Most Colourful Places to Visit This Summer: A Visual Journey Around the World
When summer rolls in, there's something magnetic about destinations bursting with colour. Whether it’s rows of candy-coloured houses perched above the sea, historic quarters painted in bold blues and pinks, or entire towns drenched in pastels, these places feel like they were made for warm days and golden light. They’re not just a photographer’s dream — they’re full of local charm, cultural depth, and in many cases, a story behind every brushstroke.
From Latin America to North Africa, the Mediterranean to Southeast Asia, the world is dotted with towns and cities that have embraced colour in the most spectacular ways. And during the summer months, these places come alive — with local festivals, sun-drenched afternoons, and vibrant street life that turns every corner into a postcard.
In this guide, we’re taking you on a global journey through some of the world’s most colourful destinations to explore this summer. Expect sun-faded façades, rainbow-painted staircases, and seaside towns where every building looks like it belongs in an art gallery.
Ready to brighten up your travel plans? Let’s dive in.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Where is it?
Chefchaouen lies in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, around two hours south of Tangier and just over four from Fes. Despite its growing popularity, the town still feels like a peaceful mountain retreat. Most travellers reach it by road — either by private car or shared taxi from major cities — winding their way through pine-covered hills and valleys.
Why is it so colourful?
Known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, Chefchaouen’s trademark blue buildings are its defining feature. The town’s tradition of painting walls blue is thought to have begun in the 15th century, when Jewish refugees settled here and brought with them the practice of colouring homes in shades of blue to symbolise the sky, heaven, and spiritual protection. Others believe it keeps mosquitoes away or simply helps cool the narrow streets. Whatever the origin, the result is enchanting — an entire medina that looks dipped in indigo, perfect for slow wanderings and stunning photography.
Top things to do
Get lost in the medina: There’s no real plan needed — just roam the winding blue alleyways, admire doorways with hand-painted detailing, and snap shots from hidden staircases. Early morning offers the softest light and fewest crowds.
Visit the Kasbah: Right in the heart of the old town, this restored 15th-century fortress has Andalusian gardens, a small ethnographic museum, and a viewpoint over the medina’s rooftops.
Sunset at the Spanish Mosque: Take a 20-minute uphill walk to the whitewashed mosque that overlooks the city for a golden hour you won’t forget. Bring water — it’s a bit of a climb, but the views are worth every step.
Shop the souks: Chefchaouen is known for its wool garments, woven blankets, and natural beauty products like argan oil and rosewater. Unlike larger cities, the sellers here are more relaxed — it’s a gentler introduction to Moroccan market culture.
Sample the food: Try local specialities like tagine with prunes and almonds, bissara (a warming split pea soup), and the region’s renowned goat cheese. Café culture thrives here too — take a long mint tea break and watch the world go by.
What to know before you go
Summer temperatures typically hover around 28–32°C during the day, but the mountain air brings cooler nights — a light jacket is handy. While it’s popular with both domestic and international tourists during July and August, the pace remains slower than Morocco’s bigger cities. Dress modestly out of respect for local culture, especially when exploring outside the medina. Most riads and guesthouses offer rooftop terraces — perfect for breakfast with a view.
Chefchaouen is more about soaking in atmosphere than checking off sights. Give yourself at least two nights to settle into its rhythm — you’ll thank yourself for not rushing.
Chefchaouen, Morocco.
Burano, Italy
Where is it?
Burano is a tiny island in the Venetian Lagoon, about 45 minutes by vaporetto (water bus) from Venice’s main islands. It’s part of the same archipelago as Murano and Torcello, but stands out for its vivid palette and laid-back charm. Most visitors come as a day trip from Venice, but staying overnight lets you experience the island without the day crowds.
Why is it so colourful?
Burano’s rainbow-bright houses are its defining feature, each painted a different shade of pink, yellow, orange, blue or green — and often with contrasting shutters. According to local legend, fishermen began painting their homes in bold colours to help them find their way back through the lagoon’s thick fog. The tradition stuck, and now the colour of each house must be approved by the local government — no two adjacent homes can share the same shade.
Top things to do
Stroll the canals: Burano’s bridges and narrow streets are a delight to wander, especially early in the morning or late in the day when the tour boats have left. Every turn offers a picture-perfect scene.
Visit the lace museum: Burano has a long tradition of lace-making dating back to the 16th century. The Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) showcases fine examples and the intricate techniques still used today.
Admire the leaning bell tower: The campanile of San Martino Church is visibly tilted, adding a touch of surrealism to your photos — especially when framed by brightly painted houses.
Sample local seafood: Being an island, Burano is known for its fresh seafood dishes. Try risotto di gò (a creamy goby fish risotto) or spaghetti al nero di seppia (squid ink pasta) at a waterside trattoria.
What to know before you go
Summer in Burano is warm and breezy, with highs around 28–30°C. It can be crowded midday with day-trippers from Venice, so arrive early or linger into the evening for a more peaceful experience. There are a few charming guesthouses if you want to stay overnight — and you’ll get the quiet, colour-drenched streets all to yourself after sunset. Bring cash for smaller cafés and shops, and don’t forget your camera — every corner of Burano looks like a film set.
Burano, Italy.
Jodhpur, India
Where is it?
Jodhpur sits on the edge of the Thar Desert in northwest India, in the colourful state of Rajasthan. It’s around five hours by road from Jaipur or a short domestic flight from Delhi. Known as the "Gateway to the Thar", it’s the second-largest city in the state, yet still feels wonderfully old-world and walkable.
Why is it so colourful?
Nicknamed the Blue City, Jodhpur’s old town is a sea of cubed blue houses clustered below the dramatic Mehrangarh Fort. The tradition of painting houses blue is said to have begun with the Brahmin caste (India’s priestly class), but over time, it spread to the wider population. Some also say the colour helps keep homes cool and repels insects — either way, it creates a mesmerising effect, especially viewed from above.
Top things to do
Explore the blue lanes of the old city: Wander through Navchokiya and other neighbourhoods around the fort, where every turn offers powder-blue walls, colourful doors, and flower-draped balconies.
Visit Mehrangarh Fort: Towering above the city on a rocky outcrop, this 15th-century fort is one of India’s most impressive. Inside, you’ll find intricately carved courtyards, palatial rooms, and sweeping views of the blue sprawl below.
Stepwells and spice markets: Don’t miss Toorji Ka Jhalra, a stunning 18th-century stepwell, or the bustling Sardar Market near the iconic clock tower. Stock up on saffron, cardamom, and locally made handicrafts.
Rooftop dining: Jodhpur excels at rooftop cafés — think sunset views with thali platters or masala chai overlooking the fort. Try the Indique or Jhankar Haveli for ambience and flavour.
What to know before you go
Jodhpur is hot in the summer, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in May and June, though July and August bring a welcome monsoon breeze and fewer tourists. Stay hydrated and explore early in the morning or around sunset when the light turns the city into a painter’s palette. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and traditional areas, and book accommodation with air-conditioning or a rooftop terrace for cooler evenings. Jodhpur is safe and welcoming, especially for solo travellers, and easy to navigate with tuk-tuks and walking.
Jodhpur, India.
Willemstad, Curaçao
Where is it?
Willemstad is the colourful capital of Curaçao, a Dutch Caribbean island just off the coast of Venezuela. It’s part of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) and can be reached via direct flights from the US, the Netherlands, and other Caribbean islands. The city hugs the southern coast and is split in two by the Saint Anna Bay — connected by the famous Queen Emma floating bridge.
Why is it so colourful?
Willemstad’s iconic look comes from its colonial Dutch-style buildings painted in a riot of tropical pastels — think lemon yellows, turquoise blues, flamingo pinks and tangerine oranges. The tradition reportedly began in the 1800s when the then-governor (who suffered from migraines) banned white-painted buildings, claiming they reflected too much sunlight. Whether myth or fact, the law sparked a creative colour explosion that gives Willemstad its postcard-perfect look.
Top things to do
Wander through Punda and Otrobanda: These two historic quarters are packed with bright façades, cobbled lanes, and waterfront cafés. Punda is great for shopping and history, while Otrobanda offers more local flavour and street art.
Snap a shot at Handelskade: This waterfront row of candy-coloured buildings is Willemstad’s most recognisable scene. The best views are from across the bay or the Queen Emma Bridge, especially at golden hour.
Explore the art scene: Visit the Nena Sanchez Gallery or hunt for bold murals in the Scharloo district — Curaçao has a thriving contemporary arts culture tied to its Afro-Caribbean roots.
Swim off the city beaches: Mambo Beach and Playa Piskado are just a short drive from the centre. Expect crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and sea turtles — all backed by Curaçao’s signature pastel villas.
What to know before you go
Summer in Curaçao is reliably warm and dry, with temperatures around 30–32°C and little rain thanks to its position outside the main hurricane belt. The island sees fewer crowds than some Caribbean neighbours, even in peak season. Willemstad is very walkable, though renting a car is useful for beach-hopping beyond the city. English, Dutch and Papiamentu are widely spoken, and US dollars are accepted everywhere. It’s a safe, friendly place where colour isn’t just on the buildings — it’s in the music, food, and everyday life.
Willemstad, Curaçao.
Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Where is it?
Bo-Kaap is a vibrant neighbourhood on the slopes of Signal Hill, just above Cape Town’s city centre. It’s easily accessible on foot from the CBD or a short Uber ride from most parts of the city. While compact in size, this historic area is packed with stories, colour, and culture.
Why is it so colourful?
The rows of neon-bright homes — in bubblegum pink, electric lime, canary yellow and every shade in between — are instantly iconic. The tradition of painting houses in bright colours began after the end of apartheid, when residents chose to express freedom, pride, and individuality through vivid decoration. Bo-Kaap is also home to Cape Malay culture, rooted in the descendants of enslaved people and political exiles from Indonesia, Malaysia, and India — and that layered heritage is reflected in everything from the architecture to the food.
Top things to do
Stroll the cobbled streets: Wander up Wale Street and into Chiappini and Rose Streets for the best photo spots, where houses glow under the midday sun against a backdrop of Table Mountain.
Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum: Set in a traditional 18th-century home, the museum explores the cultural history of the area, especially its Islamic heritage and the Cape Malay community.
Take a Cape Malay cooking class: Learn to make fragrant local dishes like bobotie, chicken curry, and koeksisters from Bo-Kaap locals — a truly immersive experience.
Visit during Eid or a call to prayer: The neighbourhood’s mosques play an integral role in daily life. During Islamic festivals, the streets are alive with community celebrations and homemade treats shared with neighbours.
What to know before you go
Cape Town’s winter months (June–August) can bring cool temperatures and a bit of rain, but Bo-Kaap often stays dry and bright. Mornings are the best time for photography, before the sun hits too hard. While the area is perfectly safe during the day, avoid wandering after dark alone — like anywhere in Cape Town, staying aware is key. Respect the residential nature of the neighbourhood: people live here, so always ask before photographing people or entering stoops.
Want a deeper experience? Stay in one of the restored guesthouses or book a guided walking tour — locals often share stories you won’t find in any travel guide.
Bo-Kaap, South Africa.
Guanajuato, Mexico
Where is it?
Guanajuato is a UNESCO-listed city in central Mexico, nestled in a narrow valley between the Sierra de Guanajuato mountains. It’s about a four-hour drive from Mexico City or just 30 minutes from the Bajío International Airport. This former mining town is a maze of twisting alleyways, colourful hillsides, and underground roadways — a place that feels part storybook, part surreal.
Why is it so colourful?
Guanajuato’s colonial-era buildings are painted in every shade imaginable — sunflower yellows, aquamarines, terracottas, and vivid blues tumble down the hills like confetti. The riot of colour was originally practical: homes were painted in bright hues to distinguish them in the densely packed hillside streets. Over time, it became part of the city’s identity, making it one of Mexico’s most photogenic places.
Top things to do
Wander the callejones (alleyways): Guanajuato is made for walking — the streets twist and turn through steep slopes, with charming staircases and hidden plazas around every corner.
Take the funicular to El Pípila: For sweeping panoramic views of the city’s colourful sprawl, hop on the funicular to the statue of independence hero El Pípila. It’s even better at sunset.
Visit Teatro Juárez and historic buildings: This 19th-century theatre is an icon of neoclassical beauty. Don’t miss the candy-coloured buildings lining Plaza de la Paz either.
Explore the markets: Hidalgo Market is a treasure trove of local food and souvenirs — grab tamales or chilaquiles for a truly Mexican snack.
What to know before you go
Summer in Guanajuato is warm and mostly dry, with temperatures around 25–30°C. It sits at high altitude, so evenings are cooler and sunburn can sneak up on you — bring layers and sunscreen. While the cobbled streets are charming, they’re also steep and uneven — good walking shoes are a must. The city comes alive in summer with cultural festivals, and because it’s popular with Mexican holidaymakers, it’s best to book accommodation in advance.
Guanajuato, Mexico.
Valparaíso, Chile
Where is it?
Valparaíso is a gritty-yet-beautiful port city on Chile’s central coast, about 90 minutes west of Santiago. Built over a series of steep hills overlooking the Pacific, it’s a city of staircases, winding streets, and creaky old funiculars — a place where art and architecture are inseparable from everyday life.
Why is it so colourful?
Valparaíso’s charm lies in its organised chaos. The hillsides are packed with boxy homes painted in reds, blues, yellows, and greens — originally done with leftover ship paint from the harbour. Add to that a thriving street art scene and entire neighbourhoods turned into open-air galleries, and you’ve got a visual explosion that stretches from the pavement to the rooftops.
Top things to do
Ride the ascensores (funiculars): These historic cable cars clatter up and down the city’s hills, giving you quick access to the most colourful neighbourhoods and views across the port.
Wander through Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción: These two hills are the artistic heart of Valparaíso. Expect rainbow-painted houses, tiled staircases, and murals around every corner.
Take a street art tour: Go with a local guide to dive deeper into the stories behind the city’s most famous murals, many of which reflect Chile’s political and social history.
Visit La Sebastiana: One of Pablo Neruda’s three homes in Chile, this quirky house-turned-museum offers poetry, panoramic views, and insight into the life of one of Latin America’s greatest literary figures.
What to know before you go
Valparaíso is a year-round destination, but summer (December–March) brings dry, sunny weather and a lively atmosphere. That said, July and August — Chile’s winter — are quieter and moody in a good way, with dramatic skies perfect for photography. It’s a city best explored on foot, but be prepared for steep climbs and irregular streets. Valparaíso does have areas where pickpocketing can occur — stick to well-known hills and avoid wandering alone at night. Pair your visit with a stop in nearby Viña del Mar for a beach day.
Valparaíso, Chile.
Jaipur, India
Where is it?
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan in northern India, forming one point of the famous Golden Triangle alongside Delhi and Agra. It’s well connected by air, rail, and road — and is often a first stop for travellers exploring the regal state of Rajasthan. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur blends centuries of royal architecture with buzzing markets, grand forts, and an unmistakable dusty-rose glow.
Why is it so colourful?
In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales — a colour associated with hospitality in Rajput culture. Since then, the tradition has stuck, with laws mandating that buildings in the old city be maintained in terracotta pink. The result is a uniform but stunning cityscape, with elaborate facades, scalloped archways, and ornate window designs all glowing in the desert light.
Top things to do
Marvel at the Hawa Mahal: This iconic five-storey ‘Palace of Winds’ is made of pink sandstone, with over 900 jharokhas (lattice windows) designed to let royal women watch the streets below without being seen.
Explore the City Palace and Jantar Mantar: The City Palace is still home to the royal family and holds a stunning collection of courtyards and museums. Next door, Jantar Mantar is an 18th-century astronomical observatory like no other.
Shop the pink bazaars: Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise — dive into the chaos of Johari Bazaar for gemstones, Tripolia for bangles, and Bapu Bazaar for colourful block prints and textiles.
Watch the sunset at Nahargarh Fort: Perched on the hills above the city, this fort offers sweeping views over the pink rooftops, especially stunning at golden hour.
What to know before you go
Jaipur in summer (May–July) is hot, with daytime highs often reaching 40°C — though monsoon rains from July onwards can cool things down. It’s wise to explore early in the morning and relax through the heat of the afternoon. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, and modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites. The city is lively but manageable, and it’s worth booking a heritage haveli (mansion) for an atmospheric stay. Don’t miss trying local Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, kachori, and gatte ki sabzi — colour on your plate to match the city.
Jaipur, India.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Where is it?
Cinque Terre is a string of five impossibly photogenic villages perched along the Ligurian coast of northwestern Italy. It's about two hours by train from Florence or three from Milan. The villages — Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore — are connected by hiking trails, rail, and ferries, each clinging to rugged cliffs and overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean.
Why is it so colourful?
The buildings in Cinque Terre are famously painted in sun-washed pinks, yellows, oranges and terracottas — a tradition rooted in local fishing culture. The legend goes that sailors painted their homes brightly to spot them more easily from sea. Whether or not that’s true, the resulting effect is stunning: stacked pastel houses tumbling down to harbours filled with brightly painted boats, all set against blue sea and green hillsides.
Top things to do
Hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): This scenic cliffside trail connects all five villages, offering panoramic views of colourful rooftops, vineyards, and the Ligurian Sea.
Swim in Vernazza or Manarola: While Monterosso has the biggest beach, the tiny harbours of Vernazza and Manarola are perfect for a dip with a backdrop of rainbow houses.
Wander the lanes of Riomaggiore: Perhaps the most dramatic village of the five, Riomaggiore’s steep main street leads down to a rocky cove and one of the best sunset spots in Italy.
Try local seafood and pesto: Ligurian cuisine is a highlight — think anchovies, fresh focaccia, trofie al pesto, and limoncello made with local lemons.
What to know before you go
Summer in Cinque Terre is hot, sunny, and busy — expect highs of 28–32°C and crowds in July and August. To beat the rush, explore early or stay overnight in one of the smaller villages like Corniglia. Trains between villages are quick and scenic, but hiking is the best way to soak it all in — just wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Accommodation books up months in advance, so plan ahead if you want that postcard-perfect balcony. And remember: swimming is free, but the views are priceless.
Cinque Terre, Italy.
Honourable Mentions
Looking for even more colour inspiration this summer? Here are a few extra spots that didn’t make the main list but still pack a vibrant punch:
Cartagena, Colombia – Between the colonial façades, vivid bougainvillea, and street art-lined Getsemaní district, this Caribbean gem bursts with life in every shade.
Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan, South Korea – A once-declining hillside neighbourhood turned technicolour art haven, filled with quirky sculptures and painted rooftops.
Procida, Italy – Often overshadowed by Capri, this tiny island off Naples is a pastel dream of lemon yellows and coral pinks wrapped around a quiet harbour.
Saint John’s, Antigua – In the heart of the Caribbean, this small capital city charms with bright colonial buildings, local markets, and a laid-back vibe that matches its palette.
Whether you’re after pastel romance, street art chaos or colonial cool, these bonus destinations offer even more ways to travel through colour this summer.
There’s something about a colourful destination that lingers long after the trip ends. Maybe it’s the way the buildings catch the light, the layers of history painted in every hue, or the simple joy of walking through streets that look like a living mural. In summer, these places come into their own — drenched in sunshine, buzzing with life, and perfect for travellers chasing beauty, culture, and something a little different.
From the electric blue of Chefchaouen to the sun-washed facades of Cinque Terre, every spot on this list offers more than just a good photo. They tell stories through colour — of resilience, creativity, identity, and community. Whether you’re wandering hill towns in Mexico, riding funiculars in Chile, or getting lost in the pink alleys of Jaipur, these are destinations that feed the senses.
So if you’re looking to add a little brightness to your summer itinerary, skip the beige and go bold. The world is bursting with colour — you just need to know where to find it.
