The Best Summer Vacation Ideas for Every Type of Traveller in 2026

Summer Vacation Ideas

Not every traveller wants the same summer. Some book a trip for warm weather and sandy beaches. Others want a trail that earns the view. Some wish to eat their way through a city, and others just want their whole family in one place to create memories together. The best summer vacation ideas start with knowing what kind of traveller you are. ☀️

We asked our trusted community of travel advisors to share the summer destinations they keep recommending for the upcoming season, organized by the type of traveller each place serves best.

At Flytographer, we’ve been capturing memories in the places travellers love since 2013, connecting people with trusted local photographers across 350 destinations worldwide. We’ve captured over six million memories for 100,000+ travellers who wanted more than a phone snap. Today, we asked our travel advisor community to share their favourite summer vacation ideas, from sun-soaked coastlines to mountain summits and candlelit dinners abroad.

Jump in:

1. The Sun Seeker: Greek Islands, Algarve, Dubrovnik
2. The Adventure Lover: Reykjavik, Lucerne, Banff
3. The Foodie: Paris, San Sebastián, Montreal
4. The Family Memory Maker: Provence, Tofino, Kyoto
5. The Romantic: Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Marrakech
6. The Intentional Traveller: Lisbon, Edinburgh, Ljubljana
7. The Milestone Celebrator: New York City, London, Barcelona

Photo: Spyros in Santorini for Flytographer. Michelle and partner capture memories in Greece on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Sun Seeker

Travels for warmth, water, and long, unhurried days.

Algarve, Portugal

Valerie Edman, the founder of Cultured Travel recommends, “Stay at the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa, an exceptional Relais Chateau boutique hotel right on the beach with a strong sense of place.” Spend your days between beautiful beaches and the 7 Hanging Valleys trail for endless clifftop Atlantic views.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in the Algarve →

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Carolyn Kulb is the founder of Windward Path, a Seattle-based agency specializing in luxury honeymoons, milestones, and family travel. Carolyn says, “Choose a suite at Villa Dubrovnik for the ultimate luxury escape, while still being a 15-minute walk to the historic Old Town.” Explore the ancient stone streets in the evening, when the lamplit alleyways are yours alone. 

Capture memories with a local Dubrovnik photographer →

Greek Islands

There is a reason Greece keeps landing on every summer travel list. Sheena Carducci is the founder of Unmatched Travel by Sheena, a Mediterranean-focused travel advisor. Sheena says, “My go-to is Canaves Oia Suites in Santorini. Book the Panorama Balcony, a single candlelit table on a private cliffside terrace overlooking the Aegean.” Then hop to Paros for quieter sandy beaches and golden hour that doesn’t quit.

Capture memories with a local Santorini photographer →

Photo: Kimon and Alexandra in Santorini for Flytographer. Angela and partner capture memories in Greece on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Adventure Lover

Travels for movement, fresh air, and landscapes that earn every photograph.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Erin and Brett are the founders of Expedition Everywhere Travel, designing journeys that go well beyond the guidebook. Erin says, “Hotel des Balances puts you right in the centre of Old Town, with terraces looking out over the Reuss River.” Take the world’s steepest cog railway to the summit of Pilatus, then ride the gondola down through Kriens. Summer brings hiking, toboggan runs, and for the boldest, paragliding with the Alps as a backdrop.

Capture memories with a local Lucerne photographer →

Banff, Canada

Allyson Bauer is the founder of The Ally Escape Co. and a travel advisor with Fora Travel. Allyson says, “Book Fairmont Banff Springs, full stop. It is one of the great hotel settings on earth.” This national park delivers: Lake Louise earns every photograph, Moraine Lake is arguably more dramatic, and the Icefields Parkway is one of the finest scenic drives in North America. Kayaking Moraine Lake at dawn is the kind of moment you never forget.

