Discover cruises, festivals, city escapes, and coastal gems that go beyond the usual vacation bucket list.
Looking for off the radar summer travel ideas that surprise and inspire? This July 2025 roundup brings you unforgettable experiences from Paris to Pigeon Forge, Budapest to the Mexican Caribbean. From champagne river cruises to underwater wildlife sightings, these destinations offer something different—without sacrificing wow factor.
Bateaux Parisiens
Paris, France
www.bateauxparisiens.com
@bateauxparisiens
Celebrate the romance of Paris aboard a new cruise by Bateaux Parisiens. This intimate one-hour journey offers close-up views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and includes a glass of Pommery champagne and a sweet treat. Bilingual commentary and sunset sailings elevate this elegant escape along the Seine.
Sail times run Thursday to Sunday, with evening departures through summer.
Book your cruise
Playa de las Teresitas
Tenerife, Spain
Voted Europe’s top beach for 2025 by Omio, Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife delivers island charm at wallet-friendly prices. With crystal-clear water, average hotel rates around $144, and $5 iced coffees, this beach is a sun-soaked bargain.
It’s also ChatGPT-approved, scoring 96 out of 100 for value and accessibility.
See all 75 beaches ranked
Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
www.alcatrazeast.com
@alcatrazeast
This summer, Alcatraz East Crime Museum is putting safety first. Alongside its famous crime exhibits, the museum shares essential travel tips—from water safety and emergency kits to digital protection while abroad.
Bonus: the Natalie Holloway Resource Center remains open through July, adding purpose to your visit.
Plan your visit
On the Blue Cruise 2025
Departs from Boston, Massachusetts
onthebluecruise.com
Facebook: @OnTheBlueCruise
Classic rock meets coastal charm on this seven-night music cruise, sailing August 22–29 aboard Norwegian Gem. Hosted by Moody Blues frontman Justin Hayward, the ship stops in Halifax, Sydney, Saint John, and Portland.
Expect over 25 legendary performers, themed nights, and the chance to whale watch from the pool deck.
Reserve your cabin
Mexican Caribbean Music Fest + Seasonal Events
Tulum, Riviera Maya, Cozumel
mexicancaribbean.travel
@mexican.caribbean
After a sold-out debut in May, the Mexican Caribbean Music Fest is set to become an annual tradition. The cultural calendar continues with the Apapaxoa GastroCultural Festival in August and Ironman 70.3 Cozumel in September.
In October, regional Día de Muertos celebrations blend Mayan tradition with vibrant tributes.
Explore the lineup
Yettel Discover Budapest
Budapest, Hungary
Looking beyond Budapest’s baths and Parliament? Discover immersive art shows, Sziget Festival, lavender fields near Lake Balaton, and more. August 20 celebrations fill the city with fireworks, while Margitsziget offers bike trails and concerts.
Need EU-wide mobile coverage? Try Yettel’s new eSIM-ready Yettel Pass.
Learn more
Where Will You Go Next?
This season, skip the obvious and opt for experiences that blend culture, nature, music, and memory-making. Whether you’re craving ocean breezes, city festivals, or artistic surprises, these off the radar summer travel ideas deliver fresh perspective and unforgettable energy.
