You may not even be on Spring Break yet, but Summer 2025 is approaching like a Shinkansen (that’s a not-so-subtle hint about what’s in the Top 10). Don’t worry! There is STILL time to plan the perfect vacation. Travel trends are taking shape that reflect travelers’ insatiable global wanderlust. From the Caribbean to Croatia, Kingdom and Cruise Travel is ready to help you plan the perfect summer trip. Check out the TOP 10 Summer Travel Destinations for 2025 below and get in touch with me or one of the many other travel experts at KCT to book your summer vaca today!
TOP 10 Summer Travel Destinations for 2025
1. Greek Islands
Beyond the Acropolis of Athens, out in the Ionian and Aegean Seas, lie hundreds of Greek islands to explore. Pick one and immerse yourself or island hop to sample a few! You will find some of the best beaches in the world, from the pink sands of Elafonissi in Crete to the dramatic Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos. Embark on a culinary odyssey sampling fresh seafood, cheese and local wines on islands like Naxos, Santorini and Symi.
Behold some of the most amazing views like the iconic white-and-blue villages of Mykonos or the lush greenery of Corfu. Explore ancient ruins and mythological sites like the Minoan Palace of Knossos on Crete and the Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes. Whatever your travel goals are, there is a Greek Island to fulfill them!
2. Alaska, USA
Alaska lives up to its name – The Last Frontier. If you ever wondered what untouched wilderness looks like – this is it. Alaska offers outdoor adventures, majestic glaciers, diverse wildlife, National Parks, and unique experiences like dog sledding and gold panning. Summer is an ideal time to experience the state’s natural beauty because of the amount of daylight. During the summer solstice, the sky may never get dark. Whether you decide to cruise, travel by car and rail through the interior, or a combination of the two, Kingdom and Cruise Travel can plan an itinerary that is just right for you.
3. Japan
One of the hottest destinations for US tourists right now is Japan. Japan offers an incredible mix of tradition, modernity, natural beauty, and culinary excellence. Explore centuries-old temples and traditional tea houses in cities like Kyoto and Nara.
Then experience the urban life in Tokyo and Osaka with futuristic architecture and high-tech exhibits like Teamlab Borderless. Travelers have a chance to feel fully immersed in the culture with experiences like calligraphy classes, manga workshops, stays in traditional ryokans, sumo demonstrations, sushi-making courses, samurai shows, tea ceremonies and more.
With an extensive network of shinkansen (high speed bullet trains), you can be enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji in the morning and strolling through Kyoto’s geisha district in the afternoon. Plan for at least 2 weeks in this fascinating country and let Kingdom and Cruise Travel Advisors plan your ideal itinerary.
4. Disneyland in Anaheim, CA
This summer is the perfect time to visit Disneyland! Disneyland has something for everyone – bring the family, go on a girls’ trip, or make it a couple’s getaway. Beginning May 16th, Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration will begin.
This anniversary honors Walt Disney’s original vision and the evolution of the park. It will include special parades, nighttime spectaculars, and themed attractions that blend nostalgia with modern innovation. While you’re there, southern California makes a great destination to explore so be sure to check out our article on the Top 5 Day Trips from Disneyland, California.
5. A Mediterranean Cruise
How does combining an all-inclusive luxury experience with sight-seeing in the top European cities sound? A Mediterranean cruise allows just that! Visit multiple countries in a single journey without the hassle of airports or constant packing. Itineraries in the Western Mediterranean will stop at ports in Spain, France and Italy. Eastern Mediterranean cruises will stop in Greece, Turkey and Croatia. When you’re not strolling on Las Ramblas in Barcelona or soaking up history at the Colosseum, you get to enjoy all-inclusive amenities, from fine dining to world-class entertainment on your ship. Kingdom and Cruise Travel recommends Royal Caribbean International’s many Med itineraries. Reach out to me or one of the other experienced agents to find out about special deals offered exclusively to our clients.
6. Croatia
With its crystal-clear waters, UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout its historic towns, and stunning islands, Croatia offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Visitors can sail along the Adriatic Sea, explore ancient cities like Split and Dubrovnik, and enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-split-croatia-FEELGOODDEST1224-4e76c10ed1c447ccb76c8f743bc83740.jpg)
Croatia offers great value compared to Italy, France, and Spain, so you can soak up a coastal European experience with budget-friendly accommodation and food, especially in Croatia’s smaller towns and islands. Adventure seekers also have plenty to do here like sailing on the Adriatic, hiking and cycling on island trails and in National Parks, diving & snorkeling among shipwrecks and underwater caves, and white water rafting on the Cetina River.
7. All-Inclusive Beaches and Sandals Resorts
Many people consider the Caribbean a Winter or Spring Break destination and they aren’t wrong! However, the perfect time to travel to the Caribbean to take advantage of low crowds and great pricing is the summer. Kingdom and Cruise Travel recommends Sandals & Beaches because they are recognized by Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and TripAdvisor as some of the best all-inclusives in the world.
The resorts are located in beautiful Caribbean destinations like: Jamaica (Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios), Bahamas (Exuma, Nassau), St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Grenada, Curaçao and Turks & Caicos (for Beaches Resorts). In addition to gourmet meals and premium liquor, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding are all included. If turquoise water, powdery white sand, and stunning tropical landscapes are what you are after this summer, then reach out to a Kingdom and Cruise Travel agent. We have special group rates available!
8. East African Safari
The summer months are the best time to see The Greatest Show on Earth, aka the Great Migration. This migration event of millions of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles takes place in Tanzania’s Serengeti & Kenya’s Masai Mara as the animals move in search of water and fresh grass.
June–September is the dry season in this region, which means animals gather around waterholes & rivers, making them easier to spot. The less dense vegetation allows clearer visibility for safaris and higher chances of spotting Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo. Check out our Beginner’s Guide on Planning an African Safari then give us a call to help plan this bucket list adventure! It’s not too late to book a 2025 safari.
9. Iceland
With nearly 24 hours of daylight in June and July, you will have more time for adventures in this country where Geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes are all in one place. Do the Golden Circle in one day and hit all the must-see sights like Thingvellir National Park and Gulfoss.
Spending a half day at the Blue Lagoon where you can enjoy the warm geothermal heated waters, a drink at a swim-up bar, a spa treatment and a Michelin starred restaurant, Moss. Summer is the perfect time to see Icelandic wild horses, whales off the coast, and puffins nesting. This otherworldly landscape is perfect for adventure seekers with hiking, kayaking among icebergs, horseback riding, ice cave exploration and even snorkeling between tectonic plates. Reach out to Kingdom and Cruise Travel with help planning a self-drive or a guided tour!
10. Australia
Our summer is Australia’s winter and that means lower crowds and prices! The iconic spots are easier to visit, like the Sydney Opera House, the Great Ocean Road, and Uluru in Australia’s red center. To the north, the Great Barrier Reef & Cairns will still have warm weather with much less rain and few insects making hiking in the rainforests much easier, and with fewer stingers making your Barrier Reef swim more pleasant.
Go off the beaten path to places like Uluru in Australia’s red desert center or head south to Tasmania for beautiful winter landscapes. Australia’s vibe is friendly and casual, making for a relaxing yet adventure-filled summer vacation.
Which of these travel destinations is at the top of your list? Let us know in the comments! Reach out to a Kingdom and Cruise Travel agent today for expert itinerary planning.
- By Kingdom and Cruise Travel Advisor Alli Matthews