The best places to travel in June

Not sure where to take a June vacation? Keep reading. From being wowed by wildlife in Wales, Borneo and Uganda, to unforgettable beach breaks in Bermuda, Greece, Florida and beyond, here we present the best places to travel in June, along with recommended places to stay.

1. Cinque Terre, Italy

Why visit: romantic hikes and sublime seafood
Temperature: 18°C-26°C (64°F-79°F))
Average daily budget: $120-$200

Tucked along the craggy coastline of Liguria in north-western Italy, the Cinque Terre comprises five impossibly romantic hillside villages that collectively make up a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Namely, Monterosso, Vernazza — oft hailed the loveliest Cinque Terre — Corniglia, Manarola and Volastra.

Interlinked by coastal hiking paths that wind above the dazzling Ligurian Sea, it’s a ravishing region that invites romantic walks on the wild side. 

Come June, the region offers lush green landscapes, blooming flowers, and clear skies, all of which enhance Cinque Terre's jaw-droppingly beautiful coastal cliffs, colorful villages and terraced vineyards.

Between following trails, you can enjoy strolling the villages, and savouring fresh seafood and local wine. Be sure to try a glass or two of Sciacchetra — a rare and highly-regarded regional variety.

Editor’s tip: Manarola is a great place to take ferries to the other villages, and spot dolphins. 

Into hiking? Take the 13km trail from Riomaggiore to Portovenere. Beginning with a long ascent, it leads through pine forests to the 15th-century Sanctuary of Montenero before descending to Portovenere in dramatic style.

Where to stay: Monterosso's Hotel Porto Roca offers a panoramic cliff-top location with stunning sea views, a 5-minute walk from Monterosso centre. In good news for hikers, the Cinque Terre's Blue Trail starts nearby.

Want to stay in Vernazza? The stunning Santa Marta Rooms are set in the town's historic centre, 150 metres from the sea.

2. Pembrokeshire, Wales

Why visit: wildlife-watching, coastal walks and sustainable stays
Temperature: 11°C-19°C (52°F-66°F)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

If you love wildlife and are thinking of visiting the UK this summer, tucked in the south-west corner of Wales, Pembrokeshire is one of the best places to travel in June.

At this time of the year, walking the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is especially rewarding. Covering some 186 miles, this is the UK’s only coastal National Park.  

June is also a great time to visit Pembrokeshire to see spectacular wildlife. For example, Skomer Island is home to an estimated 6000 breeding pairs of iconic Atlantic puffins. You can see them up close from April until August. 

Skomer and Skokholm Island are also home to the world’s biggest colony (350,000) of Manx shearwaters.

You'll want to watch out for grey seals, too, with Pembrokeshire's Ramsey Island being one of the best places to see them in Britain. 

Meanwhile, granite Grassholm hosts the UK’s third-largest Atlantic gannet colony. Being a protected RSPB reserve, you can’t land here, but boat trips offers excellent opportunities to see them. Note that chicks hatch in late-May/early June.

Want to travel better? Wales is the perfect place to do just that. Discover eco-friendly vacations to enjoy in Wales, and download the FREE Rough Guide to Responsible Wales.

Where to stay: vacationing with kids? Take a look at Timber Hill Self Catering Cedar Lodges. The site is spacious, scenic and close to beaches.

Love fine food? Surrounded by meadows, 18th-century country house The Grove. serves top-notch seasonal food.

3. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Why visit: tropical chilling and world-class diving
Temperature: 25°C-30°C (77°F-86°F)
Average daily budget: $50-$100

While most of Asia is in the throes of monsoon season in June, the east coast of Malaysia remains dry and sunny. Expect calm sea conditions and average highs of around 30°C.

As such, if you're looking for the best tropical places to visit in June, Malaysia's Perhentian Islands might just float your boat.

Close to Thailand, off Malaysia's northeast coast, they're made up of Besar (large) and Kecil (small). Besar is the more developed of the two, while Kecil is more geared towards backpackers.

Both islands deliver white-sand beaches and turquoise water offering top snorkeling and diving opportunities. Visibility extends up to 20m.

