Falling as it does between May's bank holidays and the start of the summer break in July, June is an excellent time to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In June, the beer gardens begin to bustle with activity; the Mediterranean twinkles winsomely from dusk till dawn, and the cobbled squares fill with revellers drinking and dancing under the night sky.
Here are some of the best places to visit this June.
Cappadocia, Turkey
In Turkey, nestled right in the heart of the Anatolia region, is Cappadocia, a fantasy landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and underground cities. With a backdrop of pretty pastel hues that you'd only see in paintings, Cappadocia will leave you feeling like you have entered a fairytale world.
Cappadocia has some of the most picturesque landscapes that simply take your breath away. While June may be a popular month, you can avoid the bustling crowds and explore the region by hiking or travelling on horseback. This gets you onto trails others can't reach, discovering tucked-away lookout spots, intricate rock carvings, and fantastically frescoed, stone-carved churches.
Cappadocia will leave you in awe from the very first moment you arrive. Savour the moment by taking in the most breathtaking aerial views you've ever seen from the comfort and security of a hot air balloon. While many places offer hot air balloon rides, none will beat Cappadocia's panoramic views. Take a ride over the sweeping landscape and witness the sight of hundreds of balloons floating through the air.
Cappadocia has plenty of hidden treasures to discover, including vast underground cities. It is believed that the Phrygians initially built these underground cities during the seventh century to protect themselves from foreign invasions. These subterranean kingdoms have been safe havens for centuries. During the 14th century, the caves gave Christians security from the Mongolians during the assaults on Timur. The cities once more offered sanctuary during the 20th century, with Armenians secreting themselves there to save themselves from persecution from the Ottoman Empire. You can live among the caves yourselves at Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge with its own vineyard, sun terraces offering amazing valley views, and contemporary cave rooms with marble bathrooms and wood floors.
Cappadocia is a land where magic and mystery happen, come and experience it for yourself this June.
Rwanda
Bordered by Tanzania and Uganda, Rwanda is a small country in East Africa with enormous potential and much to offer budget and luxury travellers alike.
The capital city, Kigali, is one of the reasons why Rwanda is quickly becoming one of the most popular countries in Africa. A vibrant city full of culture, history and fantastic coffee, Kigali is a wonderful place to visit. We suggest you grab a table on the Choma'D terrace and enjoy some dry-rub pork ribs or a mac' n' cheese bowl with strawberry Mojitos in a Mason jar. If you want to get away from the hubbub of the city, a couple of hours' drive away is Lake Kivu which is renowned for its inland beaches, boat tours, and exciting cycle trails.
Rwanda is best known for tracking mountain gorillas through its sweeping bamboo forests. The Virunga Mountains, spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, are home to over half of the world's population of mountain gorillas. Tourists visiting the country can visit gorilla families in the wild and aid their conservation. In addition to gorillas, Nyungwe National Park is home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and more than 300 bird species.
Hiking on the ground of Nygungwe Forest National Park is rewarding, but imagine walking across a bridge suspended 200 feet above the park's ancient treetops? Absolutely sublime. The canopy walkway is an hour's walk from the Uwinka Visitor Center along the Igishigishigi Trail, brimming with amazing umbrella trees, blooming orchids and lush greenery. If you listen closely, you may hear the beautiful sound of exotic birds singing and the calls of the thirteen species that call Nygungwe home. The safe, albeit wobbly walkway gets your heart pumping, and the views of the tree canopy and Uwinka Ridge at sunset take your breath away.
Rwanda has risen above its tragic past to become one of the continent's most progressive and welcoming countries, and there is no better time to visit than June when the climate is cooler and drier.
Basel, Switzerland
Basel, nestled nicely on the Rhine river, is Switzerland's third-largest town and, because of its close proximity to France and Germany, has its own distinct identity. This quaint little Swiss town is heaven for art and architecture fans, especially in June when ART Basel, the world's premier art exhibition, rolls ins. The people of Basel love beautiful art. In 1967 the people voted to buy some Picasso paintings, and when the Spaniard found out, he was so touched that he donated three of his works to the city. This should tell you all you need to know about the Baslers and their love of art, which is displayed in the city's many museums. You won't only find art museums in Basel, however. Across the city, there are over forty museums to choose from, including the world's largest collection of stuffed teddy bears, and a tour through the history of pharmacies and a fascinating natural history museum.
Switzerland definitely needs to be on your list of places if you have a sweet tooth. Swiss chocolate is known for its distinctly smooth and creamy flavour and texture you won't find elsewhere. Basel, in particular, is home to some of the finest chocolate shops in Switzerland. If you are a chocolate lover, we suggest you visit Confiserie Schiesser. This shop is located on Marktplatz, across from the city hall, and is one of Basel's oldest chocolatiers and confectioneries. Our favourite is Elvesia, made of cocoa from the Dominican Republic, and Huimbi milk chocolate. As for truffles, if you like anything with liquor, you must try the Kirschstängeli, which is filled with cherry liquor and is simply delightful.