Book a photoshoot with a local Banff photographer →

Reykjavik, Iceland

Addie Ashby is the founder of The Travelers Ledger, designing intentional travel experiences. Addie says, “Just a short drive from Reykjavik is the Panoramic Glass Lodge. Think dark sky, hot tub, and northern lights.” For outdoor adventures, visit Midgard Base Camp and jump onto a Super Jeep day trip through rivers, mountains, and glacial ice.

Book a photoshoot with a local Reykjavik photographer →

Photo: Ernir in Reykjavik for Flytographer. Brad and Garrett capture memories in Iceland on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Foodie

Plans their days around markets, meals, and long lunches. 

San Sebastián, Spain

Erin and Brett say San Sebastián belongs on any list of summer vacation ideas for food lovers. Erin says, “Hotel Londres y de Inglaterra is a 19th-century landmark overlooking the bay. Wake up ready to eat your way through one of Europe’s most seriously delicious cities.” Begin with a gilda at Paco Bueno, try grilled octopus at Atari Restaurant, and finish at La Viña with their legendary Basque cheesecake.

Book a photoshoot with a local San Sebastian photographer →

Montreal, Canada

Erica Jones is the founder of Elevated Occasions, specializing in luxury food and beverage travel for over 10 years. Erica recommends, “Stay at The Four Seasons Hotel Montreal. Enjoy exceptional dining at Marcus.” Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets and cafes add a European quality to any summer trip, and the city’s festival season fills every evening with energy.

Capture memories with a local Montreal photographer →

Paris, France

Heather Grodin is the founder ofLe Voyage Travel Experiences, designing fully custom journeys throughout Europe and Hawaii. Heather recommends, “The Grand Hotel du Palais Royale in the 1st Arrondissement, just steps from the Louvre. As a smaller property, the level of service is unmatched.” A private food walk through Le Marais uncovers artisan chocolatiers and bakeries with stories behind them. Pick up a few things from a boulangerie and picnic along the Seine.

Capture memories with a local Paris photographer →

Photo: Leo in Paris for Flytographer. Nadia and family capture memories in France on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Family Memory Maker

Cares less about a full itinerary and more about shared moments together.

Tofino, Canada

Kelsey Hollander is a luxury travel designer for TBN Travel Curators, specializing in European and domestic travel. Kelsey says, “Tofino is the perfect escape for a family, with beaches to explore and hikes amongst the trees.” Kids love the small jumper plane to Vancouver Island, and whale watching is a highlight for all ages. Settle into Wickaninnish Inn, where the suites let families spread out.

Capture memories with a local Tofino photographer →

Kyoto, Japan

Irene Ribé with Fora Travel specializes in trips for couples and families, using points and regular bookings to create standout experiences.Irene says, “Stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto. Take a family e-bike tour with Noru Kyoto through popular and hidden parts of the city.” Nishiki Market is the perfect lunch stop, and a quick family photo shoot overlooking historic Kyoto captures the whole trip in one frame.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in Kyoto →

Provence, France

Carolyn Kulb recommends splitting a family vacation between Provence’s lavender fields and the French Riviera. “The Four Seasons Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat has impeccable service and a legendary kids’ club with a pirate-themed playground in the woods.” Nature, coastline, and family-friendly luxury make Provence one of the most rewarding summer vacation ideas for families.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in Provence →

Photo: Andrea in Provence for Flytographer. Tatiana and family capture memories in France on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Romantic

Travels to reconnect, celebrate, or simply be together.

Lake Como, Italy

Michelle Belcher is the founder of Archer Escapes, specializing in luxury honeymoon and romance travel. Michelle says, “Villa d’Este in Cernobbio is the grande dame of Lake Como. Request a room in the Cardinal’s Building for direct garden access and uninterrupted views over the floating pool.” Skip Bellagio’s main piazza for dinner and take the ferry to Varenna. Ristorante Il Cavatappi is half the price and twice as charming.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in Lake Como →

Marrakech, Morocco

Erin and Brett recommend Riad El Fenn for couples. “Hand-painted tiles, shaded terraces, plunge pools. It is deeply Moroccan and deeply comfortable in equal measure.” Book a couples’ hammam, then let the medina unfold at its own pace: spice markets, carved doorways, the call to prayer at dusk. Marrakech asks you to slow down, and the couples who do leave with something unexpected.

