Summer is a much anticipated time of the year, with the promise of adventure and exploring new places. Just the word ‘travel’ is enough to incite excitement in us. But what kind of vacation will you take? Will it be a sea, sand, and sun holiday? An escape to the mountains? Perhaps an exciting city destination? With so many options, choosing just one trip can get a little overwhelming. So, if you’re stuck on where to go on holiday this summer, don’t worry - we travel gurus here at Plum Guide have come to the rescue. Using our expert knowledge, we’ve put together a destination guide to help you decide. Here’s where to go this summer for an unforgettable holiday.
Vienna, Austria
A red and white tram in front of a large theatre on a sunny day in Vienna, Austria
If you’re on the hunt for city-based summer holiday ideas, Vienna is always a good option. With its fine architecture and glittering palaces, Austria’s capital is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It’s the perfect vacation spot for culture vultures who want to spend most of their time in the city’s museums, concert halls, art galleries, palaces, and famous coffee houses - that have served as a hangout for the likes of Sigmund Freud and Leon Trotsky.
Cocoon, Plum Guide home in Tyrol, Austria
Iceland
A view of Fjadrargljufur canyon with green rocks in summer, Iceland
“Hey Plum Guide, where can I go away this summer for an epic outdoor adventure?” you ask. How about Iceland? - The Land of Fire and Ice is an ideal summer destination, as you won’t have to worry about brutal winter weather. With drier conditions, you’ll have better access to hiking trails and tours of the highlands, as well as festivals and whale-watching. As summer is also the season for the midnight sun, you’ll have up to 24 hours of sunlight to explore the best that Iceland has to offer.
Tarragona, Spain
Pristine blue sea gently rolling onto a sandy beach in summer, Tarragona, Spain
Tarragona packs the best of Spain’s history, beauty, food, and wine in one jaw-dropping seaside city. History is everywhere you look, from the UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheatre, to the cobblestone streets and Romanesque-Gothic cathedral. Visiting historical sites could easily take up all your time, so take a break on the wide sands of Playa del Milagro, or stroll down to the old fishing village of El Serrallo - enjoy a seafood meal at one of the restaurants along the promenade.
Lighting The Mood, Plum Guide home in Tarragona, Spain
Budapest, Hungary
A view of St. Matthias Church in Budapest, Hungary
Wondering where is best to travel to this summer for an affordable city break? With a lower price tag than Paris or London, but with all the cultural offerings, Hungary’s capital is a fantastic option. Filled with history, culture, good food, and friendly people, Budapest is an attractive city perched on the banks of the River Danube. Discover the city’s Roman history with a visit to the Aquincum site, or unwind in Szechenyi Bath - a mineral hot spring spa pool over 100 years old. Come evening, enjoy a cruise on the Danube to see the sparkling city lights, and end the night with a show at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music’s concert hall.
Isle of Anglesey, Wales, UK
A view of large green fields on cliffs by the sea in summer, Isle of Anglesey, Wales, UK
If you’re searching for somewhere to go this summer which involves beaches, we have just the place for you. With 125 miles of stunning coastline, where could be better than Anglesey? Summer is ideal for spending lazy days on the island’s award-winning beaches and intimate rugged bays, or trying out water sports in the clear waters. If the water’s a little too nippy, explore the coastline via horseback - or simply bicycle or walk along the many cliff paths for breathtaking views.
Dragonfly Days, Plum Guide home in Anglesey, UK
Nova Scotia, Canada
A view of the winding road of the Cabot Trail from an adjacent mountain at sunset, Nova Scotia, Canada
Summer is a great time to visit Canada - especially the region of Nova Scotia. This beautiful peninsula offers all kinds of outdoor adventures during the summer months, like kayaking, rafting, and whale-watching. Take on the hiking trails at Cape Breton Highlands National Park, or marvel at the views from the Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail. Culture vultures will be pleased to hear that there are many summer festivals celebrating Nova Scotia’s heritage, culture, and music.
Okinawa, Japan
A pristine sandy beach with a blue sky in summer in Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa prefecture is home to some 160 islands off the coast of Kyushu. With its subtropical climate, this sand, sun, and surf destination has a distinct feel to the rest of Japan. Spend your time relaxing on the white-sand beaches, snorkelling, and diving in the blue waters, or trekking on Kume Island. Okinawa is known for its unique cuisine, which is more similar to that of Taiwan than the rest of Japan. Head to a local izakaya restaurant to try dishes like goya champuru and okinawa soba, washed down with local Orion Beer or awamori - a memorable local spirit.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
A view of coastal buildings with a lemon plant in the foreground in summer, Amalfi Coast, Italy
Without a doubt, the Amalfi Coast is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world. Its natural beauty and spectacular scenery is at its best during the summer months, when the forests are vibrant and the sea is bluest. You’ll likely spend most of your time on the beaches, but be sure to visit the stunning Villa Cimbrone Gardens, wander the narrow streets of Centro Storico, and of course, sample Amalfi’s fresh seafood.
Bravo Palazzo, Plum Guide home in Amalfi, Italy
Fiji
A white-sand beach with pristine blue water and a large green palm leaf, Fiji
Wondering where to go this summer for a classic island getaway? Fiji is the quintessential South Pacific paradise, with endless beaches and azure waters everywhere you look. The islands are surrounded by colourful coral reefs teeming with sea life - so snorkelling and diving are one of the must-do activities here. Away from the coast, Fiji’s lush interiors boast verdant hills, cascading waterfalls, and traditional villages. Hike through the Nausori Highlands for dramatic views, and learn about Fijian culture.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Wooden cabins in green hills by mountains in summer, Zermatt, Switzerland
While you may consider Zermatt a winter destination, you’ll be surprised at just how many things there are to do during the summer months. This is when the resort comes alive with colour, with brilliant blue skies, lush green meadows, and wildflower covered mountains. You’ll want to spend all your time outdoors, whether you're hiking the various mountain trails, admiring the scenery on a mountain bike, or swimming and kayaking in the surrounding lakes and rivers.
The Sound of Music, Plum Guide home in Zermatt, Switzerland
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Palm trees on the sandy Copacabana Beach in summer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Although summer isn't the coolest time in Rio, it still offers comfortable temperatures to explore the city’s outdoor offerings. Relax on the sands of the famous Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, take a walk through Tijuca National Park, or hike up to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue for magnificent 360 degree views. In the evening, indulge in barbecue at a local churrascaria, before watching a spellbinding Ginga Tropical show - marvel at the samba, and other Brazilian dances.
Chicago, USA
An aerial view of the city skyline with skyscrapers in summer, Chicago, USA
Its winters may be bitter and fierce, but Chicago’s summers are a joy to behold. This is when the city comes alive, with plenty of exciting activities and outdoor festivals - such as Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza. Walk the Magnificent Mile, take a sightseeing cruise down the river, have a picnic in Grant Park, and enjoy all the attractions of Navy Pier. The Windy City is also home to a thriving arts scene, various shopping districts, and plenty of fantastic eateries (including the infamous deep-dish pizza), so you’ll never run out of things to do.
All Things Glow, Plum Guide home in Chicago, USA
