Best Vacation Destinations in June 2026: Sea, North & Mountains

In our opinion, June is the very best month for a holiday – the summer school break hasn’t started yet, destinations aren’t overrun with tourists, and prices are friendlier than in high season. On top of that, you get pleasant weather without the extreme heat you’d have to endure in July and August. That’s exactly why so many of the best vacation destinations in June feel calmer and cheaper right now.

If you’re wondering where to go on holiday in June, we’ve put together an overview of the most interesting places where you’ll enjoy a great start to summer, whether by the sea or somewhere else entirely.

TL;DR

• The best vacation destinations in June:
  • By the sea: Crete, Morocco, Menorca, Mallorca, Sicily, the Turkish Riviera, Bulgaria, Albania, Portugal’s Algarve and Croatia
  • For an active holiday, choose: Jordan or Slovakia

• The main advantages of a June holiday:
  • Lower prices compared to high season (up to 50 % less)
  • Less crowded beaches and sights
  • Pleasant temperatures (25–30 °C) and warm sea (22–24 °C)
  • Minimal rainfall in most seaside destinations
  • Ideal conditions for an active holiday too

Where it’s warmest in June: sea temperature table

Most holiday articles work with numbers taken straight from tour operator brochures. We did it differently. We calculated air temperatures, the number of rainy days and hours of sunshine from the ERA5 climate reanalysis over ten years (2015 to 2024), and sea temperatures from an ocean model covering 2019 to 2024. These are real averages you can verify.

The table is sorted from the warmest sea, so the top rows are a safe bet and the bottom third is more of a gamble. In June the leaders are Dubai at 33.2 °C, Muscat at 32.7 °C and Ha Long (Vietnam) at 31.6 °C.

If the sea isn’t your main draw and you’d rather be on your feet, this second table shows where June serves up the ideal temperatures for cities, hikes and sightseeing.

💡 Tip: June is the sweet spot of the whole season: the sea is already warm, but the holiday-season prices haven’t kicked in yet. Browse the latest accommodation deals and aim for dates before the school year ends.

12 of the best vacation destinations in June

We’ve picked out 12 places worth heading to on holiday in June.

Crete

The largest Greek island offers ideal conditions for a holiday in June. On Crete in June, temperatures hover around a pleasant 27 °C, which is perfect both for swimming in a sea of around 22 °C and for exploring the island. June weather on Crete is also very stable with minimal rainfall, letting you make the most of your holiday.

Crete offers a colourful mix of things to see – you can follow the traces of the ancient Minoan civilisation at Knossos, visit the romantic Arkadi Monastery, or walk around the island of Spinalonga with its fascinating history. Nature lovers will find gorgeous beaches such as Falassarna, Stalos or the exotic Vai with its palm grove.

A big advantage of a Crete holiday in June is the friendlier prices compared to high season, plus emptier beaches and tourist attractions. You can calmly soak up the magical atmosphere of Crete’s little towns or head to one of the lesser-known beaches that are often packed in high season.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Arina Beach Resort

Morocco

Morocco is a destination where European, African and Arab influences meet. In June, conditions here are ideal for discovering all of its charms, from historic cities through the Atlas Mountains to the sandy beaches along the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

June weather in Morocco is very pleasant, with average temperatures around 26 °C and practically no rainfall. The sea reaches a comfortable 22 °C.

Morocco will win you over with its variety – you can visit the historic royal city of Fez with its labyrinth of alleys, explore Al Hoceima National Park with its traditional Berber villages, or head into the Béni Snassen nature reserve with its stunning wilderness.

A great advantage of a June holiday in Morocco is the far smaller number of tourists, which gives you a more authentic experience when visiting the traditional markets known as souks, where you can taste local specialities or buy unique handmade souvenirs. Morocco is also an excellent choice for a June holiday thanks to the friendly prices of accommodation and other services.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Riad Albakech House

Menorca

Menorca, the second-largest of the Balearic Islands, is the ideal spot for anyone looking for a quieter Mediterranean holiday. In June you can look forward to pleasant temperatures around 27 °C, a crystal-clear sea of 22 °C and very little rainfall. This weather is perfect both for swimming and sunbathing on one of dozens of gorgeous beaches and for exploring the island.