Perhaps, Basel's defining feature is the Rhine which flows through the city. Swimming in the Rhine is the city's most popular sport in summer. Now that the weather is warming up across Europe, do as the locals do and take a dip in the cool, rushing waters. A great place to enter is the riverbank just below museum Tinguely. Simply get undressed and place your clothes and belongings in a Wickelfisch – a colourful swim bag in the shape of a fish - to keep your clothes dry.
June is a bordering month of the Swiss shoulder season, meaning the weather is at its best and there isn't a mass of tourists, meaning you will have Basel and all it offers to yourself.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Danes are known for being the happiest people in the world, and with cities like Copenhagen, it is clear to see why. Copenhagen is a unique and beautiful city characterised by its canals, cycling, culture, strong economy, and welcoming locals.
If you have young children or are young at heart, why not pay a visit to one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, Tivoli Gardens. It is well known that Walt Disney visited the park several times before he opened Disneyland in 1955. Yet, the amusement park's history began more than a century earlier. Tivoli opened its doors in Copenhagen in 1843 after the gardens' founder, Georg Carstensen, obtained a royal charter for the park's creation by convincing King Christian VIII that it would help him secure his throne. You will be able to enjoy the scents of blossoming summer flowers and perennials at the Concert Halls Gardens, or relax by the park's fountains at the Pergola Gardens. If you want to soak up some sun while enjoying a bite to eat, head towards the Hanging Gardens. For those who want an adrenaline rush, the 4G-force rides and speedy rollercoasters will do the job. You can enjoy an exhilarating view of the whole of Copenhagen from the 63-metre-high Golden Tower before it takes you back to the ground. Tivoli Gardens offers many more relaxed rides for the little ones and those who don't want to lose their stomachs.
Another attraction of Copenhagen is its food. Teeming with raw, fresh ingredients from Norway's sweeping mountains and crystal lakes, Norwegian food is a unique culinary experience. Pickled herring, potato lefse and polse are all Norwegian delicacies that you should try while visiting the Danish capital. Or, if you have a sweet tooth, why not try a piece of Kvaefjordkake, which is much easier to eat than it says. Copenhagen has also become a top destination for gourmands and is home to the world's best restaurant, Noma. Michelin star winning chef Rene Redzepi's gastronomic mecca provides a 20-course meal consisting of some of the most delicious dishes from around the world. If Noma is within your budget, it's worth making a reservation to sample one of their innovative seasonal tasting menus. If it is a little too expensive, there are plenty of other places to go: Amass at Refshaleøen, Kadeau on Wildersgade, or Llama on Lille Kongensgade.
While Copenhagen has much to explore, the city is best explored on two wheels. One of the main reasons for the popularity of cycling in Denmark is its extensive network of cycling paths, including innovative bridges, which form cycling superhighways across the city, making it incredibly safe to travel by bike. We suggest you cycle around Havneringen or the Harbour Ring, a 13km marked route that takes in an array of big-hitting sights. Whizz past extraordinary waterfront architecture such as the Black Diamond library extension and cross the city's much-loved harbour bridges — such as the spectacular Circle Bridge and the elevated Cycle Snake — before stopping off at Amager Fælled nature reserve for some fresh air.
June is a wonderful time to travel to Copenhagen. Not only will you be blessed with warm weather, but there are plenty of things to enjoy throughout the month. Of course, increased tourist masses can be a drawback, but Copenhagen has much to enjoy and explore.
Quebec, Canada
In June, Québécois finally feel safe to take off their thermals, having survived another winter of -40°C temperatures by the sheer, warming heft of poutine. Aside from the warming weather, the country comes alive with outdoor amusements and celebrations: Sunday dance parties at Electronik Picnic in leafy Parc Jean-Drapeau; and June's annual Mural Festival, celebrating Montreal street art.
If you heed the call of the wild coasts of the Gaspé Peninsula, where heavily scented pine forests sweep across impossible promontories. A region of sea and mountains, Gaspésie is ideal for kayaking and scuba diving and hiking and mountain cycling. You may even encounter moose or caribou as you engage in these exhilarating activities. There are also excellent opportunities for whale and bird watching. Mont Mégantic National Park is another conservation area that you should not miss. Situated in the northern part of the Appalachian Mountains, the park has over 50km of hiking trails. It is also home to the largest astronomical observatory in eastern North America: the Mont Mégantic Observatory. Enjoying the surrounding wildlife and learning about astronomy is a magical and unique experience.
