Summer is the perfect time to take weekend vacations! (And get those epic vacation photos for Instagram! Here are the perfect long weekend getaways for summer.
North America
Whistler Canada
One of the best places for a weekend getaway is Whistler from Vancouver, British Columbia on the west coast of Canada. Vancouver is a spectacular city that is nestled on the Pacific Ocean below the North Shore Mountains. In the summer, you have the choice of countless stunning beaches near downtown Vancouver, fantastic restaurants, and endless bike lanes to explore. In the winter, you are mere minutes to amazing skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities.
If that isn’t enough, you can hop in your car and drive a couple of hours to Whistler for even more adventures. First of all, the drive itself is reason enough to leave Vancouver. For most of it, you are hugging mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean or snow-capped glaciers (even in summer) on the Sea To Sky Highway.
Once you arrive in Whistler, you have many options for a wonderful weekend.
In summer, rent a bike and explore all of Whistler on the Valley Trail, a paved 40 km gently undulating path.
Alternatively, you can ride the gondolas to the top of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains to hike and see spectacular views of Whistler and Beyond. Make sure you hop on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola on the top of Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain. This gondola connects the two mountains and is a spectacle of engineering. It holds the world record for the highest point above the ground at 436 meters or 1,430 feet. The ride takes around 20 minutes and the views are breathtaking.
For more thrills, take the Mammoth tour offered by Ziptrek Ecotours. You get to do 10 ziplines on Whistler mountain over enormous valleys, rivers, and stunning forests.
One of the most gorgeous places to stay is at the Nita Lake Lodge. Not only are the rooms beautiful, luxurious, and comfortable, but it offers one of the best patios in Whistler. Whether you are staying there and want to eat their incredible hamburger (with an enormous onion ring on top) on the patio overlooking Nita Lake, or you are biking along the Valley Trail and want a quick cocktail and watch the sunset, there isn’t anywhere better.
Recommended By: Nicole at Go Far Grow Close
Georgia USA
Located in north Georgia, less than 2 hours northeast of Atlanta, is a small Bavarian alpine town modeled after a German village in the Alps, though it is a lot closer to the Appalachian Mountains. Helen, Georgia has less than 600 permanent residents, but you would not know that based on the number of shops, restaurants, and activities there are to do there. Stay right in town at a number of affordable chain hotels, a few blocks from town at the Vahalla Resort, or inside nearby Unicoi State Park. Unicoi State Park has a lodge, cabins, and camping spots available.
Chattahoochee River runs through downtown Helen and is a popular spot for tubing in the summer. Those who want to stay in the water even longer can race down waterslides and relax in the lazy river at Helen Water Park. Lots of hiking and waterfalls are nearby Helen, with the most popular waterfall inside Unicoi State Park. Anna Ruby Falls is actually 2 streams, the tallest being 153 feet high. Anna Ruby Falls can be reached by a .5 mile hike on a paved trail.
Adventurers can ride down the mountain on the Georgia Mountain Coaster, wine lovers can go wine tasting at the wineries around Helen, and everyone can go back in time at the Nora Mill Granary.
Betty’s Country Store is the best place to pick up premade food for a picnic, Hansel and Gretl’s is known for their delicious chocolate candy, and Helen is known for its German food, served at restaurants such as Muller’s Famous Friend Cheese Cafe and Bodensee.
Recommended By: Lanie at Make More Adventures
Illinois USA
If you’re looking for the perfect summer getaway, Chicago needs to be at the top of your list. It’s a vibrant city with a fantastic lakefront, delicious food, and plenty of cultural activities.
Start your Chicago itinerary at Millennium Park. That’s where you’ll find Cloud Gate, affectionately known as The Bean. It’s also the home of the Grant Park Music Festival and several summer concerts and performances.
Next door is one of the best museums in the world, the Art Institute of Chicago. The collections span 5,000 years of history and cover every major medium, as well as different aspects of humanity. When it’s time for a drink, cross the street to Cindy’s Rooftop, at the top of the Chicago Athletic Club. It’s got amazing views overlooking Grant Park.