Menorca proudly holds UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, a testament to the uniqueness and preservation of its nature. You can visit the S’Albufera des Grau nature park with its mighty cliffs, the fascinating Cova d’En Xoroi cave that turns into a bar and nightclub after dark, or the prehistoric Navetas burial mounds.

A June holiday on Menorca lets you enjoy this magical island before the crowds arrive. You can calmly explore its picturesque towns, romantic coves with turquoise water, or set off on one of the Camí de Cavalls hiking trails that circle the entire island.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Hotel Moon Dreams Marina Parc

Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a popular holiday destination with something for everyone – from gorgeous beaches and mountains to lively nightlife and rich history.

In June, Mallorca offers an ideal climate with average air temperatures around 24–28 °C and a sea warmed to 22 °C. During this period there are fewer tourists on the island than in July and August, meaning you can enjoy all its charms without the crowds.

Mallorca is much more than just beaches – you can visit the magnificent La Seu cathedral in the capital, Palma, take a trip into the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains, or discover charming villages such as Valldemossa and Deià. The island’s coastline is lined with beautiful beaches and coves with crystal-clear water.

June is ideal for an active holiday on Mallorca – you can go cycling, hiking, golfing or take up water sports. At the same time all the tourist attractions and theme parks are open, so families with children will have a great time too. On top of that, accommodation and other services are noticeably cheaper than in high season.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Ferrer Janeiro Hotel & Spa

Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, has thanks to its strategic location been a crossroads of civilisations for centuries – something reflected in its rich architecture, cuisine and traditions.

June weather on Sicily is very pleasant – temperatures hover around 26 °C, the sea sits at a comfortable 21 °C and the island is bathed in sunshine. Although the statistics show higher rainfall, it’s concentrated at the start of the month and usually comes as short showers.

Sicily offers an endless array of highlights – you can admire the Etna volcano, explore the historic city of Palermo with its architecture, or visit the enchanting town of Taormina with its Greek theatre and stunning views. History lovers will appreciate a visit to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento or the Norman cathedral in Cefalù (a UNESCO site).

A June holiday on Sicily lets you enjoy the island before the main wave of tourists and the summer heat arrive. You can comfortably explore historic towns, taste local specialities in traditional trattorias or relax on one of the beautiful beaches without the crowds. On top of that, June sees many traditional festivals and celebrations across the island.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Case Vacanza Loria

The Turkish Riviera

The Turkish Riviera, roughly 200 kilometres of coastline between the cities of Antalya and Alanya, is one of the most popular Mediterranean destinations. It combines gorgeous beaches, excellent service and rich history at very friendly prices.

In June, the Turkish Riviera already sees genuinely summery temperatures around 34 °C, the sea is a comfortable 25 °C and rainfall is minimal. It’s the ideal time for sun and heat lovers who want the certainty of beautiful weather while still avoiding the extreme temperatures of high summer.

Alongside its gorgeous beaches, the Turkish Riviera offers plenty of other attractions – you can visit the impressive Manavgat waterfalls, go shopping at traditional markets, or explore ancient sites such as the theatre in Aspendos or the ruins of Side. Families with children will appreciate the amusement and water parks, such as Sealanya Dolphinpark.

The main advantage of a June holiday on the Turkish Riviera is the friendly prices – you can enjoy a luxurious all-inclusive stay in a five-star resort for a fraction of the cost. Another bonus is the smaller number of tourists.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Oba Star Hotel

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay on your June holiday

6 places to stay — wellness hotels, resorts and more

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🌲 Resort

Arina Beach Resort

Recommended accommodation on Crete, where June brings pleasant temperatures around 27 °C and you can enjoy swimming in a sea of around 22 °C.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏨 Hotel

Riad Albakech House

A traditional riad in Morocco, ideal for an authentic experience while visiting the traditional markets and tasting local specialities.

