Every year (well, the years not impacted by a global pandemic, obviously), more and more people seem to choose to take their summer holidays a little earlier. Why? Well, you’ll have to ask them, everyone is different, but the lure of fewer crowds, lower prices and slightly less-scorching weather is clear. In the northern hemisphere, June is summer but not quite “July and August” summer, while the temperatures in the south are also on the more bearable side of the ledger. We’ve compiled a collection of the best places to travel in June, although there is no such thing as a bad choice. How do the islands of Portugal, the seascape of Seattle and the beaches of Fiji sound? You don’t need to answer that…
1. Seattle, USA
Whether you come for sightseeing, the famous chewing gum wall or the incredible great outdoors, Seattle’s distinct identity draws crowds from far and wide. The city’s fun-loving side is usually on full display in June as the artsy Fremont Solstice Parade. Other highlights include orca spotting in Puget Sound or sniffing out the costly-but-coveted Copper River salmon at Pike Place Market (only available from May until mid-June).
2. Fiji
June is technically Fiji’s winter, but temperatures still hover in the mid-twenties, and this “cool” weather makes for seriously epic sunsets. The archipelago’s turquoise waters are particularly clear at this time of year, ideal for snorkelling and diving. Viti Levu’s outer islands are a top choice for experienced divers looking for a liveaboard trip, while the Mamanucas boast calm seas and beautiful coral reefs. Resorts are getting busier, but you’re still likely to find a better deal than you would in July or August.
3. Langkawi, Malaysia
It’s technically the rainy season on Malaysia’s west coast in June, but showers on Langkawi are short-lived, and sunshine often prevails. The main benefits of coming here in the shoulder season? Deserted attractions and bargain hotel stays. Popular Pantai Cenang beach is much quieter in June, while pretty Tanjung Rhu (which is far from the tourist hubs) can be practically empty. Take the cable car to the Skybridge on a blue-sky day for unforgettable jungle views.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
In the past, the cramped Old Town streets of Prague in summer have tended to provoke whispers of “overtourism”. If you venture away from the main hubs, you’ll find there’s plenty to see beyond Charles Bridge and the (tourist-proofed) Lennon Wall (although they’re still worth an early morning gander). June is not yet the apex of tourist season, but benefits from beautiful weather and (in regular years) a slew of delectable festivals, including the largest ice cream fest in Central Europe.
5. Zadar, Croatia
Truth be told, you aren’t going to be able to avoid the crowds in Dalmatia during the summer. You can barely avoid them during the spring. If you want to visit the Croatian coast in quieter times, pack that windbreaker and head here in winter. Still, Zadar and June are a gorgeous combination.
6. Zambia
Zambia’s dry and bright conditions in June are ideal for wildlife spotting in the 3500 square-mile South Luangwa National Park, and one big bonus; mosquito numbers dwindle as the landscape dries out. Walking safaris were first pioneered right here, allowing you to get up close to the region’s flora, identify the dusty prints of baboons, hyenas, or even leopards and see just how gargantuan African elephants really are. If that’s not enough excitement, make a beeline for Victoria Falls, where you can bungee jump over the Zambezi.
7. Boston, USA
America’s Walking City is at its most walkable during the summer, and the mass of street festivals attest to that, while concerts and other sporting events are a constant throughout the month. There’s also the small matter of whale watching, which is never a bad thing.
8. Azores, Portugal
As if the Azores weren’t idyllic enough already, in June, these verdant volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic burst with colour as copious wildflowers come into bloom. The island of Flores (meaning flowers) is the best place to spot them, but Parque Terra Nostra on the main island of São Miguel is just as captivating and a real treat for botany fans. You also stand a decent chance of spotting whales and dolphins in the wild, as the widest variety of cetacean species is migrating through these waters.
9. Copenhagen
June is a great time to make the trip to Copenhagen, as arguably Europe’s most stylish city comes alive in a blur of street festivals. The live music schedule is packed during the middle months meaning there’s plenty of choice for gig-hunters, while the Photo Festival showcases some of the finest photography from the other side of the lens. Copenhagen’s weather is arguably at its most enjoyable in June, which is reason enough to schedule a visit for this time.
10. Scottish Highlands
Time to get rugged. Nowhere in the UK does ‘rugged’ as naturally as the Scottish Highlands, but even the rough terrain of these northern behemoths takes a break in June. The sun even makes a brief appearance here during June, making it the perfect time to explore as much of the region as possible without having to make a break for shelter at every turn. Eagle-eyed visitors might even get to spot a dolphin or two frolicking in the waters.