For dining with a view, stroll the Chicago Riverwalk. Several restaurants line the promenade, and you can get everything from a Chicago-style Hot Dog, a must on any visit to the Windy City, to upscale cuisine from City Winery. There’s often live music at several of the spots along the walk. You can also take a kayak tour and get a unique view of Chicago’s skyscrapers.
There are dozens of hotels in downtown Chicago, and two of the best are Hotel Julian and the Blackstone Hotel. Both boutique properties were designed by the same architect in the 1910s, and today they offer modern accommodations right on Michigan Avenue.
Recommended By: Theresa at The Local Tourist
Maine USA
For a perfect summer getaway, head to Bar Harbor, Maine. The town is cute, and there is plenty to do in the area, including Acadia National Park, which is right next door.
Start the morning with a drive around the 27-mile scenic drive that loops around much of Mount Desert Island. Highlights include Sand Beach and Otter Point. Then head out to the picturesque Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, perched on top of a rocky cliff. This part of Maine is famous for its lobster fishing, and there are plenty of shoreside lobster shacks that make a perfect lunch spot. Archie’s Lobster in nearby Bass Harbor is a good choice.
In the afternoon, head back to Acadia and hike one of the many trails.
Take some time out for popovers, preferably smothered in lashings of butter and jam, at Jordan Boathouse.
Start your second day watching the sunrise from the top of Cadillac Mountain (reservations are needed). Then rent a bicycle in Bar Harbor and ride some of the historic carriageways that were built by Rockefeller almost a century ago. In the afternoon, take a kayak trip and explore the secluded bays and beaches along the rocky shoreline. In the evening, a champagne sunset cruise on a sailing ship around the islands and peninsulas is the perfect way to end your day.
On the third day, hop on a local ferry to the nearby Cranberry Islands and discover a local New England fishing village. Have lunch at an outdoor table at the Islesford dockside restaurant. In the afternoon, take a walking tour around Bar Harbor or spend some more time on Acadia’s hiking trails, before heading home.
There are plenty of accommodation options, but a top pick is the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, a boutique hotel in a replica of the historic Roddick House.
Recommended By: James Ian at Parks Collecting
Michigan USA
If you want to guarantee a place to beat the crowds during the summer the Upper Penisula of Michigan is the place to be. You’ll be surrounded by nature in the middle of nowhere. You can camp, hike, swim, kayak, and will even be a short drive away from waterfalls! Getting to the U.P. will be a bit of a journey. The closest major international airports are Grand Rapids, Traverse City, or Green Bay. From there you will rent a car and drive several hours to the city you want to stay or camp in. Munising and Marquette are two of the best cities to choose as a base because they have access to grocery stores and gas stations while also being close to the best activities.
At the top of your must-do list is the Black Rocks on Presque Isle Park. The views from atop these craggy rocks are stunning. For the thrill-seeker bring your swimsuit and cliff jump! The water is always icy but July and August are when the temps will be the “warmest”. The Sugarloaf Mountains are 10-minutes away from the Black Rocks. You can reach the observation point in two ways. A short but steep 15-minute hike from the Sugarloaf Parking lot or a 3-mile hike roundtrip on the Hogback Mountain Trailhead.
You’ll see great views of Lake Superior and the mountainscape. Before leaving the U.P. you cannot forget about the Pictured Rocks in Munising. They are unique multicolored formations in the cliffs overlooking Lake Superior. Boat and kayak tours are the best ways to see their beauty!
Recommended By: Rachel at Rachels Findings
South America
Rio de Janeiro Brazil
If you’re looking for a weekend adventure slightly further afield, then it’s difficult to overlook the dynamic Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. The city is famous for its carnivals, its dancing and its sandy beaches – but during your weekend in Rio de Janeiro you will have enough time to discover what makes Rio de Janeiro the perfect destination for a long weekend getaway in the summer.
You can start your weekend itinerary in Rio by visiting arguably its most famous sites. Scale up the 396m high Sugarloaf Mountain by taking a ride on the iconic cable car that offers panoramic views of the city below. Then head towards Rio’s most recognizable figure, Christ the Redeemer. While it is possible to hike up to the gigantic statue, on a weekend itinerary it is recommended that you can take the quaint, traditional cog train to the top.
