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15 Best Places to Travel in June 2024

These are the best places to visit in June in the United States and around the world.

Olympia, Washington

Mackinac island, michigan, islamorada, florida, nashville and manchester, tennessee, ocean city, maryland, santa barbara, california, catskill mountains, new york, los cabos, mexico, toronto, canada, tasmania, australia, european cruises.

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Summer officially starts in June, and that means it’s time to book your next vacation. Whether you’re planning a weeklong family trip in the U.S. or a once-in-a-lifetime getaway somewhere farther afield, we’ve got you covered. We’ve checked out destinations near and far for travel ideas — gathering suggestions from local experts and frequent travelers — to round up the best places to travel this June. 

Here are the best places to travel in June in the United States and around the world.

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Located an hour south of Seattle-Tacoma Airport on the southern tip of the Puget Sound, Washington’s capital offers historic architecture and a vibrant arts scene. “June is when the Olympia area truly begins to shine with beautiful summer weather,” Shina Wysocki, owner of Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar in Olympia tells Travel + Leisure . “Extreme low tides allow for great beach exploration, and our forests are vibrant green, inviting hikers of all ages.” Visitors can rent a boat on Offut Lake or take a sunset sailboat tour with Olympia Sailing Company . It’s festival season, and the free three-day “Loveoly Summerfest” takes place June 21-23. Nearby, Seattle celebrates Pride Month with the 50th annual Pride Parade on June 30. 

Where to Stay: The quaint four-bedroom Marie Bed & Breakfast radiates charming Victorian ambiance. The Swantown Inn is an 1887 Queen Anne/Eastlake Victorian mansion with modern amenities. In Seattle, stay steps from the waterfront at Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts in the heart of downtown, or at Thompson Seattle near Pike Place Market .

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Travel as summer vacationers have for hundreds of years to the car-free Mackinac Island where horse-drawn carriages are a daily sight and lilacs scent the June air. The 76th Mackinac Island Lilac Festival (June 7-16) celebrates the beloved flower with a Lilac Queen coronation, a 10K run, lilac planting seminars, a cornhole tournament, the Grand Parade, and more. “June is an exciting time on Mackinac Island. Flowers are in full bloom, temperatures are rising, and summer has officially begun,” says David Jurcak, president of the island’s iconic Grand Hotel. Visitors can explore Fort Mackinac, take bike rides, hike, sail around, and shop in the town’s boutiques, even if all you come away with is the island’s famous fudge.

Where to Stay: Set on 18 acres on the sunrise side of Mackinac Island, Mission Point Resort offers 243 guest rooms and suites, six restaurants, and a variety of activities. The Grand Hotel features a variety of accommodations along with 13 restaurants and bars. 

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This village of islands in the Florida Keys is located 90 minutes south of Miami. Known for sportfishing, Islamorada also offers hiking trails in a tropical forest, eco-tours, and state parks where visitors can enjoy nature and learn about Florida’s history. Divers can explore the reefs surrounding the islands or visit the History of Diving Museum . Boating, kayaking among the islands, swimming, and snorkeling are more ways to get out on the water and enjoy the scenic islands.

Where to Stay: The luxury oceanfront Islands of Islamorada features residential-style accommodations ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom villas with full kitchens. Recently renovated Islander Resort Islamorada offers bungalows, suites, and townhouse-style villas. Cheeca Lodge & Spa is a stunning option, and Islamorada Resort Collection offers three premier resorts with different vibes. 

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Music festivals arrive in this part of Tennessee in June, with CMA Fest in Nashville from June 6-9 and the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in nearby Manchester from June 13-16. “Once you encounter the food, artisans, and Bonnaroo culture, it becomes an annual pilgrimage to escape everyday life, slow down, move with the music, and talk to strangers again,” according to Rebecca Bordenet-French, general manager of the Manchester Coffee County Conference Center. “Plan to stay another night and enjoy Middle Tennessee with its abundant hiking and biking trails.” Meanwhile, in Nashville, travelers can dive into “The Music City’s” claim to fame with visits to the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium and live performances at bars and clubs. 

Where to Stay: At Bonnaroo, there’s on-site camping and glamping. In Nashville, stay at the art-filled The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel , Bobby Nashville in historic Printers Alley downtown, or The Westin Nashville near Music Row. Nearby in Franklin, Southall Farm & Inn is a working farm with a spa, pool, two restaurants, guest rooms, suites, and cottages.

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If the name Ocean City conjures up visions of waves breaking on the shore, a classic wooden boardwalk, restaurants, and summer fun, you have a pretty good idea of what you’ll find on this Maryland barrier island with ten miles of Atlantic coastline. For more than a hundred years, Ocean City has offered visitors sunny beaches, an amusement park, games, arcades, shops, boating, fishing, and water sports. There’s nightlife, a performing arts center with live shows, shopping, and nearby Assateague Island with beaches and wildlife that includes deer and wild horses. 

Where to Stay: The newly renovated Ashore Resort & Beach Club features 250 accommodations including 15 multi-room suites, perfect for families and groups. Campers can check out nearby Frontier Town RV Resort & Campground . 

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This coastal city is a year-round destination, and June is an ideal time to visit thanks to temperatures reaching into the 70s and several events. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration is the largest event in Santa Barbara County, with a parade of floats, giant puppets, whimsical costumes, and music and a festival that attracts spectators from around the world. There’s also the Juneteenth Block Party , a celebration of Black culture and talent with music, dancing, poetry, art exhibitions, food, storytelling, and the Black Artisan Market. The Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival and the Santa Barbara Lavender Festival are both set for June 29. My favorite spots in the area are the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail and Funk Zone ; I love visiting wineries, and the Wine Trail is a convenient way to taste a few new wines and hear their stories.

Where to Stay: The Steward , an all-suite boutique hotel, is set on nearly five lush acres with a fitness barn, pool, and restaurant. The Rosewood Miramar Beach features six restaurants and bars in nearby Montecito. The luxurious El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel is set on a hillside overlooking the city.

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Located in southeastern New York about 100 miles from Manhattan, the Catskills have long been a destination for snow sports during the winter and an escape from the city’s stifling heat during the summer. The summer season gets underway in June, but visitors in the early part of the month can beat the crowds to enjoy the flowers, green trees, and fresh air of late spring. Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails reward trekkers with spectacular views, waterfalls, and wildlife. Fly fishing, kayaking, and rock climbing attract adventure travelers, and luxurious hotels are there for visitors seeking relaxation among natural beauty.

Where to Stay: Choose your own Catskills adventure, with accommodation options ranging from glamping in a vintage camper at Boheme Retreats in the Sullivan Catskills, relaxing at The Chatwal Lodge , a luxury all-inclusive resort, exploring the wilderness at Scribner's Lodge , or taking in the view from a soaking tub at the plush boutique Urban Cowboy .

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You can still get ahead of most summer visitors to Utah’s five spectacular national parks if you start planning now. Skiers have packed away their gear, and most of the snow has melted, so hikers, rock climbers, river rafters, and campers have their choice of Utah’s mountains, rivers, trails, and parks. Utah is home to 23 designated International Dark Sky Places for stargazing; five are in national parks and 10 are in state parks. Plan for some time in Utah’s cities where restaurants, pubs, museums, and historic buildings offer more ways to enjoy the “Beehive State.”

Where to Stay: Under Canvas offers upscale, custom-designed glamping tents in Zion, Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell-Grand Staircase, and Moab, with special stargazing activities. In Moab, stay at the rustic Red Cliffs Lodge . In Salt Lake City, choose the Grand America Hotel or Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City .

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This small Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, often called the happiest country in the world, is known for its stunning landscapes and monasteries. June begins the summer season, when two major cultural festivals take place with vibrant traditional performances, folk dances, and displays of spiritual devotion. “Bhutan is a country that has forged its own path and deliberately stands aside and apart from the mainstream — in travel, and much else,” according to TravelLocal founder, Huw Owen. “There is no mass tourism here, limited hustle and bustle, and plenty of space, peace, and silence. It’s one of the few destinations with the power to make you think, reflect, and perhaps change.” TravelLocal offers a variety of ways to explore Bhutan through guided tours.

Where to Stay: TravelLocal’s personalized itineraries can include hikes through the Himalayas, visits to the famous Tiger’s Nest, and time in Bumthang, known as “the Switzerland of Bhutan.” Accommodations are at hotels or local residents’ homes.

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June is considered Fiji’s brief shoulder season before the summer crowds arrive, and the weather is generally dry with temperatures in the 70s to mid-80s. A rainbow of tropical fish and marine life make their habitats in the barrier reefs, so this destination is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. On land, there are rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails for adventure travelers. Fresh seafood, ripe tropical fruit, and local flavors represent Fiji’s tasty cuisine. Plus, daily nonstop flights from Los Angeles and service from other West Coast cities on Fiji Airways make getting there easy. 

Where to Stay: My stay at VOMO Island , a private island resort among Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, was wonderful, and the snorkeling expedition was the best I’ve experienced in my travels. Wakaya Private Island Resort & Spa offers waterfront cottage suites. Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort , Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay , COMO Laucala Island , and Turtle Island are more places to stay.

June is considered the last month of shoulder season in Los Cabos before the arrival of summer vacationers and hurricane season. Temperatures reach the high 80s, ideal beach and pool weather that’s also perfect for a sunset cruise or a sportfishing excursion. Dive, snorkel, or hike in Cabo Pulmo National Park, where a coral reef is home to a diverse array of marine life. Explore pedestrian-friendly San José del Cabo, with its town square, shops, galleries, restaurants, and Thursday evening Art Walk (through June). There are so many interesting and fun things to do in Los Cabos , even if all you want is a lounge chair by the pool and a margarita.

Where to Stay: My recent stay at the all-inclusive Grand Velas Los Cabos was superb, and I also visited the luxurious adults-only Grand Velas Boutique Hotel, another gorgeous resort. Another favorite, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is planning a Festival of Flavors culinary weekend June 13-15. The Four Seasons Los Cabos Costa Palmas is another personal favorite for its golf course and beach. 

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June kicks off Toronto’s summer season with exciting festivals and events. World-renowned musicians gather for the Toronto Jazz Festival , June 21-30, and from June 6-16, Luminato Festival brings art, musicals, theater, concerts, and more to Toronto. The city celebrates Pride Month with a vibrant parade as well as parties, performances, and art. Toronto historian and tour guide, Bruce Bell , tells T+L, “You’ll never have to worry about food in Toronto.” He recommends St. Lawrence Market, “the oldest and largest food market in Toronto, established in 1803. There are over 80 vendors, and it’s very multicultural, which perfectly reflects the city’s population.” 

Where to Stay: Kimpton St. George features The Fortunate Fox , a hip gastropub. The Shangri-La Toronto is located in one of the city’s tallest buildings. Ace Hotel Toronto was featured on T+L’s It List in 2023. Nobu Hotel & Residences Toronto is set to debut in summer 2024 with a two-level Nobu restaurant.

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The mountainous island of Tasmania lies about 150 miles south of mainland Australia. Its untouched natural beauty includes waterfalls, lakes, wildlife, national parks, wineries, and some of the world’s oldest forests. June’s Dark Mofo , Hobart/Nipaluna’s midwinter festival inspired by ancient rituals, celebrates the longest night through art, food, music, fire, and light. “Dark Mofo has established itself as a beacon of artistic exploration and challenging ideas for a decade, immersing audiences in the depths of darkness and the heart of winter,” according to Chris Twite, Dark Mofo’s artistic director. The Winter Feast (June 13-16 and 20-23) showcases Tasmanian food, wine, and spirits. The Nude Solstice Swim will take place at sunrise on June 21, welcoming back the light after the longest night.

Where to Stay: In Hobart, waterfront and city accommodations are available, including The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel , set in historic waterfront buildings.

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This country, bordered by the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Ionian seas, offers everything you could want in a summer vacation — sunshine, warm waters, beaches, museums, ancient sites, and delicious cuisine. That makes the season a busy one, but early June is the tail end of the shoulder season, a good time to get ahead of summer’s visitors. In Athens , thrill to the sight of the Acropolis, Parthenon, and other ancient buildings, but don’t miss the city’s old town and seaside. Then it’s time to get to know Greece’s cities and islands, each one offering distinctive pleasures. The popular island of Mykonos features beaches, clubs, and a lively atmosphere. Beautiful Santorini is known for whitewashed buildings topped with blue domes. You can also find your way to lesser-known places for a relaxing vacation with fewer tourists. 

Where to Stay: Katikies Santorini topped T+L’s 2023 World’s Best Awards list of the top resorts in Greece , with Andronis Boutique Hotel and Andronis Arcadia (opening for the season in May) also on the list. Cali Mykonos (named to T+L’s It List in 2023) reopens on April 29, with 40 villas on secluded Kalafati Beach. Calilo on Ios reopens on June 1 with a new spa, and the all-inclusive Sol Cosmopolitan Rhodes is an ideal family resort. 

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Want to visit several European cities without creating your own itinerary, arranging flights and transfers, and packing and unpacking between destinations? A cruise could be your answer, and there are so many to choose from. Cruise Croatia offers small-ship cruises along the Croatian coastline and islands in its luxurious, modern fleet. You can cruise the Mediterranean in glorious style with Star Clippers in a five-masted clipper ship. Oceania Cruises features a variety of Mediterranean itineraries aboard the new Oceania Vista . I spent two nights on the 1,200-passenger ship, and it’s stunning, with spacious rooms, a range of restaurants, and a fabulous pool deck. Cruise Europe’s rivers on a specially themed sailing, like the AmaWaterways wine cruise through France. And there are fantastic family-friendly cruise lines that offer entertainment, food, and service for everyone in the group.

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The 13 best places to travel in June 2024

Looking for the best destinations for June? From cultured cities to the beaches of your dreams, we've got you covered

Every year, more and more people seem to choose to take their summer holidays a little earlier. Why? Well, you’ll have to ask them. Everyone is different, but the lure of fewer crowds, lower prices and slightly less-scorching weather is clear. Oh, and those enticing off-season prices. 

In the northern hemisphere, June is summer but not quite ‘July and August’ summer, while the temperatures in the south are also on the more bearable side of the ledger. We’ve compiled a collection of the best places to travel in June, although there is no such thing as a bad choice. How do the islands of Portugal , the seascape of Seattle and the beaches of Fiji sound? (You don’t need to answer that). 

RECOMMENDED: 🏖️ The best  places to travel in July 🌞 The best  places to travel in August   🌍   The best  things to do in the world 🌆   The best  cities in the world

This guide is by travel journalist Emma Sparks . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Best places to travel in June

1.  Albania

With beaches to match Greece,  music festivals to match Glastonbury, prices to match, er, a happy wallet, and all without heaving crowds, Albania is gaining speed as the alternative beach hol destination, and for good reason. This year’s probably the final year to go before the masses get wind of this relatively untouched country with a fascinating history. Albania might still not be the most easily accessible place to visit, with only one major international airport in capital Tirana, but this offers an opportunity to travel along the coast or drive through the mountains and soak in its unspoilt and ruggedly beautiful landscape.

Discover the best places to visit in Albania 

2.  Langkawi, Malaysia

It’s technically the rainy season on Malaysia’s west coast in June, but showers on Langkawi are short-lived, and sunshine often prevails. The main benefits of coming here in the shoulder season? Deserted attractions and bargain hotel stays. Popular Pantai Cenang beach is much quieter in June, while pretty Tanjung Rhu (which is far from the tourist hubs) can be practically empty. Take the cable car to the Skybridge on a blue-sky day for unforgettable jungle views.

Discover the best  things to do in Langkawi

3.  Fiji

June is technically Fiji’s winter, but temperatures still hover in the mid-twenties (mid-seventies Fahrenheit), and this ‘cool’ weather makes for seriously epic sunsets. The archipelago’s turquoise waters are particularly clear at this time of year, ideal for snorkelling and diving. Viti Levu’s outer islands are a top choice for experienced divers looking for a liveaboard trip, while the Mamanucas boast calm seas and beautiful coral reefs. Resorts are getting busier, but you’re still likely to find a better deal than you would in  July  or  August .

Discover the best  things to do in Fiji

4.  Scottish Highlands

Time to get rugged. Nowhere in the UK does ‘rugged’ as naturally as the Scottish Highlands, but even the rough terrain of these northern behemoths takes a break in June. The sun even makes a brief appearance here during June, making it the perfect time to explore as much of the region as possible without having to make a break for shelter at every turn. The midges are yet to show up in force, and eagle-eyed visitors might even get to spot a dolphin or two frolicking in the waters.  

5.  Seattle, USA

Whether you come for a grunge pilgrimage, that gum wall or the incredible great outdoors, Seattle’s distinct identity draws crowds from far and wide. The city’s fun-loving side is usually on full display in June as the artsy Fremont Solstice Parade stops traffic with a naked bike ride, and Seattle Pride paints the streets all colours of the rainbow. Other highlights include orca spotting in Puget Sound or sniffing out the costly-but-coveted Copper River salmon at Pike Place Market (only available from  May  until mid-June).

Discover the best  things to do in Seattle

6.  Prague, Czech Republic

In the past, the cramped Old Town streets of Prague in summer have tended to provoke whispers of ‘overtourism.’ But the city is trying hard to reinvent itself –  fewer pub crawls and horse-drawn carts , more culture and food – and if you venture away from the main hubs, you’ll find there’s plenty to see beyond Charles Bridge and the (tourist-proofed) Lennon Wall (although they’re still worth an early morning gander). June is not yet the apex of tourist season, but benefits from beautiful weather and (in regular years) a slew of delectable festivals, including the largest ice cream fest in Central Europe and a microbrewery bonanza.

The best  things to do in Prague

7.  Zambia

Zambia’s dry and bright conditions in June are ideal for wildlife spotting in the 3500 square-mile South Luangwa National Park, and one big bonus; mosquito numbers dwindle as the landscape dries out. Walking safaris were first pioneered right here, allowing you to get up close to the region’s flora, identify the dusty prints of baboons, hyenas, or even leopards and see just how gargantuan African elephants really are. If that’s not enough of an adrenaline hit, make a beeline for Victoria Falls, where you can bungee jump over the Zambezi.

8.  Boston, USA

The Bruins probably don’t have many more years of contending left in them, but that doesn’t mean that June is going to all of a sudden become a quiet time of year in the Cradle of Liberty. America’s Walking City is at its most walkable during the summer, and the mass of street festivals attest to that, while concerts and other sporting events are a constant throughout the month. There’s also the small matter of whale watching, which is never a bad thing. 

9.  East coast, Sri Lanka

June is one of the wettest months of Sri Lanka’s southwest monsoon season (April to September) but on the east coast, it is a different story. In Arugam Bay, blazing sunshine and consistent waves mean this month is made for surfing… or lazing in a hammock with a smoothie, if that’s more your style. Nearby Kumana National Park sees far fewer visitors than its southern sister Yala, meaning you can spot leopards, elephants and crocodiles without an entourage of jostling jeeps.

Discover the best  things to do in Sri Lanka

10.  Azores, Portugal

As if the Azores weren’t idyllic enough already, in June, these verdant volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic burst with colour as copious wildflowers come into bloom. The island of Flores (meaning flowers) is the best place to spot them, but Parque Terra Nostra on the main island of  São Miguel  is just as captivating and a real treat for botany boffins. You also stand a decent chance of spotting whales and dolphins in the wild, as the widest variety of cetacean species is migrating through these waters.

Discover the best  things to do in the Azores

11.  Zadar, Croatia

Truth be told, you aren’t going to be able to avoid the crowds in Dalmatia during the summer. Heck, you can barely avoid them during the spring. If you want to visit the Croatian coast in quieter times, pack that windbreaker and head here in winter. Still, Zadar and June are a gorgeous combination, and what is sneakily the most exciting town in Dalmatia puts on its best face and puckers up for the visitors. The Salutation to the Sun is one of the region’s great attractions, accentuated by a gorgeous setting sun and a crisp Brlog craft beer.  

12.  Copenhagen, Denmark

June is a great time to make the trip to Copenhagen, as arguably Europe’s most stylish city comes alive in a blur of street festivals and shimmering class. The live music schedule is packed during the middle months meaning there’s plenty of choice for gig-hunters, while the Photo Festival showcases some of the finest photography from the other side of the lens. Copenhagen’s weather is arguably at its most enjoyable in June, which is reason enough to schedule a visit for this time.  

13.  Kyrgyzstan

Current events notwithstanding, central  Asia  is having a moment. Relaxed visa regulations mean the region is more accessible than ever, and its unparalleled combo of rich history, dazzling architecture and rugged landscapes are starting to draw a savvy crowd. From mid-June, Kyrgyzstan’s low-altitude hiking trails start to thaw out, the whitewater rafting season starts, and remote yurt camps welcome travellers looking for a digital detox. In mountainous Naryn, make time for the Kyrgyz Shyrdagy Festival, a celebration of the ancient Kyrgyz art of felt carpet making.

Need more travel inspiration?

11 incredible places you should travel in 2021 (when you can)

We’re pinning our hopes on this year bringing back travel – and if it does, these are the destinations you should hit up first

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The 27 best holiday destinations in June

By Sarah James

The beer gardens are bursting and the piazzas are packed: it’s summertime in Europe . But where should you go on holiday in June; that magic time when the Med twinkles winsomely from dawn until dusk, and nights that resemble day urge spritzes on canals and sangrias in cobbled squares long after twilight? As the continent basks in the beginnings of busy season, it’s a fine time to be a pioneer – to find local beach scenes and hot nightlife in lesser-visited corners (many of which you can even reach by train). Or super-size it and strike out for North America , land of largesse, where vast landscapes are showing off their summer glow, and big cities crank up their festival calendars.

Is it cheaper to go on holiday in June?

In many parts of the world, June isn’t quite peak season – British schools don’t break up for the summer until July , which means flights are often cheaper, and there are deals to snap up. June is an appealing time of year for those without kids to travel, so venturing somewhere lesser-known is a great way to make your budget stretch farther while avoiding the crowds. May we suggest Sweden’s archipelagos or Warsaw? Read more on both below.

Where is hot in June?

June is the start of summer in Europe and North America, so you'll find many corners from these destinations below, including the Amalfi Coast , Croatia , the South of France , Quebec in Canada and Nashville in the USA. Ningaloo Reef in Australia, on the other hand, is in its winter season in June – temperatures hover around 24°C, making it a perfect time to visit.

1. Dolomites, Italy

Temperature: 20°C high / 7°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: BST +1

Snow-covered slopes, cloud-piercing mountain tops and brilliant ice-blue skies – the Dolomites are truly one of a kind in the winter months. But come June, the bitter cold thaws, leaving lush green meadows carpeted with thick dark pine forests, unbelievable hiking routes and glittering sun-trap valleys. Spend days walking through craggy paths and hilly tracks to arrive at wooden-clad villages and mountaintop restaurants with some of Europe’s best views.

Where to stay: Forestis Dolomites rises high above the Alps, offering guests a serene escape among the clouds, with sweeping vistas and soothing spas to boot.

2. Biarritz, France

Temperature: 23°C high / 15°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 1 hour 55 minutes Time difference: BST +1

This blissful sandy stretch on France’s southwestern coast comes alive in June. While historically associated with glitz and glamour (it used to be a favourite hideout for royals and socialites in search of sophisticated sunshine), the city has been shedding its chi-chi reputation in recent years, moving towards a more subtle allure. One thing it has retained, though, is its epic surf scene – Biarritz is one of Europe’s oldest surfing spots, and those in search of epic waves and picture-perfect shores still flock to the region. Just over the border from foodie San Sebastian in Spain, Biarritz echoes the Spanish city’s culinary charm with a host of locally revered Basque restaurants, and a series of thoughtfully redesigned belle époque hotels beckoning in-the-know travellers.

Where to stay: At the Regina Experimental Biarritz , a century-old hotel with a vast atrium, sculpted frescoes and soothing tones of white, blue and mint green.

3. Mykonos, Greece

Temperature: 27°C high; 21°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 3 hours 50 minutes Time difference: BST +2

Those in the know flock to good-time Mykonos in June, when the nights seem to stretch into infinity and the sunshine bounces off the little white stone houses – and before the chaos of July and August . Forget ouzo: magnums of Champagne are more de rigueur in Mykonos as you spend the night dancing to international DJs at Cavo Paradiso, and the days recovering by the bluer-than-blue Aegean sea at one of the hot new beach clubs. If you need a culture fix, take the ferry to Delos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece .

Where to stay: Bohème , where guests laze around the kidney-shaped pool on grand super-loungers and bean bags; at night, bearded bartenders turn out flawless Negronis at the chic Bilo Bar, all just a two-minute walk from Mykonos Town. For large groups, takeover Villa Fleur – a beautifully designed, light space sleeping 12. Check our edit of the best hotels in Mykonos for more options.

4. Devon, England

Temperature: 19°C high; 10°C low Season: summer Travel time from London: 1 hour 10 minutes Time difference: BST +0

If sunshine in the UK were guaranteed, no one would ever need look further than Devon for a classic beach holiday (except perhaps Cornwall ). It's just lovely. The county has acres of sandy beaches , characterful fishing villages, rugged moors and coastal paths. For those who prefer the thrill of the great outdoors, Dartmoor is great for hiking, the north coast is the spot for surfing and along the south coast, sailing. The whole area is having a regeneration, from new cycle paths such as the Exe Trail and Drake's Way to Torquay 's shiny new seafront redevelopment and Exeter and Plymouth's cosmopolitan updates. Summer – particularly June, before the country lanes get too busy – is the time to while away an afternoon in one of Devon's best pubs or tinker around the seaside towns such as Salcombe, Budleigh Salterton, and inland Totnes.

Where to stay: Cary Arms & Spa , overlooking South Devon’s Babbacombe Bay, is made up of sea-facing guest rooms, a handful of meticulously renovated fisherman's cottages and eight fun beach huts. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Devon .

5. Copenhagen

Temperature: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 1 hour 50 minutes Time difference: BST +1

For such a small city, Copenhagen is seriously cool. In summer, good-looking Danes whizz around on brightly coloured bikes, drink craft beer outside and sip coffee by the sea. Eating is a national pastime; Noma is in its final run before closing for a second time, or if your tastes are more low-key, grab some organic street food at one of Papirøen's stalls. Mälmo in Sweden is a short 20-minute hop across the Øresund Strait and is great for an afternoon trip. Plonk yourself down in the town square and join in with After Work – the Scandi term for happy hour, which starts wonderfully early, at 4pm. The Danish capital is particularly green-minded – basically everyone here cycles and eats organic, farm-to-table – and that ethos extends to shopping . Check out Gågrøn! (sustainable designer homeware), BauBau (upscale secondhand menswear and interiors), Pure Shop (organic beauty and perfumes) and an embarrassment of vintage boutiques (Devantier, Carmen, Edison & Co).

Where to stay: Hotel Sanders . Comprised of three handsome 19th-century townhouses knocked together, the hotel has 54 bedrooms decked out with glamorous touches in an otherwise homely space. See more at our guide to the best hotels in Copenhagen .

6. Quebec, Canada

Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 9 hours 35 minutes Time difference: BST -5

Summer is when Québécois finally feel safe to take off their thermals, having survived another winter of -40°C temperatures by the sheer, warming heft of poutine. And what a world they liberate their legs into. Festival-mad Montreal is warming well into the 20s and comes alive with outdoor amusements: Sunday dance parties at Electronik Picnic in leafy Parc Jean-Drapeau; and June’s annual Mural Festival, celebrating Montreal street art. Others may heed the call of the wild coasts of the Gaspé Peninsula, where heavily scented pine forests sweep across impossible promontories. Imagine a more rugged Maine, dotted with oh-so-French gîtes.

Where to stay: Green Key hotels – which are awarded Green Key ratings for efforts to reduce their carbon footprint – are generally self-assessed. The Corporation de l’industrie Touristique du Québec, however, verifies Green Key hotels within the province, so you can be reasonably assured they’re legit. Check out the complete lists of Green Key hotels in Quebec .

Temperature: 25°C high; 14°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 3 hours Time difference: BST +1

Imagine a Mediterranean island soaked in Italy ’s summer sun, only it’s eluded the season’s legions of solar-seekers. Actually, don’t imagine it – see it for yourself, on Corsica. A region of France anchored off the western coast of Italy, it is a tale of two islands: ritzy Porto-Vecchio’s superyachts and designer shops dominate the south, while isolated bays, hilltop stone towns and a growing crop of quiet, designer villas define the north. June comes just just before the crowds and still clocks in the second-highest sunshine hours of the year behind busy July – at a not-too-terrible 11.

Where to stay: U Palazzu Serenu , a 17th-century villa wedged into the hillside, this grey-and-white temple to minimalism resembles a Florentine palazzo except it has contemporary art on the walls, modern sculpture in the lobby and not a hair out of place.

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Temperature: 17°C high; 9°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 1 hours 25 minutes Time difference: BST +0

A raucous city, Edinburgh has Georgian nooks to wander into and find a sing-a-long at an all-night piano bar and filthy comedians who take over town for a whole month every year. But while August’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe is a wonderful thing, it’s also a circus: prices are high and vacancies – in the hotels, pubs and restaurants – are scant. Come in June instead, when the Scottish summer is in full flow (it might even touch the 20s), and you can still get your culture fix (both the Leith arts festival and Edinburgh International Film Festival are on then). Sample the super-smart hospitality , too: seasonal Scottish ingredients meet classic French fine dining at Michelin-starred Martin Wishart ; Eden Locke , a millennial pink-brushed aparthotel, has its own third-wave coffee shop. Taking the Caledonian Sleeper train from London to the Scottish capital isn’t only more environmentally friendly, it’s a hell of a lot more fun. The smartest cabins come with their own private bathroom, and you can enjoy dinner and a wee dram in the lounge car then snooze your way to Scotland, arriving in time for breakfast.