★★★★ Check prices

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Hotel Moon Dreams Marina Parc

Accommodation on Menorca, an island listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. June is the ideal time for a calm holiday before the main tourist rush.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability ⭐ Luxury

Ferrer Janeiro Hotel & Spa

A wellness hotel on Mallorca with plenty of scope for an active holiday – cycling, hiking, golf and water sports. Theme parks for families are open too.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏡 Guesthouse/B&B

Case Vacanza Loria

Accommodation on Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean. In June you can comfortably explore historic towns and relax on beautiful beaches without the crowds.

★★★★ Check prices

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Oba Star Hotel

A hotel on the Turkish Riviera with excellent value for money. In June you can grab a luxurious all-inclusive stay at friendly prices before peak season.

★★★★ Check prices

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Jordan

For lovers of history, culture and out-of-the-ordinary experiences, we recommend Jordan. This Middle Eastern country offers a mix of historic sites, natural beauty and the healing waters of the Dead Sea.

June is the ideal time to visit Jordan, before the extreme summer heat arrives. Temperatures hover around a pleasant 29 °C and rainfall is practically zero. Thanks to the drier climate the heat is more bearable too, letting you comfortably explore the historic sites.

Jordan will win you over with its treasures – you can visit the ancient rock-cut city of Petra, one of the New Wonders of the World, or head into the Wadi Rum desert with its fascinating red sand dunes. A unique experience is a swim in the Dead Sea, whose highly salty water keeps you afloat and has healing effects on the skin.

In June there are far fewer tourists in Jordan than in the spring months, which are considered high season here. You can calmly soak up the atmosphere of the historic sites or relax by the Dead Sea without the crowds. On top of that, accommodation and other services are friendlier on the wallet. The only downside can be the higher temperatures in the desert areas, but with activities planned for early morning and evening hours, it’s not a problem.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Desert Magic Camp & Resort

Bulgaria

Bulgaria has returned to the spotlight in recent years, above all thanks to its beautiful beaches, friendly prices and quality service. The Bulgarian Black Sea coast offers holiday fun for all ages.

In June, Bulgaria enjoys pleasant summer weather with temperatures around 24–28 °C and a sea warmed to 20–22 °C. This period is ideal for anyone who wants to combine swimming with sightseeing, since the temperatures aren’t yet as high as in high summer.

Bulgaria offers a colourful range of activities – you can sunbathe on one of the long sandy beaches of Sunny Beach or Golden Sands, visit historic towns such as Nesebar (UNESCO) or Sozopol, or head into the nature parks and mountains inland. Families with children will find water parks and entertainment centres.

The biggest advantage of a June holiday in Bulgaria is the friendly prices – for a fraction of the cost of Western European destinations, you can enjoy quality accommodation, tasty food and pleasant service.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Apartment Tourist Complex Rose Village

Albania

Albania is still an undiscovered gem of the Mediterranean for many travellers. This small Balkan country has gorgeous beaches with crystal-clear water, fascinating history and untouched nature – all at very friendly prices.

June weather in Albania is ideal for a holiday – temperatures hover around 25–30 °C, the sea is a comfortable 21–23 °C and rainfall is minimal. It’s the perfect time both for swimming and for exploring the country.

You can swim on gorgeous beaches such as Drymades or Ksamil with their white sand and turquoise water, visit historic towns such as Berat and Gjirokastër (UNESCO), or head into the mountains and national parks inland. History lovers will appreciate the ancient sites of Butrint or Apollonia.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Vila One Beach Hotel

Portugal’s Algarve

The southern Portuguese region of the Algarve is a pearl of the European coast. Here you’ll find gorgeous beaches framed by cliffs, a pleasant climate, excellent food and an atmosphere that wins you over instantly.

