond the Grand Canal to lesser-known islands like Burano and Torcello, where the crowds thin and the magic deepens.
10. Cap Cana, Dominican Republic
Often overshadowed by nearby Punta Cana, Cap Cana is a rising star on the luxury travel map. Known for its exclusive resorts, private beaches, and world-class golf courses, this enclave offers a quieter, more refined take on Caribbean vacationing. Think yacht marinas, oceanfront villas, and gourmet dining—plus the option to explore natural wonders like Scape Park’s cenotes and zip lines. Cap Cana is perfect for travelers who want to unwind in style.
The Summer of Intention
So whether you’re pitching a tent in Yosemite or strolling down a cobblestone street in Lisbon, the vibe this summer is all about intentional travel. It’s about the moments in between: the unexpected sunset, the local conversation, and the quiet reset.
So, who’s traveling this summer? Actually, the better question might be: where will your adventure begin?
As the weather heats up and routines loosen, one question echoes across group chats, family dinners, and office Slack threads: “Where should we go this summer?”