Where to stay: The Dunstane Houses , a super-smart boutique hotel in Edinburgh's West End with huge fireplaces and ornate cornicing reflecting the building's solid Victorian past. See our pick of the best hotels in Edinburgh and the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh for more recommendations.

Sarah James

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Karthika Gupta

Temperature: 27°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Croatia 's surge in popularity has been meteoric, and it's not hard to see why. In the past 10 years it has gone from being considered a cheaper, quieter alternative to Italy to being one of the hottest destinations for summer. Take to the islands to dance with beautiful young things at one of the festivals hosted in June, such as Hideout on the island of Pag , or jump aboard a yacht to find a quiet stretch of the Dalmatian coast . If you need a little less beach and a bit more city, Dubrovnik has enough history and culture within its Gregorian walls to keep you busy for a weekend.

Where to stay: Villa Orsula , set in an opulent 1930s villa built of the creamy local stone used to build the ancient party of the city, with pretty terraced gardens tumbling down the hillside.

10. South of France

Temperature: 23°C high; 17°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: BST +1

The French Riviera has always been film-star stunning. In June the temperature is just right to frolic on the beaches Bardot-style in your designer bikini, before the bulk of the summer tourists descend. On 21 June each year, the Fête de la Musique sees all-night dancing and concerts on the streets of Nice and larger towns along the riviera. For old-school glamour there are the grand dames: Cannes, Nice and St Tropez , packed full of character and charisma. For quieter pockets and a gloriously crowd-free coastline, head to the less well-known Languedoc, with its long sandy beaches, picturesque villages surrounded by vineyards and great little markets. Inland Uzes is laid-back and arty, and then there are Les Iles d'Or, Champagne-coloured- sand islands that seem a million miles from the flashy mainland.

Where to stay: Les Roches Rouges , a stylishly revamped Fifties waterfront retreat. Fifty rooms, some facing the sea, some the garden, all have whitewashed walls, polished-concrete floors, minimalist furniture and balconies. But the real star attraction is the 30-metre saltwater pool carved out of the rock, which spills over right into the sea.

11. Hudson Valley

Temperature: 28°C high; 12°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: BST -5

Do as the New Yorkers do and escape Manhattan for the Hudson Valley this summer . After all, it’s only a quick train ride away. Though maintaining the leisurely pace of a pastoral idyll — dotted with apple orchards, farm stands and antiques stores – the valley has gone a bit Brooklyn , adding destination dining, spas , wineries and yoga studios to the mix. Hudson Valley is part of the Drive Electric movement, which means there are plenty of charging stations dotted about, so you can rent an EV with no fear of running out of juice. A thriving art scene includes the cutting-edge Dia: Beacon museum, housed in a former box-printing factory on the riverbank. For minimalist-chic, Rivertown Lodge is lovely, and its tavern does one hell of a brunch (spiced carrot pancakes; 'nduja and soft scramble).

Where to stay: Farmer and Sons , a plush and cosy boutique hotel with an excellent coffee shop, bar and restaurant.

Temperature: 25°C high; 4°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 10 hours 40 minutes Time difference: BST +2

This teeny East African nation is best known for one big activity: tracking mountain gorillas through its steamy bamboo forests. But there’s so much more to explore in plucky Rwanda , which has risen above past tragedies to become one of the continent’s most friendly and forward-thinking travel destinations. Capital Kigali is clean, super-green and on-trend: grab a table on the Choma’D terrace for dry-rub pork ribs, mac ’n’ cheese bowls and strawberry Mojitos in Mason jars. And a couple of hours’ drive-away is lovely Lake Kivu with inland beaches, boat tours and cycle trails. Follow up silverback tracking with luxury at nearby Bisate Lodge and its six thatched villas, plus contemporary design cues such as concrete floors and exposed brick walls. Trekking is at its best in June, when the climate is cooler and drier. Consider hiring a porter to carry your daypack when you’re gorilla trekking – even if your tour operator doesn’t recommend it. It won’t cost you much, but the difference it can make to a week’s wages is huge.

Where to stay: One&Only Nyungwe House , a nature lodge set in a delightfully peaceful tea plantation surrounded by rainforests that is home to 13 primate species and a startling array of strange and wonderful tropical birds.

13. London, England

Temperature: 21°C high; 13°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: n/a Time difference: BST +0

London is great any time of the year, but by June the capital is at its most vibrant. Londoners have fully decamped outside to appreciate the long, light evenings on a summer terrace or in a pub garden . No one seems to work at all. Even on the mildest of sunny days, parks are overflowing with scantily clad urbanites hoping to feel some warmth on their skin. Stroll the streets and sample some food at one of London's legendary food markets , grab a coffee at one of the quirky cafés, have an ice cream from a gelateria (or if it rains – this is London, after all – take afternoon tea ). The city also has the most astonishing number of superlative hotels from which to explore its endless attractions.

Where to stay: In Covent Garden, Nomad London is a sexy option steps away from the Royal Opera House. Out west, we like Lime Tree Hotel in Belgravia, a small boutique hangout that feels like home. For more, see our guide to the best hotels in London .

14. Cappadocia, Turkey

Temperature: 27°C high; 10°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: from 7 hours 20 minutes Time Difference: BST +3

You’d think it impossible to improve upon Cappadocia: a fantasy landscape of famed ‘fairy chimneys’, cave dwellings and underground cities. But come in June and you can add blooming wildflowers to that perfect picture, together with longer days for exploring (and the very best light for photographs). Sure, it’s busy season, but you can beat the hot-air balloon and crowds by hiking or horseback. This gets you onto trails others can’t reach, discovering tucked-away lookout spots and fantastically frescoed, stone-carved churches. Heart set on a cave hotel? Consider Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge, with its onsite vineyard, sun terraces affording ridiculous valley views and contemporary cave rooms with marble bathrooms and wood floors.

Where to stay: Olympos Lodge , a 12-room stylish escape among European expats and well-travelled locals, surrounded by four acres of lemon groves and ponds, palm trees and bougainvillea.

15. Menorca, Spain

Temperature: 26°C high; 17°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Menorca is the most chilled-out and low-key of the Balearic Islands ( Mallorca , its big sister, features on this list below). Things are a lot quieter on Menorca, but all the better for taking a week out and totally relaxing on stunning beaches. Still, in the last few years a clutch of interesting openings have cropped up across the island. Hauser and Wirth opened an art gallery here a few years ago, while big-name brands such as the Experimental Group are among some smart places to stay that have finally opened on an island not previously known for its luxe hotel options.

Where to stay: Can Faustino , has the run of a sprawling 16th-century merchant’s palace in the city’s historic centre. The 24 bedrooms are crisp and pared-back, there’s a little spa and steaming hammam down in vaults, and a saltwater swimming pool in the garden. See our pick of where to stay in Menorca for more recommendations.

16. Basel, Switzerland

Temperature: 23°C high; 13°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 1 hour 35 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Synonymous with its world-famous art fair, this charming little Swiss town is heaven for art and architecture fans, particularly in June. Not just because that’s when ART Basel rolls in, but also because the arty party continues long into the summer twilight, at the city’s myriad waterside bars lining the Rhine. Building buffs have plenty to take in, from the 13th-century timbered houses of the old town to the bold modern designs by Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid and Tadao Ando. Foodies should make a beeline for three-Michelin-starred Cheval Blanc: snag a table on the riverside terrace and prepare for an avant-garde take on classic French cuisine (macaron with foie gras and garam masala, for example).

Where to stay: Volkshaus Basel is a seductive boutique hotel is renowned for its shaded courtyard brasserie and understated rooms with sleek, sophisticated design.

17. Ningaloo Reef, Australia

Temperature: 24°C high; 11°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: from 20 hours 40 minutes Time difference: BST +8

The Great Barrier Reef might get all the press, but Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef is just as incredible – and, in June, it’s one of the world’s best places to swim with whale sharks. Plus, getting up close to these gentle giants doesn’t require a cage. Better still, Ningaloo’s dive and snorkel sites are way more accessible; many of its richest waters are only a few hundred metres off the beach. Choose a reputable tour company when it comes to swimming with whale sharks – getting up too close might not be dangerous for you, but it’s not great for them. Ningaloo Whalesharks , for example, is certified by Ecotourism Australia. Next, take a few days to discover the newly cosmopolitan-cool scene of WA’s isolated capital, Perth, with its al-fresco live-music venues, edgy late-night art shows and white-sand city beaches.

Where to stay: Sal Salis Ningaloo reef , a camp of five tents, each with a private deck and a bathroom with a solarheated shower.

18. Andaman Islands

Temperature: 30°C high; 23°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 16 hours 50 minutes Time difference: BST +5.30

Where do you go for a castaway-in-paradise fix with all the good looks and deluxe touches of the Maldives , but none of the other guests? A savvy few have been whispering about the Andaman Islands – a far-flung archipelago of white-sand beaches and tangled mangroves in the Indian Ocean, 150km off Indonesia – for a while. But, at last, the luxury hotels have caught up. First came eight-suite, teak-chic Jalakara, on Havelock Island, all private tropical splendour in a hilltop plantation. And now, brand-new Taj Exotica Resort & Spa beckons with its 72 glass-and-timber villas, also on Havelock – or, more precisely, Radhanagar Beach, said to be one of the most beautiful in Asia . Nip in just before heavy monsoon rains hit at the end of June – there will be none of the high-season people, so you can go full Alex Garland.

Where to stay: Taj Exotica Andamans was the islands’ first five-star hotel, with 72 villas set in 46 acres incorporating ponds, lawns and indigenous plants, an Olympic-length, infinity-edged pool, three restaurants and vegetable and herb gardens.

19. Peru and Machu Picchu

Temperature: 19°C high; 0°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours 30 minutes Time difference: BST -5

There's a reason Machu Picchu is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in the world. Set among the clouds, high in the Peruvian mountains, the old Inca city is awe-inspiring. In midsummer, the weather is dry and the light is perfect – beat the tour groups by getting up at the crack of dawn to see the sunrise. The rest of Peru is just as beautiful; the Amazon's dry season starts in June and is the best time for exploring the rainforest. The capital city, Lima , is a delicious mix of European and South American culture, with old colonial buildings jostling for space next to towering skyscrapers and a vibrant food scene .

Where to stay: The trailblazing Explora group are behind Explora Valle Segrado , a remote lodge tucked into a cleft at the base of the Urubamba mountain range overlooking Peru's Sacred Valley, designed to melt into the landscape.

20. Sweden’s archipelagos

Temperature: 21°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: from 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Summer in Sweden is a giddy time as locals strive to squeeze every last drop of al-fresco fun from the season’s long hours of sunlight. Midsummer Eve, in late June, is a bigger celebration for Swedes than Christmas: all-day, outdoor parties are veritable orgies of pickled herring, schnapps and May Pole dancing (forgive them, it’s a very dark winter). It’s also the time when the country’s archipelagos are at their most idyllic. As well as Stockholm ’s and Gothenburg ’s, there are the green isles of east coast Östergötland, plus white beaches and windmills on southern Öland.

Where to stay: The Arctic Bath hotel – a circular-shaped, log-covered floating spa-hotel just south of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland – is an exciting bolthole for intrepid spa seekers.

21. Yosemite National Park, USA

Temperature: 28°C high; 10°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 11 hours 5 minutes Time difference: BST -8

The USA is all about scale: big dreams, big burgers and even bigger landscapes. And scenery doesn’t come much bigger than California’s Yosemite, that mighty meeting of granite cliffs, giant redwoods and towering falls, high in the Sierra Nevada. May might be a top time to make a beeline for California , but June is the sweet spot for Yosemite: the snow has melted enough to clear the scenic Tioga Pass driving route (inaccessible from November to late May), but the heat hasn’t dried up dramatic Yosemite Falls yet. Not to mention the June bloom, when wildflowers are at their brightest. Sometimes feeling small can feel pretty good.

Where to stay: The Ahwahnee , with its grand wooden rooms and stone fireplaces, is the perfect escape, hidden between towering cliffs, twinkling waterfalls and vast expanses of land.

22. Nashville, USA

Temperature: 30°C high; 19°C low Season : summer Travel time from UK: 9 hours 5 minutes Time difference: BST -6

The moniker Music City rings even truer for Nashville in June, when the Country Music Association’s annual four-day festival turns downtown into a bigger party than usual. But it’s not just the neon-lit honky-tonks that are fuelling the hippest city in the south (sorry, Austin), which is now growing at twice the national average. There are also the crowds at buzzing bars ( Pinewood Social has bocce and bowling lanes), flash-chilled coffee at Steadfast roastery (even better than cold brew, they say), and an argument about where to get the best hot chicken to wade into (you can’t do much better than Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, where the dish was actually invented).

Where to stay: Hutton Hotel is within walking distance of downtown, but far enough away to guarantee a decent night sleep without screaming bachelorette parties outside your window at 2am. Our favourite thing about this handsome hotel is Analog, an intimate live music venue that hosts acoustic sets from big names and up-and-coming artists.

23. Warsaw, Poland

Temperature: 22°C high; 11°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 25 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Krakow’s medieval, Christmas-card charm has always lured visitors at the expense of Poland ’s more industrial capital. But Warsaw ’s grittier edge is finally paying off. Artsy types have packed the place with galleries, studiously scruffy dive bars and craft brewpubs (one of which, Cuda Na Kiju, is in the old Communist Party headquarters). Warsaw is so hot now there’s a Google campus in a vodka distillery and a place locals call ‘Hipster Square’. June’s balmy temperatures are best for dipping into the city’s backyard bars. Try the graffiti-covered scene at 11 Listopada Street, where the last of the parties kick off before locals take off on their summer holidays.

Where to stay: A sensitive renovation has restored many of Le Royal Meridien 's florid Art Nouveau flourishes. Edvard Grieg lived here, more recent guests range from Charles de Gaulle to the Rolling Stones.

24. ABC Islands

Temperature: 32°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: from 12 hours 20 minutes Time difference: BST -4

Thought June in the Caribbean couldn’t be done? Sitting niftily outside the hurricane belt, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao differ from the region’s other islands by enjoying a relatively dry summer. But most people still believe this time of year is a no-go — so expect emptier hotels and more favourable rates. Each island caters to a different traveller: flashy Aruba is all-inclusives on beautiful beaches; wild Bonaire is a diving destination with smart, low-key hotels for recharging; and cultural Curaçao has a distinctly European feel, with its rows of colourful Dutch houses and upscale, colonial-style hotels.

Where to stay: Sandals Curaçao is an all-inclusive resort stretching out across a 44-acre estate. Think sparkling sea views, private pools and gorgeous white sand, all fronting mood-boosting, bright colourful architecture.

25. Mallorca, Spain

Temperature: 22°C high; 14°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: from 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Yes, there are two Balearic Islands on this list. But they really are that wonderful. Mallorca is Menorca's bigger sister and is wonderfully diverse, from historic Palma to arty towns such as Deià, and the pine-tree-lined hidden coves along the north coast. There are rugged mountains, bright blue waters and snoozy villages to explore. Plus, Mallorca has some of the finest restaurants and hotels in Spain – we love La Vieja de Jonay Hernandez in Palma for playful fine dining and adults-only DINS Santi Taura, also in the capital, for a chef's table experience.

Where to stay: Son Net , a gorgeous estate hotel in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, with verdant gardens, breathtaking pool and excellent spa.

26. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

Temperature: 27°C high; 22°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 35 minutes Time difference: BST +1

A single visit to the Amalfi Coast is all it takes to understand the legions of love letters, poems and literature Italy has inspired. Confetti-coloured houses and ornate domes and spires jostle for space on sheer cliffs, looking out over the azure Mediterranean sea. And the light! June is busy, of course, but just ahead of the tour groups that clog the perilously winding road in their droves come July and August. Positano and Amalfi are the most famous villages, and although terribly touristy, they are also absolutely beautiful. Ravello , on top of the cliffs, has unquestionably the best views; while Cetara – our little secret – is quaintly cute with a pebble beach to bronze on.

Where to stay: Monastero Santa Rosa , a 17th-century former monastery dominates the shoreline about a kilometre from Amalfi. It has knockout terraced grounds and a swimming pool that seems to hover between sea and sky. For more, see our pick of the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast .

27. San Sebastian, Spain

Temperature: 21°C high; 15°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: from 4 hours 30 minutes Time difference: BST +1

Summer in San Sebastian : is there anything more alluring? One of Europe’s greatest city beaches, Playa de la Concha, is awash with salty-haired surfers and tanned sunbathers. Bars spill out into cobbled streets, where residents and visitors clink glasses of txakoli, the local sparkling wine, which just so happens to pair perfectly with pintxos – the region’s artistic, avant-garde tapas. Pintxo-bar-hopping , in fact, is the thing to do; you might try sea urchin roe on toast in one spot, the ear of Iberian pig in a wild mushroom emulsion the next. The beginning of peak season has enough buzz to make this well-fed party town charming, without too much of the overcrowding that clogs things later in the summer – plus June has the smallest average rainfall after July.

Where to stay: Hotel Maria Cristina , the official hotel of the Film Festival and a local landmark. The impressive belle-époque building is filled with marble and chandeliers and there's a spa.

The best places to visit in June 2024

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

June is the perfect time to explore Sicily © Maremagnum / Getty Images

When the halfway point of the year hits, it’s the perfect time to be out on your next adventure. Sitting pretty just outside of soaring peak-season prices, June’s sunny summer days in the northern hemisphere are ideal for exploration. In the southern hemisphere, June brings the dry season and incredible opportunities to embrace nature. 

Want to find the perfect destination for your mid-year break? Here are the best places to go in June.

Where are the best places to travel to in June for relaxation?

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Why now? Dive and snorkel clear, warm, turquoise waters.

Are these the most beautiful tropical islands on Earth? While the Bazaruto Archipelago faces stiff competition from other Indian Ocean destinations (and Mozambique ’s own Quirimbas Archipelago ), when you wriggle your toes into the silky sand on a glorious June morning (the start of the dry season), or gaze through your mask at impossibly colorful reef fish, and maybe a humpback whale migrating past, and they could stake a fair claim.

Much of this chain of five islands off Mozambique’s southeastern coast is protected as a national park, conserving dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles and around 2000 fish species. Oh, and Nile crocodiles – but perhaps you’re not so keen to see those… This is a paradise for divers, but also for anyone seeking a truly barefoot beach holiday.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia 

Why now? Relax in a tropical paradise in the balmiest season.  

Blue, turquoise, azure, teal, indigo…there aren’t enough words to describe the hues of the Pacific Ocean around French Polynesia on a clear, calm, sunny day. And there are plenty of those in June, the start of the driest season, when the main island of Bora Bora and its motu (ringing islands) bask in temperatures of around 25–30°C (77–86°F). This is the stuff of movies, with luxurious resorts perched over the crystal waters, shaded by swaying palms – and you need to be a film star to afford the prices at the very top hotels and resorts, though more modest accommodations can be found. As if the scenery wasn’t paradisiacal enough, the snorkeling and diving, over coral gardens and with sharks and rays, is spectacular.

Byron Bay, Australia

Why now? Enhance your well-being on a yoga retreat.

The June solstice sees adherents across the globe celebrate the International Day of Yoga. Though Byron Bay may no longer be the preserve of backpackers and hippies, having evolved into a stylish, upmarket destination, it retains a decidedly laidback air and alternative scene – an ideal place to recharge your spiritual and physical batteries at one of the excellent yoga retreats and studios. Of course, yoga sessions don’t take all day – and, though you could spend the rest of your time meditating, why would you when there’s such a wealth of beaches and activities on hand? Don mask and snorkel to encounter subaquatic marvels at Julian Rocks – watch for wobbegong sharks, sea turtles, rays and kaleidoscopic fi sh – or grab your surfboard and shorty wetsuit to catch the reliable winter swells. This is the time to watch for whales, too: thousands of humpbacks migrate through the waters off Byron between June and October; spot them from shore at Cape Byron or join a dedicated whale-watching boat tour.

Where are the best places to travel to in June for wildlife and nature?

Shetland, Scotland 

Why now? Roam the UK’s northernmost wilds and sip Scotch in endless summer days.

Closer to Bergen than Edinburgh,  the 100-plus Shetland Islands in the North Atlantic have a distinctly Nordic flavor – indeed, they were Norwegian till 1469. Come in June, when the sun barely sets, to hike windswept hills and coast; to discover the deafening seabird colonies of Sumburgh Head, Fair Isle, Foula and Noss, bustling with thousands of breeding puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets and more; and to explore the islands’ 5000 years of human occupation at the enigmatic broch (stone tower) of Mousa and turf clad ruins of Jarlshof. The weather can turn without warning; if clouds gather, retreat to sparky capital Lerwick’s fine museum or one of its tempting bars. A traditional fiddle tune and a dram of local whisky should warm your cockles: Shetland Reel, on Unst, is Scotland’s northernmost (legal) distillery.

Western Colorado, USA 

Why now? Saddle up for ranch life and ecological renewal. 

The thrill of donning chaps, mounting a Mustang and herding steers is an elemental dream for many. But like the themes and attitudes of those films and TV shows, ranching has evolved over the years. Today, many outfits not only host urbanites looking to play out cowboy fantasies in “dude ranches” – offering activities such as yoga, rafting, bird-watching, writing workshops and mountain biking as well as the more-usual riding, hunting and fishing – but also embrace modern ideas of conservation and sustainability. Beat the high summer heat with a June vacation at one of Colorado ’s innovative ranches – perhaps Zapata or Chico Basin, where you can get hands-on with the nitty-gritty of raising cattle and bison and learn how habitats are managed to protect biodiversity.

Why now? Watch rare sea turtles nest on Caribbean shores. 

Though the leatherback is the planet’s heftiest turtle, weighing up to 700kg (1543lb), it’s defenseless against the egg collection and fisheries bycatch that have ravaged populations – as is now classed as officially “vulnerable.” This means that meeting this ancient creature is always special – and seeing dozens of females lumbering onto shore to lay hundreds of eggs is simply magical. During the peak nesting season (Mar-Jun), the beaches of Matura, Fishing Pond and, particularly, Grande Riviere in northern Trinidad host up to 500 egg-laying females each night – and in June (when World Sea Turtle Day is celebrated on the 16th) the hatchlings start to emerge, scuttling down to the sea to start the cycle again. Make a turtle encounter the centerpiece of a trip to this southeast Caribbean island, where, even though the rainy season is beginning, you can also enjoy plenty of warm sunshine, lively nightlife and festivals, and often lower prices (less so in Grande Riviere). Bird-watchers are in paradise, too, with several hotspots for spotting rare species.

Where are the best places to travel to in June for culture?

Gdańsk, Poland

Why now? Discover golden treasures galore: sands, amber and rich history.

Perched in a sheltered spot on the Baltic at the mouth of the Vistula River, the city currently known as Gdańsk has attracted visitors – welcome and otherwise – for over 1000 years: Bohemians, Teutonic Knights, the Hanseatic League, and Prussians (later, Germans) who knew it as Danzig. They left a magnificent historic core, packed with Renaissance architecture lovingly restored after WWII devastation. Stroll the Royal Way to admire magnificent townhouses, city gates and churches, and shop for some of the fine amber for which the city has long been famous. That gold-tinged jewelry isn’t the only thing that glints in warm June sunshine. The sandy beaches of Sopot , the leisure-focused part of the tri-city conurbation of Gdańsk, beckon from just a few kilometers to the north, together with a host of lively bars and nightclubs – still fairly calm before the densest crowds of high summer arrive.

Aveiro & Coimbra, Portugal 

Why now? Discover culture, canals, crooners and delicious cuisine. 

Portugal ’s brightest minds have studied – and celebrated – in Coimbra for over seven centuries since its venerable hilltop university opened in 1290. By June, though, the youngsters have ebbed away, leaving the cobbled streets echoing with the soul-stirring tones of the city’s distinctive style of fado music. Once you’ve admired the magnificent Romanesque 12th-century Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) and climbed the 180 steps of the Torre da Universidade for city views, make the short hop north to Aveiro , the so-called “Venice of Portugal.” Glide along its canals aboard a colorful moliceiro (traditional seaweed-harvesting boat), stroll streets lined with elegant art nouveau villas, and absorb the action at the Mercado do Peixe (Fish Market) – around which, of course, you’ll find the freshest seafood. Then slip across to the sand and surf at Praia de São Jacinto or Praia da Costa Nova before holidaymakers arrive in force in July.

Where are the best places to travel to in June for food and drink? 

Cape Cod, USA

Why now? Celebrate sun, sea and sand (and seafood).

If you’re fond of sand dunes and salty air, try New England ’s favorite seaside destination. The flexed arm of Cape Cod is lined with beaches, cutesy towns, oysters, clams and lobster rolls; no wonder millions flock here each year. Most, though, come in July and August – and after the long weekend around Memorial Day (May 30), the crowds thin, making June a delicious month to visit, with more chances of bagging accommodation and finding space on a beach.

Not that it’s too quiet: the month is peppered with events celebrating the arts (including Provincetown International Film Festival). Trace an arc around the Cape by car, pausing at the pretty harbors and heading out on a whale-watching cruise, or cycle the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail between South Dennis and Wellfleet.

Sicily, Italy 

Why now? Feast on fine food and wine. 

The largest Mediterranean island is – excuse the travel cliché – a true cultural crossroads: ancient Greeks and Arabs, medieval Normans, Spanish and English conquerors, colonizers and visitors all left their marks here. This mixed heritage is evident in Sicily’s extraordinary historic sites: the ancient Hellenic and Roman monuments of Agrigento , Syracuse and Taormina ; Palermo ’s Norman palace and nearby cathedral at Monreale – all less crowded before the peak of July and August, yet delightfully warm for wandering. But the cultural mix also inflects the island’s distinctive cuisine. On a culinary circumnavigation, savor hints of North Africa in oranges and couscous. Devour tuna, anchovies and sardines, and snack on arancini (filled, fried rice balls), cazzilli (potato croquettes) and panelle (chickpea fritters). Look for teardrop-shaped caciocavallo and sheep’s-milk ricotta cheeses, the latter stuffed into pastry tubes for sweet cannoli. And sip excellent corvo, regaleali and sweet malvasia and Marsala wine.

Where are the best places to travel to in June for adventure?

North Washington State, USA 

Why now? Kayak with killer whales and trek epic trails in an adventure seeker’s nirvana. 

This month in Washington the stars align: the sun shines more, the days are longer and warmer (around 22–25°C/72–77°F) and whale sightings soar, yet trails and accommodations are yet to get busy for peak summer. And some of those constellations shine from below: the bioluminescence that sparkles in the waters of the Salish Sea in summer months is one more reason to take to the waters around the San Juan Islands . Join a sea-kayaking tour for the best chances of paddling alongside orca foraging for salmon in these nutrient-rich waters, not to mention porpoises, seals and bald eagles; minke and humpback whales fin here, too. Back on land, hikers are spoiled for choice among the old-growth temperate rainforest, ice-scoured peaks and wild coast of Olympic National Park , spanning over 3700 sq km (1428 sq miles).

Why now? Discover South America’s wild, historic heart. 

Leave any preconceptions about Paraguay at the check-in desk, if you have any: few people know much about this diverse landlocked nation, and fewer still have visited. Today, though tourism infrastructure is still sparse, this friendly country is emerging from a period tainted by poverty, crime and unrest. June – when the climate is dry, temperatures moderate and before July heralds holiday season – is the time to explore the capital Asunción and to delve into the Chaco. A vast, semi-arid region of marshes, saltwater lagoons, palm forests and savannah punctuated by cacti the size of houses, this “Green Inferno” is home to native Guaraní people, Mennonite communities and a dizzying array of birdlife; if you’re lucky, you might also spot caiman, tapir and giant anteater. In the south, tour the historic towns and ruined red sandstone reductions (missions) of San Ignacio Guazú, Trinidad and Jesús, founded by Jesuits in the 17th and 18th centuries.

This article was first published May 8, 2018 and updated Apr 15, 2024.

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23 of the best places to visit in June

Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, cultural experiences or a long-haul getaway, we’ve picked some of world’s best June escapes away from the crowds…

June is a popular month for travel around the world, and for good reason too. Some of the world’s best-loved wildlife can be seen in June, there are plenty of summer festivals underway, and the weather’s at its peak around many parts of the globe.

But we’re not interested in the world’s honeypot sites or mass tourist destinations at Wanderlust. Instead, we want to help you find an adventure away from the crowds. So whether you’re looking for a travel experience to last the month, or are in the process of plotting your next city break in the sun, we’ve got the best, lesser-visited June destination recommendations for you.

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list:

• The best places to visit for wildlife watching in June
• The best longer-term travel experiences for June
• The best June destinations for nature and ideal weather
• June’s biggest arts and cultural experiences

The best June destinations for wildlife watching

A young orangutan in Borneo (Shutterstock)

With June being a dry month with little rainfall in both Sabah and Sarawak, the weather is a good reason in itself to head to Borneo. Add in the fact that June is one of your best shots for one of the world’s rarest and most inspiring wildlife experiences, and we wouldn’t be surprised if you were already booked, packed and on the plane.

Trees start to fruit in June, and orangutans start to come out in the wild Sabah forest to pick up these tasty treats. If you’re lucky, they’ll come close enough for an incredible sighting. June is also when you’ll see green and hawksbill turtles on the remote, sandy Lankayan Island.

Mulu National Park and the Batang Ai region in Sarawak are also great for trekking in June’s weather conditions. Head to Mulu during dusk and watch the jawdropping spectacle of three millions bats leaving their cave in search of an evening meal.

2. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

A leopard looms over South Luangwa National Park in Zambia (Dreamstime)

April until October is Zambia’s dry season, but after July the bush dries out and starts looking a little thirsty for rain. Also, from July onwards visitor numbers start to soar, and safaris and wildlife experiences start to get busier.