In June, the Algarve offers ideal conditions for a holiday – temperatures hover around 22–26 °C, the sea is a comfortable 19–21 °C and the weather is stable with sunny days. Although the sea may still be a little cool for some, it’s an ideal time to combine swimming, exploring the region and even a bit of surfing.

The Algarve offers much more than just beaches – you can explore towns such as Lagos or Tavira, visit the Ponta da Piedade rock formations, or take a trip inland with its traditional villages and vineyards. The region is also a paradise for golfers, with dozens of top-class courses.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey

Croatia

Croatia has long been one of Central Europe’s most beloved seaside destinations, and for good reason. It offers a gorgeous coastline with crystal-clear water, ancient towns steeped in history and breathtaking nature – all within easy reach for European travellers.

In June, Croatia enjoys pleasant summer weather with temperatures around 23–27 °C and a sea warmed to 20–22 °C. This period is ideal for an active holiday, as the temperatures are pleasant both for swimming and for trips and sightseeing.

Croatia offers countless ways to spend a holiday – you can relax on one of the beautiful beaches of Istria or Dalmatia, visit historic towns such as Dubrovnik, Split or Zadar, or head into one of the national parks such as Plitvice Lakes, Kamenjak or Krka.

🏠 Accommodation tip: LOCUS Dubrovnik

Slovakia

For those who prefer mountains over the sea or don’t want to travel long distances for a holiday, Slovakia is an ideal choice. It boasts beautiful nature, thermal spas, historic towns and a pleasant atmosphere.

June is the ideal time for an active holiday in Slovakia – temperatures hover between 20–25 °C, nature is in full bloom and the days are long, letting you make the most of hiking and other activities. What’s more, the summer bathing season is officially open in the thermal water parks and lidos.

You can go hiking in the High or Low Tatras, visit beautiful historic towns such as Košice, Banská Štiavnica or Levoča, or relax in one of the many thermal spas. Families with children will find water parks, theme parks and other attractions.

🏠 Accommodation tip: Thermia Palace

Where to head to the sea in June: more destinations that are already warm

If you head to southern Europe right at the start of summer, you’ll be making the best possible decision, in my view. The sea is usually already very pleasantly warmed by the spring sun, but the resorts aren’t yet bursting at the seams under a wave of holiday crowds. You’ll have far more room on the beaches and in the popular historic alleyways.

Beyond the peace and quiet, you’ll definitely appreciate the financial side too, because flight and hotel prices haven’t yet hit their holiday peak. That means you can treat yourself to nicer accommodation or invest the savings in trips around the area. Let’s take a look at the places travellers rave about most in this season.

Cyprus

The island of the sun already has high-season parameters at the start of summer, so you can expect genuinely hot days and a warm sea. Travellers rave about the resort of Ayia Napa, where daytime temperatures climb to 29.1 °C, drop to 21.5 °C at night and the water is a luxurious 25.5 °C. The sun shines here for an impressive 13.7 hours a day and it rains on average just 1.1 days a month.

If you’d rather explore ancient sites, locals recommend heading to the Paphos area. Here it’s 27.8 °C in the day, 20.6 °C at night and the sea is a lovely 24.8 °C. You’ll enjoy a full 13.9 hours of sunshine a day and rain will surprise you only about 1.4 days, so you can safely leave the umbrella at home. If you’re considering a holiday in Cyprus, June is reportedly the absolute ideal month.

💡 Accommodation tip: Nissiblu Beach Resort in Ayia Napa

Malta and Gozo

Malta is a great choice for those of you who want to combine swimming with strolls through historic towns. Reportedly only an absolute minimum of rain falls here, with statistics showing an average of just 0.9 rainy days. During the day, temperatures on Malta hover around 26.9 °C, and evenings at 21.4 °C are very pleasant for sitting outside.

The sea is a refreshing 23.4 °C and the sun shines 13.6 hours a day, leaving plenty of room for boat trips and a visit to the neighbouring island of Gozo. According to reviews, a June holiday in Malta is great because you won’t collapse from the heat while exploring the sights in Valletta, as commonly happens in August.

