Where To Go In June
Are we…? Can we…? Yes – it’s properly summer now, so let’s get plans together! What better way to celebrate the return of wonderful weather to Europe than with a well-earned break in gorgeous climes. June marks the best of sizzling weather with fewer crowds, and there’s an array of choices for every holiday whim.
June makes for a great getaway whether your idea of a perfect holiday is summer in the city, lounging by a cobalt-blue infinity pool or catching the thrills of the famous Monaco Grand Prix. If you’re keen to jet further away, it’s a particularly active time in the natural world – so there’s plenty on offer.
Need some inspo on ideal destinations for June? Here are five of our favourites.
Gothenburg, Sweden
It’s hard to believe we’re approaching the middle of summer already, but already the Swedes are preparing for the biggest day in their calendar: midsummer. It always takes place on a Friday between the 19th and 25th of June, and this year, it falls on Friday 20th June, making it an ideal long weekender.
Stemming from the magic and promise that the day brings, the celebration traditionally involves a band of flowers in your hair, dancing around a leafy maypole, and a feast involving herring, tangy potatoes and strawberries. These days, it’s when friends and family retreat to their summer houses and enjoy big social events, but even visitors can partake. In Gothenburg, for example, locals meet in Slottsskogen city park for maypole dancing, singing, and midsummer games. For an even more picturesque setting, you’ll find plenty more celebrations, in its surrounding archipelago, making it an ideal time to visit this area of Sweden.
Monaco
F1 is synonymous with Monaco, which has served as an iconic backdrop since 1950. While the glitz and glam reputation of this French Riviera destination is certainly earned thanks to its lavishness and high-society, you don’t have to be a millionaire to witness this sporting spectacle.
For starters, low-cost airlines fly into the nearest airport of Nice. Stay in Nice for the best value accommodation, and grab a train up and down to Monte Carlo each day – it’s a 25-minute ride away. Within Monte Carlo, everything is within walking distance, and there’s a network of escalators and elevators to help navigate the hilly location. To watch the race, Monaco’s Sector Rocher offers extremely good value, with day tickets selling for around £100. After that, it’s a case of seeing the tense race play out through the narrow streets of Monte Carlo – and perhaps the budget will allow a glass of champagne if the driver you’re gunning for takes top place.
Aegina, Greece
A 35-minute ferry from Athens – you can even see it from the Acropolis – Aegina is a stunning Greek island that’s just as big on activities as it is on convenience. The jewel in its crown is the impressively preserved Temple of Aphaia, created in 500BC. For a fun day out, take a look around the uninhabited islet of Moni, a nature reserve with deer, goats, squirrels, peacocks and falcons. Or if it’s too toasty, simply relax on one of its glittering beaches – try Afia Marina for starters. It’s also known as ‘Pistachio island’ thanks to the bountiful nature of nuts on the island – so anyone waiting for their Dubai chocolate fix will want to visit to try their crunchy pistachios in chocolate or ice cream, imbibe it in liqueur form, or enjoy it drizzled with honey on baklava.
Quebec, Canada
Canada is having a moment when it comes to tourism. As travel to the US dips dramatically, its neighbouring country is mopping up new interest, especially as the Commonwealth country is known for being welcoming. The French-speaking capital of Canada is Quebec, but the curious slice of Europe across the pond isn’t the only reason to pay a visit. The waters off Tadoussac is where three currents collide, making it a hotspot for whale watching, especially in June. See the marvel that are beluga whales, or playful humpbacks. On a good day, you’ll also have the company of mighty blue whales. If you do, they’re not hard to spot: they’re the largest mammals on earth.
Bari, Italy
Bari is an overlooked destination for an Italian city break. So, while the droves are heading to Lake Como and Lake Garda, jet into this southerly city for a taster of more relaxed, authentic Italy. The seafront city boasts a charming old town, with its towering, weaving streets that were designed to confuse invaders that arrived on sea. Of course, a highlight of any Italian destination is its cuisine. As with much of southern Italy, la cucina povera (food of the poor) is commonly found, and you’ll taste delicious sgagliozze (fried polenta) and taralli (biscuits made from wheat, olive oil and white wine) among its delicious delights.
Wherever you’re heading this year Switched On’s Travel Insurance offers peace of mind while you’re away from home. All our policies include medical assistance supported by a worldwide network of specialists, whether that’s via in-resort based care provided by Air Doctor for minor illness or injuries, or our 24/7 emergency medical helpline to assist you should a more serious medical issue occur. Find out more on our Medical Support page.