Ten Perfect Summer Holiday Destinations 

Hello, sun tans and sunburn! It’s time for an unforgettable season of adventure and attractions by exploring at least one of these ten perfect holiday destinations during the summer. I love travelling at any time of the year, each month has something special to offer, but there’s something about longer days, warmer air and lighter carry-ons that makes summer travel hold a special place in my heart.

So, hide those winter coats and spring jackets and prepare to immerse in glorious sunshine on antiquated terraces, charming streets, and scenic beaches. Let your hair lighten, your skin darken, and romanticize your life into a dream-like escape that will leave you with the most whimsical of memories. There is nothing quite like losing yourself in endless scoops of gelato, jugs of sangria, and pop tunes under a cloudless, bright blue sky – so here is a list of ten destinations perfect for a magical summer retreat. 

Summer Holiday Destination Ideas

Barcelona, Spain

This rose-coloured city is a haven for travellers wishing for a flawless blend of urban beaches, green spaces, vibrant nightlife, and magnificent sacred architecture. Barcelona truly has it all, and there is no wonder why it is one the most popular cities in Europe – often toping any list about holiday destination ideas for the summer.

Top Summer Attraction: Gaudí’s Park Güell, Rooftop bars and the coastline

If you want to read more about things to do in Barcelona, click here.

Budapest, Hungary

Step back in time as you wander through the gothic, cobblestone streets and grand architecture of one of Europe’s oldest cities. Budapest is a paradise for solo travellers, budget explorers, foodies, culture vultures and music lovers and is a place where you will find everything you desire and more. There is nothing quite like watching the sunrise over Fisherman’s Bastion and the sunset from the Rudas Baths.

Top Summer Attraction: Fisherman’s Bastion, Danube Promenade, Rudas Baths, Margaret Island

If you want to read more about things to do in Budapest, click here.

Hue, Vietnam

This riverfront town located on the banks of the beautifully named Perfume River brings together illustrious royal history and striking natural surroundings and creates a lovely setting for outdoor adventure as well as cultural appreciation.

Top Summer Attraction: Dragonboat cruise, Ba Na National Park

If you want to read more about things to do in Vietnam, click here.

Lisbon, Portugal

Set in a splash of vibrant hues, Lisbon is a city of dreams – financially and culturally. As one of Western Europe’s cheaper destinations, the city is ideal for budget travellers but does not shy away from its historic charm and glamour or striking natural beauty. It is city providing beach holidays and historic getaways all wrapped up in one.

Top Summer Attraction: Alfama District, Cabo da Roca, Sintra

If you want to read more about things to do in Lisbon, click here.

London, England

Londoners love to complain about – excuse me, discuss – the weather, and there is no better time to do that than the few months where there is a promise of warmth. If you are lucky to catch a week or even a day of sunshine, the city comes to life in the most wonderful way and is easily one of the best places to stroll through parks and indulge in delicious brunches – many of which can be found along the riverside.

Top Summer Attraction: Tower Bridge, GoBoats along the River Thames, Lavender Fields, Fruit Picking

If you want to read more about things to do in London, click here.

Rhodes, Greece

If you’re searching for a gorgeous summer backdrop dominated by towering windmills, a UNESCO-listed Old Town filled with dramatic architecture, winding alleys, and pristine beaches – the breathtaking Greek city of Rhodes is just right for you. It is truly a majestic island reflecting authentic Greek culture and lifestyle, and unlike Santorini, is far more laidback.

Top Summer Attraction: Rhodes Old Town, Prasonisi Beach, Windmills of Mandraki

If you want to read more about things to do in Rhodes, click here.

Rome, Italy

Rome is a romantic during any season, but the sticky, sweet summer is a lovely time to visit the Italian capital. The crowds are insufferable, but the gelato is absolute bliss, the street artists are an absolute delight, and the sunsets over ancient monuments are a sight for sore eyes.

Top Summer Attraction: The Trevi Fountains, Piazza Navona

If you want to read more about things to do in Rome, click here.

Seychelles

Seychelles is one of those countries that you’ll visit, and then have beach holidays spoilt for you for the rest of your life because you’ll keep comparing every new coastline you explore to the extraordinary, stunning African coast. Escape to these islands to ignore the sounds of the rest of the world as you kick back and relax in an environment rich with biodiversity and unbelievable shores.

Top Summer Attraction: island hopping, water sports, Seychelles botanical gardens, Morne Blanc trail

If you want to read more about things to do in Seychelles, click here.

Sorrento, Italy

Italy’s premier coastline has been one of the most highly sought-after European summer destinations for centuries. It holds an allure not many can resist. With its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, famous cuisine, and a laidback lifestyle, Sorrento is where you want to be for an enchanting Italian holiday.

Top Summer Attraction: Amalfi Coast, Mount Vesuvius

If you want to read more about things to do in Sorrento, click here.

Vienna, Austria

Despite being a landlocked country, Vienna offers fantastic summer holidays through its regal setting and captivating vineyards. While you might so have the beach to run to, you can cruise down the Danube, eat your weight in gelato, and saunter through the city centre for its collection of charming attractions.

Top Summer Attraction:  Schönbrunn Palace, Schmetterlinghaus, summer festivals

If you want to read more about things to do in Vienna, click here.

Where do you hope to travel to this summer? Has this list of perfect summer holiday destinations inspired you in any way?