What's more, a bounty of beach huts and an easy-going atmosphere tops it all off.

For more Malaysian island food for thought, find out why Langkawi is Malaysia's ultimate island escape and explore things not to miss in Malaysia.

Editors tip: interested? Explore our customisable Malaysia itineraries. They cover everything from indulgent Malaysia, to wildlife adventures.

Where to stay: friendly, on the beach, with family rooms available, Ombak Dive Resort is a good option for active families.

Meanwhile, Senja Bay Resort offers beach huts and chalets with stunning sunset views.

4. Budapest, Hungary

Why visit: leisurely city strolls in sunny weather
Temperature: 18°C-26°C (64°F -79°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

While Budapest, capital of Hungary, features as one of our best places to visit in Eastern Europe in winter, there's a banquet of reasons to visit this Baroque beauty in June. 

First up, the warm weather makes exploring Budapest’s top attractions very, very pleasant. For example, take the Siklo (funicular railway) up to the Vár, or go to the Castle District to gawp at glorious Baroque architecture.  

Meanwhile, over the Danube in Pest, meander the Jewish quarter to marvel at the magnificent Great Synagogue, the second largest in the world. 

Traveling with kids and want some out-of-town freedom? Take to the Buda Hills to access the 3km Cogwheel Railway, and the Children’s Railway.

Built by Communist youth brigades after World War II, today this 11km-long narrow gauge remains run by teenagers (apart from the driver). It's a unique way to soak up stunning scenery, with plenty of places to stop-off for rewarding hikes and walks.

Want to immerse yourself in the region? Our customisable Grand Eastern European Tour includes Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest. You'll also visit Sarajevo, Mostar and Dracula's castle in Romania.

Where to stay: for five-star luxury consider Aria Hotel. It boasts stylish music-themed rooms, plus a Turkish spa and glass-covered courtyard.

We also rate Baltazár — a classy boutique joint in the castle district that offers arty rooms.

Looking for more options? Explore our guide with the best areas to stay in Budapest.

Looking for more ideas for your trip? Explore our list of dream holiday destinations to suit any traveller.

5. Milos, Greece

Why visit: off-the-beaten track beaches
Temperature: 20°C-28°C (68°F-82°F).
Average daily budget: $120-$200

While Milos might have a lower profile than other islands of the Cyclades, many beach lovers rate it one of the best Greek islands, which is really saying something.

Though the island is barely 20km across, it boasts a whopping seventy-five beaches that scarcely see the crowds of neighbouring vacation favourites.

That’s thanks to its horseshoe shape and volcanic landscapes that color its shores red, pink and orange, with emerald-green waters and caves adding to its allure.

Ready to pack your bags? Check-out our customisable trip to Milos. 

Where to stay: on a budget? Try Hotel Eleni. For a top beach location, take a look at Artemis Seaside Resort

6. Fes, Morocco

Why visit: markets, music and magnificent architecture
Temperature: 18°C-30°C (64°F-86°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

With an abundance of markets and majestic mosques, Fes is fabulous destination for foodies, history buffs and culture vultures alike.  

As for why to visit in June, while July sees temperatures soar to the late 30s, June averages 30C. So, while it’s hot, hot, hot, it’s comfortable enough to explore the most complete medieval city of the Arab world. 

Walled Fes El-Bali — the oldest area of Fes — is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a maze of mosques, medersas and fondouks, plus a mile-long labyrinth of souks, it warrants several days exploration. 

Fes is also the culinary capital of Morocco — a stunning place to enjoy some of the country's best eating and drinking experiences.

If that wasn't enough, the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music (Festival de Musiques Sacrées du Monde) is usually held in late-May/early June.

Intrigued? You can uncover the imperial cities of Morocco — including Fes — on a customisable Rough Guides trip.

Where to stay: for special occasions, Riad Authentic Palace & Spa serves five-star splendour and service in the old town.

Into food? The chefs at boutique beauty Riad Tahyra often invite guests into the kitchen.

Inspired? You can find an itinerary that suits you among our 10-day Morocco itineraries, combining several stunning destinations in Morocco.