The best area to stay in for your long weekend in Rio de Janeiro is Copacabana. With premier access to the world-famous Copacabana beach, as well as a plethora of bars and restaurants nearby, the Hilton Copacabana is the perfect hotel to stay in.
If you’re looking for a true Brazilian culinary experience, make sure to visit one of the city’s famous Brazilian Grill Houses, a range of traditionally barbecued meats and sausages will be brought to your table. Once you’ve eaten enough, simply turn over the card on your table to tell the waiters that you have had enough.
Recommended By: Ben at Ticket 4 Two Please
Europe
Lyon France
Lyon is the perfect destination for a weekend trip from Paris. It boasts a wide variety of attractions to suit any interest. Plus, you can get from Paris to Lyon via high-speed train in only two hours.
If you love art, you will be amazed at the detailed realism of Lyon’s famous trompe-l’oeil murals. These intricate murals, such as the incredible Mur des Canuts, use entire sides of buildings as their canvas. Admire the gorgeous architecture and decorations of Lyon’s churches and cathedrals, as well as its hilltop basilica.
If you love history, you’ll want to spend some time in Vieux Lyon. Step back in time and marvel at the well-preserved ruins of the Gallo-Roman amphitheater and the Odeon. Be sure to explore some traboules! These are secret passageways that run through Lyon’s buildings. Traboules are a big part of Lyon’s history– used by Romans to fetch water, silk workers to transport goods, and the French resistance in WWII.
Choose a hotel in Vieux Lyon and wander its narrow, crooked lanes – you’ll find a little shop or restaurant around every corner. Another reason to stay in Vieux Lyon is easy to access to Lyon’s best bakery, the Boulangerie du Palais. You’ll adore starting off your day with their luscious selection of pastries!
Make the most of your weekend in Lyon by purchasing the Lyon City Card. This gives you free access to all of Lyon’s public transit, as well as free sightseeing tours and discounts to many top attractions.
Recommended By: Lisa at Waves and Cobblestones
Algarve Portugal
Algarve in the south of Portugal is a perfect place for a weekend getaway from Lisbon. It’s about a 3-hour drive from the capital. The region has everything one needs for a perfect getaway; great weather, beautiful beaches, calm sea, charming beach towns, many restaurants, and cafes. Out of several coastal towns in the Algarve region, Lagos and Albufeira are some of the most popular to come for a short holiday. Lagos is a beautiful beach town that is famous for its spectacular beaches, rugged limestone cliffs, and turquoise color water.
Avenida Hotel is a great place to stay in Lagos. There are many amazing things to do in Lagos such as surfing, kayaking, watching dolphins, sailing, hiking, etc. Albufeira is another popular holiday town in the Algarve. It’s known for its spectacular beaches, charming old town, and the beautiful Marina de Albufeira. Hotel Vila Gale Cerro Alagoa is a great place to stay close to the beach in Albufeira.
Being based in Lagos or Albufeira and doing day trips is the best way to explore the Algarve. On the first day, you can go on a dolphin boat trip in the morning, relax on the beach in the afternoon, and go out for drinks and dinner in the evening. Adega da Marina is one of the most popular restaurants in Lagos. Praia Dona Ana and Praia Porto do Mos in Lagos and Praia da Coelha in Albufeira are great beaches for tanning and swimming.
The second day you can spend driving along the beautiful coastline of the Algarve, stopping in small towns and villages, trying local food. On the third day, you can explore the surrounding area on foot following one of the hiking trails along the cliffs.
Recommended By: Alya at The Algarve Family
Malaga Spain
Malaga is the perfect weekend getaway in Europe. This all-year-round sunny destination has so much to offer – from beautiful sandy beaches to interesting museums and outstanding food.
When you visit Malaga for a short weekend, you cannot miss the opportunity to go to Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress-palace that has beautiful courtyards with scented jasmines and fountains and panoramic views of the city. Although there is a small fee to enter, it’s worth visiting. However, you can also visit it for free on Sundays after 2 pm.
Next to Alcazaba, you can also explore the Roman Theatre, and then head to one of the many incredible museums in Malaga. Picasso Museum Malaga is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in art.
