Top 5 places to visit in the summer

There are so many great summer destinations just waiting to be discovered that it can be hard to decide where to go first. Follow our guide to the top 5 places to visit this summer and make this a year to remember!

Paris

Many people praise the joys of Paris in the springtime, but lately, spring in Paris is more often than not cold and wet. If you're looking for some sunshine, visit the city in the summer months - June and July are the best if you're looking for an authentically Parisian experience, as locals take off to sunnier climes on holiday in August and many museums and attractions are closed. Enjoy a picnic of baguette au jambon et fromage at the Champs du Mars or climb the steps of the Buttes Chaumount to enjoy the views across the city from the top of the Sacre Coeur. Don't forget to pack a cold drink and make sure you take out travel insurance before your trip in case of accident or injury whilst climbing all those steps!

Pefkos, Rhodes

This little-known gem of a village, tucked away in a sleepy corner of Rhodes, is fast becoming a hot tourist destination. A few miles from the whitewashed village of Lindos, Pefkos is a peaceful local village, with the emphasis here firmly on eating, drinking and lazing in the sun. You'll find some delightful local restaurants serving Greek specialities. Try the swordfish, served fresh with lemon, or the Dolmades (stuffed vine leaves).

Rome

La Dolce Vita can be found in only one place this summer and that's in Rome. Life really doesn't get much sweeter than enjoying a traditional Italian 'gelati' on the Spanish steps, or strolling around the Colosseum. You can't visit Rome without a trip to the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.

Portugal

Portugal is an up and coming holiday hotspot, offering year round sun, sandy beaches and some of the cheapest, most delicious local food in Western Europe. Whether you soak up the sun on the beach or head to the Alentejo to take in the ancient monuments, castles and white washed villas, there's something for everyone in sunny Portugal. Relax at the end of the day with some tapas and a cooling jug of Sangria.

Vietnam

For life a little more off the beaten track, the temples and villages of Vietnam are sure to please. Enjoy a homestay with a local family, hike in the hills and view villagers working in the rice paddies, before settling down to a traditional meal of beef Pho (noodle soup) as you watch the sun set over the stunning Halong Bay.

These destinations are all great choices for your summer break, so what are you waiting for - get packing!