If you prefer to spend your time pampered in a soothing environment, why not indulge in a revitalising experience at a wellness centre or Nordic spa. Treat yourself to a peaceful, rejuvenating day with various deluxe treatments ranging from massages and wraps to Finnish saunas and baths of all kinds. Whichever you choose, you will feel relaxed and replenished.
History flows throughout Quebec. Rich with history, Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America. Established in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Quebec remains the only walled city north of Mexico. Historic cobblestone streets are lined with canons overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, and the city is characterised by architectural landmarks like the Chateau Frontenac and the La Citadelle fortress. Then there is Montreal, a dynamic and beloved city that attracts thousands of tourists, students, and businesses from around the world. With its mix of European and North American architecture, the city's rhythm is distinct—even within Quebec—and it's the first stop for many people.
With its mixed colonial history and distinct contemporary culture, the province of Quebec is truly unique. From beautiful landscapes to unforgettable experiences, there are many reasons why you should pay a close visit to Quebec.
Borneo
A dry month for this South-East Asian island, June is one of your best shots for one of the world's rarest and most inspiring wildlife experiences. Borneo's tropical rainforests, swamps and mangroves provide habitats for elephants, sun bears, clouded leopards, probosci's monkeys, and pangolins, as well over 400 different species of bird. June is a perfect time to see these exotic creatures. Trees begin to bear fruit in June, and orangutans start to come out in the wild Sabah forest to pick up these tasty treats. If you're lucky, they will come close enough for an incredible sighting. June is also when you'll see green and hawksbill turtles on the remote Lankayan Island. Borneo is one of the best places in the world to see an abundance of wildlife roaming in the wild.
Sabah's Sipidan Island is renowned for its stunning coastline, with the limestone pinnacle off the eastern coast ranking as one of the planet's best places for diving. Sprawling coral reefs thrive in unpolluted and undisturbed waters while schools of barracuda swarm and curious parrotfish swim nearby. Turtles float on the surface while basking in the warm tropical waters. Sipadan issues 120 diving permits per day, with thousands of divers flocking to the island each year.
It wouldn't be a holiday without a day spent at the beach, and Borneo has some of the finest coastlines in the world. Imagine soft grainy sand and the warm sea lapping against the coastline. Now picture a line of palm trees forming the border of the beach and the bright red and orange colours radiating across the sky as the sun slowly sets. With stunning beaches and arguably the world's best sunsets, the opportunity to witness this beauty first-hand should give any tourist a good enough reason to visit Borneo.
Borneo, the world's third-largest island, is home to a vast array of wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich history. Borneo should be on your bucket list – if it isn't already, and June is a perfect time to go.
Greenland
In June, Greenland's typically Arctic temperatures hover around ten °C, but the low humidity makes it feel warmer and cosier. But it's not the temperature that makes Greenland so attractive. Greenland makes the list because you can see for miles on end thanks to the crisp, clean air and low moisture: towns, mountains and fjords may seem closer than they are.
Kayaking is of particular importance to the people of Greenland as it is most likely how the first inhabitants arrived. Even now, it remains the easiest and most rewarding way to see the country's natural highlights. You will be able to explore the glacial lagoons around Ilulissat or the glistening blue rivers that traverse glaciers in the summer months. Wherever you decide to go, kayaking brings you closest to the natural wonders that make Greenland special.
The Vikings are at the heart of Greenlandic history. They are, for example, responsible for the country's somewhat misleading name. It is said that Erik the Red, when exiled from Iceland, came up with the name "Greenland" to entice more of his fellow Vikings to follow him there. Whilst the Norse community only lasted some 400 years on Greenland, their presence is still felt a few centuries on. Soak it up by visiting the crumbling ruins of Qaqortoq's 14th-century Hvalsey Church. Or follow the history of the Vikings' discovery of America in Nuuk's National Museum. Where ever you go, Greenland, you are constantly walking in the footsteps of these intrepid Viking settlers.
While boats offer an intimate view of the island's coast, there's a way for you to feel the thrill of Greenland's icy interiors too. Soar through the skies in a helicopter and gaze out over the expansive icy terrain that makes up most of this Arctic land. Experience parts of the country that others simply cannot reach. With its sublime emptiness and the enchanting contrasts of ice, ocean and land, you'll never see another landscape like it.
Thanks to the more comfortable weather, the best time to visit Greenland is during the summer. June is ideal for flightseeing, watching the midnight sun, enjoying hot springs or watching giant whales.
ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAYS!
June is a popular month for travel around the world. And with good reason. Some of the world's best-loved wildlife can be seen in June, there are plenty of delightful festivals underway, and the weather's at its peak around many parts of the globe.
Whether you want to visit one of the destinations above or somewhere else, we can help get you there. With access to 7000+ private jets worldwide, Astute Private Jet Charter offers the smoothest private jet charter experience, organising arrangements that best suit your needs.
If you would like us to look into your travel arrangements for June, click below to contact one of our experts.