7. Key West, Florida

Why visit: water-sports, nightlife and culture
Temperature: 27°C-31°C (80°F- 88°F)
Average daily budget: $200-$250

If you’re looking for a June vacation destination that delivers on several fronts — lively nightlife, exceptional water-sports, plus plenty of literary and political history — then quirky Key West in the Florida Keys might be your glass of mojito.

Given that the entire Florida Keys offers a host of unforgettable aquatic activities, taking to the ocean should figure high on your to-do list when visiting Key West. 

Head to the historic Seaport to arrange reef and wreck dives, or book glass bottom boat trips and mangrove kayaking tours.

Literature lovers visiting Key West will want to explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where this hard-drinking giant of American literature wrote some of his most acclaimed work. 

Talking of drinks, many of Key West’s best nightlife joints are centred around Duval Street. 

Sloppy Joe's is a popular spot, though its original location (now Captain Tony’s Saloon) was the bar famously frequented by Ernest Hemingway.

Where to stay: for excellent onsite water-sports, check out Parrot Key Hotel and Villas. One of the most luxurious resorts in town, it's lushly-landscaped and set on a white-sand beach close to Old Town.

8. Madeira and São Miguel, Portugal

Why visit: epic scenery, gentle hikes and serene sailing
Temperature: 18°C-24°C (64°F-75°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

If you’re yearning for a laidback June vacation in the loveliest of surroundings, we suggest taking a dual-island break to two of Portugal’s autonomous islands — Madeira and São Miguel.

After exploring the capital, Funchal, head to Western Madeira to soak up stunning cliff scenery before soaking yourself in the natural pools of Porto Moniz.

Meanwhile, the east of Madeira offers opportunities to explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site laurel forest and amble traditional farming villages and markets.

Over on Sao Miguel, the wonders of Sete Cidades Lagoon await — it showcases the most awe-inspiring landscape of the Azores Archipelago. 

For more breath-taking views, visit volcanic Furnas Valley, where local stew specialty cozido das Furnas is served fresh from being cooked in the ground by geothermal heat. 

Finally, no trip here would be complete without boarding a boat to appreciate the beauty of the Azores from the ocean between dipping into the crystalline water and watching out for dolphins.

Need more convincing? Here’s why you should shake-off your misconceptions about Madeira.

Where to stay: to stay in Funchal in fabulous style, it doesn't get better than the Reid's Palace. Set on a cliff in ten acres of subtropical gardens overlooking the Atlantic, this 5-star resort features an oceanfront spa, three swimming pools and direct access to the sea.

You might also want to browse top places to stay on Sao Miguel.

9. Cusco, Peru

Why visit: awe-inspiring sun ceremonies
Temperature: 5°C-20°C (41°F-68°F)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Back in the sixteenth century, Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) was the largest and most important ceremony to take place in the Incan capital of Cusco in Peru.

Since the mid-twentieth century, spectators have been able to watch a re-enactment of on 24th June in Sacsayhuamán, a few kilometres from Cusco.

During the ceremony, a dancing procession is followed by speeches in Quechua, the Incan language. You'll also get to witness the simulated sacrifice of a llama on a hill-top — don't say we didn't warn you!

First time traveling to Peru? Arm yourself with our beginner's guide and the best things to do in Peru.

Where to  stay: Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Historico is a fab four-star in a great location.

For friendly, family-run flair, try Hosteria de Anita. This colorful guest house has a cute garden courtyard.

10. La Rioja, Spain

Why visit: fine wine, historic towns and Haro’s Battle of Wine
Temperature: 15°C-28°C (59°F-82°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Extravagant lunches in ancient wine cellars. Rolling hills speckled with sun-drenched vineyards and charming medieval villages. These are the kinds of pleasures you’ll get to enjoy during a June vacation in Rioja — Spain’s most celebrated wine-producing region. 

On that subject, some of the region’s most celebrated vineyards lie close to Laguardia. This charming fortified 13th-century town will have you thinking you’ve stepped back in time.

