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3 Summer Travel Trends Every American Should Know About

Planning summer travel is basically a national pastime at this point, and U.S. travelers are already setting some interesting trends for 2025. And based on newly released search data, it’s clear folks are getting creative with how they spend those precious PTO days.

From rethinking their go-to destinations to prioritizing experiences that range from relaxing to downright eccentric, this summer promises to be anything but predictable. Because trend-setting travelers are shifting their focus, keeping things fresh, and shaking up the status quo…but hey, isn’t that half the point of a getaway?

Curious? Keep reading to see what all the fuss is about, and don’t forget to chime in below with your dream summer plan – because, honestly, we all need some inspiration while winter is rearing its ugly head outside.

To find out more about the search data released, head to HomeToGo for the original article.


Europe Is In

Pack your passport…because Europe is practically calling on a group chat with U.S. travelers this year.

How popular is it? Every single one of the top ten most-searched countries for U.S. travelers this year is in Europe. Need me to spell it out? One hundred percent (for dramatic emphasis).

And it’s not just the countries; 80% of the top ten most-searched destinations globally are also on the European continent. That’s dominance right there.

A scenic riverside view in London showing the River Thames, a bridge, and the modern city skyline in the distance. People are walking along the paved path, and a classic red telephone booth is visible.
© Shutterstock

The crown jewel? London. Because, apparently, Harry Potter, Big Ben, and fish and chips never go out of style.

Coming in strong behind London, we have Sardinia, Italy – a chic island that promises more picturesque views than your social feeds.

Alicante, Spain, has seen a whopping 552% year-over-year search increase. Crete in Greece? Up 390%. And Isla de Lanzarote in Spain? It’s waving at you with its 384% growth.

Either Americans got tired of the usual beachside vacation – or we’ve all been collectively influenced by travel bloggers.

Exploring European’s Favorites

Sometimes, people skip the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum for the road less traveled.

Europe in 2025 isn’t just leaning into popularity; it’s offering secret locales that Europeans have been loving for years.

Americans seem to be opting for lesser-known treasures over the cliche spots that international tourists usually flock to. Why, you ask? Maybe it’s the allure of saying, “Oh, I holidayed in Menorca,” without sounding like everyone who spent the summer in Paris.

Spain’s glorious duo, Majorca and Menorca (which you’ve probably been mispronouncing as I have) has skyrocketed in searches by 333%.

And honestly, it’s the ultimate hack if you find Ibiza too loud or Barcelona too… full of “influencers.”

A breathtaking view of a lakeside town on Lake Garda, Italy, framed by the rugged edge of a stone window. The deep blue water contrasts with the warm-toned buildings, red-tiled roofs, and lush greenery, with a church tower rising above the charming streets.
© Shutterstock

Meanwhile, the shores of Lake Garda in Italy are stealing thunder from old-school Lake Como. Lake Garda? That’s the low-key luxury you didn’t know you needed.

And how could we skip out on Greece? While Santorini selfies may still dominate your feed, lesser-known islands like Naxos (+327%), Lefkada (+189%), and Zakynthos (+175%) are vying for attention.

Also trending? Brittany, France, with its rugged coastline and charming authenticity (+272%). It’s basically the French countryside’s way of saying, “Hello, stop making everything about Paris already!”

Inland U.S. Destinations

Spoiler alert for globe-trotting Americans – they’re also rediscovering the beauty of staying local. And not just for the coasts.

While summer obsessions usually lead to saltwater beaches and tan lines (we know, Florida), there’s a plot twist this year. Travelers are increasingly trading in waves for lakes, mountain views, and thriving landlocked cities that you don’t need to Google first.

States like Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Tennessee are pulling in the kind of attention usually reserved for NYC or California.

Phoenix, Arizona, leads the charge with a jaw-dropping 562% year-over-year surge in searches. Why? My guess is it’s all about that desert-meets-modern flair that gives you happy-to-be-here feelings from sunrise to sunset.

Think palm trees, succulents, and a splash of SPF 100.

Atlanta Geogia cityscape at sunset under a pink and blue sky
© Canva Pro

Atlanta, Georgia, also climbs the ladder (+156%) for its electric city vibe, stunning street art… and fried chicken that could honestly start a global fan club.

Need somewhere a little more serene? Saugatuck, Michigan (+143%) says hello with pastel charm and beach-like tranquility that rivals your favorite coastal towns.

And for those who like to pair mountains and coffee shops, Lake George, New York (+120%), and Whitefish, Montana (+86%), are providing outdoor adventures mixed with cozy small-town feels.

It’s the blueprint for the new “getaway” in America…replacing the usual “did I forget my sunscreen again” beach scene.


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