Other things that you may want to include in your two-day itinerary to Malaga are wandering the old town, watching the sunset at Gibralfaro viewpoint, relaxing at Malagueta Beach, and window shopping at Larios Street.
Malaga gastronomy is another reason why you may want to visit this Andalusian city. Although fish is the predominant ingredient, you can also enjoy a good range of meat and vegetable dishes. A good place to try the traditional cuisine is El Pimpi, popular among tourists and locals.
If you are looking for accommodation in Malaga, Room Mate Valeria is a great place to stay. It’s located a two minutes walk from Larios street, Malaga’s main street, and it’s close to the beach and other must-see attractions. Not only is the location perfect, but the hotel offers beautifully decorated and comfortable rooms with views of Malaga.
Recommended By: Cristina at My Little World of Travelling
Palma de Mallorca Spain
Palma de Mallorca is a fantastic weekend destination during summer. Whilst most people choose Mallorca for a long beach holiday, they avoid the capital of the Balearics and head straight to the seaside resorts of the island. But Palma has so many things to offer as well. If you only have a weekend available, visiting Palma would be a great choice. The city is easily reachable from all over Europe, with daily flights from most European destinations.
Palma offers some great boutique hotels where you can treat yourself to impressive rooms, good food, and gorgeous views. One of them is Can Cera, an adults-only hotel in the heart of the old town. When it comes to eating, there are many small tapas bars dotted along the narrow streets of the town. For a more interesting experience, head over to the Mercat1930, a food market with lots of different stalls selling freshly cooked food.
There are plenty of things to do in Palma, starting with visiting the Cathedral, known locally as “La Seu”. During the summer months, the roof of the cathedral is open for visits, and from up there you can have some amazing views over the city. Next to the Cathedral, you will find the L’Almudaina Palace, which is the summer residence of the Spanish Royal Family.
Another interesting thing to do in Palma is to visit the ruins of the old Roman baths, one of the last remaining of the Moorish occupation of the island.
Recommended By: Joanna at The World In My Pocket
Castleton England
If you’re looking for a long weekend getaway for the summer check out Castleton village in the UK. This stunning little village is nestled in the steep hills of the Peak District National Park. Castleton is a quintessential English countryside village. Old brick buildings, small alleyways, quaint gardens, and historic old pubs can be found throughout the village. The long light summer evenings are perfect for enjoying a stroll or a traditional ale in one of the many beer gardens in Castleton.
Castleton is a great spot for trekking, mountain biking, exploring the Caves (Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Cavern are very impressive). Visit the old Castleton road, ruined by a landslide but still open for trekking. You can also visit the panoramic Peverill Castle. A ruined 11th-century castle situated on a hill overlooking the village. Cavedale makes for an impressive walk into the hills. If you visit Castleton, don’t miss the epic Winnats Pass. This is a steep road running up a deep valley in the hills. Also don’t miss the mounds on Mam Tor – these are ancient iron age forts.
Castleton also boasts some fine British food. Don’t miss The Castleton Fish and Chip Shop. Also, we highly recommend The Castle Pub for a traditional English roast dinner. Tillys of Castleton is also a top spot for an English afternoon tea. If you’re looking for accommodation with charm then check out The Peak Hotel. If you’re looking for a good trek in the Castleton area check out The Backpacking Family
Recommended By: Pete at The Backpacking Family
Inverness Scotland
Exploring the Highlands is a must when visiting Scotland! From the gorgeous lochs and majestic mountains, its scenery is unbeatable! Spead a weekend in Inverness, soaking in its beauty. Seriously, Scotland is such an underrated country. You will not be disappointed when you visit.
Culloden Battlefield is one of Scotland’s most famous sites. It is 11 euros to explore the battlegrounds and there is a museum to walk around inside. A memorial stands in the middle of the battleground as well as many ‘clan stones’. Most clan stones are in the very middle, but some are scattered throughout the grounds.
Scotland and Loch Ness just go together. We had the amazing opportunity to take a cruise down Loch Ness to Urquart Castle. We went through a company called Loch Ness by Jacobite. Tickets are available online or at the Loch Ness visitor center and are 22 euros per person (adult).