To miss high season (and the highest prices), plan your trip for June. You’ll still have a very good chance of spotting the likes of leopards, elephants and giraffes gathering by the rivers, or in the thinning vegetation.

Don’t forget to wrap up warm for morning safaris. The days may be toasty, but the mornings are typically a tad nippy.

5. San Juan Islands, Washington, USA

Spot orcas leaping out of the water in the San Juan Islands (Shutterstock)

In June, life in the USA’s San Juan Islands tends to revolve around the busy Salish Sea. Aside from the region’s year-round collection of resident southern orca, the summer also sees humpbacks kelping in the waters off San Juan’s Lime Kiln State Park, where they are sometimes spotted from land, though kayak and, more specifically, boat tours offer a greater chance of sightings.

If that’s not magical enough, take an evening kayak trip from San Juan’s pretty Roche Harbor to the still waters of Garrison and Westcott Bays, where you may be able to see bioluminescence twinkling in the darkness. Tours typically start in June, with the long, hot days providing the best conditions to see this natural phenomena up close once night falls.

Read next: Top things to do in Pacific Northwest USA

4. masai mara reserve, kenya.

A small herd of wildebeest in the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya (Dreamstime)

Masai Mara is a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for big cats. Lions, leopards and cheetahs live happily in this Kenyan reserve. The prides who call the Mara home are even a little bit famous, thanks to TV shows such as Big Cat Tales and Big Cat Diary .

July to October is considered high season, just like it is in South Luangwa. Avoid the bulk of the crowds clamouring for the same sighting, without really reducing your chances of a stunning big cat spot, by going instead in June. Go towards the end of the month specifically to try for a glimpse of Kenya’s wildebeest migration, too.

5. Mountain gorilla trekking, East Africa

A mountain gorilla is Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda (Dreamstime)

Trekking the Virunda mountains of Rwanda and Uganda, you can enjoy mountain gorilla sightings throughout the year. However, it’s awfully misty in the mountains, so you’ll be peering through cloudy air to witness the wonder of the gorillas in their natural home.

Dry season takes place from June to September. Expect it to be busy during this time, however the viewing conditions are spectacular. Make sure to book a tour well in advance, to ensure your place for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The temperature is also very palatable for a decent hike, too. It does climb as July and August roll on, so it’s worth keeping that in mind.

6. Jaguars in the Pantanal, Brazil

A jaguar by the water in Brazil’s northern Pantanal (Shutterstock)

Both the northern and southern Pantanal in the depths of Brazil offer the best of the best opportunities to spot a jaguar in the wild. June is the start of dry season, which ends in October, making it the ideal weather conditions for a sighting.

Fortunately, the jaguars in the Pantanal are used to the idea of seeing humans around, so a respectful jaguar-spotting session shouldn’t spook them too much.

The northern Pantanal is thought to practically guarantee a sighting, but the Caiman Ecological Reserve in the south also offers great jaguar-watching experiences.

The best June destinations for longer-term travel

7. ningaloo reef, western australia, australia.

Ningaloo Reef makes up around 50% of all living coral in the Indian Ocean (Shutterstock)

While Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is faring better these days, with scientists cautiously optimistic that it is gradually recovering from the bleaching events that have affected its corals in recent years, another conservation success story continues to lure travellers to the remote coast of Western Australia.

The 260km-long Ningaloo Reef makes up around 50% of all living coral in the Indian Ocean. It’s every bit as impressive as its eastern cousin and yet still not nearly as developed, making it a much quieter alternative in the winter months.

The big story here has always been whale sharks. By June, you’re slap bang in the middle of the migration season (Mar–Jul), when these graceful fish arrive en masse in search of krill and plankton. Snorkelling beside them knowing that strict rules ensure the creature’s safety (not always the case in other countries) makes the experience even more unforgettable.

June also sees a huge increase in manta ray numbers in Exmouth, as they zip past divers and snorkellers at lightening speeds – enough to give you whiplash from swivelling your neck. Then there’s dugongs, dolphins, turtles and miles upon miles of beautiful coast and corals to explore… if you have the time.

8. Yosemite National Park, USA

Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, USA (Shutterstock)

There’s probably no better time to enjoy the high waters, rugged landscapes and glorious colours of Yosemite National Park. Early June’s weather makes for a typically dry, warm visit, and the larger crowds don’t roll around until later in the month and through summertime. If you walk just 15 minutes away from Yosemite’s honeypot sites, you’ll get the feeling of total seclusion.

The epic double waterfall, with its three cascades of varying heights, gets its flow of water from the winter’s melting snow, and experiences peak runoff in June, before drying up in the summer. You can check how Yosemite Falls is flowing, via live webcam .

Sentinel, Bridalveil, Vernal, and Ribbon Fall – four more of Yosemite’s iconic waterfalls – are also flowing in full swing by June. Ribbon is the single largest drop in North America, too.

9. Greenland

The brightly-coloured Saqqaq village in western Greenland (Shutterstock)

In June, Greenland’s low humidity makes it feel a little warmer. But the main reason Greenland makes our June list is because you can see for miles on end thanks to the crisp, clean air and low moisture. So far, in fact, that it may throw you off kilter: towns, mountains and fjords may seem closer than they actually are.

Still, if you plan properly, you can enjoy great hikes in near-perfect weather, and in edge-of-the-world surroundings. There are countless things you can do beyond simply admiring Greenland’s natural beauty – it’s certainly not a ‘short break’ destination. UNESCO heritage sites, Viking ruins and the perfectly quaint Saqqaq village, pictured, are just a few.

10. Ladakh, India

Shanti Stupa in Ladakh, India (Shutterstock)

Welcome to the near-mystical region of Ladakh in India. It’s a walker’s paradise. The surrounding views of the Himalayas and Karakoram mountain range are totally unchallenged, and it’s the highest point in the entire Kashmir Valley, 3,000 feet above sea level.

The desert cities of Leh and Kargil are also worth a visit, known for their fascinating Buddhist temples and ample trekking routes.

June is an idyllic time to venture here. The weather warms up as the snow dissipates, and Ladakh opens itself up to visitors. T he roads leading into Ladakh are fully open, and you can expect a variety of choice in hotels, places to eat and other amenities.

Inti Rami takes place in June in Peru (Shutterstock)

June in Peru brings with it not just seasonal sunshine, but the Sun Festival ( Inti Raymi ), a celebration with roots deep in Inca culture. It was outlawed under Spanish rule, only to re-emerge in the mid-20th century; now locals freely parade the streets of Cusco in wild costumes, as events – and visitors – overtake the city and Sacred Valley. It all culminates in a grand procession to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman and ends with the beseeching of the sun god for a kind harvest.

While the crowds head to Cusco for the festivities, there are still ways to experience Peru’s history in June and not have to jostle shoulder to shoulder. It might be peak trekking season here, but barely a fraction of the number that visit Machu Picchu make the four-day trek up to Choquequirao, an Inca citadel three times the size of its more famous cousin yet still largely unclaimed from the surrounding jungle.

Alternatively, head north to the Andes, where the once-unassailable fortress of Kuélap tells the story of the Chachapoya (‘Cloud Warriors’), who pre-date even the Inca. The hike up is unnecessary these days (there’s a cable car), though the views – at around 3,000m – of the pillowy Utcubamba Valley below are breathtaking.

The best June destinations for pleasant weather and nature

12. outer hebrides, scotland.

Scenic Barra in the Outer Hebrides (Shutterstock)

June is the perfect time to explore Scotland’s remotest corner. The busy summer ferry schedule makes island-hopping the Outer Hebrides a breeze, as you explore a scattered region where over half of all residents still speak Gaelic, with boat trips out to its furthest-flung isles also just starting up again in June.

Each island has its own character, from the serene beaches of Barra to the art galleries of Stornoway (capital of Lewis & Harris), to the Calanais Standing Stones of Lewis. There’s wilderness too, with the Hebridean Whale Trail taking you to spots where sightings of whales and dolphins are likeliest.

Adventure comes in the form of boats out to the remote isle of St Kilda (100km off mainland Scotland), ably defended by dive-bombing skuas. The island is listed by UNESCO for both its wildlife (home to over a million seabirds) and culture, with visits to a vast colony of breeding puffins making a charming addition to wandering the historic ruins of the old town.

13. The Azores, Portugal

The Azores in June is pleasant weather for water activities (Shutterstock)

The natural beauty of the Azores comes into full focus in June, with its big hydrangea blooms decorating the island in a mix of pinks, purples and blues. For the most impressive bursts of blue by the archipelago, set your sights on the island of Pico, and admire the bushes of hydrangea highlighting Mount Pico volcano.

June is also prime time for spotting dolphins and whales off the coast of the Azores. Tours can be arranges off various ports, but we heading to Horta on Faial, where you can also visit a museum that brings the history of humans and marine animals to life.

Read next: The world’s greatest floral spectacles

14. guernsey.

A greenhouse of flowers in Guernsey (Shutterstock)

The good folks of Guernsey celebrate an annual Spring Walking Festival which continues into the beginning of June and is perfect for nature lovers.

When not exploring on foot, there’s plenty to discover on this Channel Island: the historic, beach-side Fort Grey, Victor Hugo’s old home, and the Sunday concerts held outdoors in Candie Gardens, which run throughout summer.

Head to the local bars to try the gin, Guernsey’s speciality. Visit a local distillery or just head to the pub and give one or two (or three) local samples a whirl.

15. New York State, USA

The famous lighthouse in Montauk village, at the very edge of Long Island, New York (Shutterstock)

Generally, you can expect lovely weather from Long Island in June. The Hudson Valley turns a lush, deep green that’s striking against a clear blue sky. For exploring on foot, we suggest strolling through the village of Cold Spring, the arty town of Beacon, or hiking Breakneck Ridge.

Once you’re done, keep going on the train to the very edge of Long Island, and find yourself where the richest of locals ‘summer’: East Hampton and Montauk. Enjoy dreamy, chilled-out beaches and mellow cycling paths, as the best way to get around (if not by car) is by bike.

Famous for appearing in The Affair and Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind , you’ll probably feel familiar grabbing lunch at the Lobster Roll, or exploring the Montauk lighthouse, pictured.

The best June destinations for festivals, culture and arts

16. tel aviv pride, israel.

Join Pride parades in Tel Aviv (Shutterstock)

This is officially Pride Month for the world’s LGBTQ+ community, although events are far from limited to June. The roots of the month lie in New York’s Stonewall riots in late June 1969, consequently other countries often choose their own significant dates to mark their LGBTQ+ history. But a few things unite them all: street parties, music and parades.

Tel Aviv is no different, and its miles of beachfront, fine restaurants and diverse nightlife only adds to the occasion as Pride arrives in time for June. The annual parade starts from Me’ir Park (Gan Me’ir), where a large festival of music, drag shows and speeches precede a cavalcade of floats and marching groups who dance, shimmy and glide through town towards the beach.

Best of all: when you’re done with partying, you can do day trips to the mineral spas and buoyant waters of the Dead Sea to recover.

Read next: The best queer-friendly destinations around the world

17. basel, switzerland.

Art Basel takes place in Miami, Hong Kong and here in Basel, Switzerland (Shutterstock)

Art Basel is a yearly, international art show that draws the world’s most influential and cutting edge artists to Miami, Hong Kong and to the Swiss city after which it is named. In June you can immerse yourself in the ‘artworld’ and admire installations, displays and modern artworks, and hear daily talks from the artists themselves, in a variety of locations across the city.

Other festivals hosted in Basel in June include the the Swiss Yodelling Festival and Summerstage Basel.

Basel also has a host of galleries and attractions you can explore year-round. Marvel at Basel Minster, the gothic, 18th century cathedral with its impressive twin spires. Sit near Markplatz main square, and enjoy a coffee and a pastry. If you’re still feeling creative, head to Museum Tinguey, the Basel Paper Mill (Museum) and enjoy sitting by Carnival Fountain – a fine piece of sculpture work in itself.

18. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s famous Szechenyi Baths, in the sun, before everyone arrives… (Shutterstock)

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is full of surprises – not least the myriad festival celebrations to partake in during the month of June.

Sure, enjoy the classics: ruin bars, the thermal Szechenyi Baths and a cruise down the Danube, but be warned, they will be busy. Afterwards, get involved with the local summer celebrations, including the week-long Danube Carnival , complete with folk dance performances, dance workshops, fairs and craft markets.

Savvy travellers will also want to take advantage of concerts in Budapest Park – Europe’s biggest open-air entertainment centre. Or see what’s on at Budapest’s newest cultural hub, the House of Music .

19. Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s stunning Rhodope Mountains are the backdrop for the music festival Meadows In The Mountains (Shutterstock)

The Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria are undoubtedly the perfect setting for a fairy tale… but also, as it happens, a truly unique music festival experience.

In June each year, the mountains are filled with revellers looking to enjoy the music and art-driven Meadows In The Mountains festival , which invites dance acts to perform on a stage with this spectacular view (pictured) as their backdrop.

Beyond the music, the festival has strong principles on protecting its natural environment, and encourages those who come along to travel as sustainably as possible.

Midsummer celebrations in Gothenburg (Shutterstock)

Anyone who has ever seen Ari Aster’s 2019 horror flick Midsommar would be forgiven for being wary of Sweden’s annual summer rites, but the reality is decidedly more playful thanks to a feast of dancing, pickled herrings, strawberries and schnapps. It’s also a chance to see Sweden at its most relaxed.

The longest day sees locals flock to the countryside and regions such as Darlana, where vast forests and identikit red-painted cottages (the copper paint is a handy wood preservative) spill to the horizon. Just about every village there has a maypole, every head bears a ring of flowers, and the shores of Lake Siljan fill annually with a procession of longboats.

Alternatively, head for Gothenburg and the Bohuslän Coast. The former’s Slottsskogen park sees plenty of maypole action, while ferries to the 8,000-island archipelago offshore deposit travellers in tiny fishing villages that offer a glimpse of traditional life amid the dusky glimmer of midnight sun.

21. Newfoundland & Labrador, Atlantic Canada

Spot icebergs in Newfoundland and Labrador (Alamy)

In early June (and often late May), the town of St Anthony in Newfoundland and Labrador witnesses the arrival of a trail of huge icebergs that drift down from the Arctic, having calved from Greenland’s glaciers during the spring and been carried south before they have a chance to melt.

Over the years, this annual event has been turned into the Iceberg Festival, as travellers join boats exploring what is known as ‘Iceberg Alley’ in search of monster ’bergs, puffin colonies and up-close sightings of migrating humpbacks – the world’s largest population drifts right by the coast in the summer.

One sad note is that climate change is taking its toll on the festival, with fewer and smaller icebergs making it down from the Arctic each spring. Who knows how many more years Iceberg Alley has left in it, so join in the fun while you still can to see one of the great frozen wonders.

22. Galveston, Texas, USA

Head to Galveston for Juneteenth freedom walks, festivities and parades (Shutterstock)

On 19 June 1865 in Galveston, Texas, Union soldiers delivered the news to the enslaved people of the South that the Civil War had ended and they were free. That this came two-and-a-half years after Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation first promised freedom is a tragedy in itself, yet the date has since sparked one of the USA’s most uplifting holidays: Juneteenth .

It was only declared a US federal holiday in 2021, after years of campaigning. Now the day is marked across the country, with festivities that run the gamut of parades, rodeos, cook outs and music events, all with the common aim of celebrating the Black community. Nowhere is this better experienced than where it all started.

Head to Galveston, an island off the coast of Texas, for days of galas, freedom walks, festivities, parades, picnics and a sobering dose of history. All events are open to the public and offer a way to delve into a past that should never be forgotten.

23. Murcia & La Rioja, Spain

Murcia’s stunning cathedral, Spain (Shutterstock)

Two Spanish cities: lots of cultural attractions in June.

Murcia, in Spain’s south-east, has a brilliant festival taking over its June calendar: the Baby-Jumping Colacho Festival, where men literally hop over babies in the street. Let’s say it’s… unusual!

Meanwhile, over in Haro in the north of Spain, a peaceful-yet-messy ceremonial wine-chucking battle called The Battle Of Wine takes place, at the end of June each year.

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15 Amazing Places to Explore in June in the USA

With long days, big blue skies, and hours of endless sunshine, I personally think June is one of the best months to explore the States.

I love that this is the time of year when everything comes alive, and most people are out looking for fun! From hip city breaks to gorgeous coastal towns, here are my favorite spots to explore during this summer month…

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I love this place because it is a delightful departure from the modern-day hustle and bustle. Mackinac Island offers a slow-paced atmosphere with plenty of Victorian-style charm.

The best time to visit Mackinac Island is from this month through August , when the weather is warmest. Mornings are fresh and cool, so I recommend taking some warmer clothes, too.

Summer brings most of the daylight to the island with the cool breeze, great outdoor recreation activities, and gorgeous lilac blooms.

I recommend walking, riding a bike, sailing in the refreshing lake, or simply relaxing and unwinding. Mackinac Island has plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities to keep everyone busy.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Checking out Fort Mackinac which was founded in 1870.
• Discovering the gorgeous 146-foot tall Arch Rock which features in many local legends!
• Playing a round at the Wawashkamo Golf Club, which featured many unique natural hazards, making the game much more interesting!

2. Bodega Bay, California

A popular Sonoma County getaway, Bodega Bay is a gorgeous coastal gem home to an art gallery, fresh seafood, quirky shops, and plenty of outdoor activities. I love its peaceful and laid-back vibe.

The Bay offers clear skies, rainless days, and not-too-hot temperatures during this month.

Summers in Bodega Bay are full of wildflower-laden coastal bluffs. I highly recommend participating in the water activities, tasting local wines, hiking the trails, taking in the beautiful views and dining at the farm-to-table resturants.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 913 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
• Average temperature – 16 degrees

My highlights…

• Soaking up the picturesque views of Bodega Head and the beautiful seaside cliffs.
• Going on a private sailing tour.
• Tasting delicious wine at Halleck Vineyard Estate.
• Dining on sustainably produced food at Drakes Sonoma Coast, the mushrooms were delicious! 

3. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

This is a gorgeous gem of a place, perfect for a low-key summer vacation. Daily temperatures average around 25 degrees during this month.

This quaint resort village is located on one of the most popular bass islands in Lake Eerie (the South Bass Island), and you can access it from the Put  in  Bay  Ferry.

I highly recommend visiting the International Peace Memorial, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum, the lakeside South Bass Island State Park, which has a boat ramp and a stone beach, the Heineman Winery , and the Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center , which features  a limestone cave and a butterfly house.

• Visitor’s Center Address:   470 Loraine Ave #267, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
• Average temperatures  – 25 degrees
• Kayaking on Lake Erie.
• Catching a live country music band at the fun Roundhouse Bar which was filled with vintage decor.
• Going for a picnic in the green landscaped DeRivera Park. 

4. Laguna Beach, Southern California

The mild climate, rolling hills, and sandy shores make for year-round accessibility to this lovely town.

I think the best time to visit Laguna Beach is early this month through mid-September. The annual daytime temperatures are pleasant enough, the waters are ideal for swimming, and the town is buzzing with the Summer Arts festival.

I would suggest seeking out the blooming wildflowers, lazing on the beach, surfing, or gazing at the scenic canyons. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 381 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Average temperature – 24 degrees
• Going surfing and relaxing along the golden sands at Crystal Cove State Park.
• Hopping on the Laguna Beach Trolley and being taken around the best sites.
• Going on a self-guided walking tour where I experienced the beauty of Laguna Beach at my own pace.

5. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a fun travel destination. Its perfect blend of historical buildings, fantastic food, jaw-dropping waterfronts, and world-renowned museums makes it a must-visit.

In my opinion, the best time to experience the Windy City is in late spring and early summer.

Early summers mark mild temperatures hovering around 25 degrees, sparse crowds with soft rains, and clear skies.

I highly recommend dining at famed restaurants, meandering along the waterfronts, or spending a few hours with a picnic in Millennium Park—the city offers many things to do! 

• Visitors Center Address:    301 E Cermak Rd, IL 60616
• Average temperatures – 25 degrees
• Hanging out at the Riverwalk which is filled with bars, shops, restaurants, and great places to people-watch.
• Checking out the famous silver mirrored bean and capturing an Insta-worthy shot in Millennium Park.
• Visiting the trendy and stylish Cindy’s Rooftop Bar for breathtaking views and great cocktails overlooking the city.

6. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

I’m a big fan of Martha’s Vineyard, a beautiful and charming New England isolated island off the Massachusetts coast.

Martha’s Vineyard is a scenic natural retreat. I recommend exploring the eye-catching architecture, classic lighthouses, sandy beaches, and quaint gingerbread houses.

In my opinion, the best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is from May to September, when the temperatures average around 23 degrees.

Early this month isn’t peak beach season yet, which means fewer crowds and cheaper rates. On average, summers are full of sunshine and stunning sunsets. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 24 Beach Street, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 Average temperature –  23 degrees
• Wrapping up warmly for a stroll along one of the beaches and escaping the hustle and bustle of the town.
• Discovering Polly Hill Arboretum, an Island landmark filled with shrubs, trees, and flowers from all over the world.
• Going on a guided tour and exploring the historic sites including the Oldest House, The Old Mill, and Greater Light.

7. Camden, Maine

Camden is a charming New England coastal town in Maine. It’s a picturesque seaport with a rugged coastline, scenic drives, gourmet foods, outdoor adventures, and friendly locals.

I particularly love that the town’s harbor is full of sailboats, embodying Maine’s “Vacationland” reputation.

I personally think the best time to visit Camden is between this month and August. Most areas of Maine have pleasant weather in mid-late summer, with averages hovering around 28 degrees and a gorgeous display of pink and purple wildflowers.

There’s a ‘secret season’ between April and this month when the weather is relaxed and hotels are less crowded. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce, 2 Public Lndg, Camden, ME 04843
• Average temperature – 28 degrees
• Hiring a boat and checking out the nearby islands.
• Hiking up Mount Battie (located within the State Park) and seeing the gorgeous views overlooking Camden.
• Dining on freshly caught seafood at The Waterfront Restaurant.

8. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

This beautiful lake and resort city in southeastern Wisconsin is not crowded and makes a wonderful early summer break. The temperatures are warm this month, around 27 degrees.

I love that the scenery is beautiful, and the vibe is peaceful. One of my favorite spots is a shore path lined with Gilded Age mansions, including the sprawling 19th-century Black Point Estate and Gardens.

It was once the fine summer home of the Chicago beer magnate Conrad Seipp and is now open to the public. I suggest taking the tour to wander around its perfectly preserved Victorian furnishings! 

My other favorite highlights include the gorgeous beaches, the Big Foot Beach State Park, home to some great trails and picnic areas, the Geneva Lake Museum, and the large, sprawling lake. You can go boating, paddleboarding, hiking, or biking around it.

I would also suggest finding time to visit a winery or distillery! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 201 Wrigley Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
• Average temperature  – 27 degrees
• Going on an adrenaline-pumping zipline course.
• Having fun at Timber Ridge Lodge and Water Park.
• Going for a massage at the spa in the Adventure Center. 

9. Santa Barbara, California

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean-like climate throughout the year, and I love its dreamy, elegant vibe! 

With about 300 days of sunshine, remarkably consistent weather, and warm currents, Santa Barbara offers a relaxing day at the beach with pristine Pacific Ocean waters and excellent dining and shopping.

June temperatures average around 22 degrees, and if you visit towards the beginning of this month, you’ll see fewer crowds alongside the stable weather conditions.

• Visitor’s Center Address: State Street Visitors Center  120 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
• Average temperature – 22 degrees
• Exploring the gorgeous shoreline with a sunset kayak tour.
• Checking out the State Street Promenade Market filled with artisan stalls, performers, and non-profit organizations.
• Going on the fabulous Santa Ynez Wine Tour.
• Dining on tasty veggie tacos at La Super-Rica.

10. Portland, Maine

I think this is a fabulous destination! Living up to its “Vacationland” nickname, the city of Portland embodies the charm of New England. 

With its ornate mansions, quaint buildings, lively downtown, long sandy beaches, and tiny islands, I am enchanted every time I visit!

Portland’s temperate climate offers mild winters and breezy summers, and this month to August is a great time to plan your trip. Summers are warm and mild, with just a few random cool spells.

I recommend lazing around on the beaches, swimming in the ocean, hiking, camping, boating, checking out the cute independent stores and immersing yourself in the incredible foodie scene here.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 14 Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
• Average temperature – 23 degrees
• Hopping on the ferry to Peaks Island, dining on fresh seafood and relaxing on the beach.
• Discovering the pictureque lighthouses. 
• Going on a food tour and sampling the local food, including the tasty locally made pizzas!
• Dining on creative dishes like the tasty Hominy Succotash at UNION Restaurant. 

11. Shasta Lake, California

This is a beautiful but relatively under-the-radar spot in California where you can have summer fun without the crazy crowds you’ll find elsewhere in the sunny state.

Located 10 miles north of Redding, it’s the largest man-made reservoir in California and offers around 360 miles of shoreline and a tranquil vibe.

This month, temperatures average around 31 degrees, making it perfect for a hot summer vacation. The area has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from log cabins to campsites.

I suggest getting involved in activities like water skiing, boating, swimming (always keep safety in mind though), house boating, or taking a cruise up the Sacramento River arm of the lake for a beautiful and hot summer getaway! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019
• Average temperature  – 31 degrees
• Exploring the cool underground landscapes on a hot day at Shasta Caverns.
• Trying paddleboarding, kayaking and going swimming in the lake.
• Visiting the Shasta Dam, which inspired Woody Guthrie’s song ‘This Land is Your Land. ‘

12. Santa Cruz, California

I’m a huge fan of this cool Californian beach town filled with sun and summer fun. I love its long sandy beaches, deep blue waters, and pristine marine environment!

I personally think the best time to visit Santa Cruz is this month when the weather is fine and dry (but with cooler evenings), but there are still plenty of hotel discounts to be found before the madness of the peak summer months ( July and August ). 

I recommend hiking the breathtaking trails, surfing the crashing waves, biking, riding the historic wooden roller coaster, and exploring the vibey downtown! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 303 Water Street, Suite 100, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
• Wandering along the beach boardwalk and discovering the fun historic amusement park.
• Shopping in Downtown Santa Cruz, which features over 100 unique shops.
• Admiring the beautiful plants and flowers at The Arboretum and Botanic Garden .

13. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Tucked away along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod is a favorite of mine. I love its unique, rustic architecture, windswept beaches, glorious dunes, and pretty lighthouses.

The most popular time to visit the Cape is during the summer. Though everything is at its peak from this month to August, the weather tends to be slightly cooler on the Cape.

Temperatures are pleasant this month; there are fewer crowds, reasonable room rates, and the hydrangeas are in full bloom.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Barnstable, MA 02630
• Average temperature  – 22 degrees
• Visiting the Chatham Farmers Market which was filled with local vendors, tasty produce, and food trucks.
• Checking out an uninhabited island in the middle of Chatham Harbor by a boat tour with Blue Claw.
• Exploring the 41-kilometer-long rail trail.

14. Dillon, Colorado 

This small town in Colorado packs a punch despite its size! It is located around a 70-mile drive from Denver and close to popular ski resorts.

There are plenty of fun things to do here in the summer, though. The area is home to Dillon Reservoir, Denver’s largest water storage facility. 

I would highly recommend exploring the cute Main Street of nearby downtown Frisco, checking out the Frisco Historic Park and Museum, hiking along the Ptarmigan Trail, visiting a microbrewery, taking a day trip to Breckenridge, checking out the great restaurants in Dillon, and of course just messing around on the lake!

If you’re an outdoor lover, I suggest boating, sailing, walking, biking, picnicking, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Camping is also a popular option. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 195 I-95, Hamer, SC 29547
• Average temperature – 20 degrees
• Discovering the scenic Dillon Reservoir Rec Path Loop bike trail.
• Hiring a paddleboard and having fun on the gorgeous lake.
• Wandering down Main Street and checking out the cute independent boutiques and restaurants my favorite was Everything Colorado which sold lots of unique gifts.

15. Long Beach Island, New Jersey

I love this beauty spot, which is commonly referred to as “LBI” by the locals! It has gorgeous white sandy beaches, a family-friendly vibe, local boutiques, and chic eateries.

One of the best beaches along the East Coast, Long Beach Island has 345 days of sunshine. Summer is always the best time to visit the city, and I think it offers the perfect weather for outdoor and water activities.

You can expect primarily beach-warm days with balmy temperatures averaging around 25 degrees and a cool breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether you’re looking for a short break or a weekend family trip, this beautiful barrier island offers enough activities to entertain everyone. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 265 West 9th Street Ship Bottom NJ 08008
• Average temperature – 25 degrees
• Paragliding over the Atlantic Ocean!
• Visiting the beautiful Barnegat Lighthouse, a landmark symbol of New Jersey.
• Having fun on a hot day at the Thundering Surf Water Park, I loved tubing down the lazy river! 

Gary Nunn - Videographer, photographer and writer Gary is an award winning full time professional photographer and videographer with too much wanderlust for his own good. Fueled by strong coffee, you’ll often find him wandering well off hiking trails in search of interesting photographic subjects or scenery to video. Self taught and with the use of pioneering digital techniques, he quickly built up a strong client base and has worked with many prestigious organizations, including GQ, BBC, London Fashion Week, Grazia, Sky, Metro, Vogue Italia. He specializing in evocative images of people, places and cinematic videography and his goal is to make the viewer look twice and engage. As well as a penchant for good design, travel, starting up new businesses, the ketogenic diet and Hungarian Vizslas, he also has a huge affection for Chicago, Bucharest, Scandinavia, Croatia and absolutely everywhere in Italy. Find Gary on Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube or his Website . Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Expedia , Eviivo , Visit Morocco , and Wild in Sight Safaris .   Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist .

2 thoughts on “15 Amazing Places to Explore in June in the USA”

We planned a trip to Rio de Janeiro, one of the most visited cities in the Southern Hemisphere, for our summer vacation. My father is a lover of natural beauty, and we decided to book flights to Rio de Janeiro because it is known for its natural settings, samba, carnival, bossa nova.

Very wonderful places, thank you Gary for this beautiful blog. Your all blogs are very informative and helpful for travelers.

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The 10 best places to visit in June

Editor's Note

June: It's that magical month when the days stretch longer, and the promise of summer hangs in every sunbeam. It's the perfect time to shake off the routine and add a dash of adventure to your life. Why stay put when the world is brimming with phenomenal places waiting to be explored?

This month is your golden opportunity to beat the summer crowds at some of the world's most coveted destinations or enjoy others in their delightful offseason tranquility. So, no matter what you're in the mood for — mountain vistas, city sights, or something uniquely in between — grab your go-to travel gear.

From serene landscapes offering a tranquil escape to bustling cities with nonstop nightlife, we've rounded up the top 10 spots to visit in June.

Baja California

If you're thinking about a June getaway, Baja California should definitely be on your radar, especially if you're fascinated by marine life.

Although the scuba conditions aren't perfect, early June is prime time to witness the spectacular ray aggregation. Imagine floating quietly in the shimmering waters as hundreds of rays glide around you in a mesmerizing dance. It's one of those rare natural shows that truly remind you how incredible our oceans are.

Related: Tijuana to Los Cabos: Exploring Mexico's Baja California from top to bottom

"One of our top expedition destinations is Baja, chosen specifically for June to witness the spectacular devil ray aggregation," said Andi Cross, professional scuba diver and lead of the Edges of Earth expedition. "This marine spectacle, one of the most thrilling in the world, sees thousands of Mobulas gather off the coast of La Ventana. So, come June, you'll find us in this quaint fishing village, immersed in one of nature's most impressive gatherings!"

TPG tip : Stay at Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort from $293 or 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Bardstown, Kentucky 

If you're a bourbon enthusiast, Bardstown, Kentucky, is calling your name this June! Known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown is set to host the inaugural National Bourbon Week from June 11-16.

This event isn't just any gathering; it's a bourbon lover's dream, featuring exclusive experiences and events that showcase the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Kentucky's most famous spirit. The highlight? The unveiling of the 2024 Bardstown Collection. With only three barrels crafted per participating distillery and fewer than 500 bottles available from each, this collection is a treasure trove of limited-edition bourbons.

Related: Bourbon tasting and baseball bats: Why Louisville is the perfect destination for a father-daughter trip

Featured distilleries this year include heavy hitters like Bardstown Bourbon Company, James B. Beam and Maker's Mark, among others. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or new to the world of bourbon, this week promises to be an unforgettable immersion in all things whiskey.

TPG tip : Book a room at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bardstown from around $145 or 25,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

June in Milwaukee is an absolute treat for festival lovers! This vibrant city plays host to not one but two fantastic celebrations.

Kick things off with Pridefest, the state's largest LGBTQ+ celebration, held at Henry Maier Festival Park June 6-8. This three-day extravaganza is bursting with energy, featuring live performances from top drag queens and pop stars, a plethora of food vendors, and a colorful atmosphere that's all about love and unity.

Then, as if one festival wasn't enough, gear up for Summerfest, dubbed the World's Largest Music Festival. Spanning three weekends (June 20-22, June 27-29 and July 4-6), Summerfest transforms Milwaukee into a music haven with hundreds of artists performing across multiple stages. Along with the tunes, enjoy mouthwatering food and a host of other activities.

TPG tip : Stay at Hilton Milwaukee City Center from $134 or 40,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

If you're planning a trip to Bhutan, consider going in June to catch some truly special events. The weather is perfect for clear Himalayan views and the cultural scene is buzzing with activity.

You could visit the Nimalung Tshechu, held June 14-16, where vibrant masked dances and a massive, sin-cleansing tapestry are the highlights.

Related: Everything you need to know about visiting Bhutan

Then, on June 16, there's the Kurjey Tshechu in the sacred Bumthang Valley, featuring all-day tantric dancing and spiritual ceremonies. Both festivals offer a unique glimpse into Bhutan's rich traditions against the backdrop of its stunning landscapes — making June an ideal time to explore this beautiful country.

TPG tip : Book a stay at the incredible Six Senses Bhutan for $1,520 or 300,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Ios, Greece

Ios, Greece, is a hidden gem in the Cyclades that shines brightest in June. With the peak tourist season yet to begin, you can revel in the island's beauty without the crowds.

June brings long, sunlit days perfect for exploring Ios's pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The nightlife is lively yet manageable, offering a taste of fun without the overwhelm.

Luxurious accommodations are more readily available and often at lower rates. Enjoying Ios in June means experiencing the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment and stunning Mediterranean scenery, all set against a backdrop of unhurried island life.

TPG tip : Book a room at Calilo, which is available from around $664 or 44,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night. The hotel offers luxurious suites with one to three bedrooms; diverse dining options such as Calilo Restaurant, Ches and Rocks Pool Restaurant; and private beach cabanas.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

June is the ideal time to plan a getaway to Cape Cod, especially now that American Airlines is kicking off daily flights from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) starting June 5.

Once you land at Cape Cod Gateway Airport (HYA), you're just a 25-minute drive from some of the top resorts. This means you can start your vacation almost as soon as you touch down! Early June on the Cape is truly special — you beat the peak summer crowds, so everything feels more laid-back.

Imagine strolling the picturesque beaches, popping into charming local shops, and indulging in fresh seafood. It's a perfect way to kick off the summer in a relaxed, beautiful setting.

TPG tip : Stay at Wequassett Resort & Golf Club , which boasts eight new private luxury poolside cabanas, for $772 or 51,500 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Andermatt, Switzerland

Andermatt, Switzerland, has emerged as a stunning summer destination after a 15-year redevelopment. This charming town now boasts chic accommodations like the Chedi Hotel and a culinary scene enriched with Michelin stars.

Nestled on the Ursern Valley's high plateau, surrounded by mountain peaks and Alpine passes, Andermatt caters to outdoor enthusiasts with diverse biking trails through picturesque meadows, forests and alpine scenery.

Hiking aficionados can explore roughly 30 miles of trails, offering breathtaking views. For those interested in fishing, the area's clear waters are abundant with trout and char, with daily permits available.

And you can experience a thrill by driving vintage cars on the Furka Pass, made famous by James Bond's chase in "Goldfinger." For food lovers, Gutsch by Markus Neff is where fine dining can be enjoyed on a terrace 7,684 feet above sea level.

TPG tip : Book a room at Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen, Andermatt for around $303 per night or $272 if you're a Radisson member.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

June is a special time in San Juan, Puerto Rico , bustling with vibrant celebrations and cultural festivities. The month kicks off with San Juan Pride, filling the first weekend with colorful parades, live music and a spirit of inclusivity.

As the month progresses, the anticipation builds toward the Noche de San Juan on June 23. This festival, celebrating the summer solstice, honors St. John the Baptist.

The longest day of the year brings the city to life with music, dancing, and local traditions, such as the midnight wave-jumping. Beyond the festivals, you can explore the historic streets, savor local cuisine at bustling food markets, or relax on the picturesque beaches.

TPG tip : Book a room at La Concha Resort for $361 or 24,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Related: My Puerto Rican adventure, from mountaintop to seaside

Aspen, Colorado

Foodies rejoice! Aspen, Colorado, in June, is a gem for anyone craving a blend of culinary delights and natural splendor.

The month kicks off with the famed Food and Wine Classic June 14-16, transforming the town into a hot spot for food enthusiasts. Here, world-class chefs and wine experts gather, offering a taste of luxury and creativity in a breathtaking mountain setting.

But Aspen in June isn't just about food. The town bursts into life with the JAS June Experience, where music flows through the streets across 12 different venues. Whether you're swaying to soul, jazz, or blues, the variety is exhilarating.

Adding to the vibrancy, Aspen will host its inaugural Pride celebration, making it a culturally rich destination.

TPG tip : Stay at Hotel Jerome , which is in the heart of Aspen, for around $2,000 a night.

Mendoza, Argentina

Wine and skiing? If you're thinking about a trip in June, Mendoza, Argentina, should definitely be on your list! It's the beginning of winter down there, so the famous vineyards are stunning, with the Andes mountains dusted in snow as your backdrop.

The cooler weather is just perfect for getting outside and enjoying some hiking or biking without the summer crowds. The ski season kicks off then, too, so if you're into snow sports, places like Las Lenas are not too far away.

And after a day of adventure, there's nothing better than settling into a cozy restaurant to savor some delicious Argentine dishes paired with top-notch local wines.

TPG tip : You can stay at Argentina's first female winemaker's estate, SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suite , for around $881 or 58,735 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

25 of the Best Places to Travel in the USA in June

04/28/2024 by Kristin Addis 8 Comments

June is one of my favorite months to go just about anywhere. It’s a month of gentle summer and full of promise all over the US, and I’m lucky to have been able to travel extensively through this beautiful country.

These are 25 of my favorite places to travel in the USA in June:

• Best Beachy Getaway: Kona, Hawaii
• Best Hikes: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Best for Smaller Crowds: Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
• Best Summertime City: Chicago, Illinois
• Best Flower Blooms: Anchorage, Alaska

Table of Contents

1. Anchorage, Alaska

Can’t get enough of the summer sunshine? Head up to Alaska, which has more daylight hours than any other state in June. June 21 is the longest day of the year in Anchorage — 19 hours of daylight! With all of that light, you can thoroughly enjoy much of what Anchorage, the largest city, has to offer.

Hike the trails around town at lower elevations, where the tundra has melted and filled the rivers and streams to the brim with wildflowers in a super bloom. June is also a rewarding time to see wildlife, as many species are fully out of hibernation by then. Migrating humpback whales , orcas, and moose are plentiful during this time of year.

In mid-June, Anchorage hosts the Summer Solstice Festival . You can also catch the Anchorage Market & Festival , which runs every weekend from May through September.

I was also pleasantly surprised to really enjoy my first Alaska cruise last year, which we did right at the end of June. The wildlife was spectacular!

Are you convinced to head to Alaska? Check out our Alaska summer packing list !

2. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is one of the best there is for mountain hiking, beach strolling, lake swimming, wildlife viewing, waterfall hunting, and rain-forest trekking (did we really say rain forest ?!). Here are seven hikes you won’t want to miss , including some hidden gems. The variety that this national park offers means there’s a little something for everyone, so even if you’re new to the outdoors, you can find your footing here.

Summer is high season in Washington State, because it’s the driest time of year and the sun is shining. Temperatures are ideal for outdoor explorations

3. Kona, Hawaii

Although I recommend turning the entire Big Island of Hawaii into a road trip , if you base yourself out of just one spot, Kona is a great choice. It experiences some of Hawaii’s driest weather , on an island that has over 20 microclimates.

This is a great spot to swim with Manta rays after dark, go snorkeling at Two Step, enjoy the sandy Hapuna Beach , and since it’s such a big island , there’s plenty of hiking as well, including in Hawaii’s only national park where there’s sometimes an active volcano!

If you’re not feeling the big island, here’s how to pick which island in Hawaii to visit . I’ve been to them all, and also love Kauai , Maui , Lanai , Molokai , and Oahu in that order.

4. Portland, Oregon

With May being the end of the rainy season and with ample snowmelt, the waterfalls at Portland’s nearby parks are brimming in June. You can see them along the Historic Columbia River Highway ( on this road trip! ), particularly the spectacular Multnomah Falls.

Temperatures are great in Portland in June, and rainfall is low. The Portland Rose Festival also happens this month, celebrating the the Rose City’s history and culture.

Portland’s quirky hipster scene makes it unique. After all, “Keep Portland weird” is a popular slogan. Don’t miss a stop at one of the many iconic donut shops, such as Voodoo Doughnut . Powell’s is the world’s largest new and used bookstore, and will keep any bookworm entertained for hours. And you’ll get a great view of the city and the mountains from the 1914 Pittock Mansion in the nearby hills.

5. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a beloved place for Oregonians and out-of-staters alike. June is right before high season (July and August), making it a great time to enjoy the area before it gets too crowded. The beaches are stunning and boast tide pools, intricate rock formations, and waves that are ideal for surfing.

This time of year is also perfect for catching a glimpse of migrating gray whales; you’ll also find tufted puffins nesting on Haystack Rock through July.

Enjoy the waves, wildlife, and mild weather at this picturesque Oregon beach. I also recommend adding it to your Oregon summertime road trip if you want to hit up several places in the state!

6. Mendocino, California

As a native California girl, Mendocino is one of my favorite places in California . Something about the dramatic coastline, lush forests, and whimsical nature gets me every time here. I’ve visited Mendocino solo , with a group of friends , and most recently, with my family . Each time I’ve found something new to love about this place, and I’ve enjoyed it both alone and with company.

June is a wonderful time to take advantage of everything this quaint California town has to offer. The warm temps and sunshine are great for exploring nearby beaches like Fort Bragg or going for a hike at a nearby state park (Mendocino Headlands State Park is a crowd favorite). Need somewhere to stay? I’ve got you covered with a list of the best boutique hotels in the area . Enjoy!

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7. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

The American West in general is home to more jaw-dropping land formations than a girl could count. Anza-Borrego National Park in California is a testament to that. This park is famous for its epic sunrises, which paint the intricately carved landscape of the desert beautifully. If you’re an outdoorsy traveler, Anza-Borrego should be on your bucket list.

Although temperatures are hot in June, nights are chilly and give you a break from the heat. June is a great time for camping!

8. San Francisco, California

June temperatures in San Francisco are much more mild than Southern California by far. The spring blooms around Northern California are still vibrant during this time of year, and there are plenty of opportunities to get out into nature near the city.

The best part of visiting San Francisco in June is the number of festivals around town. I’ve mentioned Pride parades in other parts of the US in June, but none of them truly compare to the celebration here. Other unique festivals include the annual San Francisco Black Film Festival and the San Francisco Jazz Festival .

June is also the beginning of humpback whale–watching season, which you can enjoy with San Francisco Whale Tours .

Plus, San Francisco makes a great addition to any Northern California road trip !

9. Glacier National Park, Montana

This beloved national park is its busiest in July and August, making June just the right time to visit.

Due to the frigid Montana winters, much of it is inaccessible until the snow and ice melt. While some parts of the park still aren’t completely accessible even in June (Going-to-the-Sun Road, for example), a majority of it is ready for guests, particularly the farther into June you go. You can check the status of the roads here .

The June weather is also great for hiking, as it’s not too hot or cold. You’ll be able to raft in the full rivers and bike as well!

This is also a much more affordable time to visit Glacier National Park, since lodging tends to be cheaper than it is later in the summer.

For more ideas on what to do there, check out our Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park !

10. Box Canyon State Park, Idaho

Sure, we’ve already made it clear over here at BMTM that Idaho is gorgeous in the winter . I’m here to tell you that summer in Box Canyon State Park is also pretty rad and deserves a spot on your Idaho bucket list . This small state park is located just about 20 miles north of Twin Falls and attracts outdoors enthusiasts all year round.

June in central Idaho boasts mild temperatures and lots of sunshine, making it a great time to get out and explore the trails, take a dip in one of the turquoise pools, or go for a soak at nearby Miracle and Banbury hot springs . Speaking of hot springs, Idaho is full of them (hello, Kirkham Hot Springs !).

11. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

This outdoorsy small town in the Colorado mountains is excellent for a summer getaway. June’s warm weather is perfect for getting out on the water, whether on the Yampa River or Pearl Lake.

Speaking of water, the town is also known for Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where you can enjoy open-air pools with gorgeous scenery all around you. And check out Fish Creek Falls, which is particularly full and flowing during this time of year, after the spring snowmelt.

You can also mountain bike at Emerald Mountain or Buffalo Pass, and hike the numerous trails . Steamboat Springs is an adventure lover’s paradise! Add it to your next Colorado road trip .

12. White Sands, New Mexico

New Mexico has got to be one of the most underrated US states. While Arizona and Utah are deservedly popular, this state flies under the radar, and after spending 3 weeks road tripping New Mexico , I was in love.

June is a great month for camping in New Mexico , and enjoying all of the unique things to do , my favorite of which is White Sands near Las Cruces. Santa Fe is also such a unique state capitol with charming architecture and some bougie hotels as well for a luxury experience.

13. Moab, Utah

I’ve visited Utah in March when Zion had a fresh layer of snow, in the middle of July during the summer monsoons (still loved it!), and at the tail-end of May /early June during a southwest road trip . There’s no bad time to visit Moab , one of the best adventure cities in Utah.

It’s a hub of national parks including Arches and Canyonlands , as well as state parks like Dead Horse Point, and all of them are amazing. Utah has so much to do , I’ve road tripped through four times and I still find new hidden gems each time. I highly recommend car camping in a 4WD vehicle if you have one to access some of the best and most remote camping areas.

14. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Wisconsin is most famous for its dairy and cranberry farms, offering visitors a wholesome slice of Midwestern goodness. Since it touches two of America’s Great Lakes — Lake Superior and Lake Michigan — the best way to get the most out of Wisconsin this June is to take advantage of a  sailing opportunity among the caves in the Apostle Islands .

Wisconsin isn’t nearly as touristy as other states on this list, and since temperatures in June are in the 70s, it’s an ideal destination if you’re craving some summertime fun without the crowds. Bring an umbrella or  rain jacket , though, because Wisconsin does get some precipitation in the early summer.

15. Chicago, Illinois

Many Chicagoans would argue that their city is hands-down the best place to visit in the summer. On almost any given weekend in June, you’ll find neighborhood street festivals that have incredible food stands, beer gardens, and live music. Chicago Pride also happens in June, which is my favorite summertime event, because of how the Boystown neighborhood comes alive even more than usual.

The beaches along Lake Michigan are fun to visit in the summer, but they tend to get more crowded in July and August, as the temperatures rise. My favorite is Montrose Beach, because it has a more low-key family vibe and there’s a sweet dog beach next to it.

You’ll also find a ton of free events around the city in June. We also have a solo female safety guide for Chicago , here to help you plan for a safe and action-packed summertime visit.

16. New Orleans, Louisiana

All right, I know what you’re thinking. Didn’t she already say that NOLA was awesome in the spring ? Yes, yes I did. However, it’s just as epic in June. There really is so much to do in New Orleans at any time of the year, but June is particularly fun because of the number of festivals and events .

Grab an outdoors table on Bourbon Street for some delicious Southern food and live jazz. And though it’s also touristy, a trip to the Crescent City isn’t complete without a stop for beignets at Café du Monde . (If you’re vegan and not sure about where to eat in New Orleans, check out our vegan food guide !)

Visit the charming Garden District, too, and the Bywater neighborhood , where you’ll find the city’s best art and culture scene.

Traveling solo? Check out our solo female travel guide for New Orleans !

17. Nashville, Tennessee

Picture this: you’re sitting on a patio at dusk, a cold beverage in one hand and a Nashville hot chicken sandwich in the other while listening to the rhythms of live music. That sounds like a great June evening to me. You can have all that and more when visiting Nashville in the summertime. It’s also a great excuse to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Not only is the weather in the country music capital beautiful in June, it is also prime time for festivals. The American Artisan Festival happens mid-month, attracting artists from all around the country who showcase their work, including blown glass, weavings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, and more. Other June festivals include the Country Music Association Festival, Nashville Pride, and Taste of Music City.

18. Florida Keys

June is starting to warm up in Florida, but you’re still outside of hurricane season and the worst of the sweltering summer heat and rainy season. It’s also one of the lower tourism seasons and frankly, a sweet spot.

The Florida keys are home to some of the clearest water, reminiscent of the Bahamas Caribbean blue . If you love dolphins, being on boats, snorkeling, and national parks, the keys including Key Largo is a great spot to check out, and Florida is a great spot to travel alone , too. Check out our perfect Florida Keys road trip itinerary .

19. Charleston, South Carolina

Wait, but isn’t Charleston wonderful to visit any time of year? Well, sure. But June is particularly lovely. The whole city comes to life with unique festivals, like the Charleston Rum Festival and Carifest Caribbean Carnival. The city also hosts an epic Juneteenth Freedom celebration , which highlights its Black heritage and culture.

The scorching heat of the later summer months isn’t as intense in June, so take advantage of the milder temps by strolling through the Battery area to see the colorful houses on Rainbow Row. While you’re out, make sure to try Charleston’s famous barbecue!

20. The Adirondacks, New York

Summer temperatures are great for enjoying everything the Adirondacks have to offer. The mountains make for great hikes, and the cool lakes are perfect for water sports. Saranac Lake near Lake Placid is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and boating. Because autumn is high season (for the leaves changing color), June will be much quieter.

Check out the John Brown Farm State Historic Site , high in the mountains, which contains the home and grave of the famous abolitionist. For another historic adventure, Fort Ticonderoga is a crowd favorite.

21. Portland, Maine

This enchanting New England city is a dream in the summertime. June has warm temperatures and low rainfall, making it the best time to wander the streets and enjoy the outdoors. Portland is also known for its impeccable seafood, so make sure you try one of its famous lobster rolls while you’re there.

Because of the unusually low rainfall in June, this is when Portland hosts most of its outdoor festivals, like the annual Wine Week in mid-June. If you’re a wine enthusiast, this is the trip for you. Check out Portland’s event calendar for more info.

22. Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, a small community off the coast of Rhode Island, has everything you might expect from a New England beach, without the crowds and bustle.

Most of the attractions and restaurants on Block Island are seasonal and open up at the end of May. Like many other places on this list, June is the best time to take advantage of this, before the big crowds gather in July and August.

You’ll be able to enjoy live music performances by local bands, community events, and food festivals that all start popping up in June. There are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water too, a favorite being Pond & Beyond’s Full Moon kayak tour (there are also sunset and sunrise kayak tours!).

23. Boston, Massachusetts

If you’re charmed by the patriotic nature of baseball season in the United States, Boston is the ideal place to get your fill. The season is in full swing in June at Fenway Park, where the Red Sox play. Even if you can only make it to the seventh-inning stretch, baseball games are one of a kind in Boston.

The warm and sunny weather is just right for enjoying the nation’s most walkable city. There is plenty of history to experience in and around Boston, including the Old North Church, Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, the USS Constitution , and Bunker Hill. You can also enjoy whale-watching season in June by taking a catamaran cruise .

Also, take a day trip to other nearby historic sites , like Plymouth, Salem, and Lexington, to make the most out of your trip!

24. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

High season in Cape Cod runs from July through August, and hotels can get pretty pricey during that time. June means fewer crowds and lower rates. Shops and attractions will be open by now, after being closed for the off-season.

The weather might still be a little chilly, but you can always book an accommodation that has a cozy fireplace. Enjoy the spacious beaches, take a whale-watching tour to see humpbacks, or check out the many lighthouses in the area.

25. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Taking a trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a relaxing way to ease into the upcoming summer heat. Think swimming holes, natural water slides, beautiful mountain views, hiking trails on various terrains, a soothing drive through clouds and rhododendrons, and camping . 

In June the air is clean and crisp without the heat, and spring’s flowers are in full bloom. At higher elevations, you’ll likely be driving through a gentle mist.

The busiest time here is probably autumn, when all the leaves begin changing color, so you’ll be able to enjoy one of nature’s finest landscapes in relative quietude.

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support us at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. We only recommend products we love and use ourselves. Your trust always comes first!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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ozehome says

05/04/2021 at 6:08 am

wow its awesome thanks its look so beautiful

Sharyn says

05/08/2023 at 5:20 pm

So many places to visit during June. As it gets so warm in the souther part, I think it a good time to explore the northern parts – Anchorage I think. Would this be a good idea?

Kristin says

05/13/2023 at 6:22 am

It will be even warmer and more thawed out in July/August

Alexa John says

05/16/2023 at 2:52 am

I absolutely love this travel blog! The stunning photographs accompanying your articles add an extra layer of to your already compelling writing. Your attention to detail and practical tips make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to make the most out of their travels. Keep up the great work, and I can’t wait to read about your next adventure!

Charles Smith says

05/17/2023 at 12:59 am

I have been reading your blog from past 1 year. I love it

05/19/2023 at 9:50 am

Rita James says

06/16/2023 at 8:21 am

Would like more places in Maryland.

07/01/2023 at 10:25 am

Yes, I think for June Ocean City, MD, and the Chesapeake Storyteller Tours (include paddling tour or lighthouses tour) and maybe Annapolis would be nice. I think the Chesapeake Bay is MD’s crown jewel. Annapolis and Ocean City, MD are mentioned as destinations in BMTM’s other “where to travel in the USA” posts for other months. For mountains, Catoctin and there are fun bike tours through the mountains in MD panhandle!

10 Best Places to Travel in June

From shoulder-season bargains to celebrations in the sun, kick off june with these destinations..

• Copy Link copied

June means it’s officially summer somewhere—the Northern Hemisphere, to be exact. And vacation planning follows the happy-hour rule (if it’s 5 p.m. somewhere, sneak in a snifter), so use it as an excuse to take the year’s headline trip this month.

Here are 10 appealing places around the world to travel to this June, whether you want to immerse yourself in blossoms in the Midwest, gorge yourself on pineapples in a tropical hideaway, or take a hike in the Swiss Alps.

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

June is great for blossom viewing beyond cherry season.

Lilacs have been planted on this island in Lake Huron for more than 200 years, although no one is sure how they ended up a staple of the forests. One theory is that a New Hampshire farmer brought them with him to remind him of home. Whatever first brought them here, thanks to the high pH level conferred on local soil by the underlying limestone, they’ve thrived and often reach heights of 40 feet. Today, there are more than 250 varieties on the almost four-square-mile island, all of them celebrated in a fiesta dating back to just after World War II; in 2024, it runs from June 7 to 16.

The 10-day event is Mackinac’s biggest bash; it crowns a Lilac Queen to preside over events while offering planting seminars on how to grow your own lilacs, live music, and a 10-kilometer run. The event peaks with the Lilac Festival Grand Parade on the afternoon of June 16, with horse-drawn wagons: This island remains proudly car-free.

Where to stay

• Book now: Grand Hotel

Arriving at the Grand Hotel is more like stepping into the cover of a classic romance novel than checking in at a hotel. The 388-room grande dame of the island kicked off its 137th season early last month.

How to get to Mackinac Island

Getting to Mackinac is half the fun: There are no bridges, so every journey involves a boat unless one charters a puddle jumper from the local airstrip, but where’s the fun in that? Book a flight to either Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) or Chippewa County International Airport (CIU), and take one of the regular shuttles to the ferry docks from either.

Eleuthera, a spindly island—110 miles long, but barely a mile wide—sits on the eastern rim of the Bahamas.

Photo by Szilard Toth/Shutterstock

2. Eleuthera, Bahamas

June is great for fruity fun.

Eleuthera was historically renowned for its pineapples, which thrived on the flat land here. Though the industry’s global gravity has shunted east, countless smallholdings here still tend to the crop, like Jackie Russell, who offers tours of her family’s farm , a 25-acre site producing the Sugarloaf, whose flesh is particularly soft and sweet.

In June, the island celebrates its prime produce via a two-day festival , this year on June 7 and 8, in Gregory Town. It includes many pineapple-based foods, from breakfasts to desserts, as well as fun competitions: a challenge to eat as much pineapple as you can, another to plait the pineapple pole. Last year, musical performances came from local artists like Fanshawn and Q-Pid.

• Book now: The Cove Eleuthera

Stay at this property, which reopened in November 2023 with additions that include new chefs helming its Freedom Restaurant & Sushi Bar. A stay in one of its 29 villas, suites, and bungalows gives guests access to its two private beaches.

How to get to Eleuthera

North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) has direct nonstop service to a handful of airports stateside this month: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Miami International Airport (MIA) on American Airlines, Delta’s daily shuttle from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), and Southeast specialist Silver Airways, which operates from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Many alternative El Camino routes, like the Camino Ingles, still end in Santiago de Compostela.

Photo by Lucas Vallecillos

3. Galicia, Spain

June is great for a moment of reflection.

The northern corner of Spain tends to be wetter than the Spanish coast on the Mediterranean, with ample annual rainfall—up to 79 inches or so on the coasts each year. But come summertime, you can enjoy balmy, pleasant weather here, the ideal conditions for tackling its best-known attraction: the Camino de Santiago, or El Camino , the pilgrims’ trail that climaxes in Santiago de Compostela.

Many might assume that there’s only one official route, and certainly, the Camino Frances is the best known, connecting from the border with France for hundreds of miles. However, that isn’t the sole choice—and a good thing, too, as it can get very busy with hikers in peak season. Consider, instead, the Camino Ingles. It starts in A Coruña or Ferrol; opt for the latter to qualify for the official certificate (the Compostela) for the trek when you arrive at the cathedral, as that lengthens your trek to more than 100 kilometers (about 62 miles). You can also reverse the route: Take Camino Finisterre, and you’ll start at the cathedral before walking 60 miles or so to the coast, through pine groves and medieval villages—a gloriously quiet alternative, which finishes in the town of Fisterra on the western edge of Europe.

• Book now: Palacio del Carmen

This luxury hotel, now part of the Autograph group, spent one century as a tannery and another as a nunnery, so it has a superb and unusual footprint, like the mural-wreathed chapel turned meeting room. Book a massage in the onetime convent gardens alfresco.

How to get to Galicia

There are no direct nonstop flights to Galicia’s Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ) from the United States. Consider connecting via Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Amsterdam on low-cost carrier Vueling.

Salt Lake City has the spirit of a metropolitan giant and the heart of a small town.

Photo by age fotostock

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

June is great for celebrating local talent.

From June 28 to 30, the Utah Arts Festival celebrates all the arts with literary readings, live music, dance performances, interactive installations, stand-up comedy shows, and poetry slams. The three-day, 70,000-person celebration features more than 150 performers and creatives, and more than three-quarters of those are Utah-based, as the festival aims to uplift locals.

