11 Epic Places That Belong On Your Summer Bucket List

Many people love traveling in the summer to soak up the warm weather and pack light. If you’re one of those people, you need to add these 11 must-visit destinations to your summer bucket list!

One of the best things about traveling in the summer is that you can leave the heavy jackets at home, enjoy longer daylight hours, and everyone is out and about.

Of course, summer travel has its challenges—scorching temperatures can make some places feel like an oven, and popular spots can get crowded.

But don’t let that stop you!

Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on a tropical beach, exploring a vibrant city, or setting off on an adventure, there’s a perfect destination waiting for you.

This blog post is all about 11 incredible places that should be on your summer bucket list.

1. Puerto Rico

Of course, we had to recommend our home country, Puerto Rico, as a top summer destination.

The island offers a mix of beautiful beaches, history, and outdoor activities.

You can soak up the sun on the famous Flamenco Beach in Culebra or surf the waves in Rincón.

Another top thing to do is visit the bioluminescent bay in Vieques, where the water glows at night as you paddle through. (Make sure to book a tour before going to Vieques).

If you are planning to stay in the capital city, you need to visit Old San Juan, which is packed with colorful streets, historic forts, and delicious local food.

Try a traditional mofongo dish and explore Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a fortress with stunning ocean views.

If you love adventure, Puerto Rico has plenty of options.

You can hike through El Yunque National Forest, zipline in Toro Verde, or go to various waterfalls.

To learn more about visiting Puerto Rico, check out our blog post “21 Puerto Rico Travel Tips You Need To Know Before Visiting”.

2. New York City

New York City is a must-visit in the summer, but just keep in mind that it can get hot and humid.

The warm weather makes it the best time to explore Central Park, walk the High Line, or take a boat ride to the Statue of Liberty.

One of the best things about visiting NYC during the summer is all the rooftop bars and outdoor dining spots, giving you endless places to enjoy great food and views.

Broadway shows, street performances, and summer festivals bring an extra level of energy to the city.

Visit Little Italy, explore the art at the Met, or check out a Mets game.

If you love shopping, Fifth Avenue and SoHo have some of the best stores in the world.

For a unique experience, take a day trip to Coney Island. Ride the roller coasters, eat a famous Nathan’s hot dog, and enjoy the beach.

During my time living in New York City, I took the L train to Coney Island, and I could say it was worth it, especially if you have little ones.

For more details on must-see art museums in New York City, take a look at our blog post “8 Must-See Art Museums In New York City”.

3. Ibiza

Ibiza is one of the most exciting summer bucket-list destinations.

Known for its world-famous nightlife, the island also offers stunning beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking natural beauty.

In the summer, the crystal-clear waters and golden sands of Cala Comte, Cala Bassa, and Ses Salines make for the perfect beach getaway.

While Ibiza is famous for its clubs, there’s more to the island than just parties.

Dalt Vila, the historic old town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled streets, ancient walls, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

For a quieter experience, explore the hippie markets in Las Dalias or Punta Arabí, where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

For adventure lovers, Ibiza has plenty to offer.

Take a boat trip to Formentera, a smaller island with some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

Watching the sunset from Café del Mar or Es Vedrà is an unforgettable experience.

4. Croatia

Croatia is a hidden gem and a must-add to your summer bucket list.

The country’s coastline is stunning, with over a thousand islands to explore.

You can sail through the Adriatic, visit hidden coves, or relax on the beaches of Hvar.

Dubrovnik, also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is full of history.

Walk along the city walls, visit Fort Lovrijenac, and take a cable car up Mount Srđ for an incredible view.

Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize many filming locations here.

If you love nature, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit. Hiking through its waterfalls and turquoise lakes makes the drive worth it.

5. Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands, known for its crystal-clear waters, white-washed buildings, and legendary nightlife.

In the summer, the weather is perfect for enjoying its many beaches.

Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach are great for sunbathing and water sports, while Elia Beach offers a quieter escape.

The island’s main town, Chora, is a maze of charming streets filled with boutique shops, cafes, and bars.

One of the best things to do is watch the sunset from Little Venice, where the houses sit right by the water.

The iconic Mykonos windmills also make for a perfect photo spot and the perfect place to watch the sunset.

At night, Mykonos comes alive. Beach clubs like Scorpios and Cavo Paradiso host world-famous DJs, making it a must-visit for party lovers.

But if you prefer a more laid-back evening, there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes with a view of the Aegean Sea.