Oceania
Bright Australia
Bright is in the hills north-east of Melbourne Australia is a popular destination for weekend getaways. Located in an Alpine Valley, Bright comes into its own in the summer and autumn months when the temperatures rise and Autumn foliage sparkles. Any visit to Bright must include a visit to Mount Buffalo Chalet, a heritage-listed building constructed in 1910 on one of Victoria’s first places to ski. There are a number of short and long bushwalks starting from the chalet and the nearby alpine Lake Catani is picturesque.
Food and Beverages play a big part in the region with many farms, wineries, breweries, and distilleries. After trying all the amazing beverage options you can have a great Thai meal at Suganya’s Restaurant or the upmarket Koji Bird. For those looking for a quick bite, the famous Beechworth bakery has amazing pies and cakes. Many people come to Bright for a weekend to go bike riding. For those looking to do some shopping, Bright has many small boutiques selling local fashions and homewares
The Murray to Mountains rail trail runs for over 100 kilometers and passes through Bright. For Mountain bike enthusiasts the Mystic Mountain bike park challenges all levels of ability. There are a number of caravan parks that have pitches for tents, vans, and cabins for rent. The top Choices are Big 4 Bright and Discovery Parks Bright. The High County Motor Inn close to the center of Bright has a well-appointed room with a pool onsite. A few days in Bright is all about spending some time in the Victorian High Country. Bright is located 2.5 hours north of Melbourne Australia.
Recommended By: Mark at Explore Victoria
Kangaroo Island Australia
When you are in Australia, have Kangaroo Island (or KI) on your list as a fantastic long weekend getaway. Sitting off the coast of Adelaide, Kangaroo Island is a wildlife and gourmet food experience location all wrapped up in one.
Spend your first day on the eastern end of the island based in Penneshaw, near the ferry terminal. It is the perfect base to explore the island’s food and wine scene. Take in coastal views at Dudley Wines or Bay of Shoals Wines. Kangaroo Island Distillery, The KI Lavender Farm, and Clifford’s Honey Farm are all nearby. The eco-luxury tents at Kangaroo Island Seafront Holiday Park are great accommodation.
On day two drive to the island’s west coast and experience what Kangaroo Island is best known for – wildlife. Walk through Flinders Chase National Park and spot kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, echidnas, and goannas. Visit Raptor Domain for the Birds of Prey show featuring free-flying eagles, hawks, and falcons. And you must stop at Seal Bay to see the thousand-strong sea lion colony. Western KI Caravan Park is the ideal spot to stay. There is a lot of wildlife in the park too.
A great finish to your long weekend getaway is visiting Emu Bay on the north coast. The beach is stunning, and you can go on a dolphin cruise from the local jetty. There are plenty of dolphins around, and in winter you might spot whales. Emu Bay Holiday Homes is a great place to stay.
Recommended By: Natalie & Steve at Curious Campers
Maui Hawaii
While you could spend months exploring Maui, it would also make for a perfect destination for a long weekend. Consider basing yourself in Paia, a small beach town with lots of surf vibes, or Lahaina, on the western side of Maui with a huge array of accommodations. During the first day of your trip, drive the famous Road to Hana, a 64-mile road that winds through some of the lushest jungles, past waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more tropical fruit stands than you can hit in one day.
Make sure to try Ae’s Thai Kitchen, a food truck dishing up mouth-watering Thai cuisine in Hana, before retracing your way back. On your second day, grab an acai bowl at Paia Bowls and spend time chilling at the beach- if you’re staying in Paia, Kaulahao Beach is a tranquil option, where you’ll have a good chance of spotting turtles. A little before noon, head to Haleakala National Park, which not only has some amazing hiking trails but also happens to be the world’s largest dormant volcano (over 10,000 feet tall!).
Hike down into its crater along the Sliding Sands Trail, where you’ll trek past colorful cinder cones and stunning lava rock formations. Before you leave, you can watch the sunset from above the cloudline. If you have time the following morning, squeeze in a snorkeling tour to the partially submerged Molokini Crater, where you’ll have a great chance of spotting sea turtles or even dolphins! Your action-packed trip to Maui will simply leave you wanting to come back for more.
Recommended By: Jessica at Uprooted Traveler
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