We also recommend lingering longer in the handsome medieval town of Haro. Home to two world-class wineries that offer tasting experiences, June sees it host La Batalla del Vino — the Battle of Wine.

Dating back to the 13th-century, when Haro was engaged in a legal dispute over its boundaries, the main event takes place in the hills outside town on 29th June.

Part of the Fiesta de San Pedro food and wine festival, the “battle” takes place in the hills outside the town, and sees white-clad participants soak each other in red wine. 

Can’t wait to go? Book our customisable luxury trip around La Rioja.

Where to stay: originally a 14th-century convent, the 4-star Eurostars Los Agustinos offers charm and comfort.

Saving your pennies for food and wine? Try Tinto Dreams Hostel.

11. Dalarna, Sweden

Why visit: midsummer magic and enchanting scenery
Temperature: 9.1°C-20.5 °C (48.4 °F-68.8 °F)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

Celebrated annually across the weekend closest to 24th June, Sweden’s midsummer celebrations herald a huge exodus from towns and cities as family and friends head to the countryside and coasts for huge parties.

Centred around Lake Siljan, in a region of meadows and sweeping hills, Dalarna in Central Sweden hosts some of Sweden’s most famous midsummer celebrations.

Expect to feast on the likes of herring, potatoes and akvavit — a grain or potato-based liqueur seasoned with herbs. 

The merriment extends late into the long, light night, with maypole dancing and drinking enjoyed to the tune of accordions and fiddles.  

Darlarna itself is known for a handicraft heritage that dates back to the Middle Ages, and cute red cottages trimmed with white frames. 

Where to stay: lake views, timber lodges and traditional activities on-site — Dala Wärdshus offers a glorious taste of old-time Sweden in Hantverksbyn Village.

Want to stay in town? Ludvika Stadshotell is a stylish, friendly boutique hotel.

12. Rwanda and Uganda, East Africa

Why visit: peak-gorilla-sighting season
Temperature: 17°C-27°C (63°F-81°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$200

If you’re looking for unforgettable wildlife-watching experiences, consider heading to Rwanda and Uganda between June and September. These are the best months for sighting endangered mountain gorillas.

Most likely you’ll use Rwanda’s capital Kigali as base from which to explore some of the country's national parks.

With a crater lake at its heart, Volcanoes National Park counts mountain gorillas among its residents. It's also home to over 200 species of birds, and rare golden monkeys.

You’ll also want to head to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park over the border in Uganda to see these magnificent beasts in their natural habitats.

Still making up your mind? Discover reasons to see more of Rwanda than just the gorillas, and find out why you need to visit Uganda.

Where to stay: for city centre smartness 2000 Hotel, Kigali's highest hotel, offers mountain views and a rooftop terrace.

Or, for cool vibes and hot views, try Eagle View Lodge. 

13. London, England

Why visit: city walks and summer events
Temperature: 12°C-23°C (54°F-73°F)
Average daily budget: $200-$250

June is a top time to visit London to enjoy rewarding walks that’ll see you experience the city in fresh ways. 

Beyond the more obvious routes that cover Royal Parks from Trafalgar Square to Lancaster Gate, don’t miss following Regent’s Canal from cool Camden Lock to Little Venice.

Or how about heading up Hampstead Heath to Kenwood House? Covering rolling grassland, ancient woodland and eighteenth-century parkland, this 5km circular route is one of the prettiest walks in London. 

London being one of the world’s best cities, you can also expect stacks of special summer events to be held in parks, cultural ventures and museums, from open-air theatre, to music festivals.

Where to stay: for sleek chic, Boundary London in Shoreditch has a rooftop bar, with rooms and suites themed around different art styles. 

Well-located for exploring central London, The Hoxton, Holborn, is close to Covent Garden, Soho and Oxford Street.

If you’re looking for luxury, read up on the best luxury hotels in London.

14. Dolomites, Italy

Why visit: stunning mountain scenery and adventure
Temperature: 10°C-25°C (50°F- 77°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

Though known for its excellent skiing, there are lots of reasons the Dolomites is one of the best places to travel in June, not least if you love majestic mountain scenery, hiking and mountain-biking.

