Summer is the season of spontaneous road trips, warm evenings with nowhere to be, and that unmistakable feeling that anything could happen. June, in particular, is when travel feels less like an itinerary and more like an adventure. It’s when the sun coaxes you out of your routine and invites you to explore something new.
Of course, we love the classics like Lisbon’s hills, Banff’s lakes, and Kyoto’s temples. They’re all worth a visit. But, this year, we’re skipping the usual suspects in favor of places that are a little less expected and (hopefully) a little more surprising.
These destinations might not be on every summer travel list, but maybe they should be. From misty mountain villages to hidden towns that feel like secrets, here are ten unique spots that can help you savor your summer.
Inishbofin, Ireland
Off the coast of County Galway, one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, you’ll find Inishbofin – a place that exists in its own quiet rhythm. With wildflower-dotted cliffs, long walks with views of the Connemara mountains, and clear Atlantic waters, it’s a lesser-known Irish island that really shines in June.
Ferries start running more frequently this time of year, and the island comes alive with music, local seafood, and those long golden evenings you only get in an Irish summer.
Hike the Westquarter Loop for sweeping sea views, explore the ruins of Cromwell’s Barracks, or simply sit outside the pub with a pint and listen to traditional Irish music (trad) drifting through the air. It’s a peaceful, windswept escape that’s perfect for slowing down and soaking up the start of summer.
Isle of Eigg, Scotland
Tucked off the west coast of Scotland, the Isle of Eigg is a tiny gem that has a big personality. With rugged cliffs, white-sand beaches, and green hills speckled with sheep, it feels like a wild secret that’s only for you.
June ushers in long days and mild weather, making it the ideal time for coastal hikes and kayaking along the island’s dramatic shoreline. You can hike up An Sgurr for panoramic views or relax on the stunning Laig Bay. The sand turns black and white in swirling patterns.
As an added benefit, Eigg is one of the first places in the world to run completely on renewable energy, so your stay will be extra eco-friendly. If Scotland’s on your mind this year, here are 15 additional things you can do beyond all those beautiful castles in the sky.
Flåm, Norway
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a Scandinavian fairytale, June is the perfect time to explore Flåm. Nestled in the Aurlandsfjord, this tiny Norwegian village is surrounded by soaring mountains, cascading waterfalls, and mirror-like waters.
Take the Flåm Railway from Bergen, one of the most scenic train rides in the world, then hop on a fjord cruise through Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO-listed branch of the Sognefjord. The days are nearly endless this time of year, giving you plenty of time to hike, kayak, or just sit by the water and take it all in. In three words, we’d say Flåm is quiet, dramatic, and (wildly) beautiful.
Åland Islands, Finland
Floating in the Baltic Sea between Finland and Sweden, the Åland Islands are a dreamy, slow-paced archipelago that comes into full bloom in June. With wild roses lining the roads, endless hours of daylight, and charming red cottages scattered along the coast, Åland feels like a Nordic fairytale with a maritime twist.
June is the start of the islanders’ beloved summer season. It’s when cafés reopen, ferries run between islets, and locals celebrate the light with cycling trips, picnics, and sauna sessions by the sea.
You can rent a bike and hop from village to village, exploring lighthouses and stone churches, or kayak through the calm waters dotted with seabirds. All in all, Åland is peaceful, picturesque, and perfect if you want long, glowing days and a strong sense of peace without the crowds.
Andros, Greece
While the better-known Greek Isles get swarmed in summer, Andros remains under the radar, especially in June. Just a two-hour ferry from Athens, this lush, mountainous island feels worlds away, with quiet beaches, waterfalls, and trails winding past monasteries and ancient ruins.
Hike through the island’s network of stone-paved paths, known as stenes, many of which pass through terraced hillsides and sleepy villages where time seems to stand still. Then, you can cool off in the Aegean, wander the neoclassical town of Chora, and enjoy local specialties like froutalia (an herb-filled omelet) and fresh goat cheese. Andros is everything you love about Greece but, again, without the crowds.
Gjirokastër, Albania
How about a little island between Greece and its neighbor, Albania? Gjirokastër is a stone-built stunner tucked into the mountains of southern Albania, and June is the perfect time to explore its cobbled lanes before the true summer heat sets in.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this “city of stone” is more like a living museum, but without the throngs of people you’ll find in the famous Balkan towns.
You can climb up to the hilltop castle for sweeping views of the Drino Valley, then wander down into the Ottoman-era old town where you’ll find traditional tower houses, beautiful cafés, and artisan shops selling handwoven goods. Also, be sure to take a dip in the Blue Eye spring with a plan to do nothing more than watch the clouds float by.
Picos de Europa, Spain
Northern Spain’s Picos de Europa is a wonderland of mountain peaks, trails, and alpine lakes. In June, the wildflowers are bursting to life, and the air smells like pine needles and fresh grass.
Base yourself in a mountain village like Potes or Cangas de Onís, where the stone houses overlook majestic hills. Then, you can hike to the Lakes of Covadonga, ride the cable car at Fuente Dé, or just take a long walk, stopping for cider and cheese at a countryside inn. Picos de Europa is rustic, beautiful, and totally underrated, compared to Spain’s better-known summer hotspots.
Mdina, Malta
Malta’s ancient walled city looks like it was plucked straight from a fantasy novel, complete with narrow alleys, lantern-lit doorways, and stunning views over the island’s golden countryside. Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is completely serene, especially in early summer before the height of tourist season.
June means warm days and soft breezes, perfect for exploring the city’s honey-colored streets and historic sites like St. Paul’s Cathedral or the Vilhena Palace. As the sun sets, grab a seat at a rooftop café and watch the sky go from gold to lavender over the Mediterranean Sea. Mdina is a small place, but it makes a big impression – quiet, magical, and unlike anywhere else in the world.
Kanchanaburi, Thailand
If you’re craving somewhere lush and tropical, but want to skip Thailand’s usual beach spots, Kanchanaburi is an incredible inland option. June means early monsoon rains, but don’t let that scare you away. The waterfalls are at their best, the jungles are vibrant, and the rivers are full and fast.
Kanchanaburi is where history and nature collide. You can visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai, explore Erawan National Park with its multi-tiered turquoise falls, and take a slow boat down the River Kwai at sunset. The light rain showers only add to the green magic of it all, and you’ll have it mostly to yourself.
Luang Prabang, Laos
While it’s true June marks the start of the wet season in Laos, that also means you’ll find fewer tourists, lush scenery, and magical misty mornings. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage city with a serene blend of gilded temples, French colonial architecture, and peaceful riverside life.
Try to wake up early to witness the daily alms-giving ceremony. It’s a daily ritual where Buddhist monks gather offerings of food from the local community at dawn, and a great way to start your day.
With that sort of serenity nestled into your heart, you can go off and explore the Royal Palace, Wat Xieng Thong, and the Kuang Si Falls. They’ll be full and roaring this time of year. Towards the end of the day, take a slow boat ride along the Mekong before sipping a cold drink at a quiet café as the same monks from the morning pass by in their saffron robes. Luang Prabang is the kind of place that will linger in your mind long after you leave.
Where Will You Go First?
Summer doesn’t have to mean standing in line at over-touristed landmarks. These unique June destinations have all the magic, with a little more space to breathe, explore, and truly fall in love. Whether you’re chasing fjords, forests, or faraway islands, let this be the summer you go somewhere unexpected.
To help you get there, come take a look at our library of destination guides. It’s chock-full of unique ideas to help you make the most of your next getaway, no matter what city is calling your name. We’re here to ensure your travels are smooth, your memories are sweet, and your heart remains full. See ya out there!