Our Favorite Summer Destinations

Summer is an exciting times to explore Europe. Long days, vibrant cities, outdoor dining, and breathtaking landscapes create unforgettable travel experiences. But it's also one of the busiest times of the year. At Vacations by Jillian, we believe that with the right planning, summer travel can be both seamless and extraordinary. Here are some of our favorite destinations to recommend during the summer months and why they continue to top our clients' wish lists.

Great Britain & Ireland

If you're looking for a destination with more comfortable temperatures and incredible scenery, Great Britain and Ireland are hard to beat. Unlike many Mediterranean destinations, summer here tends to be milder, making it ideal for sightseeing, walking historic cities, and exploring the countryside. We especially love planning self-drive itineraries through Ireland or the Scottish Highlands, giving you the freedom to discover charming villages, dramatic coastlines, and hidden gems at your own pace. Summer also brings lush green landscapes and longer daylight hours, allowing you to fit more into each day.

Italy

Italy is always in demand, but summer requires thoughtful planning. With major destinations making headlines—especially around the Vatican and other iconic sites—having an expert itinerary makes all the difference. We help our clients choose accommodations in the right locations and recommend coastal areas that offer easier accessibility and a more enjoyable experience during peak season. Whether you're dreaming of Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Lakes, or Sicily, knowing where to stay and how to navigate busy areas allows you to spend less time waiting and more time experiencing Italy.

Switzerland

Switzerland truly shines during the summer months. The snow has melted from many hiking trails, alpine adventures are in full swing, crystal-clear lakes invite swimming and boating, and charming mountain villages come alive with outdoor cafés and festivals. One of our favorite things about Switzerland in summer is the extended daylight, giving travelers more time to enjoy scenic train rides, mountain excursions, and breathtaking landscapes without feeling rushed. It's the perfect destination for travelers who love nature, active adventures, and spectacular scenery.

Spain & Portugal

Summer is when Spain and Portugal come alive. Beautiful beaches, picturesque coastal towns, vibrant outdoor markets, and evenings spent dining al fresco create the perfect vacation atmosphere. Whether you're exploring Portugal's Algarve coastline or discovering Spain's charming seaside villages, these destinations offer an incredible blend of relaxation and adventure. Warm weather makes it easy to enjoy everything from hiking and water activities to leisurely afternoons at local cafés before ending the day with unforgettable sunsets by the sea.

Iceland

Summer in Iceland offers an entirely different kind of magic. While it isn't the season for viewing the Northern Lights, travelers are rewarded with the famous Midnight Sun, where daylight stretches well into the night and sometimes never fully disappears. We always recommend packing a sleep mask so you can enjoy a restful night's sleep despite the endless daylight. Summer also tends to bring more stable weather conditions, making it one of the best times to safely self-drive around the country and experience waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal hot springs at your own pace.

Summer May Be Busy - But That's Where We Come In

Summer is one of the most popular times to travel, but careful planning makes all the difference. We begin working with our clients well in advance to secure the hotels, experiences, and guided tours that often sell out months before departure. We partner with trusted tour operators who know how to maximize your time, helping you avoid long waits and navigate busy destinations more efficiently.

Most importantly, we take the time to understand what's important to you. Whether air conditioning is a must, accessibility is a priority, or you'd rather spend less time in lines and more time exploring, we build every itinerary around your travel style. Those details are what transform a vacation into a truly stress-free experience.

Start Planning Your Summer Adventure

The best summer vacations begin long before you board the plane. In fact, the ideal time to start planning is during the summer or fall before the year you want to travel—typically between June and October. Planning early gives you the best selection of hotels, experiences, and availability in Europe's most popular destinations. If summer in Europe is on your travel wish list, now is the perfect time to start the conversation.

We'd love to help you create a personalized itinerary that fits your travel style and lets you experience the very best of the season. Click below to schedule a consultation.

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