💡 Accommodation tip: The Embassy Valletta Hotel in Valletta

Rhodes and the Greek islands

Greece offers enormous variety, and each archipelago has a slightly different climate. If you’re after the certainty of hot weather and a warm sea, travellers clearly advise heading to Rhodes. Here you’ll measure 29.0 °C in the day, 22.1 °C at night and the water is a lovely 24.2 °C. The sun warms things up 13.9 hours a day and it rains just about 1.1 days. Kos is similar, with daytime temperatures reaching 27.4 °C, nights of 21.8 °C and a sea of 23.2 °C (rain 1.3 days, sun 13.8 hours).

The Ionian islands in the west are a touch greener, which brings a slightly higher chance of spring showers. On Zakynthos, for example, it’s a hot 29.2 °C during the day and 21.1 °C at night, the sea boasts 24.0 °C, but rain appears on average 2.9 days a month (sun shines 13.5 hours). Corfu offers daytime temperatures of 27.4 °C, 20.9 °C at night and water of 22.7 °C, though it rains around 4.1 days a month. For more tips on when to go to Greece and how to choose a holiday on Rhodes, be sure to check out our detailed guides.

💡 Accommodation tip: Lindos Mare, Seaside Hotel on Rhodes

Sardinia and Corsica

The islands of the Mediterranean will thrill every lover of wild nature and gorgeous beaches that sometimes look like the Caribbean. On Italy’s Sardinia you’ll enjoy beautiful summer days with average temperatures of 28.5 °C, while the nights, at 18.8 °C, are ideal for sleeping without needing the air conditioning on. The sea warms up to 22.3 °C and you should count on about 4.1 days of rain (sun warms things up 13.6 hours). Locals warmly recommend touring Sardinia by car in this season.

Neighbouring France’s Corsica is a bit more mountainous and greener. During the day it’s usually 27.1 °C, the nights are cooler at 17.5 °C and the water is a pleasant 23.0 °C. The chance of rain is a little higher here, with showers appearing on average 6.0 days a month, but the sun shines a beautiful 13.7 hours. If rugged nature appeals to you, be sure to read our guide on Corsica, because June is absolutely perfect for hiking in the local mountains.

Montenegro

If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to the crowded resorts, Montenegro could pleasantly surprise you. On the popular Budva Riviera, daytime temperatures hover around 27.0 °C, nights report 20.5 °C and the sea is already a very pleasant 24.6 °C, which is absolutely great for swimming. The sun shines here 13.2 hours a day.

You do need to bear in mind that the Balkan coast can be unpredictable and the odd drop of rain falls here now and then. Statistics for Budva show an average of 8.9 rainy days. Usually, though, it’s just quick summer storms that nicely clear the air. People rave about a June holiday in Montenegro above all for the lower prices and half-empty beaches.

Spain: Costa Blanca and Costa Brava

Mainland Spain offers huge contrasts, and it’s entirely up to you which coast you prefer. In the south, in the Costa Blanca area, Alicante reports 26.9 °C during the day, 20.2 °C at night and a lovely sea of 24.0 °C. You barely need fear rain here, with an average of just 2.4 rainy days and 13.4 hours of sun a day. Locals consider Alicante and the Costa Blanca a safe bet for lovers of lazing on the beach.

The Costa Brava area further north is a bit cooler, but it rewards you with wild cliffs and romantic coves. During the day you’ll measure 25.9 °C, a refreshing 18.0 °C at night and a slightly fresher sea of 21.7 °C. Rain may catch you an average of 6.2 days a month and you’ll enjoy 12.9 hours of sun a day. According to travellers, though, the Costa Brava at the start of summer is absolutely enchanting and ideal for long walks along the sea.

Where to chase the midnight sun and head north in June

Northern Europe is coming to life, and June suits it perfectly. Nature is finally lush green, the snow in the lower elevations has melted and the animals are very active after the long winter. The biggest draw, though, is without doubt the extremely long days, which let you travel and explore sights well into the night.

