These Cities Are the Best Places to Go in the Summer

City breaks and summer go hand in hand — whether you’ve got a week or a weekend to explore, traveling during the summertime means you can make the most of better weather, longer days and seasonal events. We’ve rounded up the best places to go next summer when it comes to the world’s cities, whether you’re after a seaside escape, national parks, lively days and nights, or looking to beat the heat.

What Are the Best Cities to Visit in the Summer? 

San Francisco, California 

Summer in San Francisco is considerably cooler than other Californian cities, primarily thanks to ‘Karl the Fog’, the marine layer of fog that rolls in off the Pacific ocean. Cooler temperatures (between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C) mean that, so long as you pack appropriate layers, you can get plenty of exploring done — from hiking in the nearby Muir Woods, outdoor festivals throughout the season, or cycling over the Golden Gate bridge.  

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka  

Heading inland to the highlands of Sri Lanka during the summer is the surest way of escaping the heat that comes in along much of the country’s coast, with comfortable temperatures around 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). Though it’s monsoon season, mornings are often clear and bright — and it’s these rains that nourish the lush landscape that is at its greenest during this time of the year, while the mist that rolls in creates a scenic atmosphere. If the weather isn’t playing ball, visit one of the many tea plantations and treat yourself to high tea. 

Oulu, Finland 

Image credit: Rosa Ruuskanen, Visit Oulu

Found on the western coast of Finland, Oulu is the 2026 European Capital of Culture, an annual title that highlights the richness and diversity of European cultures. Instead of snow, sleds, huskies, Oulu instead offers sea views, lakes and forests, with plenty of saunas and cycle lanes in between. Summer brings plenty of outdoor activities and long days (22 hours near the June solstice), plus the most important event of the year: the annual Air Guitar championships, held on the last weekend of August. 

Banff, Canada 

Banff is a great entry point for the Rocky Mountains

There is truly no shortage of things to do in Banff during the summer between June and August. Stay in the city as a base to explore the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains National Park, which will be covered in wildflowers along the hiking routes. Walk it at your own pace, canoe through the turquoise lakes, or take a drive along the Icefields Parkway. If you were ever going to take a dip in Banff’s glacial lakes, summer is the time — though be warned, they are by no means anything other than freezing. 

Edinburgh, Scotland 

Scotland isn’t known for its weather, but Edinburgh is one of the best places to go this summer thanks to two iconic events: the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. At the Fringe festival, which runs for over three weeks throughout August, world class theater, comedy and other performances take place throughout the city. Running during a similar period, the annual Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a famous annual outdoor show of music, dance and military display. 

Lisbon, Portugal 

Like much of western Europe, peak summer can see high temperatures edging past 35°C (95°F) on particularly hot days – but the Atlantic breeze keeps this coastal Portuguese city fresh, with temperatures usually ranging between average highs of 28°C to 30°C (82–86°F). That means ample time to soak up long, sunny days sipping Porto Tónico at sunset.  

New York City, United States 

Summer is when New York City comes alive across its parks, rooftops and beaches. The USA’s largest city practically lives outdoors with free festivals, open-air cinemas and musical performances, with series such as SummerStage, Celebrate Brooklyn and Summer for the City. Just remember pack for the humidity with fans, sprays and appropriate clothing.  

Which Cities Offer the Best Summer Weather for Travelers?  

Deciding on the best places to go in summer depends on what kind of climate you’re after. A season often defined by hot, sunny days, some travelers would rather escape the heat with a ‘coolcation’. Cities like Copenhagen, Bergen, Edinburgh or Tallinn stay relatively cool while still seeing plenty of sun — in Nordic countries in particular see exceptionally long days, while temperatrues remain around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Heading to higher ground like highlands or mountains, be it Scotland, Switzerland or Sri Lanka, will always ensure cooler temperatures than sea level — there might be chance of a little more precipitation though, so check the weather before you pack.

Bergen, Norway is a great choice for seizing long summer days while beating the heat

However, plenty of people want to make the most of the warm weather, in which case much of western Europe is on the cards — heading to a city near the coast offers the chance to cool off, such as San Sebastian, Split, Porto and Palermo.  

What Can You Do in the World’s Top Summer City Destinations?  

Summer is the time of year when longer days and good weather show a more lively side to many destinations. If you’re heading to the city in the summer, one of the best things you can do is get outside and explore with a walking tour to help you get your bearings. If you’re somewhere like New York City, Paris, London or many of Europe’s other large cities, check local events to see if there are any open-air performances you can attend while you’re there. If you’re headed to the coast to cities like Lisbon, Barcelona or Vancouver, pack your swimsuit and head to the beach. Wherever you are, check for local markets as summer is a bountiful time for local produce. 

Vancouver offers a beachside city break