Top 11 Summer Vacations Travellers Are Booking Now

Hello, sunshine! 🌞  We know it’s been one long winter, but we’re just about ready for those extra special summer vacations. With the peak travel season about to start and restrictions easing up all around the world, we’re feeling that zest for life again.

At Flytographer, we help capture your special milestones and greatest adventures through the magic of photography. We have local, on-the-ground vacation photographers in 385+ destinations around the world who can’t wait to meet you. 

For example, let’s say you are going on a family vacation in Italy this summer (wow – a dream! 🍝). You could meet Roberta in Rome for a photo session where you will walk around the best places to take photos in Rome and get insider, local tips on the best restaurants close to your hotel, and return home with priceless memories of your trip that you can put on your walls and look back on for years to come.

Right now, we’re currently seeing a surge in vacation photoshoot bookings for this summer. Excited as we are, we thought of sharing some of the major trends with you on what are the top 11 vacation spots travellers are already booking for their summer vacation photoshoots. Have you ever wondered what the most popular vacation destinations will be after the pandemic? Here are the top cities travellers have booked their vacation photoshoots for during the sunny summer months of June through August.

Photo: Spyros in Santorini for Flytographer. Molly and their partner celebrate their honeymoon in Santorini with a couple photoshoot.

#11. London

Well-known for its fog and rainy days, London is not the first place to come to mind when one hears the words “best summer vacations.” Still, 2% of our summer bookings so far were made in the home of The Big Ben. 🇬🇧 

In London, summers are short, but they’re pleasant. Londoners and tourists alike can enjoy various options of outdoor activities, from having a pint at a rooftop bar, to watching a flick on an outdoor cinema, to visiting all of the best London photo spots.

Is the sun out and shining? What better excuse to enjoy London’s gorgeous parks? Leafy, flower-packed, and with large grassy areas, they are equally perfect for couples as they are for family vacations. Kids will love the abundant animal life, including ducks, geese, and swans. Sometimes you can even catch the eye of a more exotic bird making its way to the lake. Keep an eye and see if you can spot the majestic black swan.

For couples, going rowing on the lake before a picnic on the grass can be pretty romantic, don’t you think? 💕

While in London, leave some time to see great art in the city’s countless museums and galleries. They offer special exhibitions during the summer holidays. The hottest months of the year are also great for live music festivals. If you visit in late August, check the colourful and lively Notting Hill Carnival, London’s annual Caribbean fest. 🎉

Photo: Jimmy in London for Flytographer. Omonele and their family capture memories on a trip to London with a family photoshoot.

Photo: Flytographer in London. Maci and their family capture memories near the London Eye in London with a family photoshoot.

Photo: Hector in London for Flytographer. Karen and their family capture memories in Covent Garden & Piccadilly in London on a family photoshoot.

#10. Charleston

Are you looking for the best of two worlds? Charleston, South Carolina, is the answer. With that typical Southern charm, this American city is the perfect summer destination, and it offers from historical architecture to natural beauty. We vote for curling up on the couch, finding a quaint Airbnb in Charleston and getting started on trip planning.

Charleston’s picture-perfect downtown is flanked by 18th-century mansions and colourful homes that will make your photos come to life! Throughout the city, you’ll find plenty of options for vacation rentals, including beach houses and cabins to fit every personality and style preference. 🏡 

On Folly Island, just south of Charleston, sits Folly Beach. It’s an excellent spot for you to curl your toes in the sand or stroll along the beach pier. There’s a historic lighthouse that makes a perfect backdrop for your photos. You’ll also get to see some wildlife if you’re lucky: dolphins sometimes greet visitors near the shore. 🐬 

Photo: Kelsey in Charleston for Flytographer. Monty and their family capture memories on their trip to Charleston with a family photoshoot. 

Photo: Flytographer in Charleston. Christina and their friends celebrate their graduation in Charleston with a friends photoshoot. 

#9. New York City

New York City is America’s greatest multitasker. It’s world-famous for pretty much everything, and you could spend many lifetimes trying to experience everything the Big Apple has to offer. 🍎 Famous architecture like the Flatiron Building, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, and more make up this iconic skyline that greets you as you cross into bustling Manhattan, and the magic of New York is an unforgettable experience each and every visit. 

From crisscrossing the city from Manhattan to Brooklyn to Queens via the subway to discovering world-famous art installations and stumbling upon incredible street art, to picnicking in the sunshine ☀️ at Central Park in the summertime – it’s no wonder New York City is number 9 on our list! For more tips on the Empire State’s pride and joy, check out our complete guide to NYC or find all of the best photo spots.

Photo: Amanda in New York City for Flytographer. Kirby and their partner celebrate their engagement in New York City with a surprise proposal photoshoot at Central Park.

Photo: Armando in New York City for Flytographer. Allie and Sam capture memories together in New york City with a couple photoshoot at the Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO.

#8. Dublin

Like London, cloudy and rainy Dublin might not be the most obvious choice for a summer getaway. However, with mild temperatures and less rainfall, the season is the perfect time of year to visit the Irish capital. ☘️ 

Summer means longer days and more time for outdoor activities. Locals usually spend their rare sunny days at St. Stephen’s Green, a park in the city center that still maintains its original Victorian layout. There are typically open-air performances in the park, from music to theatre and poetry, making it the perfect spot to lie on the grass, have a picnic, and enjoy the spectacle.

 Dublin has a longstanding literary tradition. 📕  The city was the home to famous scholars and writers throughout history, from James Joyce to Oscar Wilde. Trinity College is an absolute must-visit, mainly because of its magnificent Old Library building. On the inside, the place feels like something out of Hogwarts, and it will make you feel you were back in the 18th century.

Dublin is also well known for its fantastic nightlife. The pub-to-person ratio here is probably higher than anywhere else in the world, and the Irish are a remarkably welcoming bunch. So, just relax, grab a pint of Guinness and be ready to make some new friends down at the pub. Cheers! 🍻 

Photo: Vanessa in Dublin for Flytographer. Idhally and their partner celebrate their engagement in Dublin with a couple photo session. 

Photo: Vanessa in Dublin for Flytographer. Nikol and their family captures memories in Dublin on their family vacation.

#7. Venice

Venice received 3% of our current snapshot of summer photo shoots. While the city is stunning all year round, summers probably offer the best weather to visit. Temperatures are more moderate than in other parts of Italy, and the bright sunny days will last longer. Naturally, tourists from all over the world flock to the floating city during this time. 

Still, there are many ways to escape the crowds, and not everything happens around the Grand Canal, where the city is most crowded. For a different and more relaxed experience, head to the island of Giudecca or to Castello Sestiere. Both have a vibrant yet more local vibe. 

If you fancy a dip in the sea, take a Vaporetto and head to the glamorous Lido beach, which inspired great masterpieces of Italian cinema and was once the resort area for the wealthy and famous in Europe. The beach is pristine, with loungers and parasols available for rent. You’ll also find beachside bars and cafes in the area where you can relax under the shadow of a terrazzo. ⛱ 

While in Venice, the classics are always a good idea. So we suggest you go on a gondola ride for a different perspective of the city and then look for a delicious, cold Italian ice cream to refresh. 🍦

Visit our top photo spots in Venice for more tips!

Photo: Marta in Venice for Flytographer. Stephanie and their partner celebrate their anniversary in Venice with a couple photoshoot at San Marco at the viewpoint of San Giorgio Maggiore.

Photo: Marta in Venice for Flytographer. Doreen celebrates her birthday in Venice with a Modern Headshot photoshoot at the Ponte di Rialto.

Photo: Matteo in Venice for Flytographer. Michael and their partner celebrate their anniversary in Venice with a couple photoshoot at Cannaregio.

#6. Positano

In 6th place, with 3% of our summer bookings, is the pearl of the Amalfi Coast, Positano. The “vertical city” of pastel-coloured buildings facing turquoise-blue waters becomes even more lively during those summer vacations. Positano is also the site of what’s considered one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, Spiaggia Grande.

Even if things can get a little busy, there are always ways to beat the crowds and make the best of this summer paradise. From a boat, the views of Positano are genuinely breathtaking. Why not venture off the solid ground to enjoy the day’s hottest hours surrounded by clear waters? 🛶

Strolling through Positano’s narrow streets and alleyways is always a pleasure. Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for a more relaxed and authentic vibe. On a warm summer night, head towards the shore and sip on some cold limoncello on a terrace, enjoying the gentle breeze from the Tyrrhenian Sea.

