"This summer travel season is shaping up to be as busy as ever. With (*gestures wildly*) everything going on right now, you might assume the opposite, but rather than skipping out on summer trips entirely, people are simply dreaming up ways to get away without spending a fortune. According to a recent report from travel booking site Priceline, this summer’s trendiest vacation ideas don’t revolve around big bucket-list trips and splurgey excursions. The report, which analyzed search data for flights and hotel stays between now and Labor Day, shows that travelers are gravitating toward affordable escapes that still deliver unforgettable experiences.
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“Globally, we’re seeing a trend of immersive travel,” said Christina Bennett, Priceline’s consumer travel trends expert. “Gen Zs and Millennials want to fully experience the destinations they visit and live like a local.” That might mean planning trips around lesser-known spots or simply wandering off the beaten path in more touristy areas. Either way, it’s all about doing more with less.
If you’re curious to see where people are headed this summer, these are the top trending vacation ideas for summer 2025, according to Priceline:
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is this summer’s most popular international destination, according to Priceline’s data on hotel searches, but I could have told you that based solely on my social media feed. Travelers have been flocking to Tokyo lately, and it’s no wonder why. The city offers a fascinating blend of traditional and modern culture, a diverse food scene, and unparalleled shopping options, so there’s something for every type of tourist. Plus, Japan’s capital is known for its cleanliness, convenient public transport options, and friendly locals, all of which help make that long flight worth it.
2. Miami, Florida
Miami blends the sparkling turquoise waters and flavorful cuisine of the Caribbean with all the convenience of a major U.S. city (read: cheap flights and plenty of hotel options). In fact, Priceline’s flight data points to Miami as this summer’s most popular U.S. destination. With white sand beaches, colorful Latin American cuisine, and music and dancing that doesn’t stop until sunrise, it certainly offers plenty to keep travelers entertained. Go for the nightlife, stay for the gorgeous scenery and incredible street food scene.
3. Rome, Italy
Italian girl summer is in full swing. Searches for flights to Rome have almost tripled this summer compared to last year, leading Priceline to call out Italy’s capital as this season’s trendiest international destination. With so many historic landmarks to see, world-class museums to explore, and delicious foods to sample, Rome is truly a feast for the senses. The city itself has enough to fill your itinerary for a week or more, but Rome also makes a convenient home base to explore some of Italy’s lesser-known destinations. And since several major U.S. cities have direct flights to Rome, you can often find some great deals on flights, even in peak season.
4. San Juan, Puerto Rico
A little closer to home, San Juan, Puerto Rico, has also seen a jump in flight searches as of late, underlining the trend toward affordable, low-hassle summer travel. Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, you won’t have to worry about a passport, foreign currency, or an international phone plan when you hop off your short flight. However, the tropical climate, colorful buildings, and mouthwatering local cuisine will still make you feel worlds away from your everyday life. Plus, summer is generally considered the off-season in Puerto Rico, making this a great spot for a relaxing beach vacation with fewer crowds and lower costs.
5. Metairie, Louisiana
If you’ve ever wanted to plan a trip to New Orleans but balked at the exorbitant hotel prices, it’s time to put Metairie, Louisiana, on your radar. Located less than 20 minutes from the Big Easy’s downtown area, it offers a much more affordable home base for exploring the city, and travelers are starting to take note. According to Priceline’s report, Metairie is the top trending destination in the U.S. this summer, based on an increase in searches for hotels compared to last year. And if you look into pricing, it’s not hard to see why. While a hotel in New Orleans’ coveted French Quarter could easily run you a couple hundred dollars a night, Metairie has plenty of options with nightly rates around $100 or less.
6. Cancun, Mexico
Mexico is currently having its moment in the sun. On Priceline’s list of the top 10 most popular international destinations (based on flight data), Mexico earned a whopping three spots, with Cancun, Mexico City, and Los Cabos all making the cut. It’s a testament to travelers wanting to save money this summer without sacrificing international travel. Thanks to its proximity to the U.S. and plethora of cheap flights, it’s one of the best places to visit if you want a beachy, tropical vacation that won’t cost a fortune.
7. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is so much more than a gambler’s paradise. It’s home to spectacular shows, stunning rooftop pools, luxurious spas, celebrity chef restaurants, and, of course, top-tier nightlife. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of destination that can fit any vibe, so I’m in no way surprised it topped the list of the most popular summer destinations in the U.S., according to Priceline’s data on hotel searches. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable places in the U.S. to snag a hotel room, with an average nightly price of just $123. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, girls’ weekend, or relaxing spa vacation, Vegas has options for nearly any budget.
Jessica Friedhoff, Senior Lifestyle Editor
Jessica Friedhoff is the Senior Lifestyle Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversees the Home & Living category of the site. She writes and edits stories across a broad range of topics including decorating, food, entertaining, travel, and more. With a pulse on the latest trends, she uses her eye for detail and design to create timely, inspiring content for our readers.