Planning a summer vacation could be fun and exciting. With the options being endless, you can have a hard time deciding on which location to choose for your next summer vacation. Whether you want to head to the mountains to get respite from the summer heat or want to explore places that open up only during the summer, there are a ton of summer destination options you can go to. Here are some of the best places to plan a fun trip with your friends this summer.
Bora Bora
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This tiny French Polynesian island makes up for its tiny size with its pure tropical splendor. You will surely fall in love with its opulent resorts, lush jungles, and beautiful beaches. Mount Otemanu, the extinct volcano of this island poses a fantastic photo opportunity for photography enthusiasts. You can also explore the best attractions of the island by embarking on an off-road adventure throughout the island.
Tahiti
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This is the largest island in French Polynesia you can visit. If you have been dreaming of spending your time in lavish overwater hotels, then Tahiti would be your best bet. Beyond the opulent resorts, Tahiti has black sand and golden beaches, a vibrant capital, and excellent conditions for snorkeling and surfing. Visit some of the island’s historic temples or shop at its authentic interior markets if you’re looking for further cultural experiences. You can choose to stay in lavish hotels or a vacation rental as the island is home to many adorable bungalows and stylish condos.
Rome
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Prepare to cross a few items off your bucket list when you travel to the Eternal City, such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. In the nearby Vatican City, tourists can explore other historic monuments like the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Wander through Trastevere’s cobblestone alleyways at dusk to avoid the crowds of tourists, or visit Mercato Centrale Roma to savor regional specialties like authentic Italian pizza and gelato. Visit some of Rome’s lesser-known museums, art galleries, and shops before you go.
Phuket
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Located in southern Thailand, this tropical island caters to all kinds of visitors especially those who are traveling on a tight budget. The best thing is that even luxury boat cruises and spa services on this island are extremely affordable. Phuket’s magnificent white sand beaches and the limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay make for a breathtaking landscape. The Big Buddha and Wat Chalong Temple are two additional must-see sights. Participate in the island’s exciting nightlife once the sun goes down for a memorable vacation.
Glacier National Park
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One of America’s most beautiful parks, Glacier National Park, is distinguished by its snow-capped peaks and emerald lakes. This park in Montana has 13 approved camping spots in addition to more than 700 miles of hiking trails. Travelers can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing in the winter, while among other popular summertime activities, they can go swimming and whitewater rafting. A beautiful trip down Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do for anyone who prefers to take in their surroundings from the comfort of their vehicle.
Whistler, Canada
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Canada’s mountains promise comfortable temperatures and an opportunity to indulge in numerous outdoor activities including animal tours and mountain hikes. Even in peak summers, skiers can head to Blackcomb Mountain without having to carry any bulky winter gear. Whistler opens water sports in summer at Lost Lake Park. There are multiple hiking routes in the 525-acre park. You can also take paddleboards or rent kayaks here.
Zermatt, Switzerland
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Switzerland’s Zermatt is awash in color during the summer. When the lakes are a stunning shade of blue and lush, green meadows surround the snow-capped mountains. At the foot of the Matterhorn summit is the town of Zermatt. Summers allow visitors to indulge in mountain sports such as hiking, swimming, kayaking, and mountain biking. Several travel agencies offer specialized tours and activities at Zermatt. Connect to them if you don’t want to miss out on anything.
Marseille, France
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One of the best destinations to visit in the summer is the port city of Marseille in France. The pleasant summers here allow you to spend time outdoors kayaking or exploring the Old Port which has played a crucial role in trade for thousands of years. There are numerous ways in which you can appreciate Marseille’s culture and tradition, from riding electric bikes and strolling through the old district to taking a boat excursion and taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of the city’s main attractions. Since the summer is the best season to visit Marseille, book your hotel well in advance.
Anchorage, Alaska
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One of the best times to visit Anchorage, Alaska is during the summer, when the weather is pleasant and you can fit more into your daily schedule because the days are longer. You have more time to hike, paddle, play golf, or go on a whale-watching excursion in June because it is the summer solstice.
You can plan a mix of outdoor and interior activities because there are numerous heritage centers, such as the Anchorage Museum, to visit. It is a perfect time to attempt river rafting, go on a wildlife viewing tour, and take a train ride through the countryside in the summer because the temperatures are pleasant (averaging in the 60s Fahrenheit).
Machu Picchu, Peru
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Since visiting Machu Picchu is often on many people’s travel wish lists, the best time to go is in the summer when there is less likelihood of bad weather, especially if you intend to walk. Tourists that desire to trek the Inca Trail are frequently seen around this period. Summer in Cusco and Machu Picchu is great, even if you don’t want to walk. Remember that hikers should make extensive advance plans because this is a busy time of year and trail places require reservations and tickets.