You could consider making Bolzano your base. Also known by its German name, Bozen, this charming town is a great gateway for exploring the mountains. It's also the home of Ötzi, the famous prehistoric Ice Man.

To view the Dolomites, you could climb 2950m to the legendary Pordoi Pass. Sound daunting? Spectacular panoramas can be yours in minutes, thanks to the year-round cable car. Expect spectacular vistas of lush green meadows and thick pine forests.

You’ll also want to see some of the region’s beautiful lakes, among them Lago di Carezza, Lago di Braies and Lago di Caldaro.

Where to stay: for 5-star finery, Castel Hörtenberg is hard to beat. The gardens are glorious, as is the outdoor pool and terrace.

If you're looking for 4-star comfort with the independence of self-catering accommodation, try Art & Design Napura. A 10-minute drive from the town centre, its rooftop spa and pool serves sublime views.

15. Nashville, USA

Why visit: music, food and vintage finds
Temperature: 19°C-31°C (66°F-88°F)
Average daily budget: $200

Given that Nashville is known as Music City, it’s hardly surprising that a major music festival is one of the reasons it’s one of the best places to travel in June. Namely, the Country Music Association’s four-day festival.

Around watching live shows, be sure to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, the Johnny Cash Museum, and RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley recorded over 200 songs.

Even if you’ve come for the music, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Nashville. For example, it's known for its fabulous food scene. Visit Nashville Farmers' Market to scoff local specialties like hot chicken and Southern comfort food.

Nashville isn’t short of cool places to shop either, especially if you’re into vintage fashion. Explore districts like 12South, Hillsboro Village and The Gulch to unearth treasures in boutique shops.

Beyond town, lovers of the great outdoors will want to walk trails in Radnor Lake State Park.

Where to stay: splashing out for a special occasion?The 5-star Hermitage Hotel is something else.

For something more affordable, the 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Green Hills is comfy, and pretty close to town and the airport.

16. Malaga, Spain

Why visit: culture, coastal fun and festivals
Temperature: 19°C-28°C (66°F-(82°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

If you’re looking for a summer vacation destination in Europe that ticks lots of boxes, Malaga is well worth considering. 

From the international Terral music festival and the Argentinian Music Fest, to its annual Japanese Week, the city’s special events are nothing but diverse and exhilarating.

In between concerts, culture vultures will want to visit Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle – magnificent Moorish fortifications that offer stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

You’ll also want to amble the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) and stroll historic Calle Larios. 

Into art? Visiting the Pompidou Centre should be top of your list of things to do in Málaga. It includes works by Bacon, Magritte, Chagall, Kahlo and Picasso. On the subject of the latter, be sure to visit the Picasso’s Birthplace Museum.

Lastly, allow time to explore the coastline around these parts. Follow the surreally seafront promenade El Palmeras de las Sorpresas to the restaurants and shops of Muelle Uno (Pier One).

Just past Málaga’s lighthouse you’ll find the city’s beaches, with Malagueta just a short walk from the centre.

In the market for a shorter trip? Book our customisable weekend getaway in Malaga itinerary, or hone your plan by wising up on the best things to do in Malaga.

Where to stay: located near Guadalmar Beach, Málaga Picasso Hotel punches above its 3-star rating.

Looking for luxury? The 5-star Gran Hotel Miramar should be on your radar.

17. Kumai, Borneo

Why visit: bucket-list wildlife-watching 
Temperature: 25°C-32°C (77°F-90°F)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Politically divided between the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, Indonesia, and Brunei, Borneo is home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests — the ideal habitat for orangutans. 

And, with June-August being the best time to see orangutans in Borneo, wildlife lovers would do well to add this unique destination to their travel wish-list.

As for where to see orangutans in Borneo, you have a few options, with Tanjung Puting National Park — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — being of special note. 

Located in Kalimantan, Indonesia’s name for its share of Borneo, you’ll need to travel to  Pangkalanbun by air and then head to the riverside village of Kumai. 

