Have you ever found yourself torn between chasing the sun or embracing the snow? Whether you’re craving a beachside siesta or a snow-covered escape, choosing the right destination for the right season makes all the difference. In my guide to summer vs winter travel destinations, I’ll help you decide where to travel in summer for sunshine and adventure. And I’ll cover where to travel in winter for cozy vibes and cool thrills. My goal is to inspire your next perfectly timed getaway, so you are ready when wanderlust strikes.

Summer vs Winter Travel Destinations: Where to Go and When to Go

How to Choose Between Summer vs Winter Travel Destinations

Before I dive into the best summer vs winter travel destinations, I need to share how to choose between summer and winter trips. Most travelers think it is about the weather. But it isn’t. Instead, it is about the activities you want to do, as well as the vibe and seasonal perks of each destination.

Consider Your Favorite Activities

Do you daydream about hiking scenic trails, kayaking over glistening water, and sipping cocktails at a beach bar? If you said yes, you’re a summer traveler at heart!

Winter travelers will prefer skiing, steaming mugs of hot cocoa, curling up by a fire, and Christmas markets.

Keep Your Ideal Climate in Mind

Do you hate hot, sunny days? If you do, skip tropical destinations during the summer months. Instead, focus on the Pacific Northwest or countries like Iceland.

Oh, and if you don’t like the cold, skip destinations with freezing temperatures and snow. Costa Rica, Thailand, and Australia might be better choices when it is cold here in the US.

Don’t forget that the southern hemisphere enjoys different seasons than we do here in the US. When it is summer here, it is winter down in the southern hemisphere. And winter here is summer down there.

Best Summer Travel Destinations

If you have decided you are a person who loves to travel during the summer, I have quite a few vacation destinations for you to choose from. While I am sharing a few here, I have many other options that I can share with you during your personalized planning session.

Greek Islands, Greece

The Greek Islands are pure summer magic. Your entire family vacation will be sun-soaked, breeze-kissed, and overflowing with whitewashed charm.

I recommend planning your vacation in Greece for early June or late September. This will ensure you avoid the peak crowds, while soaking up the sunshine.

Depending on the island you choose to visit, you’ll find yourself exploring historic ruins and charming villages. You will also swim in crystal-clear coves before lounging on a beach filled with pink or black sand.

Don’t limit yourself to one Greek Island for your vacation. Instead, do a little island hopping between islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos.

Banff National Park, Canada

Long daylight hours are common during the summer months in Canada. So, vacation in Banff National Park and take advantage of the extra light. Use those extra hours to hike the trails, swim in the lake, and grab pictures of the natural playground in front of you.

The best scenic trails in Banff National Park are around Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Venture onto these lakes in a kayak to see the surrounding area from a different vantage point.

During each of these adventures, you will find yourself spotting the local wildlife. Remember, keep your distance if you spot an elk, moose, bear, or other wild animal.

One of the best things you can do while on a family vacation in Banff National Park is driving the Icefields Parkway. The views from the parkway are incredible. You’ll make numerous memories along the way.

Amalfi Coast, Italy – Perfect for Both Summer vs Winter Travel Destinations

The Amalfi Coast is one of the areas that is perfect for summer vs winter travel destinations. You can easily visit the Amalfi Coast at any time of the year.

However, the summer brings a vibrant atmosphere and lazy beach days. I recommend staying in Sorrento, as it is easier to visit other nearby towns.

The towns at the top of your sightseeing list on the Amalfi Coast should be Ravello, Amalfi, and Positano. Take a boat ride over to Capri to check out the dramatic sea caves. And sip on a limoncello while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

The Pacific Northwest, US – An Option for Both Summer vs Winter Travel Destinations

Above, I mentioned the Pacific Northwest as where you should travel to in summer if you are trying to escape the heat. Keep this in mind while deciding on summer vs winter travel destinations.

Oh, and while you may think it does nothing but rain in this part of the US, the weather changes during the summer. The clouds actually clear out most days. The wildflowers bloom. And the area’s natural beauty becomes picture perfect for the family photos you will be taking.

Start your visit with a drive through the Columbia River Gorge or along the Olympic Peninsula. Hike the wildflower-covered trails at Mount Rainier. And at the end of one day, sip pinot noir while enjoying views of the Willamette Valley.

A stop in Portland is a must to dine at all the different food trucks. Seattle’s Pike Place Market is where you will discover some of the best food in the city.

The Azores, Portugal

When considering where to travel in summer, add The Azores in Portugal to your list. This lush green paradise offers mild temperatures, drier weather, and plenty of activities.

Since this is a volcanic island chain, hiking crater lakes should be near the top of your list of things to do in The Azores. Hike the mountain trails in São Miguel. After your hike, soak in the geothermal hot springs to relax.

The summer months are perfect for whale watching in The Azores. I can arrange for a whale watching tour while I am planning your personalized vacation itinerary.

Oh, and when you get hungry, plan on trying local cozido stew. This stew is cooked underground by volcanic heat. It is a delicacy you won’t want to miss eating.

