The term “summer vacation” conjures images of sunny afternoons at the beach and leisurely drives through the countryside. While plenty of travelers have their go-to spots, others view summer as the perfect time to embark on a new adventure, such as hiking to Machu Picchu, surfing in Nicaragua, or road-tripping through the American West.
No matter how many passport stamps you’ve collected or countries you’ve checked off your list, there’s always a new corner of the globe to discover. Summertime getaways to places like Scotland and the U.S. Virgin Islands have recently been growing in popularity among travelers, joining the ranks of classic summer vacation destinations like Greece and Italy.
From river cruises to train adventures to African safaris, these are the best summer vacation ideas for 2024.
Enjoy la dolce vita in Italy.
Simon Watson
When it comes to romance, few places rival the allure of Italy. You’ve got the history of Rome, the art of Venice, the fashion-forward vibe of Milan, the dreamy Mediterranean coastline, the wineries of Tuscany, the pizza of Naples, and more. During the summer, temperatures can soar to over 85 degrees, so consider visiting a destination by the sea or a lake, where you can escape the heat. For a true Italian villeggiatura (summer vacation), book a room at Passalacqua on Lake Como or Borgo Santandrea on the Amalfi Coast.
Take a road trip from Charleston to Savannah.
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While it’s mighty hot in the South during the summer (we’re talking temperatures in the 80s and 90s), there’s plenty of sweet tea and lemonade available to cool you down. Begin your trip in the port city of Charleston, where you can wander picturesque cobblestone streets, walk the promenade along the ocean, photograph the colorful, historical homes of Rainbow Row, and eat your weight in crab cakes, hush puppies, and other Southern classics. Stay at The Loutrel, a luxury boutique hotel just steps away from some of the best things to do in Charleston.
Then, hop in the car and make your way to Savannah, about two hours south. While the coastal Georgia city has similar architecture and Spanish moss-draped oak trees, it also boasts dozens of world-class museums and art galleries where you can escape the heat. Check into The Alida, named one of the best hotels in Savannah by T+L readers.
Explore the cities of Colombia.
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Colombia continues to climb the list of must-visit countries for curious travelers, and for good reason: Medellín offers immersion into art and culture, while Cartagena pairs history with seaside allure.
Often called the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its year-round warm weather, Medellín is especially pleasant in the summer when temperatures range from around 65 to 75 degrees. Days can be spent sipping gin cocktails on outdoor patios, hiking nearby mountains, exploring the surrounding rain forest, and getting a great calf workout (the town is built on hills).
While you’re in the port city of Cartagena, you’ll travel back in time to the 16th century through its iconic Old Town, which features colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Plus, the nearby white-sand beaches are never too crowded. Temperatures reach the upper 80s all summer, so prepare for sweltering days. Find some relief in a room at the Casa San Agustín.
Pretend you’re 007 in Monaco.
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If you haven’t been to Paris, summer is a special time to visit. But, if you’ve had your fill of lazy sunset picnics along the Seine, consider Monaco instead. This tiny independent city-state on the Mediterranean coastline of France oozes international spy vibes. You’ll feel like an extra in a James Bond film as you gamble at upscale casinos, sample local dishes at La Condamine market, or stroll along the boardwalk, admiring Monaco’s hillside beauty in the pleasant summer weather, with highs of around 75 to 80 degrees. Complete your storybook vacation by checking into the iconic Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo.
Get lost in the Medina of Marrakesh.
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The North African country of Morocco is diverse, with a rich history and plenty of unique experiences to engage your senses. Whether you spend your time perusing the rows of local goods that line the winding lanes of the Medina of Marrakesh or riding a camel into the sunset and losing count of the stars in the Sahara Desert sky, a summertime trip is both invigorating and enticing. It’s outside of the high season, so if you can take the nearly 100-degree heat, you’ll benefit from fewer crowds and a calmer getaway — well, as calm as it can get while you bargain for tiles and dodge motorbikes. Book a stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech for private villas with lush gardens and open-air spa treatments.