This year’s full line-up is still under wraps, but last year’s roster included rapper Lyrics Born and rockers the Greeting Committee among musical acts and artworks from sculptor Eugene Perry, who works under the name Sharp Metals.

• Book now: Kimpton Hotel Monaco

The 225-room hotel just emerged from a renovation in February that spruced the property with splashes of color that have more than a whiff of the mid-century.

How to get to Salt Lake City

Delta is always going to be a smart choice to reach this city, as Salt Lake is one of the carrier’s major hubs, with service to tons of cities, including Kansas City, Missouri; Nashville, Tennessee; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Portland, Oregon.

The cinematic forests around this Appalachian anchor town even formed the backdrop to the Hunger Games.

Courtesy of Explore Asheville

5. Asheville, North Carolina

June is great for exploring the Appalachian outdoors.

Come to Asheville, North Carolina, in the summer to enjoy the outdoors here at its best, whether you kayak down the French Broad River, hike, or mountain bike. Idle over a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, too: The almost 500-mile scenic route began under the New Deal in the 1930s and was not completed until five decades later, winding through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country.

As for culture, the more than 30 art galleries downtown are complemented by a mural trail as well as an “outdoor museum” dubbed the Asheville Urban Trail . The city is also earning plaudits as an unexpected foodie haven, thanks to chefs like elBulli–trained Katie Button, who runs Cúrate Bar de Tapas, and Troy Ball’s craft distillery, Asheville Distilling Company, which makes a hearty whiskey from local corn.

• Book now: The Radical

In Asheville’s River Arts District, The Radical, opened in 2023, offers 70 guest rooms and suites with details like concrete pillars and exposed brick walls, hearkening back a century to its past as a cereal factory. But with bold art incorporated in its design—featuring graffiti painted on the building and animal print pillows—this standout hotel fully embraces maximalism and heritage.

How to get to Asheville

The local airport has a wide range of direct nonstops, especially within the region, mostly on low-cost specialist Allegiant Air: Hop on an easy flight from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), Tampa, and Sarasota in Florida, as well as from Las Vegas and Phoenix.

This June, try some of Bali’s delicious street foods.

Photo by Constantin Stanciu/Shutterstock

6. Bali, Indonesia

June is great for indulging in Indonesian cuisine.

The town of Ubud at Bali’s center is best known for its healing and spiritual associations. This month, though, there’s an entirely different reason to make a pilgrimage here: food.

This year, the three-day festival, running through June 2, is themed “Take it to the Streets,” emphasizing programming that celebrates street food culture across the island, whether at classic roadside stands or funky food trucks run by young entrepreneurs. Now almost a decade old, the festival offers masterclasses and conversations with top chefs and, of course, the chance to sample their cooking.

• Book now: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

The five-star, 289-room property is a stand-alone complex, with seven restaurants and an 11-acre garden. Even better, it’s a short walk to some of the best surfing on the island. If you do stay here for the food festival, note you’ll need a driver to scoot the hour or so to Ubud.

How to get to Bali

It’s a long trek to Bali from North America, so plan accordingly: The comfiest way will likely be via the Middle East, which allows you to break your journey and stretch your legs at just the right time. Take Qatar Airways, for example, which flies from DuPage Airport in Chicago (DPA) and JFK and stops in Doha: The first leg is around 12 hours, followed by a 10-hour second leg. From the West Coast, consider connecting elsewhere in Asia, such as in Manila, served by Philippine Airlines from LAX, its shortest journey being just under 21 hours.

Sodankylä is about 75 miles into the Arctic Circle.

Photo by vvvita/Shutterstock

7. Sodankylä, Finland

June is great for unleashing your inner film nerd.

From May through August, the sun never sets here, with nearly 24 hours of unbroken daylight (in the wee hours, expect darkness to threaten but never quite take hold). From June 12 to 16, you can make the most of that nonstop daytime by buying a ticket to one of the screenings at the 24/7 Midnight Sun Film Festival , which shows movies all day, every day in the town of Sodankylä.

This year’s program is typically eclectic, ranging from a screening of Arturo Ripstein’s Luis Buñel–nodding The Black Widow to the charmingly screwball Ealing Studios comedy from the 1940s, Whisky Galore! The program’s rounded out by a few other offbeat events, including Film Speech Karaoke, where the audience chooses their favorite speech from a selection of old movies and performs it, much like karaoke, reading the lines from a screen. Don’t miss the silent film concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings: The highlight this year is Ingeborg Holm , a Swedish social drama that turned into a bona fide blockbuster after it was released in 1913.

• Book now: Santa’s Hotel Aurora in Luosto

Sure, it’s summertime, but you can’t come to the Lapland region without a nod to Christmas: The standouts at this property, part of the Santa’s Hotel group, are the 10 glass igloos on-site, which offer spectacular views out at the night sky and the surrounding wilderness.

How to get to Sodankylä

The local airport is Rovaniemi (RVN) which is about an hour or so from the capital, Helsinki. Finnair has an extensive network connecting HEL to the US, via its membership of Oneworld: there are direct non-stop flights there this month from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), JFK, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), LAX, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). From Rovaniemi, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive north to Sodankylä.

David Walsh’s MONA was built to house his personal art collection.

Photo by ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock

8. Hobart, Tasmania

June is great for quirky arty escapades.

Multimillionaire art collector David Walsh turbocharged tourism to his native Tasmania when he opened MONA, a 10,000-square-foot, custom-built museum. As a follow-up, Walsh helped fund the eccentric but appealing festival, Dark Mofo , showcasing the arts scene and the superb produce that characterizes the island.

The festival proper is taking a break for 2024, but several signature events remain, including the foodie-spotlighting Winter Feast and the Nude Solstice Swim at sunrise on June 21 (don’t forget it’s midwinter, so brace yourself). A few other shindigs will step in as a stopgap: Night Shift, the late-night dance party on June 21 and 22, as well as two events at MONA itself. The latest exhibition, “ Namedropping ”, opens on June 15, preceded by a gala bash to celebrate it, where tickets will be available for purchase for the first time—the $400-per-person price underwrites education programs by Material Institute.

• Book now: The Tasman

This three-year-old waterfront hotel is one of several new upscale accommodations to arrive in the once low-key capital of the island: The 152 rooms are arranged around several buildings bolted together, including an art deco one from the 1940s and a Neo-Georgian 1840s structure.

How to get to Tasmania

Tasmania is a short hop from Melbourne on the mainland, so that’s the best international gateway for touchdown: United connects it to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and LAX direct nonstop, and Qantas also operates on the LAX route.

The Winnipeg Art Gallery–Qaumajuq holds the largest public collection of Inuit art in the world, with more than 27,000 pieces.

Photo by Salvador Maniquiz/Shutterstock

9. Winnipeg, Canada

June is great for Indigenous immersion.

Indigenous culture is core to the culture of Winnipeg, which has the highest per capita percentage of Indigenous residents anywhere in the country, as well as the largest urban population of the same community. It celebrates that heritage every June via Indigenous Day Live.

It’s run by the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network , the first national Indigenous broadcaster. While this year’s events are still in the planning stages, the network will include day-long special programming for audiences across the country. Last year’s lineup included a walk through the city that explored the shared histories of the settlers and the Indigenous community, and drumming and hoop dancing performances for children.

Don’t miss the Winnipeg Art Gallery–Qaumajuq, either: Its shows this spring include “Omalluq,” focused on the namesake female artist from Kinngait who was a pioneering carver, and “Riopelle,” a celebration of the centenary of the birth of artist Jean-Paul Riopelle, who gained worldwide fame while living and working in Paris.

• Book now: The Inn at the Forks

The 116-room boutique hotel downtown sits right where the two rivers, the Assiniboine and the Red, convene—hence the hotel’s name—and is the easiest perch from which to explore most of the events of this festival.

How to get to Winnipeg

There are direct, nonstop flights to Winnipeg from many U.S. hubs, including WestJet service from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), United flights from Denver International Airport (DIA), and Delta service from Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP).

Come June, Gstaad’s winter wonderland turns into a landscape of green hiking trails.

Photo by oetiker/Unsplash

10. Gstaad, Switzerland

June is great for hiking among the hills that Heidi called home.

Sure, this tiny, tiny town in the Swiss Alps is packed with celebrities when the slopes are snowy: Madonna and Princess Diana have been spotted there. But it’s worth considering a visit out of season—and not just because climate change has made lower-altitude resorts like this one vulnerable to snow droughts (for the 2023 season, the first flurries arrived in early January).

Come here when it’s warm, and those slopes transform into green hiking trails, like the Rinderberg Panorama. Come earlier to avoid the crowds, and don’t forget to pack a bathing suit for a chance to swim in the astonishingly clear waters. Glacier 3000, the high-speed cable car, whisks travelers to the peak of the namesake glacier (which should still be snow-capped in June). Just pack some cashmere for this wintry interlude.

• Book now: Gstaad Palace

The family-owned hotel helped establish this town as a jet-set getaway when it opened more than 100 years ago; it remains ground zero for glamor in 2024.

How to get there

The best international hub for Gstaad is Zurich, served by Swiss from MIA, ORD, LAX, and JFK nonstop. From there, it’s a picturesque three-hour train ride on one of Switzerland’s famously slick trains. Try to snag one of the vintage rolling stock, where the interiors are proudly Poirot-era.

Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly mentioned that Indigenous Day Live’s 2024 programming would include workshops and musical performances.

Best Countries to Visit in June

Here is the list of 32 best countries to visit in june.

Bhutan's lush green valleys come alive in June with vibrant flora and cascading waterfalls, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. As the monsoon approaches, the country experiences occasional rain showers, enriching its landscapes and offering a fresh, misty ambiance perfect for scenic drives and treks. The flight from India is relatively short and affordable. For travelers from India, the reduced tourist crowds during this month ensure a more intimate exploration of Bhutan's monasteries, traditional festivals, and local markets. Moreover, the pleasant daytime temperatures complemented by cooler evenings provide a comfortable environment for soaking in the nation's rich culture and heritage.

2. Indonesia

Indonesia, with its tropical charm, is at its best with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making island-hopping between Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands a sun-soaked pleasure. Dive enthusiasts can plunge into the vibrant marine life of Komodo Island, while surfers catch consistent waves along Bali's eastern coast. Balinese festivals, with their intricate dances and vivid ceremonies, offer Indian travelers a unique insight into the archipelago's rich cultural heritage. Moreover, the bustling markets of Jakarta provide a juxtaposition of modernity and tradition, ensuring a diverse experience for every explorer.

Turkey in June is a sensory delight, with Istanbul's bustling bazaars and historic sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque bathed in warm summer light. The dreamy landscapes of Cappadocia become a hot air balloon paradise, offering panoramic views of its unique rock formations, while the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, from Bodrum to Antalya, beckon beach lovers and yachting enthusiasts with crystal clear waters. As the weather strikes a balance between spring's mildness and summer's warmth, June also becomes an ideal time to explore ancient ruins in Ephesus and savor the diverse Turkish cuisine at alfresco restaurants.

Kenya, as it ushers in the dry season in June, becomes a prime destination for witnessing the early stages of the Great Migration, especially in the Maasai Mara region where vast herds gather. Safari experiences are heightened, with animals congregating around waterholes, providing ample photographic opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Indian travelers can also explore the coastal charm of Mombasa, where the Indian Ocean's azure waters meet white sandy beaches. Flights from India to Nairobi are available, but prices can vary. Additionally, the vibrant Swahili culture, infused with historical Indian influences, resonates in local markets, cuisine, and architecture, bridging the gap between familiarity and discovery.

5. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's west and south coasts transform with the onset of monsoons in June, creating dramatic seascapes and lush interiors. Travelers can explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura or the cultural epicenter of Kandy, which remain relatively dry and offer rich historical and spiritual experiences. Indian visitors often find a familiar yet distinct flavor in Sri Lankan cuisine, with dishes like hoppers and kottu becoming instant favorites. Wildlife enthusiasts can head to the national parks in the North and East, where the chances of spotting leopards, elephants, and exotic birds are high, even amidst occasional rain showers. Flights from India to Sri Lanka are short and affordable.

Nepal's landscapes in June are vividly accentuated with the onset of the monsoon, as terraced fields glow in varying shades of green. Although trekking in higher altitudes remains popular, travelers must be prepared for rain showers that can unveil a misty panorama of the Himalayas. Flights from India to Nepal are usually reasonably priced. For Indian visitors, the spiritual vibrancy of the Rato Machindranath chariot festival in the Kathmandu Valley offers a deep dive into Nepal's rich cultural tapestry. Furthermore, the bustling bazaars and alleys of cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara provide a melange of shopping experiences, from traditional handicrafts to delicious Newari cuisine.

7. Cambodia

Cambodia's landscapes in June shimmer with the onset of rains, bringing about a renewed vibrancy in the terraced rice paddies and lush jungles in June. The iconic Angkor Wat, draped in a mystic ambiance with fewer tourists, presents a serene experience, while flights to Siem Reap are accessible from India, making the ancient temple complex easily reachable. Phnom Penh's bustling markets and colonial architecture provide a captivating urban exploration. Additionally, Indian travelers can relish the unique Khmer cuisine, which, though distinct, shares subtle culinary nuances with Indian flavors.

8. Malaysia

Malaysia in June offers a blend of tropical allure and cultural festivities, as the capital, Kuala Lumpur, with its iconic Petronas Towers, serves as a hub for shopping festivals and culinary delights. The pristine beaches of Langkawi and Penang provide a sun-soaked retreat, while the UNESCO-listed George Town showcases a fusion of colonial and local heritage through its vibrant street art and architecture. Amidst June's relatively dry days, the rainforests of Borneo come alive with wildlife, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for eco-adventures and orangutan sightings.

Morocco, with its diverse landscapes and rich culture, reveals a vibrant hue in June as the temperatures start to rise, painting the Sahara in warm golden tones. The coastal cities of Essaouira and Casablanca offer a breezy retreat, making them ideal for savoring fresh seafood by the Atlantic coast. For Indian travelers, the bustling souks of Marrakech and Fes beckon with their myriad of spices, crafts, and textiles, reminiscent of the bazaars back home yet distinctively Moroccan. As the evenings cool, June nights become perfect for exploring the historical medinas or indulging in traditional Moroccan cuisine under starry skies.

10. Vietnam

As Vietnam embraces the summer month of June, the north experiences warm weather, making it an ideal time to explore the terraced rice fields of Sapa in full bloom. Meanwhile, central regions like Hue and Da Nang receive intermittent showers, casting a refreshing ambiance over ancient temples and colonial streets. Flights from India to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are often affordable. For Indian travelers, the southern parts, including Ho Chi Minh City, remain relatively dry, perfect for delving into Vietnam's rich history and indulging in delectable street food. Whether it's cruising along Halong Bay or wandering through Hoi An's lantern-lit evenings, Vietnam in June offers a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

June marks the dry season in Peru , presenting ideal conditions for trekking the Inca Trail to the iconic Machu Picchu, with clear vistas of the ancient ruins against the Andean backdrop. Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, bustles with energy as it hosts the vibrant Inti Raymi festival, a grand reenactment of the traditional Incan sun worship ceremony. Meanwhile, the Amazon rainforest reveals its rich biodiversity, making June a perfect month for jungle excursions and river cruises, offering glimpses of diverse wildlife and indigenous communities.

12. England

England , draped in the full bloom of summer during June, becomes a haven for tennis enthusiasts as Wimbledon captures global attention with thrilling matches and time-honored traditions. The quaint countryside, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the serene Lake District, is perfect for picnics, nature walks, and enjoying the golden hours of the long summer days. Cities like London bustle with outdoor events, riverside festivals, and open-air theatre performances, encapsulating the British spirit of making the most of the sunlit month of June.

13. New Zealand

June heralds the onset of winter in New Zealand, transforming the Southern Alps and ski regions like Queenstown and Wanaka into snow-capped paradises for winter sports enthusiasts. Geothermal areas, such as Rotorua , become even more inviting with their steamy hot springs, perfect for a warm soak amidst the chilly backdrop. As the landscapes wear a frosty blanket, June also becomes a prime time for witnessing the ethereal Southern Lights in the southernmost parts of the country, painting the night sky in vibrant hues.

14. Denmark

Denmark's long, sun-drenched days of June create a lively backdrop for the country's vibrant Midsummer festivities, where traditional bonfires light up the coastal landscapes, and folk tales of magical creatures are shared. Copenhagen's canals and historic neighborhoods, like Nyhavn, are abuzz with alfresco dining, cyclists, and boat tours, celebrating the onset of Scandinavian summer. Meanwhile, the lush greenery of the countryside, dotted with fairy-tale castles and Viking relics, beckons explorers, offering a harmonious blend of Denmark's rich history and contemporary Nordic culture in June.

15. Finland

As Finland basks in the glow of the Midnight Sun during June, cities like Rovaniemi offer surreal 24-hour daylight, perfect for nighttime picnics or golf under the never-setting sun. The vibrant capital, Helsinki, comes alive with festivals and outdoor events, celebrating the brief yet cherished warmth. Amidst June's extended daylight, the national parks and lakelands provide serene canoeing, hiking, and camping experiences, embodying the Finnish essence of 'Sisu' and their deep connection to nature.

Alaska's expansive landscapes come alive under the midnight sun of June, offering unparalleled vistas of glaciers calving into deep fjords and wildlife roaming freely in places like Denali National Park. The rich waters of the Kenai Peninsula beckon anglers with the promise of salmon runs, while the vibrant indigenous cultures share their traditions at summer solstice festivals. Whether cruising the Inside Passage or hiking in the vast tundras, June unveils the raw, untamed beauty and diverse experiences that the Last Frontier has to offer.

3 Attractions

Japan in June is a canvas of vibrant hydrangea blooms, especially in places like Kamakura and Hakone, painting the landscapes in shades of blue, purple, and pink. As the early summer rains, known as 'tsuyu,' nourish the country, festivals like the Tsuyu-no-Tenjinsai celebrate the season with traditional performances and delicacies. Meanwhile, travelers can venture to the cool mountain regions or enjoy the bustling summer energy in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto , making June a harmonious blend of nature's beauty and cultural immersion.

Italy in June is a sunlit spectacle, with Venice's gondolas gracefully gliding through its shimmering canals and Rome's ancient ruins, like the Colosseum, standing majestically under the azure skies. The Tuscan countryside ripens with vineyards and olive groves, inviting wine enthusiasts for tastings and alfresco dinners, while the Amalfi Coast, with its cliffside villages and cerulean waters, beckons travelers seeking coastal charm. As festivals and open-air concerts enliven the country's historic squares, June also offers a taste of Italy's renowned gelato, perfect for cooling down on a warm summer day.

Spain's vibrant culture comes to the fore in June, with cities like Seville and Granada showcasing the passionate flamenco dances in historic courtyards and plazas. Barcelona's modernist landmarks, including Gaudí's Sagrada Família, gleam in the summer sun, while the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Brava and Ibiza become lively retreats for beachgoers and party enthusiasts. As tapas bars spill onto the streets and festivals like 'Hogueras de San Juan' light up the night with bonfires and fireworks, June perfectly captures Spain's zest for life and celebration.

Canada , bathed in the warmth of June, ushers in vibrant celebrations like the Montreal Jazz Festival, attracting music aficionados from around the globe. The majestic Rocky Mountains, stretching from Alberta to British Columbia , provide a scenic backdrop for hiking and wildlife spotting, while the coastal regions, especially Vancouver Island, come alive with whale-watching tours and kayaking adventures. As urban hubs like Toronto host lively patios and open-air events, the Northern regions offer the mesmerizing spectacle of the midnight sun, encapsulating Canada's diverse beauty and spirit in June.

21. Thailand

Thailand's lush landscapes receive a refreshing touch with the onset of the monsoon in June, making destinations like Chiang Mai ideal for witnessing cascading waterfalls and verdant rainforests. The islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, despite the occasional rain, offer stunning sunsets and quieter beaches, creating an intimate tropical experience. Amidst the vibrant street markets of Bangkok , where steaming bowls of Pad Thai are served under neon lights, the Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival in the Northeast paints a colorful tableau of parades and traditional dances, capturing Thailand's rich culture and festivity in June.

22. Croatia

Croatia's Adriatic coastline glistens in June, with historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split offering a blend of medieval charm, sun-soaked terraces, and vibrant festivals. The azure waters around the Dalmatian islands, including Hvar and Korčula, beckon sailors and beach enthusiasts for island-hopping adventures and alfresco seafood feasts. Inland, Plitvice Lakes National Park showcases its cascading waterfalls and crystalline lakes in full splendor, making June an idyllic time to dive into Croatia's natural beauty and rich heritage.

Greece's iconic whitewashed structures and blue domes of Santorini shimmer against the Aegean Sea in June, setting the stage for breathtaking sunsets and vibrant nightlife. Athens , steeped in ancient history, opens its archaeological treasures, like the Acropolis , to visitors under the balmy Mediterranean sun, while traditional tavernas come alive with music and dance. From the serene beaches of Crete to the bustling alleys of Mykonos , June offers travelers a taste of Greece's unparalleled blend of history, culture, and island allure.

24. Australia

As winter approaches the southern hemisphere, Australia's diverse landscapes transform in June, with the Great Barrier Reef offering clear waters for divers eager to explore its marine wonders. The snow-capped peaks of the Australian Alps become a haven for skiers and snowboarders, while the northern tropical regions, such as Queensland, maintain a warm allure, perfect for beach escapes and rainforest adventures. Meanwhile, Sydney's Vivid Festival illuminates the city with dazzling light installations, art, and music, making June a captivating month to experience Australia's multifaceted charm.

25. Mauritius

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius , with its balmy June weather, offers a serene escape where the turquoise waters of the India n Ocean lap against pristine beaches lined with swaying palms. While the island's west coast provides perfect conditions for water sports, including kite surfing and snorkeling, the cooler evenings become ideal for exploring the vibrant street markets of Port Louis and savoring Creole delicacies. As the sugarcane fields sway gently in the breeze, the Black River Gorges National Park reveals its lush green trails and cascading waterfalls, capturing the island's natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry during June.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

26. Argentina

As Argentina delves into its winter season, June brings snow enthusiasts to the Andean peaks of Bariloche and Mendoza, turning them into bustling hubs for skiing and snowboarding. The vast landscapes of Patagonia, with its glacial expanses and hiking trails, offer a quieter, introspective beauty under the crisp winter sky. Meanwhile, the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires come alive with tango festivals, allowing visitors to immerse in the passionate rhythms and dances, perfectly capturing Argentina's fiery spirit in the heart of winter.

France in June is a canvas of vibrant blooms and long sunlit days, setting the perfect scene for leisurely picnics by the Seine in Paris or sipping rosé in the lavender fields of Provence. The beaches of the French Riviera, from Nice to Saint-Tropez, buzz with sun-seekers and festivals, while Bordeaux's vineyards invite wine enthusiasts for tastings of their summer vintages. Amidst the backdrop of ancient chateaux and cobblestoned streets, the Fête de la Musique fills cities and towns with melodies, celebrating the summer solstice and France's rich cultural tapestry.

28. Switzerland

Switzerland's alpine meadows burst into a riot of wildflowers in June, providing a picturesque setting for hikers and nature lovers in regions like the Bernese Oberland. The serene waters of Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne reflect the clear blue skies, inviting leisurely boat rides and lakeside picnics with views of snow-capped peaks in the distance. As cities like Zurich and Bern enjoy extended daylight, they host vibrant festivals, open-air concerts, and bustling marketplaces, making June a time to relish Switzerland's harmonious blend of nature and culture.

29. Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Known For : Anse Lazio Snorkeling in Seychelles Sunbathing in Seychelles

June is an excellent time to visit Seychelles due to its favorable weather conditions. During this month, the islands experience mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and calm seas, making it perfect for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving. Additionally, June falls outside of the peak tourist season, allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine beaches and natural beauty of Seychelles with fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.

Best Time: April to May, September to October

96 Seychelles Attractions

30. Azerbaijan - The Land of Fire

Azerbaijan's allure in June lies in its pleasant weather, offering an ideal climate for exploring its diverse landscapes and cultural attractions. With temperatures ranging from comfortably warm to mildly hot, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the Caucasus Mountains, exploring ancient cities like Baku, and relaxing by the Caspian Sea coast. Additionally, June marks the onset of various festivals and events, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the vibrant local culture and festivities, making it an enticing time to experience Azerbaijan's rich heritage and hospitality.

31. Georgia - Caucasus Charms, Stories of History

Georgia is an excellent destination to visit due to its pleasant weather in June. During this time, the country experiences warm temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in the Caucasus Mountains or exploring the charming streets of Tbilisi. Additionally, June marks the beginning of the summer season, allowing travelers to enjoy longer daylight hours for sightseeing and immersing themselves in Georgia's rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals without the crowds typically seen in peak tourist season.

5 Attractions

32. South Africa - Where Natural Beauty Abounds

June is an excellent time to visit South Africa due to its mild winter weather and fewer crowds compared to peak season. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy prime safari experiences in destinations like Kruger National Park, where the dry season concentrates animals around water sources for optimal viewing. Additionally, June offers ideal conditions for exploring South Africa's diverse landscapes, from the stunning Garden Route to the scenic winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Let us know your comments and opinions on these countries to visit in June in the comments section below

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12 Best Places to Travel in June to Kick off the Summer

June is a great time to hit the beach!

June kicks off the summer travel season, but so many families haven't locked in their travel plans yet! The main reason: indecision. "Airfare and hotel prices are high, so I really want to make sure where I go is worth the money," one would-be traveler told us. Another confessed that she's just overwhelmed with the possibilities: "For the last three years, we've had to plan around what we thought were Covid-safe trips. Now everywhere is back on the table."

Some of this month's picks are shoulder-season destinations with great deals. "Off-season destinations, like Mexico, are a miracle for your budget," says Henley Vazquez , co-founder of Fora, an innovative travel agency. "Will it be hot in Mexico in June? Yes, but it will also be hot where I live, and I don't have a beach and countless pools to keep cool."

Whether you've been eyeing a beach trip, a trip to Europe, a Route 66 adventure, a multi-generational getaway or a national park pick, our list has you covered. So go ahead and book a vacation now before your dates sell out! Soon, you'll be having the time of your life.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

SpongeBob and other popular Nick characters feel like part of the fam at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana and its sister property in the Rivera Maya .

During their Summer of SpongeBob celebration, running from May 26 to September 5, epic activities such as Nick Live! Dance Shows, episode-viewing parties and extra character meet-and-greets level up an already fun activity lineup. Guests celebrating their birthdays at the resort get even more special treatment, including a call from SpongeBob. A promotion running through early September takes up to 40% off regular rates .

ULUM Moab by Under Canvas, Utah

EXPLORE NOW

Be one of the first guests to stay at ULUM Moab, a safari-inspired desert oasis near Utah’s famous Looking Glass Arch and Canyonlands National Park. It's glamping on steroids. Baristas at the on-site restaurant whip up specialty coffee drinks (or smoothies if that's more your thing) to fuel your morning. Fifty suite tents are comfortable, chic and packed with sustainably-sourced amenities (think: Turkish bath robes) that you'd expect from a luxury hotel.

Activities range from tranquil to adventurous. You could have a yoga sesh and a dip in the pool in the morning and be off on a mountain biking adventure in the afternoon. At night, s'mores and stargazing are dreamy. Suite tents sleep four, so there will be enough space for the kids if you want to bring them. (But it's a great spot for a couples' trip or a girlfriend getaway, too.) ULUM Moab operates from March to October; the earlier in summer you get there, the more comfortable the temperature will be.

Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Visit Dollywood on or before June 11 to experience the theme park's annual Flower & Food Festival. More than one million blooms, playful sculptures made from plants plus an umbrella sky (pictured) add an extra dose of color and whimsy to a park that already has the Great Smoky Mountains in its backyard.

Come hungry because the park offers limited-time treats like berry and honey funnel cake and cookies decorated like a beehive. The food and fun continue over at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa , where lavender lemonade will be served in the lobby and kids can create garden gnomes and birdhouses at a camp. P.S.: A new roller coaster — the longest in the park's history — opens in May. Whee!

The Cove at Sylvan Beach on Oneida Lake, New York

Here's a glorious new option for a vacay with extended family: The Cove at Sylvan Beach, about an hour south of The Adirondacks in upstate New York, appeals to all ages. Kids score a playground with a zipline and a heated pool. Lake activities — ranging from fishing to kayaking — bring the whole family together.

Plus, every family receives a private pontoon boat to use for their stay. More like a lake house rental than a hotel, the property features two- and three-bedroom cottages with a full kitchen, washer and dryer and other conveniences. There's even one four-bedroom penthouse suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and a home gym. Cross-check those calendars and make a plan to get away this summer!

Americana Motor Hotel, Flagstaff, Arizona

If you're road-tripping along Route 66, we've found the perfect overnight (or two) for you: the Americana Motor Hotel. Built in 1962, the newly reimagined hotel will re-open in June with geometric carpets, disco balls and other design elements that lean into its retro-chic vibe.

Its outdoor space is off the charts too! Yard games, swim-up movies at the heated pool and stargazing with the on-property telescopes help turn a good day into a great one.

Magma Resort Santorini, Greece

So you're thinking about going to Greece this summer? You're far from alone. Fly over in early June when it won't be quite as crowded and the weather is terrific.

The new 59-room Magma Resort Santorini, the first Hyatt resort in the Greek islands, still has space for summer visits. Nestled among vineyards, its location and design are stunning. Just picture yourself on one of these lounges in the water!

Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is way more than a pretty beach town. It's jam-packed with culture, history and a fab lineup of summer festivals. A Summer Solstice Celebration takes place on June 23-24, featuring an original display of floats, vibrant costumes, music and more.