6. Marrakesh

Marrakesh is a vibrant city that feels like stepping into another world.

The souks (markets) in the Medina are packed with colorful textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods.

Wandering through the maze-like streets is an adventure in itself, and bargaining for souvenirs is part of the experience.

The city is also home to stunning palaces and gardens.

The Bahia Palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, while the Majorelle Garden, designed by Yves Saint Laurent, offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

For history lovers, the Saadian Tombs and Koutoubia Mosque are must-see landmarks.

If you want to experience the beauty of the desert, take a day trip to the Agafay Desert.

You can ride a camel, go quad biking, or even spend a night in a luxury desert camp under the stars.

Keep in mind that summer in Marrakesh is hot, but the city is worth the visit.

7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The country is home to stunning beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, where you can surf, snorkel, or just relax.

Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio are two of the most popular beach spots.

One of the best things about Costa Rica is its biodiversity.

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a magical place where you can walk across hanging bridges and spot exotic wildlife.

If you’re lucky, you might see a sloth or a toucan.

Another must-visit spot is Arenal Volcano, where you can hike, soak in natural hot springs, and see waterfalls.

For thrill-seekers, Costa Rica offers activities like white-water rafting, zip-lining through the jungle, and exploring hidden caves.

The country’s eco-friendly tourism and laid-back “Pura Vida” lifestyle make it a perfect summer destination.

8. Paris

Paris in the summer is magical.

The weather is warm, the gardens are in full bloom, and the city is buzzing with life.

You can start your day with a walk along the Seine, visit the Louvre, and then enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk café while watching the world go by.

No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower.

During summer, you can have a picnic at Champ de Mars or take an evening boat cruise to see it sparkle at night.

Montmartre is another great area to explore, with its artistic streets and breathtaking views from the Sacré-Cœur.

Paris also has fantastic summer festivals, outdoor concerts, and open-air cinemas.

Find out more about Paris by reading our complete guide “A Perfect Day In Paris Exploring Famous Landmarks”.

9. Dallas

Dallas is an underrated summer destination with a mix of city excitement and outdoor fun.

The city’s arts district is full of museums, galleries, and live music venues.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is great for families, while the Dallas Arboretum offers a peaceful escape with beautiful gardens.

Food is a big part of the Dallas experience. From Texas-style barbecue to famous Tex-Mex dishes, there’s something for every foodie.

Bishop Arts District is a trendy area with great restaurants, coffee shops, and unique boutiques.

If you want an adventure, head to Six Flags Over Texas for roller coasters and water rides.

You can also take a day trip to Fort Worth to see real Texas cowboy culture at the Stockyards, where you’ll find rodeos, western shops, and even a cattle drive.

10. Iceland

Iceland is one of the most unique places to visit in the summer.

Since the country experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight, you can explore its stunning landscapes at any time of the day.

The Golden Circle route takes you to some of the country’s most famous sights, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park.

If you love hiking, Landmannalaugar is a dream destination with colorful mountains and natural hot springs.

You can also visit the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with bright blue waters that make for the perfect relaxation spot.

For an unforgettable experience, take a road trip along the Ring Road to see glaciers, black sand beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Discover all the must-know tips before visiting Iceland in our blog post “23 Iceland Travel Tips That Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable”.

11. Lagos, Portugal

Lagos, Portugal, is a dream destination for a summer bucket list.

Located in the Algarve region, this coastal town is famous for its breathtaking cliffs, hidden sea caves, and golden beaches.

Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are two of the most picturesque beaches, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations that make for incredible photos.

One of the best things to do in Lagos is to explore the famous Ponta da Piedade.

You can take a boat tour through the sea caves and arches or kayak along the coastline for an up-close experience.

The views from the cliffs are stunning, especially at sunset.

For adventure seekers, there are also dolphin-watching tours and surf spots along the coast.

Beyond the beaches, Lagos has a charming old town with cobblestone streets, traditional Portuguese tilework, and great seafood restaurants.

The town comes alive at night with lively bars and outdoor dining spots.

Summer Bucket List Ideas

Summer is the perfect time to explore new places, soak up the sun, and create unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape, a vibrant city adventure, or even an adventure-filled trip, these 11 incredible destinations offer something for every traveler.

No matter where you choose to go, the key is to embrace the adventure, enjoy the moment, and make the most of your time.

Start planning your trip now, and check off another destination from your summer bucket list!

Where will your next adventure take you? Let us know in the comments!