From here, a klotok (local motorised boat) or a speedboat will take you upriver to the heart of the park. Once inside, you can witness orangutan feeding sessions at one of three park outposts.  

Orangutans aside, the park plays host to proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, civets, sun bears, several species of deer, and 230+ species of bird.

Inspired to visit, but daunted by the prospect of planning? Book our customisable wildlife-spotting in Borneo trip.

Where to stay: try Houseboat kelotok bee or Kelotok Orangutan Tanjung Putin — well-located, well-equipped houseboats.

18. Kotor, Montenegro

Why visit: charming towns, beautiful bays and summer parties
Temperature: 18°C-27°C (64°F-81°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Though still relatively under the radar, Montenegro’s beautiful beaches and elegant coastal towns are rising in popularity. So, you’d be wise to visit sooner rather than later, before the secret gets out.

While it’s hard to pick our favourite place in the county, captivating Kotor is a fine place to start. 

A tangled warren of alleys, with defensive walls more than double the length of Dubrovnik’s, this UNESCO-designated, medieval charmer has countless quaint squares and churches, plus a palace and cathedral.

It’s also within reach of Budva — the undisputed summer party capital of Montenegro. While its waterfront and beaches form a chain of high-energy clubs during high season, Budva also has plenty of historic attractions, and its beaches aren’t half bad either. 

if you're new to the country, read our first-timers guide to Montenegro. Alternatively, take the hassle out of planning by booking our customisable Montenegro Adventure itinerary.

Where to stay: how about bedding down in an elegant 18th-century villa in the UNESCO Bay of Kotor?

On a budget? Montenegro Hostel 4U is fun, friendly and offers amazing views. 

19. Annecy, France

Why visit: soaking up sublime scenery and historic sights
Temperature: 13°C-24°C (55°F-75°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

Known as the Venice of the Alps, Annecy is arguably one of the most beautiful resort towns of the French Alps. It’s certainly one of the most popular, though not nearly as busy as Venice.

Located 50km south of Lake Geneva, and itself set around a beautiful lake, Annecy’s old town is an enchanting tangle of passages and arcaded sixteenth-century houses. 

Come summer, the town is a riot of color, thanks to the canal-side railings that overflow with geraniums and petunias.

As for what to do here, cycle the path around the lake, visit Château d'Annecy, which overlooks the Old Town, and explore the Palais de l’Île — a castle-like building on an island in the Thiou River.

Above all, take it easy as you take in the sublime scenery.

Where to stay: located on the edge of Lake Annecy, most rooms at the 4-star Impérial Palace have a balcony with a view of the lake and surrounding mountains or park.

Meanwhile, charming Hotel du Chateau is located at the foot of the castle, just a few minutes walk to the Old Town.

20. Bermuda, Western North Atlantic

Why visit: glorious beaches, great golf and gorgeous walks
Temperature: 24°C-29°C (75°F-84°F)
Average daily budget: $200

Blessed with countless take-your-breath-away beaches — from classic crescent-shaped coves, to broad bays backed by formidable forts and craggy cliffs — the beautiful Bermudan archipelago is often mistakenly thought of as a Caribbean destination.

Rather, though, Bermuda is isolated in the western North Atlantic Ocean and shares seasonal shifts in weather that are almost akin to parts of Europe.

In June, Bermuda is in full-on summer mode — ideal for enjoying all those beautiful beaches, and for appreciating Bermuda’s natural beauty and history while walking the Railway Trail. 

This ingenious adaptation of an abandoned railroad covers eighteen miles across all areas of the island, from Somerset in the west to St. George’s in the east.

Oh, and with seven outstanding courses to choose from — most of which regularly appear in prestigious “best courses in the world” lists — June is the perfect time to go golfing in paradise.

Where to stay: located in the Somerset area, with cottages overlooking a cute, breath-taking cove, Willowbank Resort is one of Bermuda's more affordable places to stay.

At the other end of the island, the 5-star villas at St George's Club offer amazing views in a great location near historic St George. 

Still undecided? You’ll find more ideas in our month-by-month guide to where to go when.

You might also want to make use of our trip ideas platform.