The Old Spanish Days Fiesta , returns for its 99th year from August 2-6, opening on the steps of the Old Mission Santa Barbara with a traditional flamenco and folklorico dance performance. There are so many awesome places to stay, from the budget-minded Hyatt Place Santa Barbara to the luxury The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara .

Sequoia National Park, Visalia, California

June is a great time for a 3 1/2-mile family hike to Little Baldy Summit in Sequoia National Park, says Shelly Rivoli, author of the new Hiking with Kids Southern California: 45 Great Hikes for Families . "It’s a good workout with nearly 800 feet of elevation gain, especially for those arriving from lower elevations," says Rivoli.

"The rewards of early summer include Sierra wildflowers and excellent chances of marmot sightings along the way — and the ultimate payoff of a 360º view from a granite dome at 8,044 feet above sea level makes it well worth the effort." Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on top of the world before you head back down! The park's Wuksachi Lodge is open year-round.

Hotel Esencia, Tulum, Mexico

"I don't often go back to the same place with my family but I've been at this hotel in the Rivera Maya three or four times!" says Vazquez. It's hard not to share her enthusiasm: A stunning location on a white-sand beach surrounded by gardens with outstanding food and service makes Hotel Esencia a swoon-worthy getaway — with or without kids. Even sweeter, the property is running a 40%-off promotion through June 1, and flights to Mexico are reasonably priced, says Vazquez.

St. Petersburg, Flordia

For the largest Pride parade in the Sunshine State , look no further than Saint Petersburg. This is the 21st year for the rainbow-clad celebration organized by the non-profit St. Pete Pride . Join in the festivities on June 24 and then explore the area's award-winning beaches and cultural attractions. Standouts include St. Pete Beach and the Salvador Dalí Museum. Stay at the LGBTQ+ friendly The Don Cesar , aka "the pink palace," along St. Pete Beach.

Breckenridge, Colorado

If you have sticker shock over hotel and flight prices this year, consider a destination like Breckenridge, where summer is the offseason. The skiers are gone — but not the nature activities. Whitewater rafting, fly fishing, horseback riding and wildlife hikes get your family out in the fresh mountain air. Summer prices are a fraction of their winter rates at almost every resort in the area. An especially good deal: During certain dates in June, you can book large suites with a kitchen at the Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center for less than $300 per night.

Maui, Hawaii

If you're dreaming about a summer vacation in Maui, plan it for June when it's a bit less crowded (and less expensive) than July and August. Just for starters, your crew could swim under a waterfall, explore a black sand beach, snorkel around the most amazing coral reefs and eat pineapple right in the field where it's grown .

Almost every resort will greet family members with a flower or shell lei and many offer hula lessons and other iconic Hawaiian activities at no extra charge. It's fun trying the classic island food and drinks—you're practically guaranteed to come home a fan of POG (pineapple, orange and guava juice).

Maui resorts that earned a Good Housekeeping 2023 Family Travel Award include Wailea Beach Resort Marriott Maui, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa and the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa .

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The 12 best places to visit in June

The best places to visit in June could just as likely be on your doorstep as on the other side of the world. 

With Europe enjoying warm summer weather , outdoor events dominate the calendar, from music festivals to food fights. The weather peaks in many of Asia and Africa’s destinations too, opening up golden beach breaks and once-in-a-lifetime safaris . 

While many destinations in June are getting busier, you can still find some solitude if you know where to look. And because we haven’t reached the high seasons of July and August, there are still deals to be found.

Thinking about your budget or looking for something more quiet? Jump to KAYAK’s data-backed picks based on popularity, weather, flight, and hotel prices.

The best places to visit in June

• Manchester, Tennessee
• Seattle, Washington
• Hudson Valley, New York
• Chugach Mountains, Alaska
• Cusco, Peru
• The Pantanal, Brazil
• North Cornwall, UK
• Berlin, Germany
• Haro, Spain
• Taipei, Taiwan
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
• Data-backed picks to match your budget

Best places to visit in June in the US and North America

The best vacation spots in June across North America all focus on getting outdoors. Below are some of my personal favorites. For more ideas for a June vacation in the US take a look at KAYAK’s data-backed picks, LA, Honolulu, Orlando and Las Vegas, all of which promise warm weather and medium to low popularity, meaning you’ll escape the crowds.

1. Manchester, Tennessee, US

• Learn more: Manchester travel guide
• Why visit in June? Party at the Bonnaroo festival.

On Interstate 24 between Nashville and Chattanooga in Coffee County, the town of Manchester is a classic slice of Americana . Charming and friendly, it’s surrounded by spectacular scenery and offers endless pursuits for lovers of the Great Outdoors. 

Hike the Great Smoky Mountains, fish, or brave a dip in spectacular waterfalls – Rutledge Falls in particular is lovely. Manchester is also a great place to visit in June for the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival .  Running from June 13th to 16th in 2024, the festival is held on a local farm. Bonnaroo is creole for ‘a really good time’ and it undoubtedly lives up to that moniker.

Among the world-class acts it attracts this year sees Post Malone and the Red Hot Chili Peppers headline. You’ll also find installations, performances, exhibits, and screenings. My tip? Book early.

2. Seattle, Washington, US

• Learn more: Seattle travel guide
• Why visit in June? Celebrate the city’s 50th Pride Parade.

At its warmest and driest until September, with average temperatures of 61℉, Seattle is one of the best US cities to visit in June. While that doesn’t guarantee no rain (just 2 ” according to KAYAK data) the city throws itself with gusto into its peak season. 

Visit the parks and streets to make the most of its festivals. Or, if you’re feeling bold, strip off and get painted for the naked bike ride . Part of the Fremont Solstice Parade , it runs over the weekend of June 22nd to 23rd. 2024 also sees Seattle Pride celebrate its 50th birthday , covering the city in a rainbow of color for the month. It culminates in the Pride Parade on June 30th, with Downtown the best place to visit from 11am.

In the city, splash out on seasonal Copper River Salmon from Pike Place Market , only available till mid-June. While you’re in the area, check out what may be America’s most disgusting attraction, the ever-expanding gum wall.

For sealife lovers, Seattle is also in the Washington State seaport and June is peak orca and whale spotting season.

3. Hudson Valley, New York, US

• Learn more: Hudson travel guide
• Why visit in June? To escape the city for summer.

As New York cooks in the summer sun, escape the city heat with a trip upstate to the Hudson Valley. Running along the Hudson River from Westchester County to Albany , it’s a haven of bucolic calm. Best of all, it’s only a couple of hours from New York on the Amtrak.

En route, you’ll find vineyards, apple orchards, and farms – classic countryside living. Its growing popularity with New Yorkers has also created a burgeoning wellness and tourism scene. Spas, yoga studios, museums, and high-end restaurants dot its scenic pastures and towns. Don’t miss Dia Beacon , an extraordinary art gallery on the banks of the Hudson River in a converted box-printing factory. 

The region is also a beacon for sustainability . It promotes electric driving with a bounty of charge points, so EV rentals are a great way to explore. Eat healthy at the Stone Barns Center , which champions a sustainable future for agriculture and gastronomy.

4. Chugach Mountains, Alaska, US

• Why visit in June? Bask in the majesty of Alpenglow.

A spectacular backdrop to Alaska’s capital, Anchorage , the Chugach Mountains are hiking nirvana in June. Crisscrossed with marked trails, there are endless routes to carry you deep into the American wilderness.

First-timers should kick off with the popular Flattop Mountain Trail . The main Glen Alps trail is a three-mile round trip that traverses rolling hills and craggy rock faces. Better is the backside trail with its gentler incline and less need for rock scrambling. However you get there, the view from the summit is spectacular.

June is the Alpenglow season too. Time your climb to see the light of the setting sun igniting the mountain tops in a red-pink glow. Don’t lend it all your attention though. The trails are well-maintained but still wild. Be prepared for moose and bear encounters with a bear bell and spray, and load up on DEET for the inevitable mosquito assault.

5. Trinidad

• Why visit in June? Baby turtles!

June 16th is World Sea Turtle Day . What better way to celebrate than witnessing the biggest turtle’s cycle of life on the shores of an island paradise?

From March, the nesting season takes over the beaches of Trinidad with Matura to Grande Rivière the hotspots . Dozens of egg-laying female leatherbacks emerge from the Caribbean Sea nightly to lay their precious offspring in the sand. In June, those eggs start to hatch, sending hundreds of tiny turtles on their perilous journey back to the ocean.

Plan your trip around a hatching visit to witness one of nature’s most magical sights. But don’t forget the rest of the island. Fabulous beaches, fun festivals, and bottomless Caribbean hospitality are all waiting.

Best places to visit in June in South America

From solstice celebrations to scintillating wildlife experiences, the wild landscapes of South America are magic in June.

6. Cusco, Peru

• Learn more: Cusco travel guide
• Why visit in June? Witness the world’s greatest winter solstice celebration.

Every year on June 24th, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cusco hosts the ancient Inca festival of Inti Raymi . Celebrating the winter solstice , it honors the Sun God, Inti, and is an unrivaled riot of color, music, and dancing. 

A gigantic reenacting of ancient Inca rituals high in the Peruvian Andes, it takes place across the city. Highlights include the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site, Coricancha Temple, and Main Square . It’s open to everyone, but for the best experience book a hosted tour that includes seats for the main events.

Inti Raymi is a wonderful insight into the Inca way of life and Cusco is a spectacular backdrop for its celebration. It’s also a great launching point to discover Peru’s other wonders – the Manu Rainforest and Machu Picchu . 

With the impact of tourism a growing concern, you could instead visit “the other Machu Picchu”. A stunning remote hilltop settlement at the end of the epic Choquequirao Trail. 

7. The Pantanal, Brazil

• Why visit in June? For the jaguars.

Remote, vast, and nowhere near as popular as its Amazon neighbor, Brazil’s Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland. It’s home to nearly 5,000 plant and animal species , among them South America’s highest concentration of jaguars and cayman. 

The Northern Pantanal in particular is among the best places to travel in June to see jaguars in their natural habitat. It’s the start of the dry season which makes sightings easier. Thanks to their relative habituation, the jaguars aren’t shy of appearing even with tourists around. Spotting them in the wild is one of nature’s most extraordinary and rewarding experiences.

Make sure to book a reputable dedicated tour company , which can take care of much of your itinerary. They should employ local, licensed guides so you know your visit will help rather than harm the jaguars and other wildlife.

Best places to visit in June in Europe

Summer is the best season in Europe. Windows of warm weather mean cooler northern countries pop with festivals, both traditional and bizarre. Celebrations of food and culture dominate events calendars. For something a little quieter, consider KAYAK’s data pick for Europe Amsterdam which enjoys low seasonal popularity in June despite warm weather and Holland Festival.

8. North Cornwall, UK

• Why visit in June? The quintessential English seaside vacation (minus the rain).

There are few better places to visit in June than the beaches of England’s north Cornwall. Fish and chips in one hand, doused in salt and vinegar if you’re anything like me, fast-melting ice cream in the other and one eye on the seagulls. Fantastic!

June is a great time to visit because the school summer crowds are yet to arrive and there’s usually a spread of nice sunny days . Quirky towns and villages are quieter, ancient inns and hotels emptier, and beaches busy but still a little wild. 

Head to Tintagel and cross the stunning footbridge to King Arthur’s castle or explore the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in tiny Boscastle. After, wash away the effort of the hike with a dip in the fresh waters of St Nectan’s Waterfall. All are just a few miles from each other; a perfect showcase of how much the Great Garden of Cornwall has to offer. 

9. Berlin, Germany

• Learn more: Berlin travel guide
• Why visit in June? The birth of summer and the reawakening of the city.

When I first moved to Berlin in the deep of winter , it was a cold and intimidating place. As summer rolled around , the mild weather transformed the city. Combine that with daylight late into the night and Berlin’s streets buzz with people 24/7.

Wander the districts of Kreuzberg, Neukölln, and Friedrichshain and explore the eclectic backstreet cafes, bars, and restaurants. Running the gamut from ultra chic to ultra grimy, each is unique.

For something different, celebrate the official start of summer at the free Fête de la Musique festival on June 21st. Bands turn city streets into mini music venues and if you play an instrument, you can play on stage . While walking tours offer on-the-ground insights into the city’s tragic past and magic renaissance. Perhaps nowhere is that better encapsulated than at the East Side Gallery .

10. Haro, La Rioja, Spain

• Learn more: Spain travel guide
• Why visit in June? Two words: wine fight.

Spain loves a food festival and, it seems, a food fight if the infamous La Tomatina is anything to go by. Continuing the tradition is the small town of Haro in the Rioja region. Every year it hosts a wine festival known as La Batalla del Vino , which loosely translates as ‘wine fight’.

The festival runs from June 27th to 30th, but the day of “wine warfare” is the 29th. If you’ve lasted the all-night party leading up to it, prepare to start early at 7am. Follow the horseback-riding mayor and thousands of wine lovers on a four-mile procession to the Hermitage of San Felices on the cliffs of Bilibio. 

Here, the wine carnage ensues as the crowd launches into a huge red wine fight, soaking everyone and everything. After several hours, the party descends back into the town for anyone remaining to find their last drinks. Join them in one of the town’s many atmospheric bodegas and market squares.

A word of warning, the wine fight is popular, and Haro is a little light on tourist accommodation. Book early or be prepared to pitch a tent in the convenient and inexpensive campsite.

Best places to visit in June around the world

Farther afield, Africa and Asia are deep in winter. Happily, that doesn’t mean ice and snow. Both continents are at their wild, dry best and safari experiences should be at the top of your list. In Africa, that means gorillas. In Asia, dragons.

11. Taipei, Taiwan

• Learn more: Taipei travel guide
• Why visit in June? The Dragon Boat Festival.

The Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional Chinese cultural event held annually on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. Also known as Duanwu Festival, it’s now celebrated across much of East Asia and beyond. In my opinion, there’s nowhere more fun or frenetic to watch it than Taipei, the capital of Taiwan .

Dozens of international teams will converge on the Dajia Riverside Park from June 8th to 10th for Taiwan’s biggest racing festival . Furious races battle across the water as teams compete for honor and glory to the pounding beat of huge drums. A carnival atmosphere overwhelms the entire city.

On land, try your hand at dragon boat training to work up an appetite and then gorge on traditional zongzi, delicious packets of glutinous rice steamed with various treats.

12. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

• Why visit in June? For the greatest wildlife experience you’ll ever have.

It’s impossible to describe the sensation of seeing animals in the wild. Hence why a safari is such a bucket-list experience for nature lovers. In June, when dry season clears misty skies and brings the jungle into clarity, Uganda’s mountain gorillas are the stars.

More than half of these gentle but powerful animals live in Uganda . Specifically around the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , making it the best region to track them. You’ll need to book a tour well in advance – June is peak season and places are limited to keep tourism impact to a minimum. 

Choose a reputable company like Volcanoes Safaris . This makes sure your money goes to the right place, supporting local communities and projects as well as the gorillas. It also takes the effort out of getting to this remote part of Uganda. But trust me, having visited last year I can say without doubt that it’s worth the effort. It’s the best place to visit in June, this year or any other.

Data-backed picks from KAYAK

If seasonal events aren’t on your wish list, consider instead one of these data-based picks in the US and further afield. These destinations are based on KAYAK flight and hotel data, taking into account budget, weather, and popularity (so you can avoid the crowds). For personalized recommendations based on your location and chosen destination check out the Best Time to Travel tool.

The following information refers to the destinations listed in the table.

Recommendation ranking within table:

Our recommendation ranking of where to go is calculated based on average flight prices, average hotel prices, popularity, average temperature, and average precipitation. Flight prices, hotel prices, popularity, and precipitation constitute inverse factors, the less the better. Average temperature optimal values are taken as the median for the destination, and a difference is calculated for the month from this reference point. The smaller the difference the more desirable the city is to visit in this month. This temperature factor is weighed double as much as popularity and precipitation.

Flight and hotel prices:

Average prices are estimated from KAYAK internal data from search period ‘2023-11-01’ to ‘2024-01-15’ for travel period ‘2024-06’. Flight prices include economy class return trips for one traveler, and hotel prices represent 3 stars or below hotels’ nightly rates for a standard double room. Price insights are subject to vary depending on the exact departure airport and over time as travel dates are approaching.

Popularity:

Monthly crowd estimates for each destination are determined by internal flight and hotel search data. This incorporates the latest historical insights from the past year collected on ‘2024-01-15’. For each destination, this popularity estimate is pulled for the particular month to gauge where it might not be too crowded.

Weather (average monthly temperature and precipitation) :

Weather data is pulled from a third-party site, Weatherbase, and has not been verified by KAYAK. Monthly average temperature and precipitation data is based on historical insights from the past 102 years. Weatherbase data is updated in real-time from the US Census Bureau and other databases worldwide.

Discover more great places to travel

Realistically, my best places to visit in June barely scrape the surface of all the amazing places you could go. For more spring and summer vacation ideas, check the best places to visit in May , July , and August .

If you need even more inspiration, try KAYAK Explore to take the legwork out of planning. KAYAK also makes it easy to book flights , cars , and places to stay .

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The Best Places to Visit in June for Weather & Travel

• James Wong is a freelance travel writer and expert.
• He's reported for publications including VOGUE, GQ, Time Out and Thrillist.
• James has lived in London, Tokyo and New York; and has traveled to almost every corner of the world.

There are so many incredible sights in the world to consider when selecting the best places to visit in June. The Northern Hemisphere, where most of Earth's land resides, transitions to warmer days and longer hours of sunlight. This is a time when you can explore the lush landscape of Scandinavia , Lapland and Alaska in daylight; wander historical landmarks and parks across famous destinations throughout Europe , Canada , and East Asia without crowds or monsoons; or get that Greek glow in the Mediterranean. Down south, cooler temperatures mean optimum conditions for adventurous activities like safari, especially in Central and Southern Africa . June is an especially good time to travel not just for great weather, but for relatively fair prices. Most school holidays outside the US start in July, so you'll take advantage of the perks before a family surge in the summer.

Whether you're looking to do something special with your spouse, be it a honeymoon or an anniversary trip , or you and the bach crew are seeking the latest city travel trend , we've rounded up the very best countries to vacation in June.

Bali, Indonesia

Beautiful Bali is now known as one of the most social media-friendly destinations on the planet. The weather in June is comfortably warm and sunny, as the rainy season would have ended two months prior. Whilst the rest of the world populates Northern destinations, the hotels are now less busy, so you can enjoy those all-inclusive resorts as they're meant to be enjoyed, in peace. With Indonesia being such an affordable country, most travelers to Bali can have the honeymoon of their dreams.

Things to Do: Don't let the social media opportunities go to waste, enlist an expert who will breeze you through Lempuyang Temple, Tukad Cepung Waterfall, and the Tegallalang rice terrace on an Instagram tour (note, the same person is guide, driver and photographer). Partake in a cooking class run by Balinese locals on Airbnb Experiences, or just relax…head to Nusa Dua for stunning beaches beside turquoise waters or Seminyak for nightlife.

Places to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Bali , Jumeirah Bali (with its luxury suites), Alila Villas Uluwatu and the Hanging Gardens of Bali are all ideal accommodation options for a romantic getaway. Bach parties, how about this luxury villa with staff on VRBO ?

June is when things come alive north of the border. From the east to the west coast, the snow has thawed in the major cities, and national parks are verdant with plantlife and thus, wildlife. June is also great because you avoid the July and August family rush. Sit by Banff's deep blue waters and mountainous backdrop undisturbed, head to Montreal for a feast and a festival (ideally, combined), and park yourself at the sunny, dog-friendly , beaches of Vancouver. You might need a light jacket, but this, at least for Canadians, is the sweet spot.

Things to Do: You can't miss the famous Niagara Falls, an easy half-day trip from Toronto . While you're in the big city and feeling brave, why not tackle the CN Tower Edge Walk , 116 stories above ground? Banff is so gorgeous that finding a Flytographer is a breeze. Foodies will love the multicultural cities of Vancouver and Montreal: sign up for a food tour and discover the best Asian dishes and French delicacies the country has to offer.

Places to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Toronto and Shangri-La Vancouver for honeymooners; The Moxy Banff for budget-conscious adventurers; and the W Montreal for bach parties.

Scandinavia's smallest country is by no means lacking, and June is the perfect time to come and see the country that inspired Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales (and enjoy a tour devoted to his version of Copenhagen). The daylight hours are long, and the temperatures mild, so you can hike the landscape and perhaps try camping or glamping on your romantic getaway. There are several music festivals held here in June, such as Distortion, Northside, and Rock Under the Bridge.

Things to Do: Make buttery pastries with a local via Airbnb Experiences , then take your sweet treats for a stroll across the famous Nyhavn area to admire the colorful houses. Dine at the best vegan restaurant in Scandinavia, Ark , awarded a green Michelin star. Or act like a couple of big kids on a trip to LEGOLAND ; this is, after all, its birthplace.

Places to Stay: Boutique hotel, Nimb , is perfect for couples in Copenhagen, while Bonvoy members can stay at The Socialist . If visiting Aartus, we recommend Scandic The Mayor .

June is the best time to get outside in England, so whether you're hitting up the cities like London or Manchester, exploring the English countryside at New Forest or Ascot, or hitting the beach at Margate in Kent or Cornwall, you'll do it under glorious sunshine. British kids don't break up for school until July, so on weekdays you can avoid crowds. ( Editor's note: The writer of this article is a London native, so trust that this is one of the best places to travel in June in the world. He knows from experience.)

Things to Do: Retreat to the quaint countryside and go horse-riding at Coworth Park , before a couples massage at the luxury eco-spa. Back in London, swoon the spouse with lunch at Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay or La Dame de Pic . And don't miss afternoon tea at The Parlour and The Promenade . Bachelorette parties can let loose at Magic Mike Live at the Hippodrome, while West End fans are spoiled for choice with musicals ranging Mamma Mia and Back to the Future . Afterward, pop into one of Mr Fogg's delicious collection of Victorian-era cocktail bars. Bachelors with a passion for football? Head north for a Manchester United stadium tour and match.

Places to Stay: The Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square is hailed as the most beautiful one in Europe. Out-of-city romantic escapes include The Montagu Arms in New Forest and The Glass House , a wellness retreat in Essex.

The city of love is always a safe bet for couples to spend a special occasion, and June's when to come for honeymoon temperatures . It's always busy in Paris, tourists even love the rain here, so don't expect solitude. Do, however, expect lots of wining and dining, designer labels, boutique hotels, world-famous museums, and that little thing called The Eiffel Tower. June's also an excellent time to explore the wine regions in Bordeaux, and strip down for the beaches along the French Riviera .

Things to Do: Treat yourselves to the Michelin-starred meal of your lives, at Epicure in Le Bristol, Paris. Watch the cabaret at the Moulin Rouge or Crazy Horse . Or how about an escape to the wine country? Champagne is ideal for, um, champagne fans, and at the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa you'll have all the fizz you need. If you can pull yourself away from it all, take a tour of the local champagne houses. Our favorite is Champagne Billecart-Salmon .

Places to Stay: Summer views over Paris are best enjoyed at Kimpton St Honoré Paris or the boutique Hotel Rochechouart in Montmartre. In Nice, don't miss Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée .

An idyllic escape for romance, Greece is a balanced blend of fascinating ancient ruins, sunkissed islands, and fresh Mediterranean bounty. June is an excellent month to visit. Swimming temperatures are favorable in the Aegean (though still a bit cold), so you can already soak up all the beach has to offer. Peak season is just around the corner, which you'd want to avoid not just because of crowds, but because of humidity. Greece is traditionally one of the more affordable European countries, but note that the most popular islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Skopelos, Zakynthos and parts of Crete) are much pricier.

Things to Do: Check off the Acropolis, Parthenon & Acropolis Museum with a guided tour on Viator. Party with the rich and gorgeous in Mykonos at beach clubs like Scorpios . Of course, Santorini is at the top of every lover's bucket list, so come see the sunset at Ola . To take out all the logistics of island hopping, consider an adults-only Virgin Voyage of the Greek Islands, which starts back up in May 2024.

Places to Stay: We love the impeccable lookout points at Verina Astra in Sifnos or the luxurious and romantic suites at world-renowned wellness resort, The Rooster , on the island of Antiparos. Bonvoy loyalists should also check out Blue Palace Elounda in Eastern Crete or those on the island will want to book a stay at the nearby St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas . Located in the prehistoric Mirabello Bay, the views, the layout and the service are simply scrumptious.

The Middle Eastern country is packed with tourist draws, including six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most famous of which is Petra. Hospitable, stable, and all-round exhilarating, Jordan is a solid choice for first-timers to the Middle East. At the time of publishing, there are no travel advisories. The heat in June can reach around 90 degrees, but this is dry air and there's little chance of rainfall. Since the peak season is spring (March-May), you'll avoid high prices and crowds.

Things to Do: The number one attraction is Petra , so block off a full day for a tour. Tip: Pack hiking shoes. If you're staying in Amman, visit The Citadel ruins and the 2,000-year-old Roman Theater . The city has a high concentration of luxury hotels, many of which have beautiful spas with hammam treatments and Dead Sea rituals.

Places to Stay: Petra Marriott Hotel and Movenpick Resort Petra are best for exploring the world wonder. City stays include W Amman or the InterContinental Jordan Amman .

Normally, a visit to Scotland requires rain boots, but in June the enchanting islands can be explored under clear skies. This is when wildlife-watching is at its best and the daylight hours are long. Outdoorsy couples might want to challenge themselves with a climb up Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest mountain, while city lovers will enjoy the legendary castles and friendly pubs of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Gents, if you're hoping to sport a kilt like a true Scotsman (i.e. commando), June's the most comfortable time to do so.

Things to Do: Edinburgh Castle is a breathtaking site, as is the Glenfinnan Viaduct , made famous by Harry Potter's Hogwarts Express. Speaking of trains, couples coming in from London will want to board the Caledonian Sleeper , an overnight ride up to Scotland's most popular destinations including Aberdeen, Inverness, and Edinburgh. Waking up with your love, breakfast in bed, as the hills roll by is pure Scottish romance.

Places to Stay: The Glasshouse by Marriott's Autograph Collection is boutique luxury. Cromlix in Kinbuck is the best city escape.

South Africa

If a safari is a dream vacation, then consider South Africa in June. This is the best time to see animals, as vegetation is low during the dry season. This in turn makes for a much more comfortable traveler experience, as you're not stuck in a jeep, basking under heat and humidity for hours. The risk of malaria is also low at this time of year. Most people come to South Africa in the summer (December to March), but that's not for safari. You'll therefore take advantage of better prices when it comes to flights and accommodation.

Things to Do: You came to South Africa in June to safari, and safari you shall. See the big five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo) at a private game reserve with this five-star TripAdvisor tour . Then go in search of the marine big five (whales, great white sharks, African penguins, Cape fur seals, and dolphins), with a cruise tour around Dyer Island. Both include transfers from your Cape Town hotel.

Places to Stay: Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers and The Westin Cape Town are good bases for safaris from Cape Town. 54 on Bath is one of the best hotels in Johannesburg. Singita is arguably one of the top names for a luxury safari getaway in South Africa and couples who want extra guidance should book through Go2Africa .

South Korea

Take a bucket list trip to South Korea in June. The weather is beautifully sunny, not yet humid, at this time of year, so you'll explore national parks, historic palaces, hanok villages, and manicured gardens in style. Watch K-pop dance troops perform on the streets of Seoul, or even better, get tickets to an actual K-pop concert; fill up on bibimbap, tteokbokki, and bulgogi; take the infamous train to Busan; or frolic on the beaches of Jeju Island. There's so much to do in South Korea, no wonder the world's going K-razy for K.

Things to Do: There are many incredible museums in Seoul , but how about discovering Gyeongbokgung Palace the fun way, with a rented hanbok and Flytographer photo shoot? Folks wearing the traditional garms get free access to many city attractions. Fans of the Netflix series Street Food will want to make a beeline for Gwangjang Market , where several featured chefs work. Cho Yonsoon's knife-cut noodles with kimchi dumplings attract tourists in hoards, so arrive early. For a sit-down meal, try Geumdwaeji Sikdang , a Michelin-guided Korean BBQ restaurant made famous by members of BTS. In Busan, get some cardio in with a trip up the 168 Stairs to scenic views over the city.

Places to Stay: There are two big luxury players local to South Korea: Lotte Hotels & Resorts and Shilla Hotels & Resorts . Couples in search of luxury and romance, along with central locations and prime views, should consider booking with these brands as it'll give you the ample local hospitality experience. Under the Lotte umbrella, L7 Hongdae is a solid base stay in Seoul. Another option is the Grand Hyatt Seoul , which puts you right in the heart of the action and gives you the option to flex those points . In Busan, Airbnb has modern and exceptionally valued stays, like this beach-side apartment at $42 per night. You'll feel like a local.

United States of America

Travelers looking to stay within America have options galore. June is an especially good time to visit Alaska and discover its mighty wildlife. The continental US is also teeming with gorgeous national parks where the month's temperature makes them ideal to explore, such as Acadia National Park in Maine and, across the country, Redwood National Park in California. The humidity hasn't quite set in big cities like New York, Chicago and Boston, so now's time to wander on foot (or take a road trip between them all). Between mountain towns and beach locales , there's something that will speak to you–with pleasant climates. However, many kids start their summer breaks in June, so consider yourself warned: prices inch up higher than usual.

Things to Do: As well as wildlife spotting in national parks, Alaska's Wildlife Conservation Center offers a chance to discover more. If a vacation to you is relaxing by a new pool every day, it's worth getting a ResortPass and putting those swims to good use. June is an ideal time to also road trip across the US , exploring scenic roads with your SO or traveling across the less-scenic interstate highways that easily take you from one destination to the next. Bach parties might want to spend June testing out the brews in the two Portlands: Portland Maine and Portland Oregon have enough breweries and brewery tours to stretch any bach itinerary out.

