Summer is the perfect time to take a vacation and explore new places. And if you're looking for some inspiration, here are 10 of the best summer destinations around the world.

1) San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

With its picturesque cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial architecture, San Miguel de Allende is often called one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico. But there are other reasons why you should add this enchanting city to your list of summer travel destinations.

For starters, the weather is perfect during this time of year, with average daily temperatures around 78°F (25°C). Plus, there are plenty of things to do, from art walks and sightseeing to shopping at artisanal markets. And of course, there are also the city's many festivals and cultural events, which make San Miguel de Allende one of the best places to visit in the summertime.

2) Banff National Park, Canada

If you’re looking for a summer destination that offers stunning natural scenery without the harsh, blustery winds of winter, then Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada should be at the top of your list.

As Canada’s oldest national park (established in 1885), Banff is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Great North, from snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes to wildflower meadows and dense forests. And with summer temperatures that hover around a pleasant 68°F (20°C), it’s the perfect place to enjoy all that nature has to offer while escaping the heat and humidity of the city.

3) Ischia, Italy

Ischia is Italy's low-key, worthy alternative to the island of Capri and other saturated destinations on the Amalfi Coast. Located in the Gulf of Naples, approximately 30 nautical miles west of Amalfi, Ischia is a small island municipality with a more relaxed vibe than its celebrity-studded counterparts.

That said, Ischia still has plenty to offer visitors, especially in the summertime. The island is home to nearly 60 natural hot springs, plus several picturesque beaches and Mediterranean-style villages. And with the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea at your fingertips, you'll hardly have to wonder where to visit in the summer without feeling like you’re going to melt!

4) Provence, France

You'll probably smell Provence before you see it. This summertime heaven is blanketed in fields of lavender. Their intoxicating fragrance permeates the air.

But there's much more to Provence than lavender. This southeastern region of France is also home to some of the country's most beautiful countryside, from the rolling hills of the Luberon Valley to the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. And of course, no trip to Provence would be complete without sampling the region's world-famous cuisine, which includes such delicacies as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and nougat.

5) Galway, Ireland

The city of Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland and is one of the country's most popular summer travel destinations. It's no wonder why, with its quaint cobbled streets and medieval architecture, Galway is like something straight out of a fairytale.

But the city is more than just a pretty face. Galway is also home to some of Ireland's best pubs and live-music venues, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish music. Oh, and the Cliffs of Moher are just a short drive away, so you can add this windswept headland steeped in Irish legend to your summer travel itinerary.

6) Edinburgh, Scotland

We have two words for you: Fringe. Festival!

Every summer, the city of Edinburgh comes alive with the world's largest arts festival, attracting performers from all over the globe. But even if you're not in town for Fringe Fest, there's still plenty to see and do in Edinburgh, from exploring the city's medieval Old Town to climbing to the top of Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano with stunning views of the city.

And with average summer temperatures around 68°F (20°C), you can enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer without having to worry about the heat.

7) Bar Harbor, Maine (U.S.)

Bar Harbor is a small town located on the coast of Maine, in the northeastern United States. And while it may not be as well-known as some of the other summer travel destinations on this list, Bar Harbor is worth a visit.

The town is situated on Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. Here, you can hike through towering forests, paddle along a jagged coastline, and enjoy some fresh ocean air. Seafood and maritime culture have a strong presence in the community, too, so be sure to try some of the local lobster.

8) Namib Desert, Namibia

We know what you're thinking: A desert is the last place you want to visit during the summer. But hear us out!

The summer in the U.S. is winter in southern Africa. And in Namibia, average temperatures in July and August hover above a cool 75°F (24°C), with a low chance of rain. It's also an ideal time for wildlife viewing — we're talking black rhinos, springboks, cheetahs, and wildebeest.

More importantly, the Namib Desert is one of the oldest and most fascinating deserts in the world. It's home to Sossusvlei, a salt and clay pan surrounded by some of the tallest copper dunes on Earth. Etosha National Park is also nearby, where you can view even more wildlife in this magical corner of the world.

9) Hoi-An, Vietnam

Hoi-An is a small city located on the central coast of Vietnam. Its old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and traditional culture. But the true showstopper is the vibrant Lantern Festival, which takes place every full moon.

Hoi An is also a great place to enjoy some of Vietnam's best cuisine, from fresh seafood to tasty banh mi sandwiches. Traveling in the summer, you can avoid the crowds of winter and shoulder seasons and enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace.

10) Okinawa, Japan

Were it not for the Karate Kid Part II, Okinawa might not be on your radar. But this small island prefecture, located south of mainland Japan, is well worth a visit for several reasons.

For starters, the weather is tropical, the beaches are beautiful, and there's plenty to see and do, from diving in the underwater ruins of Yonaguni to hiking through the lush knolls of Kume.

And of course, no trip to Okinawa would be complete without trying the local cuisine — dishes like sashimi, soba noodles, and goya chanpuru (a stir-fry made with bitter melon).

Let's Recap

Whether you're looking to escape the heat or simply want to explore a new corner of the world, these ten summer destinations are sure to please. So pack your bags, grab your favorite travel accessories, and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure!