Best Places to Visit in June: Weather, Events and Hidden Gems
Oaxaca, Mexico.
June is that golden month for travel — the sweet spot where the weather warms up across much of the world, peak-season prices haven’t quite kicked in, and the summer energy is just beginning to bloom. Whether you're craving tropical beaches, cultural deep-dives, nature escapes or city adventures, June offers something for every kind of traveller.
From firefly festivals in Japan to midnight sun parties in Iceland, this curated list highlights destinations that shine especially bright in early summer. We’ve included a mix of world-famous favourites and off-the-beaten-path gems — each one chosen for its June magic, ideal climate, unique events and unforgettable experiences.
Let’s dive into where to go this June.
Prague, Czechia
Why June?
June brings warm temperatures (averaging 22°C) and long daylight hours to Prague, making it perfect for exploring the city's baroque beauty and cobbled lanes without the peak summer crowds. Outdoor cafés spill onto the streets, gardens bloom in full colour, and there's music in the air — literally.
Major Events
The Prague Proms kick off in June, blending classical music with jazz, film scores, and experimental sounds in stunning venues like the Smetana Hall. You’ll also catch the United Islands Festival, a free multi-genre music celebration across the city’s river islands.
Top Things to Do
Wander the mediaeval Old Town and cross the iconic Charles Bridge at sunrise
Take in panoramic views from Petřín Hill or Letná Park
Cruise the Vltava River at golden hour with a local pilsner in hand
Visit the John Lennon Wall and nearby cafés in quirky Mala Strana
Tour Prague Castle — one of the world’s largest and most picturesque
What to Pack
Comfortable shoes for cobblestones, light layers for cool evenings, and something a touch smart if you’re heading to the Proms.
Interesting Fact
Prague has over 500 spires, giving it the nickname “City of a Hundred Spires” — a major understatement by today’s count!
Prague, Czech Republic.
Kyoto, Japan
Why June?
While June marks the beginning of Japan’s rainy season (tsuyu), Kyoto takes on an otherworldly beauty during this time. Misty temple gardens, glistening stone paths, and lush green mountainsides give the city a peaceful, almost cinematic atmosphere. Average temperatures hover around 25°C, and the crowds are far thinner than in cherry blossom or autumn foliage season.
Major Events
The Aizen Festival (Aizen Matsuri) in late June is one of Kyoto’s lesser-known summer celebrations, featuring traditional parades and vibrant yukata (summer kimono). Firefly-viewing is also a seasonal pastime — head to gardens like Shosei-en to watch them dance at dusk.
Top Things to Do
Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in the early morning mist
Wander the mossy paths of Saihō-ji (Moss Temple) or the tranquil Okochi Sanso Villa
Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha’s endless red torii gates between rain showers
Sip matcha in a traditional teahouse in Gion
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Philosopher’s Path, framed by hydrangeas in bloom
What to Pack
An umbrella or lightweight rain jacket, breathable layers, and slip-on shoes (for temples). Don’t forget insect repellent if you're chasing fireflies!
Interesting Fact
Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, many of which look even more magical in the rain — think moss, mist, and serenity in every direction.
Kyoto, Japan.
Puglia, Italy
Why June?
With sun-drenched days averaging 28°C and warm evenings perfect for seaside strolls, June is one of the best months to explore Italy’s quiet southern heel — before the high-summer tourists arrive. Expect golden beaches, olive groves, whitewashed villages, and slow, soulful travel vibes.
Major Events
In June, you’ll catch Sagra di Sant’Antonio and various town festivals filled with music, street food, and fireworks — especially in towns like Locorotondo and Martina Franca. June also marks the beginning of Puglia’s wine and food festival season.
Top Things to Do
Explore the Trulli houses of Alberobello and wander the winding alleys of Ostuni
Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Polignano a Mare or Torre dell’Orso
Sample fresh burrata, orecchiette pasta, and seafood straight from the Adriatic
Visit Lecce, the “Florence of the South”, for ornate baroque architecture and open-air piazzas
Watch the sunset from a countryside masseria (farm stay)
What to Pack
Swimwear, breathable linen or cotton clothes, sandals for the beach, and something modest for entering churches.
Interesting Fact
Puglia produces 40% of Italy’s olive oil, with some trees dating back over 1,000 years — many of which still bear fruit each season.
Puglia, Italy.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Why June?
June brings nearly 24 hours of daylight to Iceland — perfect for epic road trips, surreal hikes, and late-night hot spring soaks. Average temperatures hover around 11–13°C, and while you’ll still need layers, the mild weather makes outdoor adventures much more comfortable. It’s also the perfect time to explore Iceland’s rugged beauty without worrying about snow closures.
Major Events
The Secret Solstice Festival is a highlight — a three-day music celebration held during the summer solstice, featuring Icelandic and international artists playing under the midnight sun. It’s not uncommon for sets to go on well past midnight in full daylight.
Top Things to Do
Bathe in the Blue Lagoon or discover quieter gems like Sky Lagoon and Hrunalaug
Drive the Golden Circle and hike to waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss
Explore downtown Reykjavík’s cafés, colourful street art and Hallgrímskirkja Church
Join a whale-watching tour from Reykjavík Harbour
Stay up late — really late — for golden-hour photography at Thingvellir National Park
What to Pack
Layered clothing, a windproof waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, and a sleep mask (if bright nights disturb your sleep).
Interesting Fact
Iceland’s capital is the northernmost capital city in the world — and in June, it rarely sees true darkness. Locals use the long days to their advantage with a unique saying: “Sleep is for winter.”
Reykjavík, Iceland.
Mauritius
Why June?
While technically winter in the Southern Hemisphere, June in Mauritius is dry, sunny, and comfortably warm — think 24–26°C days and cooler evenings, without the sticky humidity of summer. It’s also shoulder season, meaning better prices, quieter beaches, and ideal conditions for hiking, diving, and exploring.
Major Events
The month kicks off Mauritius’ winter events calendar, with cultural performances, food markets and the beginnings of kite-surfing season in places like Le Morne and Belle Mare. June is also great for spotting migrating dolphins off the west coast.
Top Things to Do
Swim, snorkel or paddleboard in the turquoise waters of Île aux Cerfs
Hike the lush trails of Black River Gorges National Park
Explore colourful towns like Mahébourg or Grand Baie for food and local crafts
Visit the surreal Seven Coloured Earths in Chamarel
Indulge in fresh seafood and Creole curries by the sea
What to Pack
Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, breezy clothes for daytime, a jumper for evenings, and sturdy shoes for hiking trails.
Interesting Fact
Mauritius was the only known home of the dodo — the famously extinct flightless bird. Today, you can learn about it at the island’s quirky Natural History Museum in Port Louis.
Mauritius.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Why June?
Oaxaca in June is vibrant, warm (averaging 27°C), and just on the cusp of the rainy season — but showers are typically short-lived and bring out the city’s lush beauty. With fewer tourists than peak season and a calendar full of local happenings, June is a brilliant time to dive into Mexico’s cultural heartland.
Major Events
June marks the start of Guelaguetza season, one of the most important Indigenous festivals in Mexico. While the main celebrations fall in July, local communities begin preparing with parades, dance rehearsals, and artisanal markets as early as mid-June.
Top Things to Do
Wander Oaxaca’s colonial centre and visit the Templo de Santo Domingo
Sample mole negro, mezcal, and tlayudas at traditional markets like 20 de Noviembre
Explore the ancient Monte Albán ruins on a clear morning
Visit nearby craft villages like Teotitlán del Valle for textiles and rug weaving
Take a day trip to Hierve el Agua, a petrified waterfall with natural infinity pools
What to Pack
Lightweight clothing, walking sandals, a rain jacket for sudden showers, and space in your bag for crafts and mezcal bottles.
Interesting Fact
Oaxaca is considered Mexico’s culinary capital, home to 7 varieties of mole and a booming artisanal mezcal scene that’s deeply rooted in Zapotec tradition.
Banff, Canada
Why June?
June is the beginning of summer in Banff, with warming days (averaging 20°C), snowmelt unveiling turquoise lakes, and hiking trails becoming more accessible by the week. It’s still early enough to beat the big crowds of July and August, making it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure-seekers.
Major Events
The Banff Summer Arts Festival begins in late June, bringing music, dance and theatre performances to the mountains. It’s also prime season for wildlife spotting — elk, bears, and mountain goats often roam near hiking trails and roadsides.
Top Things to Do
Canoe on the surreal Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, both glowing glacial blue
Ride the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the Rockies from Sulphur Mountain
Hike scenic trails like Johnston Canyon or Tunnel Mountain
Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, especially at sunset
Stroll Banff Avenue for local coffee, craft beer and mountain gear shops
What to Pack
Layered clothing (it can shift from 8°C mornings to 22°C afternoons), hiking boots, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle — you’ll be thirsty at altitude.
Interesting Fact
Banff is part of Canada’s oldest national park, founded in 1885 — and one of the world’s only towns located within a national park boundary.
Banff, Canada.
New Orleans, USA
Why June?
June brings the true start of summer in New Orleans, with hot, humid days averaging 32°C — but the city’s character more than makes up for the heat. It’s a great time to visit if you’re chasing deals, as hotel prices dip before July’s conventions, and the event calendar stays buzzing.
Major Events
The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE) happens in June, blending local culinary legends with fine wine, street food, and live jazz. Also worth catching: the start of Satchmo SummerFest build-up, honouring Louis Armstrong’s legacy.
Top Things to Do
Wander the French Quarter and listen to live jazz on Frenchmen Street
Hop on a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River
Taste your way through Creole and Cajun staples — gumbo, po’ boys, and beignets
Explore Garden District mansions under canopies of oak trees
Take a voodoo and folklore walking tour at dusk for a slice of the city’s mystique
What to Pack
Breathable clothing, a refillable water bottle, comfortable sandals, and a sense of rhythm — you’ll need it.
Interesting Fact
New Orleans is considered the birthplace of jazz, and it’s the only U.S. city where funerals are regularly accompanied by brass bands, turning mourning into celebration.
New Orleans, USA.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Why June?
June marks the start of the dry season in Zanzibar — warm, sunny, and blissfully low on humidity. With daily highs around 28°C, it’s one of the best times to visit the “Spice Island,” as the rains have passed and the Indian Ocean is crystal-clear and calm.
Major Events
While June is quieter on the events front, it’s a prime time for dhow races, local sailing competitions that pop up in fishing villages. It’s also the lead-up to the Zanzibar International Film Festival in early July, with pre-events and screenings often starting late June.
Top Things to Do
Wander the maze-like alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Swim, snorkel or dive off the coast of Nungwi or Kendwa
Visit a working spice farm to learn about cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon
Take a sunset sail on a traditional wooden dhow
Enjoy rooftop dining under the stars — Zanzibari cuisine is a fusion of African, Arab and Indian influences
What to Pack
Modest, breathable clothing (especially for Stone Town), swimwear, reef shoes, and a good hat for sun protection.
Interesting Fact
Zanzibar was once the world’s largest producer of cloves, and its spice trade history played a major role in shaping its uniquely global culture and cuisine.
Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Bali, Indonesia
Why June?
June is peak dry season in Bali — warm, sunny and just before the school holiday surge in July. With average temperatures around 27–29°C, and lower humidity, it’s perfect for both beach days and inland adventures.
Major Events
While Bali’s biggest festivals fall later in the year, Galungan — a major Balinese Hindu celebration — occasionally lands in June. When it does, the island is decorated with ornate bamboo poles called penjor, and ceremonies fill the temples.
Top Things to Do
Catch the sunrise hike up Mount Batur for volcanic views and coffee at the summit
Surf or chill at beaches like Canggu, Uluwatu, or Padang Padang
Explore the lush rice terraces of Tegallalang and waterfalls near Ubud
Get a Balinese massage or try a sound healing session
Visit Pura Lempuyang, the famous “Gates of Heaven,” for that iconic photo (and real serenity if you go early)
What to Pack
Lightweight clothing, flip flops, a sarong for temple visits, swimwear, and a good daypack for adventures.
Interesting Fact
Despite being a tiny part of Muslim-majority Indonesia, Bali is over 80% Hindu — and its rich spiritual traditions shape every part of daily life, from offerings to architecture.
Bali, Indonesia.
Honourable Mentions
Barcelona, Spain – Warm temps, city beaches, and the start of festival season (like Sonar).
Tbilisi, Georgia – Lush countryside, wine tastings, and affordable city breaks in early summer.
Hoi An, Vietnam – Dry and sunny on the central coast, with lantern-lit evenings and golden beaches.
The Azores, Portugal – Blooming hydrangeas, epic hiking, and whale-watching peak season.
South of France (Provence) – Lavender fields begin blooming, and countryside markets buzz to life.
Kotor, Montenegro – Mediterranean charm without the Dubrovnik crowds — June is golden.
Peru (Cusco + Sacred Valley) – Dry season with cool mornings and clear trekking skies to Machu Picchu.
Nairobi + Maasai Mara, Kenya – June is perfect for safari weather before the Great Migration crowds arrive.
Barcelona, Spain.
Whether you're dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, cultural deep dives, or alpine adventures, June offers a golden window of opportunity. It's the perfect month to beat the summer rush, take advantage of shoulder-season pricing, and enjoy events that bring destinations to life — from midnight sun parties in Iceland to firefly festivals in Japan.
This curated list only scratches the surface. June is a month where the world feels open, buzzing and beautifully diverse — a reminder that the start of summer isn’t just a season, it’s a mindset. So whether you’re planning something soon or bookmarking for next year, consider June your passport to unforgettable experiences.
Where will you go?