In the far northern latitudes, this is even the only window in the year when you can witness the phenomenon of the midnight sun with your own eyes. This natural spectacle completely changes your sense of time, because even at midnight you can read a book on the porch of a cabin without turning on the light. Let’s take a look at the destinations where you can experience this wonder.

Norway and the Lofoten Islands

Norway is a paradise for lovers of dramatic views and deep fjords. In the Bergen area and the southern fjords, count on daytime temperatures around 16.6 °C, at night the thermometer drops to 9.2 °C and the water is a chilly 14.0 °C. The sun shines here 11.1 hours a day, but I have to honestly warn you about the rain, which appears on average 15.7 days a month. A quality waterproof jacket is an absolute must here.

A far greater experience awaits, though, if you head further north beyond the Arctic Circle to the Lofoten Islands. In June the sun doesn’t set below the horizon at all here, which according to travellers is the main reason to head north right now. You’ll get endless time for hikes without having to fear the dark. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to read our tips on when to go to the Lofoten Islands and, more broadly, when to go to Norway.

Iceland

The land of fire and ice is extremely popular at the start of summer, and it’s said to be one of the best times to visit. In the capital, Reykjavík, it’s usually 11.5 °C during the day, 6.8 °C at night and the sea is a mere 9.3 °C. It rains here around 16.1 days a month and the sun shines 9.1 hours. A big advantage of this period is that the mountain roads into the interior finally open, having been impassable all winter.

Thanks to the almost non-stop daylight, you can photograph waterfalls at two in the morning, when there won’t be a single person around. Because of the bright nights, however, you logically have no chance whatsoever of seeing the northern lights – that’s simply something to bear in mind. In our article on when to go to Iceland you’ll find more practical information for planning your trip.

Finland, Sweden and Lapland in summer

Heading to Lapland in summer is an experience that many travellers can’t stop raving about. The nature in the north of Finland and Sweden plays out in every shade of green and you can fully enjoy the magical midnight sun. Wanderings through deep forests and boat trips on deserted lakes take on an utterly enchanting atmosphere in this endless light.

I do have to honestly warn you about one unpleasant detail that the brochures don’t mention much. With the arrival of warmer weather, huge clouds of mosquitoes appear in the northern wilderness, and they can make spending time outdoors quite unpleasant. A strong repellent and a head net will come in handy. For detailed weather info, see our texts on when to go to Sweden and when to go to Lapland.

Alaska and Canada

North America beckons with its vast national parks and wildlife that is very active at the start of summer. In Alaska, in the city of Anchorage, you can look forward to a pleasant 19.0 °C during the day and 10.2 °C at night, with the sea at 9.8 °C. It rains on average 9.8 days a month and the sun shines a beautiful 12.6 hours. It’s reportedly the ideal time to watch bears and moose, which roam close to the roads.

If you’re drawn more to Canada’s east coast, Toronto will welcome you with already typically summery weather. Daytime temperatures hover around 22.8 °C, nights around 14.6 °C, it rains 10.9 days and the sun warms things up 12.1 hours a day. Travellers rave that the cities are alive with festivals and the nature in the national parks is beautifully fresh. Before you start buying plane tickets, check out our advice on when to go to Alaska, or take inspiration from a road trip along the famous Icefields Parkway.

Where to head to the mountains in June

The mountains slowly wake from their winter sleep at the start of summer and nature puts on an incredible colour show. The valleys are full of blooming alpine flowers, the cows return to the pastures and the mountain streams are full of water from the melting snow. The air is incredibly clean and the temperatures are absolutely ideal for all-day hiking.

It’s also the month when most summer hiking trails and mountain huts officially open. But you need to plan very carefully, because the situation varies greatly with altitude. While down in the valley you can already walk in a T-shirt, the summits often see completely wintry conditions. Let’s take a look at the most beautiful European mountains.

