Thinking of going on summer vacation this year?

Planning the perfect summer getaway can quickly get overwhelming. You have to first think about where to go, what to do, and of course, the cost. But don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you.

In this article, we’ll share some of the best countries to visit for a summer vacation this year, complete with the cost, must-do activities and tips to help you make the most of your trip.

What to consider before choosing your summer vacation destination

• Budget: Before booking your flight ticket, you have to look into how much the trip would cost and if it fits into your travel budget. Consider how much you will spend on accommodation, food, activities, and transport and plan your trip accordingly.
• Weather: The last thing you want while on your vacation is to be unable to explore the city due to extreme heat or even rainstorms. Summer doesn’t look or feel the same everywhere, so check the city’s weather for the specific months you plan to visit.
• Activities: What are you looking to do while on vacation? Do you want to relax by the beach, explore nature or enjoy the city’s nightlife? Make sure your chosen destination offers the activities you enjoy most so you don’t get bored.
• Ease of travel: Some countries are visa-free, while others require advance applications or offer a visa-on-arrival. Before you make any plans, check what applies to your passport and sort out the required documents, if needed. This will save you time and stress.
• Safety: You should always consider your safety before choosing a travel destination, whether you’re travelling solo or with your loved ones. Look into the political climate, local crime rate, and places to avoid as a tourist.

Top 5 countries for a summer vacation

Cyprus:

Did you know that Cyprus is nicknamed the “island of love”? This Mediterranean island is regarded as the birthplace of Aphrodite, just one example of the island’s rich history and culture. But beyond mythology, Cyprus is a great place for tourists looking for beautiful beaches, good food, and laid-back towns where they can relax and unwind.

Also read: Best cities to work in the Mediterranean

The best time to visit Cyprus is between May and September when the weather is warmest, and you can enjoy the beach fully.

Some must-do things while in Cyprus:

• Visit the rustic village of Omodos.
• Hike to the Waterfalls in the Troodos Mountains
• Go snorkelling in Protaras
• Explore the Tombs of Kings in Paphos

• Eat fresh halloumi and souvlaki.
• Experience the nightlife in Paphos.
• Go scuba diving in Larnaca.
• Relax on the white sands of Nissi Beach.

Accommodation in Cyprus starts at around €40 per night, depending on where you stay and the type of place. For meals, you can expect to spend about €15 to €25 per person. If you want to join tours or do activities, budget around €30 to €80. With some planning, your trip to Cyprus can be budget-friendly or more luxurious, depending on your preference.

Also read: Seven proven hacks to slash accommodation costs

Spain:

Spain is a great and popular summer destination for good reason. The food is fantastic, the cities are full of life, and many cultural attractions exist, like The Prado Museum in Madrid, flamenco shows in Seville, and The Mezquita in Córdoba. Spain has something for every kind of traveller.

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The best time to visit is between June and September, as the weather is warm, and there are plenty of festivals, including La Tomatina, Resurrection Fest, BBK Live, and Sónar.

A one-week trip to Spain costs around €1,330 for one person, and this includes accommodation, food, transportation, and tourist activities. Some of the cheapest places to stay are Granada, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Murcia.

Top activities to do while in Spain include:

• Relax on the beaches of Costa del Sol
• Enjoy local cuisine like Cochinillo asado, Cocido Madrileño, and Crema Catalana.
• Go wine tasting in La Rioja.
• Visit the Alhambra in Granada.
• Go hiking in Camino de Santiago.
• Explore Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona.

Also read: Best digital nomad rentals: affordable living options in Spain

Italy:

Italy offers a unique mix of cultural heritage, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes, which is why it’s a favourite among travellers. You can explore ancient Roman ruins, enjoy fresh pasta in Tuscany, or relax on the beaches along the Amalfi Coast.

The best time for a summer vacation is between June and September, though July and August are more crowded and expensive, especially in popular cities.

A one-week budget-friendly trip to Italy usually costs around €1,100 to €1,650 per person. However, mid-range travellers can expect to spend between €2,300 and €3,200, while luxury experiences start at €4,600.

Some top things to do in Italy include:

• Visit historic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
• Explore world-class museums such as the Uffizi Gallery.
• Take a gondola ride through Venice’s canals for a truly unique experience.

• Go wine tasting in Tuscany’s vineyards.
• Attend a local event, like the Palio di Siena horse race.

Portugal:

Portugal, home to the second-greatest player of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo, is also a beautiful country beloved by couples for destination weddings and honeymoons. Although it’s a small country, you can drive from one end to the other in 9 hours, there are a lot of places to explore.

The best time to visit is between June and September when the weather is warm and sunny,  perfect for beaches, festivals, and exploring towns. Popular events during this time include NOS Alive, Super Bock Super Rock, and the lively Festa de São João.

Top activities to do while in Portugal include:

• Ride the famous Tram 28 through Lisbon’s old neighbourhoods.

• Explore the colourful castles and palaces of Sintra.
• Relax on the golden beaches of the Algarve.
• Taste local dishes like Bacalhau, Pastéis de nata, and Bifanas.
• Wander through Porto’s Ribeira district and visit wine cellars.
• Catch some waves surfing in Ericeira or Peniche.

A one-week trip to Portugal usually costs around €1,100 per person, covering accommodation, food, transport, and activities. If you’re looking at your budget, cities like Porto, Braga, and Coimbra offer great value without sacrificing their charm.

The United States

We’re sure it’s a surprise to no one that the US is on this list. It’s a big country with many vacation spots that will make your summer getaway unforgettable. From beaches to big cities, mountain hikes to music festivals, the US has everything you want from a summer vacation.

The best time to visit depends on where you’re headed, but generally, June to early September gives you warm weather and many options. Remember that July and August can be hot and crowded in major cities, so plan around that if you prefer a slower pace.

Summer vacations to the US can be a bit pricey, between $1,500 and $2,500 for a one-week trip for one person. Major cities like New York, San Francisco, or LA tend to be pricier, while smaller towns and road trips might cost less. This covers your stay, food, transport, and a few activities; just plan a bit extra if you want to shop more or do more tours.

Some top things to do while in the US include:

• Visit free museums and public galleries
• Explore local parks and beaches
• Join a free walking tour
• Try street food like hot dogs and tacos
• Take a day trip to a nearby town or nature spot

Tips for travelling for summer vacation

• Book early: Flights and hotels get pricier as summer approaches, so finalise your plans.
• Pack smart: Bring lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Use public transport: It’s often cheaper and easier than taxis or rideshares, especially in busy cities.
• Avoid peak times: Try early mornings or late afternoons for sightseeing to skip the crowds and heat.
• Keep important documents handy: Have digital copies of your passport, tickets, and reservations, just in case.

Enjoy seamless travel with Grey.

Grey is the perfect travel buddy, no matter where your next summer vacation takes you. With Grey, sending and receiving payments is easy, with no stress about currency conversions at the airport. That means you can focus on exploring and enjoying new places like a local.

Create your Grey account today and get the most out of your vacation!

Also read: Best places to go for a summer vacation in Africa