Laze around in Montego Bay.
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A hop-and-a-skip from the East Coast, Montego Bay on Jamaica’s north coast is an idyllic spot to disconnect for a hot second. And by hot, we do mean hot: Temperatures can reach the high 80s in the summer, creating the perfect conditions for lazy days spent reading, dipping into the calm waters, and sipping rum cocktails. Relax at a resort or venture out to explore some of Jamaica’s best beaches, such as Doctor’s Cave Beach or Walter Fletcher Beach. If you’re into snorkeling or scuba-certified, the protected waves of Montego Bay Marine Park are a must, too. Stay at the Round Hill Hotel and Villas to get a feel for the island’s barefoot luxury.
Summit Machu Picchu.
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The dry season (June, July, and August) is one of the most popular times of year to visit Machu Picchu due to the blue skies, lush green grass, and awe-inspiring views. Whether you’re up for the challenge of hiking the Inca Trail or would prefer the Inca Rail, it’s wise to spend a few days sightseeing and acclimatizing to the altitude in the nearby city of Cusco. The former capital of the Inca Empire is full of charm, with a hilltop that lights up at night, bustling local markets, and countless alpaca stores to splurge on a sweater for the chilly nights. For the best views of Machu Picchu, climb the mountain in front of it, Huayna Picchu. Then, return to the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco, where the hotel’s historic trappings and oxygen-enriched rooms are the perfect way to rebound after a day in the Andes.
Eat your way around Lima.
Caroll Taveras
For foodies who prefer eating to sightseeing on vacation, Lima will feel like the holy grail of culinary destinations. There are countless restaurants with Michelin stars and affordable tasting menus. During June, July, and August, the Peruvian capital boasts sunshine-filled days and little rain, with balmy temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees. When you’re not restaurant hopping, you can learn how to surf, snap photos of impressive graffiti art, and pet the countless cats who live in Parque Kennedy. Word to the wise: If you want to dine at top restaurants Central or Astrid & Gastón, you’ll likely have to make reservations weeks or months in advance. Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel provides all the comforts of a five-star hotel alongside Peruvian cuisine, a rooftop pool with Pacific Ocean views, and a convenient location for exploring the area, including the hip Barranco neighborhood.
Ride the swells in Nicaragua.
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Nicaragua is one of the top places to put your surfing skills to the test, and the waves during the wet season lend themselves to beginners and experts alike. This Central American country, tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, features more than just no-filter-required sunsets — various regions mean you can experience everything from lakes to volcanoes. Before you leave, make sure you see the city of Granada, which is rich in Spanish colonial history. While there, book a room at Tribal Hotel for boho-chic interiors and icy poolside drinks to help you beat the upper-80-degree weather.
Go wine tasting in Napa Valley.
Courtesy of Napa Valley Wine Train
For a whole season of long, tipsy summer days, the Napa Valley region outside of San Francisco offers sunshine and foodie-approved meals. If you can make it in July, sip your way through Festival Napa Valley, which highlights a range of wineries offering their best blends. For a more playful afternoon, consider booking a luxurious tasting journey on the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Wine country’s own Auberge du Soleil has residential-style accommodations and an on-site French restaurant with outdoor dining, so you can sip local pours while taking in sweeping views of the verdant countryside.
Pretend you’re not a tourist in New York City.
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Ask any New Yorker and they’ll agree: Summer isn’t exactly the best time to visit the Big Apple. Between the unforgiving heat trapped by skyscrapers and an influx of tourists from around the world, most locals find any excuse to escape the concrete jungle in the summertime. However, there’s an upside: New York City has plenty of free outdoor festivals this time of year, including Shakespeare in the Park and SummerStage. Plus, with less competition from in-the-know residents in late summer, you’ll have a better chance of snagging reservations at trendy restaurants. Seek out rooftop bars, munch on artisan bites in Brooklyn, or make a break for the Hamptons if you have the time — and patience (the heading-out-of-town traffic is no joke).