The Dolomites

The Italian Dolomites are visually absolutely breathtaking at the start of summer, as the green meadows sharply contrast with the pale rocky peaks. In the popular town of Cortina d’Ampezzo you’ll measure a very pleasant 19.5 °C during the day and 9.5 °C at night. Although the sun shines 12.4 hours a day, local statistics report rain on average 22.7 days a month, so afternoon mountain storms are almost a daily occurrence here.

Travellers strongly point out, though, that the high-altitude mountain lakes and popular via ferratas can still be under snow at the start of the month. There can also be a problem with accommodation on the ridges, because traditional Italian rifugios mostly open only in mid-June. If you’re heading to the Dolomites with children or planning via ferratas for beginners, I definitely recommend timing your trip closer to the end of the month.

The Austrian Alps and lakes

Austria is very easy for us to reach and offers a perfect combination of high mountains and crystal-clear lakes. In the resort of Zell am See, for example, daytime temperatures climb to 23.0 °C, while the nights at 11.9 °C are pleasantly cool for sleeping. Rain may catch you an average of 17.3 days a month and the sun shines 11.3 hours a day. Experienced hikers rave that there’s already a summery vibe around the lakes, but you can still comfortably ski on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.

The water in the lakes is still quite refreshing at the start of the month, but the hardy already swim as a matter of course. The local cycle paths and promenades are beautifully maintained and ready for high season, but nowhere are you elbow-to-elbow yet. If you’re looking for trip ideas, you’ll definitely be thrilled by the Austrian lakes or the romantic town of Hallstatt, which is far calmer in June than during the summer holidays.

Slovenia and the Julian Alps

Slovenia is a small country full of enormous natural beauty, and it’s growing ever more popular. At the iconic Lake Bled, a pleasant 23.6 °C awaits you during the day and 14.2 °C at night. You’ll need umbrellas around 14.2 days a month, but the sun shines a decent 12.2 hours a day. According to reviews, it’s absolutely ideal weather for exploring gorges and waterfalls, which are full of water thanks to the melting snow from the Julian Alps.

In this period you can enjoy rafting on the Soča river or strolls through picturesque mountain villages without the stress of crowds. The locals are reportedly well-rested after winter and the restaurants have a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. For inspiration, read our tips on what to do in Bled, or dive straight into our road trip around Slovenia.

Where to head in June closer to home

You really don’t have to travel far for a beautiful holiday, because Central Europe has huge charm in this period. Nature is in full bloom, the days are the longest of the year and café terraces are bursting with good cheer. The weather also tends to be very stable and warm enough for an evening sitting outside with a glass of good wine.

A big advantage of a holiday close to home is of course the flexibility, because you can set off for a long weekend exactly according to the latest weather forecast. There’s no stress with plane tickets or long packing – you just hop in the car or on the train and in a few hours you’re in a completely different world. Where will you enjoy the start of summer most?

Central Europe: the season is starting, the crowds aren’t yet

While July and August mean a huge rush for the tourist hotspots, June is still beautifully calm. In Prague, daytime temperatures hover around 24.6 °C (14.1 °C at night, rain 11.9 days, sun 12.3 h/day) and in South Moravia, in Mikulov, it’s a touch warmer still. Here you’ll measure 25.1 °C during the day, 15.1 °C at night, it rains on average 10.6 days and the sun blazes 12.5 hours a day. Everyone agrees that until the school year ends, the mountains, rock formations and popular lidos are half-empty.

It would be an outright sin not to take advantage of this and head to places that are impassable during the summer holidays. Travellers warmly recommend visiting Bohemian Switzerland or the Bohemian Paradise, where you can enjoy views over the landscape without having to queue. Also a great choice is South Bohemia or the aforementioned South Moravia, where you can cruise on a bike along cycle paths between the vineyards and discover local wine cellars in the evening.

Where next: more travel tips

If you’re still undecided about the date or destination, take a look at these articles too.

• Best vacation destinations in May
• Best vacation destinations in July
• Best vacation destinations in September
• How to find cheap flights
• Travel insurance: how to choose

Frequently asked questions