Summer’s hottest tickets

Story by Lance Hanlin

This summer, travelers are skipping the been-there, done-that beach vacations and chasing something a little bolder — think jagged peaks, remote trails, far-flung islands and eco-luxe hideaways. According to top travel authorities like Travel + Leisure, National Geographic, Condé Nast Traveler, Southern Living and Business Insider, the summer of 2025 is shaping up to be the season of bucket-list breakers and surprise show-stealers.

International hotspots

The Caucasus (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan)

Travel + Leisure calls this region one of the best-kept secrets in Europe — but not for long. The dramatic landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains are pulling in trekkers and photographers, while ancient monasteries, bustling bazaars and a growing reputation for bold wines (hello, qvevri-aged reds) are drawing in the culturally curious. New direct routes and tour packages make it easier than ever to go from Tbilisi’s street art scene to the shores of Lake Sevan.

Greenland

Travel + Leisure spotlights Greenland for the adventurous soul. With a sleek new international airport opening in Nuuk and fresh cruise itineraries on the horizon, it’s never been easier to witness calving glaciers, meet Inuit communities or kayak next to whales in deep blue fjords. This is the Arctic off the beaten path: raw, rugged and unforgettable.

Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Forget the chaos of Bangkok. Kanchanaburi offers a slower, more soulful side of Thailand. Think floating raft houses on the River Kwai, jungle waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries and poignant WWII memorials. Travel + Leisure suggests it’s the perfect escape for travelers looking for equal parts beauty and history.

Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden

National Geographic loves the new Stockholm Archipelago Trail, a stunning route across 21 islands connected by ferries and bridges. Visitors can paddle, hike or bike from one sun-dappled isle to the next, stopping for smoked fish, cinnamon buns and midsummer festivals. Long days, cold swims and cozy saunas? Sign us up.

The Red Sea Project, Saudi Arabia

Condé Nast Traveler calls this one of the boldest tourism projects in the world. Imagine diving pristine coral reefs in the morning and sipping mocktails under the desert stars by night. With eco-chic resorts like Shebara and Desert Rock, this Saudi project blends sustainability with serious wow factor.

U.S. favorites

Puerto Rico

Google’s Summer Travel Trends reports a surge in interest, and it’s easy to see why. No passport required, but you’ll feel a world away with El Yunque rainforest hikes, Old San Juan’s pastel streets and vibrant bomba beats. Foodies, don’t miss the roadside lechoneras or the island’s booming rum scene.

Juneau, Alaska

Also ranked by Google, Juneau offers a front-row seat to Alaska’s untamed beauty. Zip past glaciers by seaplane, hike through mossy rainforests, or take a whale-watching cruise where orcas and humpbacks steal the show. Cool air, long days and wild experiences await.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Southern Living says bookings are way up — and Dollywood might have something to do with it. From thrilling roller coasters and mountain views to dinner theaters and moonshine tastings, it’s a classic American family trip with a Southern twang.

Lake Placid, New York

According to AAA, Lake Placid is more than an Olympic memory. It’s a summer haven where you can hike the High Peaks, paddle Mirror Lake or just relax with a cold drink and mountain views. Bonus: You can visit the ski jump towers and channel your inner Olympian (minus the cold).

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Also featured by AAA, this quirky mountain town oozes character. Victorian homes, natural springs, underground art galleries, haunted hotels and scenic Ozark trails all roll into one charming and unexpected summer stop.

Underrated gems

Pakistan

Business Insider’s Tia Thomas swears by it: Fairy Meadows looks straight out of a storybook, while the Karakoram Highway is one of the most thrilling drives in the world. Add in friendly locals and mountains taller than dreams, and you’ve got a trekker’s paradise waiting to be explored.

Montenegro

Croatia’s chill cousin, Montenegro, boasts medieval towns like Kotor, stunning Adriatic beaches and a dramatically craggy coastline — all without the crowds. Business Insider calls it an affordable and authentic European getaway.

Albania

White-sand beaches, jagged mountain ranges, Ottoman towns and shockingly low prices? Albania is having a moment. Business Insider tips this as one of Europe’s last true hidden gems, especially for adventurous travelers and backpackers.

Trending beach escapes

Curaçao & St. Lucia

Google Trends shows a big jump in interest, likely because these Caribbean spots hit the sweet spot between postcard-worthy and culture-rich. In Curaçao, wander pastel Dutch-style streets in Willemstad. In St. Lucia, hike the Pitons and soak in the mud baths.

Maui, Hawaii

Despite wildfires, Google reports Maui is rebounding beautifully. With tourism dollars supporting recovery efforts, visitors can enjoy bamboo forests, secret beaches and hula under the stars, all while giving back.

Boracay, Philippines

Condé Nast Traveler praises Boracay’s eco-reset, which reined in over-tourism and re-centered local culture. Expect soft white sand, fire dancers, boat festivals and stunning sunsets, all with a new commitment to sustainability.