There’s no shortage of world-class accommodations in the city that never sleeps. Whether you prefer classic stays at places like The Plaza or The Carlyle, or hip hotels like the Arlo Hotel, Soho Grand Hotel, and the Pendry Manhattan West.
Visit Mexico during the low season.
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Outside of hurricane season, which peaks in September, summer is one of the best times to visit Mexico for fewer crowds and lower prices. If you can put up with the 90-degree heat of July and August, and occasional rainy days, you’ll likely find some great deals on all-inclusive resorts and flights. Check into one of the sleek all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos, explore the rich arts and culture scene in Puerto Vallarta, or go on a wellness retreat in the Caribbean beach town of Tulum.
Go on safari in South Africa.
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For many seasoned travelers, South Africa holds a special place in their passports (and hearts). Each corner of this country presents a different climate and experience, and a getaway during the dry season can be particularly enchanting. There’s plenty to see and do, from spotting animals in Kruger National Park and hiking Table Mountain in Cape Town to seeing the cliffs at the Cape of Good Hope and sipping your way through the wine region of Franschhoek.
If you can swing it, try timing your vacation in September when you’re more likely to spot elephants, leopards, and many other species as they search for watering holes. June through August is technically winter in South Africa — you’ll want to pack sweaters instead of swimsuits for this summer vacation — so expect mild days with chilly nights. There are several amazing safari lodges, but we recommend andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge inside Kruger National Park for an intimate, immersive Big Five wildlife experience.
Hike the U.S. national parks.
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The Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Haleakala in Hawaii — we could go on and on about the breathtaking landscapes and adventures that await in our nation’s national parks, and summer is prime time for a visit. You’re likely to enjoy sunny blue skies and starlit evenings, and you’ll have plenty of time to disconnect from the digital realm and tune into the rhythms of nature. Some parks are free to visit, some are underwater, and all are unique. Camp out without sacrificing comfort at Under Canvas, which has locations with access to the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, and Acadia national parks, among others.
Traverse Europe by train.
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From college students to retirees, many travelers place a European trip at the top of their list — and for good reason. Eating a croissant beneath the Eiffel Tower in Paris, bicycling along the canals of Amsterdam, discovering historic castles in Ireland, and eating gelato while strolling past ancient Roman ruins in Italy are just a few of the incredible experiences that await in Europe. Grab a Eurail pass to hop between countries for a low price with minimal hassle.
See Florida from coast to coast.
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The Sunshine State has it all — beaches, the Everglades, Key lime pie, the glamour and exclusivity of Palm Beach, the vibrant sizzle of Miami, and the tropical island vibe of the Florida Keys. Everyone should take time to explore Florida, from St. Augustine to Key West — home to the southernmost point in the continental U.S. — at least once in their lifetime. Of course, you’ll want to hit the central city of Orlando for attractions like Walt Disney World, Epcot, and Universal Orlando. Plus, there are spectacular stays all across Florida, from seaside resorts to charming inns to all-inclusive idylls.
Take a cruise.
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It’s hard not to have a good time on a cruise. Meals and drinks are typically included, your ship comes equipped with a wide range of activities, and you sail from port to port, hitting a multitude of new destinations while only having to unpack once. What more can you ask from a summer vacation? For an even more refined and intimate take on cruising, try a river cruise through Europe.
Travel through the Wild West.
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Put on your pioneer pants and head out for an adventure in America’s Wild West. With history, wide-open spaces, and cowboy lore from centuries past, you’ll feel as free as it comes in places like Colorado or Nevada. And you can’t get more Western-chic than at Amangani in Wyoming near Grand Teton National Park.
Try driving an electric vehicle on the Nevada Electric Highway, which features EV charging stations, including Tesla Superchargers. The route’s combination of Gold Rush ghost towns and tomorrow’s technology makes it a road trip of the future and the past all at once.
Drive the Pacific Coast Highway.