Capture memories with a local photographer in Marrakesh →

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Heather Grodin loves booking couples into Le Sirenuse in Positano. “The views are breathtaking, the service is incredibly thoughtful, and there’s an effortless elegance that feels both luxurious and intimate.” La Sponda is one of the most romantic settings on the coast, with hundreds of candles lit each evening. A private boat day drifting past Positano, Praiano, and Capri is the kind of summer vacation idea couples remember most.

Capture memories with a local photographer on the Amalfi Coast →

Photo: Chiara on the Amalfi Coast for Flytographer. James and partner capture memories in Italy on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Intentional Traveller

Travel to fewer places with deeper experiences.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Kelsey Hollander calls Edinburgh one of her personal favourites and a standout among summer vacation ideas for depth over speed. “Filled with interesting history and lore, a castle, and easy day trips, it’s perfect for the intentional traveller.” Book The Balmoral, an iconic historic hotel walking distance to Old Town. Stroll the Royal Mile, try a whisky tasting, and add a day trip to the Highlands for natural beauty and a shift in pace.

Capture memories with a local photographer in Edinburgh →

Ljubljana, Slovenia

One of Europe’s most charming hidden gems, Ljubljana is a small-town capital designed for the intentional traveller. The car-free centre wraps around the Ljubljanica River, where cafes spill onto cobblestone embankments and a medieval castle watches from above. Take a day trip to Lake Bled for mountain views and one of the most photographed spots in Central Europe. It’s a laid-back summer vacation idea that surprises everyone who visits.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in Ljubljana →

Lisbon, Portugal

Jacqueline de Guzman is the founder of Voyavie, a bespoke luxury travel consultancy. Jacqueline says, “AlmaLusa Baixa & Chiado is ideal for those who want to be fully immersed in the rhythm of the city.” Wander Alfama’s narrow streets, linger over wine and petiscos, and catch a fado performance in an intimate setting. Lisbon is one of the most rewarding summer vacation ideas for travellers who prefer presence over pace.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in Lisbon →

Photo: Claudia in Lisbon for Flytographer. Sondra captures memories in Portugal on a summer vacation photoshoot.

The Milestone Celebrator

Travels to celebrate milestone birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries.

London, England

Margaret Critz, the founder of For the Good Times Travel, says, “For a milestone trip to London, I frequently recommend The Savoy. The lobby tells its own stories, with an impeccable sense of glamour.” Ask about time with the hotel’s archivist, who shares the property’s history in remarkable detail.

Book a photoshoot with a local photographer in London →

Barcelona, Spain

Lauren Quirk is the founder of Travel With Character, a boutique luxury agency for modern families. Lauren recommends, “Monument Hotel offers a refined, centrally located base along Passeig de Gràcia.” Explore Gaudí’s masterpieces, take a guided tasting tour through La Boqueria, and ride the Montjuïc cable car for sweeping views. Barcelona has the energy and sense of occasion a milestone deserves.

Capture memories with a local photographer in Barcelona →

New York City, USA

Irene Ribé recommends the Waldorf Astoria for classic New York energy or the Park Hyatt for proximity to Central Park. “Rent bikes and ride through Central Park, walk the High Line, check out Chelsea Market, and finish with drinks at the Baccarat Bar.” Add a comedy show at the Comedy Cellar and let the city’s live music scene carry the evening. New York remains one of the best summer vacation ideas for groups marking a big moment.

Capture memories with a local photographer in NYC →

Photo: Kari in New York City for Flytographer. Erika and partner capture memories in NYC on a summer vacation photoshoot.

Capturing Memories This Summer

However you travel this summer, the moments that matter most are worth holding onto. Book a Flytographer shoot in any of our 350+ destinations worldwide and come home with wall-worthy photos that bring the whole trip back. 📸