 Remember: Positano is also an excellent base for road trips and scenic drives along the Amalfi Coast, so leave some free time to explore the region. You’ll surely understand the true meaning of when Italians say La vita è Bella! 😁

Visit our ultimate guide to Positano for more travel tips!

Photo: Barbara and Claudio on the Amalfi Coast for Flytographer. Karma and their partner capture memories on the Amalfi Coast with a couple photoshoot in Positano Village.

Photo: Mary and Maurizio on the Amalfi Coast for Flytographer. Ryan and their partner celebrate their engagement with a surprise proposal photoshoot in Positano Village.

#5. Rome

With 4% of our summer photoshoot bookings, Rome is also very popular during summer. Still, since it’s peak season in the city, it’s always good to have a few hacks in mind to escape the crowds.

For instance, try sightseeing in the early morning. The Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Piazza Navona all look magical with the first rays of the sunlight. Here’s an idea for something different: why not tour the Colosseum at night? After dusk, the place becomes quieter, and, under the moonlight, it becomes even more solemn. 🌙 

Rome’s parks are also an excellent option to relax and refresh from the heat. Perhaps the most outstanding are the gardens at Villa Borghese, close to the Spanish Steps. The gardens date from the 17th century and show the perfect combination of nature and Roman art. If you’re feeling energetic, you have options of several rentals for activities at the main gates, including rollerblading and cycling. 🚲

The city’s art and culture scene move outdoors during the summer months. You can head to the margins of the Tiber River to see many live performances or book a special opera show happening open air against ancient ruins. Then, head to a rooftop restaurant, gorge yourself on fine Italian dining and end the evening with a Coffee Granita — shaved ice with coffee on top and a bit of cream — a quintessential Roman summer treat. 😋 

Visit our list of non-touristy Rome travel tips for more!

Photo: Francesca V. in Rome for Flytographer. Suzanne and their family capture memories in Rome with a family photoshoot at the Colosseum.

Photo: Guido in Rome for Flytographer. Malaisha and their partner celebrate their honeymoon in Rome with a couple photoshoot at the Roman Forum.

#4. Jackson Hole

Summer is time to get back to nature, and 5% of our summer bookings are in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The region is perfect for those who want to get out on the rough. Sitting near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, the valley is famous for its unparalleled natural beauty in every photo spot.

Wildlife is abundant, the region is home to elks, moose, eagles, and bears, and they all live with a stunning backdrop of imposing rocky mountains, pine tree forests, wildflowers, and lakes of clear waters. There are countless activities, like sleeping on campgrounds, hiking trails, horseback riding, kayaking, rafting, or biking in the mountains. ⛰

If you’re in for a road trip, the region has some of America’s most beautiful scenic drives.

Photo: Madison in Jackson Hole for Flytographer. Caroline and their family capture memories on their family vacation with a photoshoot.

Photo: Peter in Jackson Hole for Flytographer. Polly and their partner celebrate their trip to the Grand Tetons with a couple photoshoot.

Photo: Peter in Jackson Hole for Flytographer.  Kyle and their partner celebrate their engagement with a couple photoshoot. 

#3. Santorini

An old small town built on a cliffside of a volcanic island, with windmills, whitewashed buildings, and blue dome churches framing unforgettable views of the Mediterranean sea and the neighbouring islands. No wonder why, with 9% of our summer bookings, Santorini comes in third place on our list. What more could you ask for a perfect summer gateway?

Get lost in the city’s meandering cobbled alleyways and discover Santorini’s unique architecture marked by white painted buildings contrasting with the deep indigo blue sea. Foodies will enjoy several options of restaurants, from local tavernas serving Greek cuisine to world-class fine dining options — there’s no shortage in sophistication here. 

Winemaking is a millennia-old tradition on the island, and you’ll find some picturesque wineries offering wine-tasting tours here and there. 🍷  Where the sea meets the cliffs, both on the west coast and the east coast, there are several beaches of warm waters, and some have an Instagram-worthy twist: can you picture yourself basking by the sea on black-coloured sand?