Hokkaido, Japan

Japan’s mainland gets extremely hot during the summer months. So, if you want to add Japan to your summer vacation list, I recommend visiting Hokkaido.

This beautiful area is packed with wildflowers, food, and festivals. The colorful lavender festival is one of the best festivals. It is over in Furano. You will need to plan your vacation in Japan carefully if you want to attend.

Daisetsuzan National Park is an excellent place to go hiking in Hokkaido. Don’t spend all your time there though, because the beer gardens in Sapporo will be calling your name.

Best Winter Travel Destinations

Travelers who love cold, snow, and winter activities will be happy to know there are plenty of destinations to choose from. As I am planning your personalized vacation, I will make recommendations of destinations that have everything you want to do and see during your time away from it all.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Fairy tales come to life in Zermatt, Switzerland. This is a car-free alpine village nestled beneath the iconic Matterhorn. And it is the perfect destination for snow lovers during the winter months.

The world-class slopes offer stunning views for when you are skiing and snowboarding. Although, if you need a day off from the slopes, take the Gornergrat Railway to check out the panoramic winter scenery.

Among this winter wonderland are charming chalet-style shops, as well as upscale après-ski lounges. Do a little shopping at the stores before sitting down for drinks and a bite to eat. Save the glühwein for when you are sitting in front of the fire at your resort though. It just seems to taste better in front of a fire.

Lapland, Finland

When choosing summer vs winter travel destinations, it will be easy to determine that Lapland should be a winter vacation destination. It’s a real-life snow globe experience you will never forget!

During the winter months in Lapland, you will spend lots of time bundled up against the cold and snow. Meeting reindeer and mushing your own dog sled are two of the most popular activities in Lapland. Although, chasing the Northern Lights across the snowy forests will be the activity where you make the most memories.

After a full day of fun, snuggle in bed inside a glass igloo, as you look up at the starry sky.

Oh, and don’t forget to visit Santa at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. You can give him Christmas wish lists from family members, as he sees how good you have been since you arrived in Lapland.

See how to spend four nights in Lapland during your next family vacation. 

Quebec City, Canada

As amazing as Canada is during the summer, many of this country’s destinations are perfect for winter fun. A family vacation in Quebec City includes walks on cobblestone streets, historic charm, and festive winter events.

Dress in layers to stroll along Old Quebec’s twinkling streets. You’ll get bonus points if you eat a warm crepe, as you are walking along. Afterwards, go ice skating in Place D’Youville or go sledding down Terrasse Dufferin.

At the end of a chilly day exploring, stop into a café to enjoy some poutine and a mug of hot cocoa.

I do recommend planning your family vacation in Quebec City for when the Quebec Winter Carnival is held. This carnival features ice palaces, snow sculptures, and plenty of winter activities to keep everyone busy for hours.

Check out Canada’s top winter activities and destinations for your next family vacation. 

Nagano, Japan

If you want to avoid the extreme heat of Japan during the summer, or you’re a fan of the cold, Nagano is an excellent place to visit during the winter.

Start your vacation in Nagano with a skiing adventure in the Japanese Alps. Hakuba Valley is one of the best places to ski in Nagano.

If you prefer to simply watch the snow fall around you, relax in a traditional onsen. Or visit with the snow monkeys in the Jigokudani hot springs.

Take the time to tour many of the ancient temples in the area. Zenko-ji should be one that’s near the top of your list.

Park City, Utah

Park City is considered a skier’s paradise here in the US. In fact, it is one of the best places to travel in the winter. Skiers will want to hit the slopes at Park City Mountain or Deer Valley. And snowmobilers will prefer hitting the trails in any of the snowy forests.

A day off the slopes should be spent walking along Main Street. You can do a lot of shopping at the stores on Main Street. Or simply people watch while drinking hot toddies.

The Sundance Film Festival is held in Park City during the month of January. Let me know if you want to attend this festival, so I can plan your trip for those specific dates.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Winter happens to be the dry season in Chiang Mai. So, embrace the lack of rainfall, mild temperatures, and limited humidity. One of the best things to do during this time of the year in Chiang Mai is visit the temples. Two of the best temples to see are Wat Phra Singh and Doi Suthep.

Experience local culture in Chiang Mai by browsing the night markets or taking a Thai cooking class. Spending a day at an ethical elephant sanctuary is an excellent way to learn more about these animals.

The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is held in February every year. I will add this festival to your personalized vacation itinerary if you are visiting Chiang Mai when it is being held.

The world is full of breathtaking places to explore. The key is to match your travel style, interests, and seasonal sweet spots. From the best places to travel in summer to magical winter travel destinations, there’s a perfect getaway waiting for every kind of traveler.

As your travel advisor, I will help you make the most of summer vs winter travel destinations and find the perfect spot at the perfect time. Your next unforgettable adventure is just around the corner.

So, are you ready to choose between summer vs winter travel destinations for your next amazing trip?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized planning session with me. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

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