Where to Travel in Summer: 15 Best Destinations

Summer means different things depending on where you live. For Gulf travellers, the months from June to August are the time to flee the heat, while much of Europe and Asia is enjoying its sunniest, liveliest season. The good news is that summer opens up an enormous spread of options, from cool mountain retreats to long beach days under gentle skies. The key is deciding whether you want to escape the sun or soak it up.

Here are fifteen of the best summer destinations, grouped to help you plan by mood, climate, and flight time from the Gulf.

Cool-climate escapes from the heat

If your priority is simply escaping the Gulf summer, head somewhere with mild temperatures and fresh mountain air, where evenings turn genuinely cool.

• Switzerland - alpine lakes, hiking trails, and cool evenings make it a perennial Gulf favourite.
• Austria - Salzburg and the lake district offer green scenery and pleasant warmth.
• Georgia - the mountains around Kazbegi stay cool and the country is affordable and visa-friendly for many.
• Azerbaijan - a short flight away, with cooler highlands beyond Baku.

Classic European summer

Europe comes alive in summer, with long days, buzzing terraces, and festivals everywhere you turn.

• Italy - the lakes and the Amalfi Coast are glorious, though warm, in high summer.
• France - Paris empties slightly as locals holiday, while the Riviera fills up.
• Spain - northern regions like the Basque Country stay cooler than the baking south.
• United Kingdom - London and Scotland enjoy their mildest, greenest months.

Northern Europe and the long days

For genuinely cool weather and dramatic light, go north, where summer days stretch deep into the evening and the landscapes are at their most accessible.

• Iceland - waterfalls, geysers, and the midnight sun, with comfortable temperatures throughout.
• Norway - the fjords are at their most stunning and navigable in summer.
• Scotland - the Highlands offer rugged beauty and gentle warmth.

Beaches and islands

Summer is beach season across the Mediterranean and parts of Asia, with warm seas and a full-blown holiday buzz.

• Greece - the islands deliver sunshine, sea, and white-washed charm.
• Turkey - the Aegean coast pairs beaches with history and good value.
• Bali - the dry season peaks now, making it Indonesia best beach window.
• Malaysia - Langkawi and the east coast islands enjoy fine weather and tropical warmth.

Choosing the right summer trip from the Gulf

For the shortest hops to cooler air, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey are within a few hours and very popular with Gulf families. Europe sits at five to seven hours direct, while Bali and Malaysia are longer hauls that reward with tropical escape. Iceland and Norway are further still but offer a complete change of climate and scenery, ideal when you have a week or more.

Think about pace too. Switzerland, Austria, and the Italian lakes suit relaxed family touring. Greece and Turkey are ideal for sun-and-sea holidays. Iceland and Norway reward active travellers who want hiking, road trips, and dramatic landscapes rather than lazy beach days.

Budget and value considerations

Summer is the priciest season in much of Europe, but you can still travel smart. The Caucasus countries and parts of the Balkans offer excellent value, with lower costs for food, transport, and accommodation than Western Europe. Within pricier regions, look beyond the headline cities, as smaller towns and lakeside villages are often far cheaper and more relaxed than the famous hotspots. Travelling midweek and booking flights a few months ahead also helps tame the cost of peak season, and self-catering apartments can stretch a family budget further than hotels.

Practical tips for summer travel

Summer is peak season in Europe, so book flights and hotels well ahead, especially around July and August. Expect crowds at major sights, and consider shoulder destinations or early-morning visits to beat the rush. Pack light, breathable clothing but include a layer for cool Nordic and alpine evenings. Stay hydrated on hot Mediterranean days, and always check visa requirements early, as appointment slots can fill quickly in peak season.

Frequently asked questions

Where can Gulf travellers escape the heat with a short flight?

Georgia, Azerbaijan, and the Turkish coast are all reachable in a few hours and offer noticeably cooler air, especially in their mountain regions, making them firm Gulf favourites.

Is summer too hot for Mediterranean beaches?

The water is at its warmest and the atmosphere is lively, but inland cities can be very hot. Coastal areas and northern Spain or Italy stay more comfortable than the southern interiors.

Which summer destination is best for families?

Switzerland and Austria are firm family favourites for cool weather and scenery, while Greece and Malaysia suit families wanting beaches and warm seas with plenty to do.

Summer is a season of abundance for travellers. Decide first whether you are chasing cool air or sunny beaches, match that to your flight time and budget, and book early to secure the very best of the long, bright days ahead.