Lonely Planet's 2026 Summer Travel Picks

From red-rock mesas to skinny slot canyons, massive lakes and slick rock trails, Utah's diverse and otherworldly terrain will stun you. More than 65% of the state lands are public, including 14 national parks and monuments. Soak up the views and discover the unexpected in overlooked state parks and hidden-away lookout points.

The insatiable combination of lake plus mountain in Switzerland is so addictive. From the soul-soaring panoramas atop the Alps to the portfolio of picture-perfect fairytale castles to the enviable flush of alpine lakes and rivers, Switzerland is as energizing as it is beautiful. Traveling by rail is dreamy. No other country pairs slick, punctual trains (which have a kaleidoscope of giddy views) with such harmony and romance.

Greece is meant for exploring in summer, and not just its big hitters like Santorini and Crete. From rural countryside to mountain villages, there is a wealth of history, culture and thousands of miles of sandy beaches and coastline to discover. As a taster, you could linger on blindingly beautiful islands that seem straight out of a postcard, explore a rich tapestry of ancient sites woven into every landscape and dine on Greek cuisine bursting with fresh salty flavors.

The region’s cradle of culture for more than two millennia, Uzbekistan is Central Asia's biggest draw and most impressive showstopper in sights alone. The country is the proud home to a spellbinding arsenal of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply infused with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road. In the summer, find an excellent combination of fewer crowds and peak nightlife.

Don’t tell winter, but summer in Colorado is extraordinary. Trips to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains are filled with al fresco dining, hiking and mountain biking, street fairs and festivals, birdwatching, art exhibits, brewery visits, farmers market strolls and more. Enjoy Denver's outdoor dining and drinking scene, spend an evening at Red Rocks enjoying a concert while watching the moonrise over the plains, or plan an exciting family road trip.

Modern cities buzzing with energy, richly historic architecture, and an incredible food scene that will keep you full every step of the way – Japan truly has it all. Whether you road trip across its islands or jump on its famed fast trains, traveling around the country in summer is a dream. And while "beach vacation" may not be your first thought, the coastline of this fascinating archipelago is studded with gorgeous sandy spots where you can swim, soak up the sun and enjoy amazing views.

Italy's famous monuments, historic cities, breathtaking landscapes and irresistible food are only more enticing come summertime, which also means more popular destinations like Venice and the Amalfi Coast can be overwhelmed (and frankly, too hot). But it's the lesser-known seaside fishing towns, timeless hilltop villages and smaller – though just as refreshing – lakes where you'll discover that Italy’s summer magic still exists, away from the masses.

All of New Hampshire begs to be explored. This rugged state on the Atlantic Coast of the United States is filled with jagged mountains, serene valleys and island-dotted lakes. Kayak the hidden coves of the Lakes Region or trek the upper peaks surrounding Mt Washington. Summer is for swimming in crisp mountain streams and picking berries for dessert. For a more sophisticated homebase, check out Portsmouth and if small-town culture is more your vibe, settle in the pristine village of Keene.

Spain consistently ranks as one of the most-visited destinations in the world – offering sun-drenched beaches, incredible cuisine, charming villages and cross-cultural historic sites – it’s easy to understand its appeal. The coastline runs from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, with the Balearic and Canary Islands adding further options. For cooler weather, head north to Galicia and the Basque Country, where the heat is softer and the scenery wild.

The longer summer days are the best time to take advantage of California's many beautiful beaches, stunning national parks and top-notch cities. In one trip, you can truly experience some of the best natural sights and cultural hotspots in the country. Time your visit around the World Cup to catch games in San Francisco or Los Angeles, or take a road trip along the coast to do them both!

A mysteriously under-the-radar island despite its obvious charms, Curaçao is the largest of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao). This is an unmissable stop in the southern Caribbean for those who love food, art, glorious beaches and destinations with loads of personality. This amiable island also has an adventurous streak, offering excellent hiking and world-class diving. Beaches feel like private coves surrounded by jagged coralstone cliffs, begging for a summer escape.

With Iceland's iconic landscape filled with ice, lava fields and towering waterfalls, the talents of this breathtaking northern destination are seemingly endless. Come summertime, enjoy mild temperatures while bearing witness to the midnight sun and making the most of the long, bright days (late-night hike, anyone?).

Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden beaches: the Portugal experience can be many things. Early summer is one of the liveliest times to visit, with Lisbon's nearly month-long Festas de Lisboa and Porto's Festa de São João in June. Spend the rest of the season sunning yourself on peaceful coves or catching waves at some of the world's best surfing spots. And, perhaps in the smartest move of all, while the masses flock to the Algarve, check out the lesser-visited Alentejo to the north.

Summer is the best time for visiting Ireland – warm sunny days and balmy evenings. The whole country heads outdoors in the summer months for sea swimming, hiking, fishing and a packed calendar of festivals. Famous for its welcome, the country is brimming with cultural activities influenced by its rich heritage: think charming castles, lighthouses shrouded in mist and a pint of Guinness in a pub with traditional musicians playing in the corner.

Due to the coral reef ring surrounding Bermuda's islands, this island nation is one of the best diving destinations in the world. The underwater world is simply astounding, filled with centuries-old shipwrecks and three distinct coral formations. Despite its many accolades, Bermuda maintains a breezy spirit – both literally and figuratively – that invigorates everyone who visits its shores.

In Tanzania’s cooler, drier season, vast herds of wildebeest begin hoofing it north on their migration towards the greener grasses of Kenya’s Masai Mara, while adventure travelers trek Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar’s beaches beckon under sunny skies. Beyond the Serengeti, southern Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park is full of elephants, buffalo, kudu and other species. Over in western Tanzania, you can see massive pods of hippos in Katavi National Park.

Whether you lean more cultured city or untamed wilderness, summer's longer, sunnier days and packed social calendar make Scotland a dream. Land in the fairytale capital of Edinburgh – time your visit with August's Fringe Festival – or begin in the lively, music-loving Glasgow. Then, take to the Hebrides for dramatic island cliffs and plenty of wildlife encounters. If you head south to the country's least-visited region, the Scottish Borders, expect storied castles, sophisticated towns and rolling green landscapes.

Peru is a land of skyscraping peaks, vast jungle and multilayered archaeology. From the world’s tallest tropical mountain and highest navigable lake, to rich biodiversity that ranks among the globe’s greatest, Peru offers both natural and cultural wonders. History seekers can explore the Americas’ oldest-known civilization of Caral-Supe, alongside ancient marvels like Chavín de Huántar, while adventurers can trek rugged Andes trails or swing from a hammock deep in the Amazon.

Between the lively buzz of the Djemma El Fna in Marrakesh, the hiss of grilled kofta skewers in Essaouira, the vibrant colors of the cities and the sweet smell of spices, Morocco is a true treat for the senses. In the summer, attend outdoor music events and lounge on sunny beaches, or enjoy some of the country's finest wellness experiences, from luxury spas to remote desert retreats.

Czechia’s capital, Prague, is a trove of stunning historical architecture, ranging from Gothic and Baroque to Art Nouveau. Pair this with Prague’s picturesque setting astride the Vltava River, and you’ve got the makings for a stunning European getaway. Beyond Prague, find stately castles in Bohemia, beer-themed tourism in Plzeň (Pilsen) and hopping city life in České Budějovice (Budweis).