Places to Stay: The US is so vast that it's hard to narrow down just a handful of places to stay. For that, we have location-specific guides to help you arrange your accommodations. A few well-recommended properties in big cities include the The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park (NYC), Times Square EDITION (NYC), W Minneapolis - The Foshay (Minneapolis), Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek (Dallas, Texas), InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile (Chicago), Kimpton Marlowe Hotel (Chicago), The Beverly Hills Hotel (Los Angeles), The Pendy West Hollywood (Los Angeles), Perry Lane Hotel (Savannah), Eden Roc Miami Beach (Miami), The Faena Miami Beach (Miami), and The Bellagio (Las Vegas).

The 14 Best Vacation Destinations in June

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The kids have finished school and summer is just starting. That can only mean one thing – it’s time for a vacation! Many people wait until July or August to go on their summer vacation, making June an excellent time to travel if you’re in search of affordable flights, great deals on hotels, and major attractions that aren’t yet overcrowded.

If you’ve been dreaming about an African safari, you’re in luck. June is a fantastic time to hit Africa’s national parks in search of the Big Five. If that’s not your thing, maybe the aromatic lavender fields of Provence, the high-octane Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, or the dazzling Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia will inspire your inner wanderlust!

With so many great places to visit in June, it can be tricky to settle on just one. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the 14 best places to visit in June. Every one of these spots has fantastic weather, hardly any crowds, and wonderful things going on at this time of year, guaranteeing an epic getaway.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 14 Best Places to Visit in June to Escape the Crowds

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 14 Best Places to Travel in June

1. serengeti national park, tanzania.

Head to Serengeti National Park in June for the chance to see the largest animal migration in the world. Known as the Great Migration, the colossal animal movement is when more than 2 million animals move from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya in search of water, food, and breeding grounds.  

The impressive national park covers a whopping 5,700 square miles and is home to thousands of animals. From gazelles, zebras, and wildebeests to hyenas, elephants, and hippos, being here is far better than visiting any zoo or safari park in the world. If you’re lucky, you may even get to witness one of the 2,000 lions hunt their prey.

June falls within the dry season in the Serengeti, which means there will be less foliage to block your view. It also means there’ll be fewer mosquitoes, which is a definite plus. In June, the mornings and evenings can be pretty chilly, but highs sit comfortably around the 75°F (24°C) mark in the middle of the day.

2. Glacier National Park, Montana

Small sections of Glacier National Park remain closed throughout June, making it a great place to avoid the crowds. If you don’t mind missing out on certain areas, such as the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you can save yourself a small fortune by traveling at this time of year. The lodging rates are much cheaper in June, and you’ll have a greater choice of places to stay.

At this time of year, temperatures rarely go higher than the low 70s, creating the ideal conditions for hiking the Highline Trail or the Iceberg Lake Trail without the risk of overheating. If that sounds like it’s a bit too much for you, you can always go boating on Lake McDonald instead! 

Thanks to its unprecedented beauty, Glacier National Park is often called the “Crown of the Continent.” With more than 700 glistening lakes, countless thundering waterfalls, and two monumental mountain ranges, you’re never far from a stunning panorama here! The park is even home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.

3. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island is a well-known summer vacation spot among Midwesterners. But many go too late in the season to enjoy the Lilac Festival . Plan your visit for the first two weeks of June, and you’ll get to join in with the sweet-smelling event without jostling for space. Dates may change each year, so be sure to check the website before planning your visit!

The peaceful pedestrian spot is home to some of the biggest and oldest lilacs in the country, some of which are over 40 feet tall and more than 100 years old! Not only can you admire the dreamy flowers during your visit, but you’ll also get the chance to sign up for walking tours led by experts, see the stunning lilac parade, and witness the coronation of the Lilac Festival Queen.

There are plenty of things to see and do here besides the festival program. What it lacks in cars and chain hotels, it more than makes up for with world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, the historical Fort Mackinac, one-of-a-kind shopping, and diverse restaurants. Whether you explore this place on foot or from the luxury of a horse and carriage, Mackinac Island is a great place to escape to!

4. Prince Edward Island, Canada

For the best of both worlds, choose to visit Prince Edward Island in June. At this time of year, the weather is warm and dry, but the crowds have yet to appear. This means you get to enjoy the ideal weather for all sorts of outdoor activities while taking advantage of great accommodation rates and restaurant deals, too!

Life seems to move a little more slowly on Prince Edward Island, making it a fantastic vacation choice if you need to get away from it all. Here you can relax on sandy beaches, cycle along the coastline, or simply wander around the quaint streets.

There are plenty of relaxing, peaceful activities and events to join in on throughout June, too. Depending on which part of the month you visit, you’ll have the chance to check out the work of local artists at the Mutual Festival of Small Halls, enjoy outdoor yoga classes at the Island Tides Yoga & Wellness Festival, and learn how PEI became the place it is today at the Multi-Cultural Community Heritage Day.

5. Bergen, Norway

If Europe’s calling your name, Bergen, Norway , is one of the best places to visit in June. Throughout the end of May and beginning of June each year, the city comes to life with the Bergen International Festival . Attracting more than 100,000 people from all over the world, this huge festival is well established in the Northern European arts scene.

The Bergen International Festival is made up of more than 400 unique events spread out over 70 impressive venues. The biggest and most important festival in Scandinavia, the culture-packed event invites you to admire art in all its forms – from music concerts and theatrical shows to operas, dances, and visual art displays. With so much going on, there’s guaranteed to be something that suits your taste and style – however obscure it is!

The events program is divided into three sections. The festivities lineup is made for people of all ages and includes playful street scenes that will excite your heart, head, and feet. The Foundations section covers the classical art traditions with concerts and performances that focus on the past. The Friction part is reserved for art that highlights experimenting and exploring, using new technology and boundless artistic landscapes.

6. Provence Lavender Fields, France

If you’re wondering where to travel in June, this is a wonderful time of year to visit any part of France . The sun-kissed beaches and cosmopolitan cities are really quiet since most visitors wait until at least July to go there. But the most compelling reason to visit France in June is for the opportunity to lay your eyes on the unprecedented beauty of Provence’s lavender fields!

The first weeks of June mark the beginning of the lavender season in the region when miles of the countryside are blanketed in thick, purple flowers for as far as the eye can see. As summer progresses, the flowers are harvested, making the start of summer the optimum time to go. 

Make a road trip of it and hop from lavender farm to lavender farm, snapping gorgeous pictures along the way. You’ll be spoiled for choice with decadent castles and pampering spas to stay in, many of which feature locally-grown lavender in their restaurants and treatment menus.

During your trip, you’ll have plenty of chances to try all kinds of lavender products. From lavender essential oils and soaps to lavender perfumes and dried lavender, you’ll find loads of great gifts to take home with you.

7. Machu Picchu, Peru

If you’re in the mood for a cultural and enlightening adventure, head to Peru for your June vacation. At this time of year, the area surrounding Machu Picchu is just entering the cool months of winter. While you’ll definitely bump into other travelers during your expedition, the tourist numbers will be much lower than in July or August, making it a sensible time to visit.

Mild daytime temperatures make June an excellent time to hike the challenging Inca Trail. You’ll avoid overheating while you’re hiking during the daytime and won’t risk sub-zero temperatures when you’re camping overnight. This time of year is also pleasantly dry, so you won’t have to suffer through four days of hiking in the rain!

If you’re not up for anything as intrepid as that, you can always take the scenic train and glide into Machu Picchu via the railroad. It’s common for tickets to sell out months in advance. So whichever option you’re going with, make sure you book everything early to avoid ruined plans.

8. Yosemite National Park, California

If you’re only going to visit Yosemite National Park once in your life, make sure you go in June. Easily the best time of year to visit the iconic park, the beginning of June is when the weather is warm and dry, but the busy crowds have yet to descend and make the place feel cramped.

The famous double waterfall, Yosemite Falls, is at its most spectacular at this time of year. The powerful falls get their water from the winter’s melting snow, which is at its peak at the beginning of June. To avoid disappointment, you can check the national park’s webcam to see how powerful the falls are before you go.

If Yosemite Falls is in full flow, you can be sure the park’s other waterfalls are just as thunderous. Ribbon Fall (the single largest drop in North America) and Bridalveil Falls are definitely worth checking out, too! 

Almost all of the major roads throughout the national park are open at this time of year – with the exception of Tioga Road, which sometimes doesn’t open up until the end of June.

9. Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls can be too cold to visit outside of the summer season. But visit in July or August, and you’ll be competing with thousands of other visitors for the best views. The ideal solution is to visit this iconic landmark in June.

During this month, the daytime temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s (24°C), and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap fantastic photos without the huge crowds. 

No matter how many pictures and videos you’ve seen of Niagara Falls, it’s impossible not to be blown away by it when you see it with your own eyes. The 188-foot-tall waterfall flowing at up to 68 mph really will take your breath away! The falls are so powerful that you can hear the water thundering and feel the misty fog far even when you’re far away from the falls themselves.

There are several different ways to admire this natural wonder. You can sign up for a boat trip for the chance to get so close to the falls that you’ll get wet! If you’d prefer to keep your distance, head for the Niagara SkyWheel , where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the falls. 

10. Bordeaux, France

If you’re looking for the best places to travel in June, Bordeaux is at its most stunning at this time of year, when the city streets are dappled in warm sunshine, parks are filled with flowers of all colors, and bushy green trees provide the ideal shade for enjoying a picnic with your travel buddy. 

These are all great reasons to visit the French city at this time of year, but the most convincing argument to head to Bordeaux in June is for the chance to take part in Bordeaux Fête le Vin !

Known as the Bordeaux Wine Festival in English, this spectacular annual event takes place every year from mid to late June. It’s a vibrant celebration of the culture and tradition brought to the region by local winemakers, and the festival is the perfect opportunity to sip wines produced by more than 1,200 vineyards from Bordeaux and the entire Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

As well as the wine tasting opportunities, the Bordeaux Wine Festival also features a jam-packed events program with tall ship tours, music concerts, fireworks displays, food tasting, cooking demonstrations, and so much more.

11. Virunga Mountains, Rwanda and Uganda

For an experience you’ll be talking about for the rest of your life, plan to trek through the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda and Uganda in June. At this time of year, you’re almost guaranteed to spot magnificent gorillas in the wild!

June marks the beginning of the dry season in this part of the world, so you may have to peer through a little mist to see the gorillas. But it’s nothing in comparison to the dense fog that you get in April and May.

Not only is the weather pleasant and ideal for gorilla-spotting in June, but it’s also delightfully mild. This month sees lows of around 60°F (16°C) and highs of around 80°F (27°C).

Because it’s the start of the best season for sightings, it can get a little busy in June. But the region tends to get busier as the season progresses, so try and go as early in June as possible to avoid the crowds. Tours sell out astonishingly quickly, so book your favorite one as far in advance as you can to avoid missing out.

12. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

June may mark the beginning of the winter season in Australia , but that doesn’t mean the Great Barrier Reef is out of bounds. At this time of year, the water is still wonderfully warm and clear, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving. 

The entire reef covers over 1,800 miles and is made up of around 2,900 coral reefs, 1,500 unique species of fish, and 600 individual islands. Around 2 million people visit this natural wonder each year, but only a small percentage plan their trip for June.

Base yourself in Cairns, and you’ll enjoy quick and easy access to some of the most incredible diving spots in the world and a great selection of independent boutiques and restaurants. This is where most visitors choose to stay.

If you’re looking for a quieter experience, head further south and stay in Townsville or the Whitsunday Islands . This is the central part of the reef where there are just as many spectacular things to see, but without the higher diver numbers that Cairns attracts.

13. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

For an exceptional safari experience, visit the South Luangwa National Park in June. This month marks the beginning of the dry season when the bush just begins to dry out, and the landscape starts to become desperate for rain.

This may sound like a bad time to visit, but the lack of water forces the majestic wildlife to huddle together around a small number of watering holes to drink, giving you excellent odds of seeing all kinds of phenomenal creatures. Visit during June, and you’ll have the chance to spot everything from leopards, giraffes, and elephants to hippos, lions, and buffalo!

July is when the visitor numbers (and prices!) begin to soar. So plan your trip for June, and not only will you avoid the crowds, but you’ll also get out of paying overly-inflated prices. Just make sure you take warm clothing. While the temperatures may be hot during the daytime, early morning and late evening safaris can get pretty cold. 

14. Somerset, United Kingdom

For most of the year, Somerset is a quiet, welcoming village that time forgot. Lush green fields, romantic thatched cottages, and classic British pubs all invite you to enjoy the slower side of life. But visit at the end of June, and you’ll discover a completely different side of the county!

For around four days at the end of June, Somerset comes to life with the iconic Glastonbury Festival . The largest performing arts and greenfield music festival in the world, Glasto is unbelievably popular and attracts some of the biggest groups and artists from all over the world. 

Although British laws are still in place, Glastonbury is the time when anything and everything can happen. There’s a sense of wildness and freedom in the air that sweeps everyone in the vicinity up with it. But it’s not all about crazy parties and loud music!

To make Glastonbury more inviting and inclusive, there are dedicated chill-out zones, family-friendly areas, and sections dedicated to more relaxed acoustic music. The festival has been going since 1970 and continues to host the biggest and best names in music. If you’re a music lover and you’re looking for the best places to visit in June, Somerset will not disappoint!

There you have it! The 14 best places to visit in June. What’s your favorite place to travel to in June?

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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10 Places In The USA To Visit In June

J une marks the official start of summer, serving as a great month to travel due to its unwavering sunlight and warm temperatures. If you choose to travel in June, you may also be able to dodge the hordes of travelers that swarm the airports in July and August.

However, with so many options to choose in this vast and eclectic country, we selected the top June travel destinations based on factors like weather, things to do, and lodging. Here are 10 vacation suggestions for the best places to travel in June in USA, in alongside ideas on what to eat there and even a vacation house that’s ideal for a getaway with friends.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Best Means of Transportation: Private car or rental car

Best Time to Visit: Early June, before the summer crowds arrive

Yellowstone, established in 1872, is the world’s first national park and a true natural wonder. With its geothermal marvels, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife, it’s a bucket-list destination for nature lovers.

Things to Do: Explore the iconic geysers like Old Faithful, hike the stunning trails, and spot wildlife like bison and grizzly bears.

What and Where to Eat: The Old Faithful Inn Dining Room offers classic Western fare with a spectacular view of the Old Faithful geyser.

Where to Stay: Stay in the historic Old Faithful Inn or one of the park’s rustic lodges like Canyon Lodge & Cabins.

Napa Valley, California

Best Means of Transportation: Rental car or guided tours

Best Time to Visit: Early June, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller

Napa Valley is a world-famous wine region known for its beautiful vineyards and premium wineries. It’s a perfect destination for oenophiles and gourmands alike.

Things to Do: Explore the renowned wineries, take a hot air balloon ride, and indulge in world-class cuisine.

What and Where to Eat: The French Laundry in Yountville is a culinary institution, while Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford offers impeccable wine-country dining.

Where to Stay: Luxury resorts like Meadowood Napa Valley or charming bed and breakfasts like The Butter Petit Inn.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Best Time to Visit: Early June, before the peak summer season

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking wilderness area known for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. It’s a hiker’s paradise and a true gem of the American West.

Things to Do: Hike the stunning trails like the Highline Trail, take a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, and explore the park’s glaciers and lakes.

What and Where to Eat: Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at the Belton Chalet or indulge in a hearty meal at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge.

Where to Stay: Stay in one of the park’s historic lodges like Glacier Park Lodge or opt for a cozy cabin rental.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Best Means of Transportation: Rental car

The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and laid-back coastal charm. It’s a beloved summer destination for families and beach lovers.

Things to Do: Relax on the stunning beaches, explore the historic lighthouses, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, and visit the charming coastal towns.

What and Where to Eat: Sample fresh seafood at local favorites like Austin Fish Company or Owens’ Restaurant in Nags Head.

Where to Stay: Rent a beach house or stay at one of the cozy inns or resorts like The Sanderling Resort & Spa.

Portland, Maine

Best Means of Transportation: Rental car or public transportation

Portland, Maine, is a charming coastal city known for its historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and exceptional seafood. It’s a perfect destination for foodies and history buffs alike.

Things to Do: Explore the historic Old Port district, go whale watching, visit the nearby lighthouses, and indulge in the vibrant food scene.

What and Where to Eat: Sample fresh lobster rolls at Eventide Oyster Co. or indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at Fore Street.

Where to Stay: Stay in the heart of the Old Port at luxury hotels like the Portland Harbor Hotel or opt for a charming bed and breakfast like the Blind Tiger Guest House.

Aspen, Colorado

Best Means of Transportation: Rental car or shuttle service

Aspen is a world-renowned ski destination that transforms into an outdoor paradise in the summer. This location is amongst the best places to travel in June in USA and has stunning mountain scenery, luxury amenities, and vibrant culture, it’s a perfect getaway for adventure seekers and luxury travelers alike.

Things to Do: Hike the scenic trails, go mountain biking, explore the charming downtown, and indulge in the vibrant culinary scene.

What and Where to Eat : Enjoy upscale mountain cuisine at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro or indulge in contemporary American fare at The Little Nell.

Where to Stay: Luxury resorts like The Little Nell or St. Regis Aspen offer unparalleled service and amenities.

Charleston, South Carolina

Best Means of Transportation: Rental car or walking

Best Time to Visit: Early June, before the summer heat and humidity set in

Charleston is a charming coastal city renowned for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, rich history, and world-class culinary scene. It’s a perfect destination for history buffs and foodies alike.

Things to Do: Explore the charming historic district, take a horse-drawn carriage tour, visit the beautiful plantations, and indulge in the vibrant culinary scene.

What and Where to Eat: Sample the famous shrimp and grits at Husk or indulge in upscale Southern cuisine at The Ordinary.

Where to Stay: Historic inns like The Vendue or luxury hotels like The Dewberry offer a taste of Southern hospitality.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Best Means of Transportation: Ferry or private boat

Mackinac Island is a unique car-free destination that transports visitors back in time and one of the best places to travel in June in USA. With its Victorian-era charm, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, it’s a perfect escape for those seeking a slower pace and a glimpse into the past.

Things to Do: Explore the car-free island by bike or horse-drawn carriage, visit the historic sites, and indulge in the island’s famous fudge.

What and Where to Eat: Sample the famous fudge at Murdick’s Fudge or indulge in upscale dining at the Grand Hotel’s Main Dining Room.

Where to Stay: The iconic Grand Hotel or charming bed and breakfasts like the Island House Hotel.

Anchorage, Alaska

Best Time to Visit: Early June, when the weather is mild and the days are long

Anchorage is a gateway to Alaska’s stunning wilderness, offering visitors a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Things to Do: Explore the glaciers and fjords on a day cruise , go hiking or fishing, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, and enjoy the midnight sun.

What and Where to Eat: Sample fresh seafood at Orso or indulge in contemporary Alaskan cuisine at Glacier Brewhouse.

Where to Stay: Downtown hotels like the Anchorage Marriott Downtown or cozy cabins in the nearby Chugach Mountains.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best Time to Visit: Early June, before the summer heat sets in.

Santa Fe is a vibrant city rich in history, art, and culture. With its unique blend of Native American , Spanish, and Anglo influences, it offers visitors a truly memorable experience. From its iconic adobe architecture to its thriving arts scene, Santa Fe is a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts.

Things to Do: Explore the historic Plaza and Canyon Road art galleries, visit the Palace of the Governors and other cultural sites, and indulge in the vibrant art and culinary scene.

What and Where to Eat: Sample authentic New Mexican cuisine at The Shed or indulge in upscale Southwestern fare at Geronimo.

Where to Stay: Historic inns like Inn of the Governors or luxury resorts like La Posada de Santa Fe.

These list of the best places to travel in June in USA offer a diverse range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural explorations, ensuring an unforgettable summer getaway.

10 Best Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in June 2024

Himachal Pradesh is also known as the land of snow. June is the perfect month to visit hill stations in India. Himachal Pradesh is the best place to visit in June because of its warm and comfortable climate. In this article we will talk about 10 places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in June. 

Top 10 Places to Visit in Shangarh (Himachal Pradesh): Explore Shangarh’s Hidden Gem

Malana is a village with rich history and culture. It is a place where you can learn about the culture of Himachal Pradesh. To reach this place you have to trek for about 4-5 hours from the nearest village- Jari village. As you trek, you will see the beauty of this region. There are also various temples in Malana. Jamlu Devta Temple is very famous among tourists. Trekking and natural walks are famous in this region. 

Suggested read:

Top 10 Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh to be Explored in 2024

2. Tirthan Valley:

Tirthan Valley is named after Tirthan river which is located in Himachal Pradesh. The people of this region are very nice and kind. Great Himalayan National Park, Chhoie Waterfall and Rolla Waterfall are the famous spots among tourists. People also do fishing in the nearby water bodies. Trekking and river crossing are the activities that people often do in this region. Riverside Café, Trout Valley Café are some of the famous cafes in Tirthan Valley. 

Kalpa is a town in the district of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh. It is famous for apple orchards, and beautiful views of the Kinnaur Kailash range. The village is small and quiet, making it perfect for a peaceful outing. Tourists can see ancient temples, such as the Narayan-Nagini Temple, and enjoy the beautiful wooden architecture. The sunset and sunrise views over the snow-capped mountains are very famous. Kalpa is also famous for trekking and nature walks. 

4. Narkanda

You can visit Narkanda throughout the year. It is famous for apple orchards and Himalayan mountains. You can see Himalayan mountains covered in snow from this region. It is also popular for Hatu Peak, from where you can trek and enjoy stunning views of the mountain top. During the winter season you can also skii from the mountains. Winter Games are also organized in this region. You can also find different varieties of birds in this place. 

Chopta-Tungnath Trek: A Thrilling Adventure in Uttarakhand

5. Parvati Valley

In the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh there lies Parvati Valley which is famous for its beauty and environment. This valley is surrounded by beautiful forests, water bodies and mountain ranges. Kasol is a small village in this Valley which is very famous among tourists for its food and culture. Parvati wali is famous for tracking trails leading to places such as Kheerganga and Malana. Hot springs and camping are very popular in this region. 

6. Kheer Ganga

Kheer Ganga is a place located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is very famous for its hot spring bath after a long trekk. Kheer Ganga is surrounded by waterfalls and dense forest which provide home to many animals of the region. It is also famous for camping where you can spend the night under the stars and enjoy the natural view. The track to Kheer Ganga is about 12 km. Best time to visit this place is in June when the climate is warm and good. 

Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and it is very famous among the tourists. It is also known as the ‘queen of hills’. Shimla is also one of the largest cities in Himachal Pradesh. Beautiful green environment,  landscapes and wonderful culture-heritage and nature make this place popular among tourists. The Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Shri Hanuman Jakhoo temple, and Ridge Road are some of the popular attractions in Shimla. March to June is the best time to visit Shimla as it is warm and comfortable. The local markets of Shimla are also popular as tourists buy different kinds of gifts from this place. 

8. Dharamshala:

Dharamshala is the home of the Dalai Lama. You can see the country’s largest cricket stadium in this region. There are many indo-Tibetan communities living in this place. We can see the difference in culture and habits of the people of this place. This region is famous for sightseeing and taking natural walks. March to June is the best time to visit Dharamshala. Kangra Fort, Bhagsunag Falls, Masroor Temples, St. John Church, Hanuman ka Tibba are some of the famous places in Dharamshala. 

9. Kullu Manali :

Kullu Manali is one of the famous tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh. It is famous for its snow covered mountains, cultures and scenery. The Great Himalayan National Park, Sultanpur Palace, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Bhrigu Valley and Parvati Valley are the famous places to visit in Kullu. Manali is famous for Tibetan monasteries, the Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley and Hadimba Devi Temple. Kullu-Manali is famous for adventure activities such as trekking, angling, rafting and mountaineering. 

10. Dalhousie:

Dalhousie is famous for its climate and beautiful views. Dalhousie is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Dalhousie is named after The Earl of Dalhousie who established this place as a summer retreat in 1854. It is famous for Dainkund Peak, Chamunda Devi Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum and Subhash Baoli. One of the tourist attractions of Dalhousie is the natural spring located in Karelanu, which is said to have medicinal properties. 

Conclusion:

During summer, there are various festivals going on in the Himachal Pradesh such as Shimla Summer Festival, Manali Summer Festival, Kullu Dussehra and many more. There are many outdoor activities such as trekking, river drafting and water sports, wildlife exploration, etc in Himachal Pradesh. 

Thus, June is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh, which has pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, and various outdoor activities.

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• DESTINATION GUIDE

7 of the best places to stay in Canada

From an Indigenous-owned ecolodge to a historic hotel where John Lennon wrote music, these places connect travelers with Canada’s vibrant history and extraordinary landscapes.

Where you lay your head during your Canadian vacation is about much more than the size of the bed or plumpness of the pillows. These seven lodgings, from Newfoundland to British Columbia , help visitors find authentic culture and inspiring adventures.

Fogo Island Inn , Newfoundland

Best for: Community connections

Canadian visionary Zita Cobb opened this architectural stunner on Fogo Island off the northeast coast of Newfoundland in 2013, as a way to provide cultural and economic support to the tiny fishing community. Storytelling quilts from an all-women’s cooperative accent the walls; the North Atlantic cod served at the on-site restaurant is fished sustainably from local shores and processed at the on-island fishery. Executive Chef Tim Charles understands that the popularity of any given fish dish can literally impact the livelihood of almost everyone on island. Ensuring guests understand that impact is a large part of the Inn’s mission, he says: “We honor that first.”

Good to know:   The Inn connects guests with community hosts. Mostly seniors, these fiercely loyal islanders take guests on tours that reveal their day-to-day lives on the remote island.

Wander the Resort , Ontario  

Best for:   Water therapy

This Scandi-inspired, 10-cabin collection sits on the shores of West Lake, in Prince Edward County, a farming community about two hours east of Toronto favored by chefs and winemakers. “Many of us have core memories rooted in summer camp and family camping trips,” says owner Shannon Hunter, who developed the property with family, friendship, and relaxation in mind. “The crackle of a campfire, the smell of cedar, the sound of wind in the trees, board games by candlelight…we have taken these snapshots and woven them seamlessly into a luxury experience.” Opening this summer, Wander’s new 10,000-square-foot spa—which includes a collection of pools, sauna and steam rooms, and beach-side napping tents—is bound to elevate your last “camping” experience.

Good to know: Head to the nearby towns of Picton and Wellington for homemade ice cream, craft cider, and award-winning wines.

Klahoose Wilderness Resort , British Columbia  

Best for:   Indigenous culture  

This all-inclusive eco resort in Desolation Sound , about 95 miles north of Vancouver , is only accessible by seaplane or boat. Wildlife experts lead guests on boat expeditions and trips out to viewing towers to safely watch whales or bears. And in the evening, First Nations ambassadors engage visitors in activities such as cedar weaving, sweetgrass braiding, and smudging ceremonies, cultural traditions that predate Canada’s nationhood.

Good to know:   The resort is owned entirely by the Klahoose First Nation, and money spent here supports preservation and protection of the land and its people.

Chelsea Hotel , Toronto

Best for:   Family-friendly fun

At this heart-of-downtown hotel, a 130-foot waterslide, retro gaming arcade, and pair of resident bunnies are guaranteed kid magnets. “You won’t find offerings in any other hotel as you do at Chelsea,” says pool attendant Valerie Montinat-Descomme, who notes that there’s an entire “family fun zone” dedicated to kids’ and teens’ activities. (Think ping pong tournaments, movies, arts and crafts, and bingo.) Continue playing off-site with discounts at more than 20 family-friendly city attractions, including Little Canada, the Ontario Science Centre, and Ripley’s Aquarium; just show your room key.  

Good to know:   Chelsea’s Closing the GAP (Guest Accessibility Package) program provides a more comfortable stay to guests with disabilities, with helpful information on everything from accessible washroom locations to braille menus and off-site transportation services.

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth, Montreal

Best for:   Celebrity sightings  

Steps from popular Montreal shopping street Rue Sainte-Catherine and Quebec cultural landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Queen Elizabeth is where John Lennon and Yoko Ono wrote “Give Peace a Chance” from a suite bed in 1969. “One of our bellmen takes a lot of pride [in] telling the ‘Bed-In’ history to guests, and even sometimes plays a Beatles song [on] a guitar for them,” says marketing director Michele Guzzo. High-profile guests continue to be drawn to this iconic property. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has taken to announcing election wins here too.

Good to know:   The hotel works with Giant Steps —a professional training school for people with autism—to help make inclusive hires and to train hotel staff to be better prepared to welcome guests and colleagues on the autism spectrum.  

Glacier View Lodge , Alberta

Best For:   Natural wonders  

This secluded property lies between two national parks in the Canadian Rockies, not far from the Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the region. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby offer riveting views of the Athabasca Glacier, one of six glaciers fed by the Icefield. Guests can board an all-terrain Ice Explorer for the chance to see (and learn about) the environmental effects that have led to the glaciers’ retreat as a result of climate change. “It’s one of those experiences that leaves a lasting impact,” says Jacob Wilson, a dispatcher for the Ice Explorers. “No one is going to forget the first time that they went on a glacier.”

Good to know:   Nearby, the   Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass walkway suspended 918 feet above the dramatic Sunwapta Valley.

Muir Hotel , Halifax

Best for:   Harbor views  

In Nova Scotia , the newest hotel on Halifax Harbor celebrates the city’s shipbuilding traditions, right down to the materials. Muntz Copper metal on the building’s facade and the ballast stones of an outdoor walkway tie the hotel to the ships that once brought immigrants and goods to the city. Head to the rooftop patio to the guest-only speakeasy BKS for sunset cocktails and people-watching. Nightly turndown includes a bedside QR code offering a curated Halifax soundtrack that includes ocean sounds echoing the waves just past your window. Outside, a 2.5-mile boardwalk winds through   Queens Marque, an upscale development that has more than doubled the waterfront’s public space.  

