12 of the Hottest Travel Destinations To Visit This Summer

The long underrated “heel” of Italy, Puglia has emerged as one of Italy’s hottest vacation spots over the past few years. And it’s no wonder the region is becoming such a popular summer destination—it has an extensive and diverse coastline that’s characterized by towering cliffs and gorgeous sandy beaches.

Beyond balmy beach days, there are plenty of other things to do in Puglia, though: Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Alberobello and Matera or learn how to cook local cuisine ... and thank yourself for steering clear of hot and hectic Rome, at least for this year.

Although catastrophic wildfires devastated Lahaina in 2023, pretty much all of Maui (with the continued exception of the Lahaina burn zone) is now open to visitors. This summer, journey along the Road to Hana, snorkel with sea turtles in Maunalua Bay, and watch the sunrise from the top of Haleakala Mountain in Haleakala National Park, among other things.

Related: Visiting Maui for the First Time? Here's What To See and Do

Considered to be Poland’s cultural capital, Krakow is a must-visit summer destination thanks to its UNESCO–listed Old Town with its well-preserved medieval architecture, as well as lively after-hours scene and pleasant temperatures.

Here, you can dig into culture at the city’s museums, dive into the local culinary scene on a food tour, and learn about a darker chapter of history with a day trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

In the center of New Zealand’sNorth Island—and within easy reach of Auckland—Rotorua is a geothermal paradise which makes for the ideal base from which to explore the area's dramatic landscapes, including spectacular geysers and colorful crater lakes.

Here, you can also get up close and personal with many of the region’s hot spots, including the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and at Whakarewarewa, where you can also learn about Maori culture and enjoy a traditional hangi, a meal cooked in the valley’s thermal vents. If you're into pop culture too, know that the Hobbiton Movie Set is also located on the lush North Island.

Related: A Visit to Hobbiton in New Zealand Isn’t Just for Film Super Fans (or Foreign Visitors)

Salvador da Bahia features a sparkling coastline and pastel-colored historic center. But photo-worthy scenery and summer sunbathing opportunities aside, it’s really all about the culture in this Afro-Brazilian hub.

What was once the first capital of Brazil (though these days, that title goes to Brasília) is steeped in Black history, something that's evident in everything from the region's music and dance to its food. Learn more about the history of enslaved people or take a walking tour of the city, to really understand this complex destination.

Chiang Mai is a year-round traveler favorite for its temples, markets, street food, and access to adventure. While summer is the rainy season in northern Thailand, this means you’ll see fewer crowds and experience the best conditions for kayaking, white water rafting, and visiting waterfalls.

In and among the adventure, and alongside tucking into that world-famous street food scene we mentioned earlier, you should also take the opportunity to enjoy a day trip to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

Learn about the rich history, culture, and art of the Haida nation by visiting Haida Gwaii, an archipelago in British Columbia known for its strong Indigenous heritage, monumental totem poles, longhouses, abundant wildlife, and dramatic scenery. Consider taking it all in with a rejuvenating cultural retreat, which offers historical insights and culinary experiences, an immersive way to experience the area's local culture and natural wonders.

Related: First Nations Tour Guide Seraphine Lewis’ Insider Guide to Indigenous Vancouver

A delightful city that's filled with culture, history, and tasty food, the “Paris of South America'' is always a good idea. However, budget-conscious travelers are finding Buenos Aires especially appealing right now due to a favorable foreign exchange rate.

Although June through August is winter in the southern hemisphere, you’ll avoid crowds and the stifling heat that characterizes Buenos Aires summers—and you can always turn up the metaphorical heat with a tango show or a wine tasting while you're there.

Over recent years, South Korea has emerged as a cultural juggernaut, thanks to the success of myriad TV shows, movies, and musical acts including Squid Game, Parasite, and the band BTS, among others. But the country’s intriguing cultural output isn’t the sole reason to visit its capital.

When in Seoul, explore the UNESCO–listed Changdeokgung Palace, take a day trip to the DMZ, and sample Korean cuisine on a food tour. And if the city's frenetic pace gets overwhelming, head outdoors for a hike in nearby Seoraksan National Park.

With long daylight hours, warm(er) temperatures, and abundant options for outdoor activities, summer is arguably the best time to visit Juneau. Visit Mendenhall Glacier and challenge yourself with a guided hike across the ice. Then, take to the water on a whale-watching boat tour to spot some of the hundreds of migrating humpback whales that pass through these waters between April and November.

Related: 10 Winter Destinations That Are Even Better in Summer

One of the oldest cities in the US, Boston is the perfect place to learn about the nation’s past. Boston winters can get extremely cold and snowy, but strolling around Boston in the summer is a delight.

Watch the city’s past come to life on a walking tour of the Freedom Trail that leads you to 16 different historical sites. Summer also brings one of the country’s biggest Fourth of July festivals, Harborfest, to the city. And it’s not summer in Boston without catching a baseball game at Fenway Park.

There’s so much more to the Spanish island of Tenerife than the sprawling resorts that cover its Costa Adeje. The biggest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is an adventure hub where you can explore the rust-colored lunar landscapes of UNESCO–listed Teide National Park and climb Mt. Teide, the highest point in Spain. You can also spot whales and dolphins on a wildlife-watching tour or explore Anaga Rural Park, home to laurel trees, a gorgeous coastline, towering peaks, and charming villages.