For an unforgettable European summer, it’s indeed very tough to beat this Aegean gem. Check out our ultimate guide to Santorini for more travel tips!

Photo: Kimon in Santorini for Flytographer. Brandon and their partner celebrate their engagement with a surprise proposal photoshoot in Santorini.

Photo: Kimon in Santorini for Flytographer. Evan and their family capture memories in Santorini with a family photoshoot in Imerovigli Village.

Photo: Spyros in Santorini for Flytographer. Heather and their partner capture memories on a trip to Santorini with a couple photoshoot.

#2. Paris

Besides its world-famous museums, fantastic boutiques, and starred restaurants, Paris is also well known for its wealth of parks and gardens that offer plenty of outdoor activities, events, and festivals during the summer months. Coming second on our list, with 12% of our bookings, is the City of Lights!

One word: picnics! Grab a baguette with some brie cheese, maybe a champagne bottle, and head to one of the many Parisian parks.🌳  The Jardin Du Luxembourg is great for families. They organize puppet shows, pony rides, and other child-friendly activities during the summer months. The Jardin Du Tuileries, between the Louvre and the majestic Place the la Concorde, is a great stop before or after a photo session by the Louvre Pyramid. Of course, Champ de Mars, with its privileged views at the feet of the Eiffel Tower, is also a must-visit. All these will make your Instagram feed pop with beautiful memories.

During a nice summer day, a cruise on the Seine or a walk along its margins offer new perspectives and details of Paris — no matter how many times you do it, it’s always breathtaking. 

Summer is also great for day trips around the city. Head to the Versailles Palace and Gardens to feel like royalty or Monet’s Garden to feel like you’re inside an impressionist painting. Back in the city, reserve some time to sit back and relax in one of the many Parisian cafes, enjoying a chilled glass of wine and celebrating life.  

In summer, like winter, autumn, or spring, Paris C’est Magnifique! See our ultimate guide to Paris for more travel tips!

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Katherine and their family capture memories in Paris with a family photoshoot. 

Photo: James in Paris for Flytographer. Elizabeth and their partner capture memories with their family in Paris.

#1. Hawaii

With a whopping 20% of summer bookings, the first place on our list is the land of endless summer, where beaches of unrivalled beauty are everywhere. We can’t argue; Hawaii truly makes for the perfect summer getaway! 

With a perfect mix of city life and nature, tropical Honolulu offers from history and culture to beaches and watersports. The city welcomes everyone. If you’re new to surfing, for instance, the calmer summer waters of Waikiki Beach are a great place to pick up a surfboard and catch some waves — you can even go vintage style with a longboard. Petty stylish, hun? 🏄‍♀️

Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, is often considered the most beautiful. In the lush green landscape stretched between two large volcanoes, you’ll find waterfalls, beaches, and exhibits of the fascinating Polynesian culture.   

Did you know that the island of Kauai is actually the tip of a submerged volcano? 😮 That’s what makes it so fertile. The island boasts an incredible diversity in nature and landscape, something that’s utterly respected, treasured, and protected by locals until today.  

Kona is a hit for eco-adventures, snorkeling, and scuba diving. There are also tiny art enclaves spread across the Big Island that show curious visitors the best of local arts and crafts. 🎨  Anywhere in Hawaii during summer, there’ll be lively events, from food and wine festivals to respected cinema competitions and ukulele concerts.

It’s like what they say: Hawaii is not a state of mind but a state of grace. 

Photo: Natalie in Honolulu for Flytographer. Hayley and their family capture memories in Honolulu with a family photoshoot.

Photo: Natalie in Honolulu for Flytographer. Montoya and her family capture memories in Honolulu with a photo session.

Capturing memories on summer vacations

As usual, sandy beaches and national parks are on most people’s bucket lists as favourite getaways in North America and abroad. This year, we’re also seeing a renewed interest in spending the good ol’ summertime surrounded by sublime history and architecture. At least 50% of summer bookings are in European cities which is up 20% from the present moment. 

Are you ready for a walk in the sunshine? From Hawaii to the Mediterranean Sea, from Canada to California, in 385+ cities worldwide, booking a local Flytographer in your chosen destination will help you make the best of your summer holiday with a special photo session. 📸