(Follow the chowder trail in Nova Scotia.)

Good to know:   Nearby, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 tells the stories of the generations of people who made their way to Canada from around the world. An estimated 43 percent of Canadians came though Nova Scotia, and they included orphans fleeing Nazi Germany and recent Ukrainian war refugees.  

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• INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
• FAMILY TRAVEL

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The 14 best places to celebrate juneteenth in 2024.

Music festivals, parades, marches and more commemorate Juneteenth across America.

The Best Places to Celebrate Juneteenth

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Emancipation Day. Freedom Day. Jubilee Day. Juneteenth is known by many names. On June 19, 1865, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger delivered General Order No. 3 to the enslaved people and residents of Galveston, Texas, ending slavery in the state.

This order came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in January 1863 and declared the end of slavery in the Confederate states. The Emancipation Proclamation did not end slavery throughout the U.S., but in December 1865, the ratification of the 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the country.

What does Juneteenth celebrate?

June 19 is honored as the first time Black Americans were thought of as free people in this country. The celebrations for Juneteenth began in 1866 – some people held parties, parades, prayer gatherings or cookouts. In 1980, Juneteenth first became a state holiday in Texas, and over time, other states and Washington, D.C., slowly began to recognize the date as a holiday too.

The interest in Juneteenth becoming a national holiday gained momentum following the nationwide popularity of the Black Lives Matter movement. After a quick debate in Congress, Juneteenth was designated the newest federal holiday on June 17, 2021. It's the first federal holiday to be established since 1983, when Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday was formally recognized.

Whether it's a music festival, a parade, a cookout or a march, there are plenty of ways to honor Juneteenth across the country. U.S. News compiled this list of the top destinations to help you decide how to celebrate Juneteenth in 2024.

Galveston, Texas

With the reading of General Order No. 3 in June 1865, Galveston solidified its placement in U.S. history. Descendants of the historical event remain on the Texas island city today, and you'll find historical markers detailing the area's history throughout Galveston . The city also hosts Emancipation Day events throughout the month.

Visit Galveston offers a self-guided tour experience. Visitors can download the Freedom Walk Map, which includes Juneteenth-related landmarks such as Pier 21, where enslaved Africans arrived on boat, or 1859 Ashton Villa, considered one of the many places around town where residents heard the reading of General Order No. 3. The Galveston Historical Society recently opened the new "And We Still Rise..." exhibit in the historic building; it features interactive displays, interviews and documents surrounding the history of Jubilee Day.

To learn more about the holiday and local Black history, Juneteenth and Beyond offers an extensive tour of Galveston's Juneteenth history as well as one about the 1900 Galveston hurricane's impact on the African American community. During your tour, you may see sites such as the Absolute Equality mural – a 5,000-square-foot artwork at the site where General Order No. 3 was issued. Then, on June 15, get ready to celebrate with the city's annual parade and picnic. The Juneteenth Festival – which features local vendors, food, pageantry and music – is set for the same day.

On June 19, you can hear a reading of the 45th annual Juneteenth Proclamation at Ashton Villa. The event honors Al Edwards, the former representative who advocated for Juneteenth to become a state holiday in Texas. Spend the day at the Juneteenth Family Fun Day at Reedy Chapel AME: the first African Methodist Episcopal Church established in Texas and another place where General Order No. 3 was read in 1865. Enjoy kid-friendly activities, music, food, a photo booth and more. The Emancipation March will start at the Old Galveston Customs and Court House and feature a historic reenactment of the reading of General Order No. 3.

On June 21, Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, the couple who owns the largest private collection of African American art, will give a Juneteenth lecture at the Rosenberg Library.

Check out Visit Galveston's website for more information.

Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas

The campaign to recognize Juneteenth as a national holiday began in Fort Worth thanks to activist Opal Lee. As a child in 1930, Lee witnessed a group of 500 white supremacists vandalize and burn her family's home to the ground, which led her to a life of teaching and activism. She was instrumental in getting Juneteenth to be recognized as a federal holiday with her walking campaign and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in May 2024. Earlier this year, Trinity Habitat for Humanity, which owned the property where Lee's family home once stood, gifted her the property back. With the help of HistoryMaker Homes and Texas Capital Bank, Lee's home is set to be rebuilt by June 19, 2024.

Lee's hometown, Fort Worth, and the city of Dallas hold several events in June. On June 19 at the African American Museum of Dallas , travelers can participate in Opal's Walk for Freedom for a fee to commemorate her historic walk. Proceeds of the 2.5-mile walking event will go toward the National Juneteenth Museum slated to open in 2026 as well as to Lee's efforts to educate the U.S. about Juneteenth.

The Juneteenth Family Reunion Festival will take place at the Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth from June 14 to 16. Festivalgoers can enjoy musical performances by Tamia, DVSN and several others. There will also be stage plays at the I.M. Terrell Academy's performing arts center, amusement park rides and more. To check out the film festival, pay a $20 fee per movie screening and reserve your seats in advance. Dallas will be hosting the 50th anniversary of the Juneteenth Festival on June 15. Attendees can participate in a 4K freedom walk, peruse an array of vendors and enjoy family-friendly activities.

Sports lovers may want to check out the third annual Dallas Cowboys Juneteenth Celebration at AT&T Stadium on June 15. Enjoy live music and local Black vendors. Admission and parking is free. Or, learn more about rodeo culture at the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo's Juneteenth celebration on June 15. Tickets start at $25 for adults.

Check out the Juneteenth Strong and Juneteenth Family Reunion Festival websites for more information.

Washington, D.C.

Courtesy of Alan Karchmer

Washington, D.C., has its own history with Juneteenth. On June 19, 1968, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Poor People's Campaign held a Solidarity Day rally on the National Mall. In 2005, the city began celebrating its own Emancipation Day in recognition of April 16, 1862 – the day slavery was abolished in the District.

The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture is hosting several events this year in Washington, D.C. , including Juneteenth Community Day, which will feature free indoor and outdoor activities for families on June 15. Registration is required to attend. Also set for that same day is "A Seat at the Table: A Juneteenth Conversation with Bryant Terry and Kevin Young." The James Beard Award-winning chef will discuss the intersections of African American cuisine, culture and social justice. The event also includes a plant-based curated meal. Tickets cost $40. Travelers should note free timed-entry passes are required to visit the museum.

The National Archives will display both the original Emancipation Proclamation and General Order No. 3 from June 18 to 20. The museum will also host its Juneteenth Celebration with Playback Theater on June 18. The Smithsonian American Art Museum currently has on display an exhibit called "Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice," which pays tribute to notable African American history makers. The Anacostia Community Museum will host its Juneteenth Freedom Celebration on June 19.

Stay active at the fifth annual Juneteenth Half Marathon & 10K on June 15. The races take place along the Civil War Defenses of Washington trail, starting and finishing at Fort Stanton Park. For theater lovers, Arena Stage's Kreeger Theater is presenting Step Afrika's production of "The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence" from June 7 to July 14. The show tells the story of the Great Migration, inspired by Lawrence's famous paintings called "The Migration Series."

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will be hosting two Juneteenth events. On June 18 and 19, the performing arts center will present "A Gospel Symphony Celebration: Tribute to Richard Smallwood" in honor of the gospel legend. At the center's Millennium Stage, visitors can catch a free visual arts performance of "We Move in Color: See and Feel the Journey," which explores African American history.

See the D.C. tourism website for more details.

Auburn, New York

Courtesy of the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center

Located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, Auburn was the last home to abolitionist Harriet Tubman. She settled in Auburn because the area was a hub for abolitionists and the city was one of many stops along New York's Underground Railroad system.

In honor of Juneteenth, the Seward House Museum will offer free admission to the museum on June 19 as well as guided tours throughout the day (reservations are recommended). The city will also host a daylong Juneteenth Celebration on June 15 with plenty of food trucks and local vendors. You can watch the parade in downtown Auburn and enjoy kid-friendly activities. Live music performances will be held at the Booker T. Washington Community Center. The Miss Juneteenth Pageant will also take place at the center on the same day as well.

Head to the Cayuga County Office of Tourism website for additional information.

Montgomery, Alabama

Courtesy of Troy University

Montgomery, Alabama, is considered the birthplace of the civil rights movement. It was here in December 1955 that the Montgomery bus boycott took place after Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat. The city is also home to the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the Legacy Museum, and Freedom Monument Sculpture Park – known collectively as the Legacy Sites. The memorial sits on a 6-acre space and allows visitors to explore the history of racial injustice, while the museum takes visitors on a journey from enslavement to current issues of mass incarceration through exhibits and art.

The 17-acre sculpture park, which opened in March 2024, pays homage to the millions of Black people who were enslaved in the United States. The memorial, sculpture park and museum are located within walking distance from one another, and a free shuttle bus runs between all three sites every 15 minutes. The Legacy Sites will hold a Juneteenth jazz concert on June 19 at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Music lovers can see performances by Wynton Marsalis, Esperanza Spalding and Samara Joy as well as several other musicians.

Travelers can also attend the ninth annual Juneteenth celebration at Troy University's Rosa Parks Museum on June 15. The free event features food, live music, arts and crafts, and complimentary admission. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts will host a Juneteenth event on June 15. While there, visit "Really Free: The Radical Art of Nellie Mae Rowe," an exhibit open until July 21, to see this Black artist's work in the post-civil rights era South. The Freedom Rides Museum is also worth a visit: Located at the site of an attack on Freedom Riders traveling through the South in 1961, this historical landmark explores the events leading to it through photography and first-person accounts.

For more information on the city's celebration, visit the Experience Montgomery website .

Atlanta is rich in civil rights history. Some of its famous residents included King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, as well as former U.S. Rep. John Lewis. The Georgia capital is home to many civil rights historic landmarks, such as Ebenezer Baptist Church and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights .

The Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival runs from June 21 to 23. Visitors can watch the annual parade on June 22, then celebrate with live music and entertainment, games, and food at the festival in Piedmont Park. Juneteenth Atlanta, which hosts the parade and festival, will also have the Juneteenth Rodeo and Agricultural Expo on June 19 and the 5K Freedom Run on June 23.

The Atlanta History Center is also saluting the holiday with its Juneteenth 2024 event set for June 15. The celebration will focus on the history of Black cuisine and baseball, with activities ranging from cooking demonstrations to a beginner's baseball clinic for kids, as well as storytelling, crafts, wellness activities and food. While the event is free, advance registration is recommended. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights' Juneteenth celebration is on June 15 to 16 and June 19. Visitors to the center can enjoy a scavenger hunt, a quilt mural, Juneteenth flag making and outdoor activities. The Children's Museum of Atlanta will host a Juneteenth program on June 18.

You can also honor Juneteenth at the historic Oakland Cemetery on June 15. The cemetery is the resting home of historical figures such as Maynard Jackson, the first African American mayor of Atlanta , and Selena Sloan Butler, who founded the first parent-teacher association for Black Americans. The Juneteenth Family Festival here will feature free cemetery tours, family-friendly activities, food and a vendor market.

Check out the Discover Atlanta website for more information.

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Located about 40 miles north of Washington, D.C., Baltimore is a vibrant port city filled with delicious seafood, culture and Black history. While slavery did not end in Maryland until 1864, Baltimore was home to the largest free Black community in a U.S. city during the 1860s. Thanks to its large Black population, the city became a hot spot for jazz music; many notable jazz musicians, including Billie Holiday, Eubie Blake and Chick Webb, lived or were born in Baltimore. Along Pennsylvania Avenue, the Royal Theater was once a popular venue that became part of the infamous Chitlin' Circuit: spaces that catered to Black audiences and performers.

Fittingly, Baltimore has some music-centric ways to honor the Juneteenth holiday. The 47th annual AFRAM festival is a two-day event starting on June 22 that will have live music from artists like Busta Rhymes, Mya and Morris Day on top of fashion and food at Druid Hill Park. Additionally, the Walters Art Museum will host a performance titled "Moving Forward and Beyond: A Juneteenth Celebration" on June 15.

On June 19, the B&O Railroad Museum will host a public tour called "Underground Railroad: Freedom Seekers on the B&O," while the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture will host a daylong Juneteenth celebration on the same day. Enjoy free admission to the museum, live performances, artwork and talks.

Head to the Visit Baltimore website to find more details on the various events or consult the Visit Maryland site to see events across the state.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is famously the home of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were drafted and signed, but the city also played an important role in Black history. Philadelphia was once a stop on the Underground Railroad, and it's where one of the first Black denominations – the African Methodist Episcopal Church – was established in the U.S.

The Johnson House Historic Site, which was an Underground Railroad stop, will host its 18th annual Philadelphia Juneteenth Festival on June 15. Enjoy performances, vendors, food and talks during this celebration. On June 16, attend the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade, which draws more than 25,000 spectators yearly. You'll see floats, bands and dance troupes make their way down to Malcolm X Park, where the Philadelphia Juneteenth Marketplace & Art in the Park as well as the Juneteenth Music Festival will take place. Festivalgoers can shop at local Black businesses, sample some of Philly's best food and explore art exhibits.

The Wawa Welcome America festival will kick off its countdown to Independence Day with a variety of Juneteenth celebrations at the African American Museum in Philadelphia. Experience music performances by Kid 'n Play, Rich Medina and Seraiah Nicole, then enjoy food and family-friendly activities at the Juneteenth Block Party on June 19. The museum will also offer free admission with online registration. The "Rhythms of Liberations from Juneteenth to Beyond: Jazz & Blues" event will take place on June 15 as part of the museum's Black Music Month celebrations.

Check out the Visit Philadelphia website for more details.

While Opal Lee is considered the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," longtime Milwaukee resident Rev. Dr. Ronald Myers helped spearhead the modern movement of Juneteenth becoming a national holiday by founding the National Association of Juneteenth Lineage. The organization played a critical role in getting both the U.S. House and Senate to officially designate Juneteenth as Juneteenth Independence Day in 1997. Myers' activism helped encourage 43 states and Washington, D.C., to host their own Juneteenth celebrations, even though it would be two-plus decades before Juneteenth became a federal holiday.

The city of Milwaukee 's Juneteenth event is considered one of the oldest celebrations in the country. The area began hosting its yearly event in 1971 after then-Northcott Neighborhood House staffer Margaret Rogers attended a Juneteenth event in Georgia and inspired a local celebration. Now in its 53rd year, the event is still run by Northcott Neighborhood House. The 2024 event theme is "Our History, Our Culture, Our Village." You can become a part of Juneteenth history by attending one of the many city events during the holiday weekend. More than 50,000 spectators attend the event each year.

Dance the night away at the Freedom Ball on June 14. The ball pays homage to the past, present and future of Juneteenth in the city and includes music, food and a silent auction. The annual Juneteenth Jubilee Parade and Festival is set for June 19. Spectators can expect to see floats, marching bands and dance groups throughout the parade route. Afterward, enjoy food, dancing, sports activities and music at the street festival. Additionally, America's Black Holocaust Museum will have a weeklong celebration of Juneteenth from June 18 to 22 with kids programming, live music, voter registration and more. For music lovers, the 2024 Juneteenth Gospel Festival will take place on June 22.

To learn more, visit the Juneteenth Milwaukee and Juneteenth Gospel Festival websites for more information.

Courtesy of Choose Chicago

The Windy City was founded by Jean-Baptiste Point du Sable, a Black settler. Chicago was home to a stable African American population during the Reconstruction period, but it wasn't until the Great Migration that the city's Black population exploded. About 500,000 Black people migrated to the city between 1916 and 1970. Many famous Black notables, such as Mae Jemison, Ida B. Wells and John H. Johnson, have called Chicago home as well.

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center – the oldest independent African American history museum in the country – is hosting several events on June 19 for the annual Juneteenth Celebration, including DuFarm with a petting zoo and a farmers market, the Juneteenth 2024 Performances, a roller rink event, and more. The museum is home to several notable exhibits, including "Slavery. Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery," a traveling exhibit created by the Dutch-based Rijksmuseum on display in The DuSable until June 30. Through artifacts and storytelling, visitors can also learn about Harold Washington, the first elected Black mayor of Chicago, at "The Harold Washington Story" exhibition.

The 1865 Coalition is hosting the three-day 1865 Fest in Garfield Park from June 14 to 16. The event will salute Black military members and fathers through educational workshops, family activities, live music and food. On June 15, the Bronzeville neighborhood – known as the city's "Black Metropolis" – will hold a Juneteenth celebration featuring local historians, artwork, dancing, food and vendors. The fifth annual Juneteenth Village Fest, a free family-centric event, is also slated for June 15; families can enjoy live music, food, kid-friendly activities and carnival rides. Also happening from June 14 to 16 is the Chicago African Diaspora International Film Festival, with tickets starting at $13.

For more details, visit the Choose Chicago website .

Little Rock, Arkansas

Courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

In 2005, the Arkansas Senate recognized the third Saturday in June as Juneteenth Independence Day, and today the city offers several events to celebrate Juneteenth. The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center will host the annual Juneteenth in Da Rock street festival and the Juneteenth 5K walk/run on June 15. The street festival features family-friendly activities, food, live entertainment and much more. Festivalgoers can also check out the exhibits at the cultural center, including "In Rextropect," curated by the center's artist of the year, Rex Deloney, as he puts his spin on important Arkansas Black history through his artwork.

Also happening on June 15 is the Juneteenth Arkansas Festival. The festival includes a parade, family-centric activities, food, music and vendors – and it's considered the largest Juneteenth celebration in the state. For more to do in Little Rock , the National Park Service offers guided tours (by reservation) from Tuesday through Saturday of Little Rock Central High School, where Black students later known as the "Little Rock Nine" integrated the high school in 1957 after being met with fierce opposition. On June 22, the historic site will offer a Junior Ranger Day camp.

Visit the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau's website for more information.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Courtesy of Tulsa Juneteenth

In 1921, the Tulsa district of Greenwood, nicknamed "Black Wall Street" for its prosperous Black community, was burned to the ground by a mob of white rioters. Hundreds of homes and dozens of businesses, churches, schools and stores were destroyed; an estimated 300 people were killed. It was the setting for one of the worst race massacres in U.S. history.

In recent years, the city of Tulsa has invested in projects such as the Greenwood Rising museum to bring attention to this massacre and showcase the heartbreak and resilience of the Greenwood community. The 1921 Black Wall Street Memorial pays homage to the Black-owned businesses that were destroyed during the riot. Visitors to the city can also take a guided tour of the area through organizations such as the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation, Tulsa Tours or The Real Black Wall Street Tour.

The Tulsa Juneteenth Festival has weeklong activities for the entire family, beginning on June 8 with the "This is Oklahoma" Juneteenth fashion show. Its main event – the three-day Juneteenth festival, which takes place from June 13 to 15 – includes a block party, a 5K and fun run, wellness classes, brunch, live music, workshops and more.

Check out the Tulsa Juneteenth Festival website for more information.

Houston has its own special Juneteenth history. In 1872 four residents who were all formerly enslaved (Rev. Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock and Rev. Elias Dibble) raised money to purchase 10 acres of land where Black people could celebrate Juneteenth. The land would later be known as Emancipation Park, the first and oldest park in Texas. Several Juneteenth events take place not only at the park but around the city of Houston as well.

The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park offers tours to celebrate Jubilee Day. Each Saturday from June 1 to 19, Juneteenth Tea Cakes and Tours will take visitors to three UNESCO-recognized historic homes in Houston's 4th Ward. Attendees also get to sample tea cakes and red punch. On June 15 or 22, book the "From Plantation to Emancipation" signature tour to learn about Black history through reenactment storytelling. The society also has an option for visitors to take the year-round Black History Tour.

On June 15, start your day with a good workout at the second annual Freedom Run/Walk at Emancipation Park. Attend the Heritage Society's Juneteenth Celebration later on in the morning to enjoy a tea cake reception; the reading of General Order No. 3; a talk with Martha Whiting-Goddard, the great-granddaughter of the Rev. Jack Yates; gospel performances; and much more. In the evening, enjoy a night out for food, music and fellowship at the annual Juneteenth Music Celebration.

On June 19, spend the day at Emancipation Park for Juneteenth Family Fun Day. Later that day, the Acres Homes Cultural Arts Festivals will offer live music, food, games and vendors. The Children's Museum Houston is set to host a Juneteenth celebration event on this day as well.

Visit Juneteenth Houston's website for a complete list of events.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to a thriving and diverse metropolitan area. When the city was founded in 1781, about half of its 44 settlers were of African or mixed-race ancestry. Black history has long been celebrated in Los Angeles , and this year's Juneteenth includes a packed roster of events.

The Experimentally Structured Museum of Art will host an interactive Juneteenth Musical Storytime with Kymberly Stewart on June 14. The next day, on June 15, the California African American Museum is slated to mark its Juneteenth Celebration with wellness and family activities such as a yoga and meditation session, Juneteenth storytelling, and a sound bath reflection session. On June 16, patronize Black businesses while enjoying food, live music and networking at the LA Juneteenth Festival hosted by Black on the Block.

For the Hollywood Bowl's Juneteenth Celebration on June 19, rapper T-Pain is curating the musical program, which will feature gospel, hip-hop, soul and R&B artists like Ledisi, Tina Campbell of Mary Mary and the Color of Noize Orchestra. Purchase tickets in advance on the Hollywood Bowl website .

For additional details on Juneteenth events and activities, visit the Discover Los Angeles website .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Suzanne Mason is a travel editor with a love of warm vacation destinations and a passion to learn about whatever port of call she travels to. She has worked on the business side of travel and hospitality for almost a decade and now brings her expertise to U.S. News & World Report. For this article, she uses her own travel experience with several of these attractions and her research expertise.

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USA TODAY readers picked Florida location as a 'Best Kayak Tour' in America. It's in SWFL

Southwest Florida is on a roll when it comes to recognition for things to do outdoors. Or, as we like to call it: paradise.

For the second consecutive week, the 2024 USA TODAY Reader's Choice Awards have singled out something in our neck of the woods (and water) for one of the best places for the activity in the U.S.

Rising Tide Explorers in Naples was chosen in the category for Best Kayak Tours. It's one of two Florida locations to appear in the Top-10. Amelia Island Kayak Excursions located in Fernandina Beach is also on the list.

More: USA TODAY readers picked Florida location as a 'Best Hiking Trail' in America. It's in SWFL

What they are saying about Rising Tide Explorers

From the winner's list:

"Certified local biologists lead every tour of Naples and Marco Island with Rising Tide Explorers. Paddle through mangrove tunnels and past mudflats in search of Southwest Florida wildlife or glide through the waters of Rookery Bay Reserve for some spectacular bird-watching."

Check out the Rising Tide Explores website: Here

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards highlight the very best in travel, food + drink, and lifestyle. Every week, USA TODAY 10Best invites a panel of industry experts to nominate their favorite points of interest and attractions across a wide range of categories. 10Best editors then vet these nominations and select a final set of nominees to be presented to the voting public for a period of four weeks. 

In May, USA TODAY readers chose the Indigo Trail at Sanibel Island's Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge as one of the best places for a hike in the U.S.

2024 USA TODAY Reader's Choice Best Kayak Tours

1. Santa Barbara Adventure Company (Santa Barbara, California)

2. Amelia Island Kayak Excursions (Fernandina Beach, Florida)

3. Rising Tide Explorers (Naples, Florida)

4. Desert River Outfitters (Bullhead City, Arizona)

5. Great Turtle Kayak Tours (Mackinac Island, Michigan)

6. Tahoe Adventure Company (Tahoe Vista, California)

7. Crystal River Outfitters (Glen Arbor, Michigan)

8. Frank's Paddlesports Livery (Indianapolis, Indiana)

9. Central Coast Kayaks (Pismo Beach, California)

10. Maine State Sea Kayak (Southwest Harbor, Maine)

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England's Euro 2024 fixtures, dates and potential route for tournament in Germany

Euro 2024 starts in Munich on Friday, June 14 and runs to Sunday, July 14; semi-finals take place in Munich and Dortmund on July 9 and 10; Euro 2024 final is in Berlin; England in Group C with Slovenia, Denmark and Serbia; Serbia vs England first up on June 16

Wednesday 5 June 2024 16:03, UK

Track England's Euro 2024 fixtures, as well as their potential route through the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany.

England will face Denmark, Slovenia and Serbia in their Euro 2024 group.

Their first game on Sunday June 16 sees them travel to Gelsenkirchen to take on Serbia , who finished second in qualifying Group G behind Hungary, and whom they have not faced since the country's split with Montenegro in 2006.

• Euro 2024 news and latest updates
• Euro 2024 fixtures in full
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Gareth Southgate's side take on Denmark - whom they beat in the Euro 2020 semi-finals, before losing to Italy - four days later in Frankfurt.

They then round off their group on Tuesday June 25 in Cologne against Slovenia , whom they previously beat in a must-win final group game at World Cup 2010 to reach the knockout stages.

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How far will England go this time? Here's how their tournament could play out - and which heavyweight opponents could lie in wait...

Euro 2024 groups in full

• Group A: Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland
• Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania
• Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England
• Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France
• Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine
• Group F: Turkey, Georgia, Portugal, Czech Republic

England's potential Euro 2024 route

Group stage.

The top two in each group plus the four best third-placed teams go through

Euro 2024: England drawn with Denmark; Scotland face Germany in opener

Euro 2024 latest news

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Sunday June 16 - Group C: Serbia vs England (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Thursday June 20 - Group C: Denmark vs England (Waldstadion, Frankfurt - kick-off 5pm UK time)

Tuesday June 25 - Group C: England vs Slovenia (RheinEnergieStadion, Cologne - kick-off 8pm UK time)

What if teams finish level on points in group stage?

UEFA rules say that if two or more teams in the same group are equal on points, the following criteria are applied in given order: - Higher number of points obtained in the matches played among teams in question - Superior goal difference from matches played among teams in question - Higher number of goals scored in matches played among teams in question

Round of 16

If England finish first in Group C:

Sunday June 30 - Group C winners vs third-placed side in Group D/E/F (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen - kick-off 5pm UK time)

If England finish second in Group C:

Saturday June 29 - Group A winners vs Group C runners-up (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund - kick-off 8pm UK time)

If England finish as one of four best third-place teams:

Monday July 1 - Group F winner vs third-placed side from Group A/B/C (Waldstadion, Frankfurt)

Tuesday July 2 - Group E winners vs third-placed side from Group A/B/C/D (Allianz Arena, Munich)

How are four best third-placed teams decided?

According to UEFA regulations, the following criteria are applied, in the order given: - Higher number of points - Superior goal difference - Higher number of goals scored - Higher number of wins - Lower disciplinary points total based on yellow and red cards received by players and team officials in group matches (red card = 3 points, yellow card = 1 point, expulsion for two yellow cards in one match = 3 points) - Position in the overall European Qualifiers rankings or, if hosts Germany involved, drawing of lots

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Quarter-finals

If England finish first in Group C and win round of 16 game:

Saturday July 6 - England vs Winner of 2A vs 2B (Merkur Spiel-Arena, Dusseldorf - kick-off 5pm UK time)

If England finish second in Group C and win round of 16 game:

Friday July 5 - England vs Winner of 1B vs 3A/D/E/F (MHPArena, Stuttgart - kick-off 5pm UK time)

If England finish as one of four best third-place teams and win round of 16 game:

Friday July 5 - England vs Winner of 2D vs 2E (Volksparkstadion, Hamburg - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Saturday July 6 - England vs Winner of 1D vs 2F (Olympiastadion, Berlin - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Semi-finals

If England finish first in Group C, win round of 16 game and win quarter-final:

Wednesday July 10 - Berlin semi-final winner vs Dusseldorf semi-final winner (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund - kick-off 8pm UK time)

If England finish second in Group C, win round of 16 game and win quarter-final:

Tuesday July 9 - Stuttgart semi-final winner vs Hamburg semi-final winner (Allianz Arena, Munich - kick-off 8pm UK time)

If England finish as one of four best third-place teams, win round of 16 game and win quarter-final:

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And finally, the Euro 2024 final...

Sunday July 14 - Munich semi-final winner vs Dortmund semi-final winner (Olympiastadion, Berlin - kick-off 8pm UK time)

Which route is best for England?

England might be favourites with Opta's 'supercomputer' but they will have to overcome several European heavyweights whichever way they qualify, if they are to go all the way.

Using the current FIFA world rankings to plot a possible route, England would have a seemingly easier route to the quarter-finals were they to win their group.

But Euro 2020 conquerors Italy could be a formidable last-eight hurdle, with France - who knocked them out of the last World Cup in Qatar - likely to stand in their way again in the semi-finals.

England’s potential route to the final as group winners…

If all results at Euro 2024 go with the world rankings England’s opponents in the knockout rounds would be… Round of 16: Sunday June 30 - England vs Austria/Romania/Turkey (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen) Quarter-final: Saturday July 6 – England vs Italy (Merkur Spiel-Arena, Dusseldorf) Semi-final: Wednesday July 10 – France vs England; kick-off 8pm (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund) Final: Sunday July 14 – Spain vs England; kick-off 8pm (Olympiastadion, Berlin)

Should England finish second in their group, they could delay meeting Kylian Mbappe's World Cup finalists until the very last hurdle, but a sterner round-of-16 test would likely await in the shape of hosts Germany .

England’s potential route to the final as group runners-up…

If England finish second in Group C but all other results at Euro 2024 go with the world rankings, the Three Lions’ opponents in the knockout rounds would be… Round of 16: Saturday June 29 - Germany vs England (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund) Quarter-final: Friday July 5 – Spain vs England (MHPArena, Stuttgart) Semi-final: Tuesday July 9 – England vs Netherlands; kick-off 8pm (Allianz Arena, Munich) Final: Sunday July 14 – England vs France; kick-off 8pm (Olympiastadion, Berlin)

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