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On the West Coast, State Route 1 — better known as the Pacific Coast Highway — runs along rugged cliffside terrain and expansive beaches, making it one of the most scenic drives in the country, if not the world. Plan your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary around the spectacular sunsets and plentiful photo ops. The summer weather will be beautiful, if toasty, with an average daily high in the upper 70s or 80s. Spend at least a couple nights in Big Sur at the Post Ranch Inn for classically California cool accommodations and sweeping Pacific views.
Not in the mood for a road trip? Tackle the Pacific Coast Highway by train on Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route, which runs from Los Angeles to Seattle and hits spots like Santa Barbara, San Francisco, and Portland along the way.
Backpack in Southeast Asia.
You’ve seen the photos — now it’s time to explore Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia yourself. Take a cooking class, go temple hopping, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, and live it up — even on a budget. Prices for food, hotels, activities, and excursions are often much lower than in many other parts of the world. Those looking for luxury can also find high-end accommodations such as Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Cambodia, the Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam, and Amanpuri in Thailand.
Get Adventurous in New Zealand.
Milford Sound, New Zealand.
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For those who prefer the snow to the shore, beat the heat and travel to New Zealand, which experiences winter from June to August. You’ll be happy for the 50- to 60-degree weather when the country’s epic hiking, climbing, and bungee jumping get your blood pumping. And make no mistake: You will be spending all of your time outside. New Zealand is renowned for its gorgeous landscapes, from beautiful beaches and the fjords of Milford Sound to the wonder of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and charming locations used in The Lord of the Rings.
Sip rum swizzles in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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Americans don’t need a passport to enjoy these three islands in the Caribbean. Whether you choose St. John, St. Croix, or St. Thomas (or hop between the three), you’ll find white sand, world-class snorkeling, and tropical surroundings in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Each has its own vibe. Go to St. John for a luxurious, private island-like atmosphere; St. Croix for the food; and St. Thomas for the lively atmosphere of a tourist hot spot. Stay at a beachfront all-inclusive resort for a stress-free escape.
There are several rum distillers on the islands, so you can sip a locally sourced rum swizzle while you enjoy average summertime temperatures in the low 80s.
Golf in Scotland.
St. Andrews golf course in Scotland.
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The U.K.’s northernmost nation is known for its gorgeous lochs, beautiful castles, and the windswept Highlands. From whisky distillery tours to walking the magnificent West Highland Way to exploring the cosmopolitan centers of Glasgow and Edinburgh, there’s no shortage of things to do in Scotland. Plus, the sun doesn’t set until around 10 p.m. in the Highlands in June and early July, so you’ll have even more daylight for exploration.
But the real reason to take a summer vacation in Scotland is found on the green. This country is a golfer’s dream with more than 550 courses and a long legacy of seaside links. There are plenty of coastal spots for the ultimate summer game, like the Fairmont St. Andrews, where you’ll have two courses to play and a chic room to return to at the end of the day.
Snap your way through Japan.
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You might miss the spring cherry blossoms, but there are still plenty of beautiful places in Japan to photograph in the summertime. Pose in front of the country’s tallest peak in the Fuji Five Lakes area or capture Tokyo’s frenetic energy at Shibuya Crossing. In Kyoto, you’ll get plenty of pictures of temples, shrines, and bamboo forests for your scrapbook. From enjoying white-sand beaches in Okinawa to seeing the wildflowers in Hokkaido’s national parks, these are moments you’ll want to remember.
Go island hopping in Greece.
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Nothing says summer vacation like the Greek Islands. From sipping ouzo by the Aegean to snapping a few windmill pics for Instagram, this is the perfect Mediterranean getaway. Of course, you’ll have to deal with more crowds and hotter temperatures in July and August, but it’s a popular time to visit for a reason. More restaurants and bars are open and you’ll find more available ferry routes, opening up the entire archipelago for your summer vacation. Start in the Cyclades (where you’ll find the famous islands of Mykonos and Santorini) before moving on to lesser-known Greek Islands like Antiparos, Symi, or Syros.
