For many, the summer holidays are among the absolute highlights of the year. Whether pupils, working professionals or families – the warm season invites you to leave everyday life behind, discover new places and simply unwind. In this post you will find everything about the summer holidays: popular destinations, activities, planning tips and how to make the most of your free time.
What makes the summer holidays so special
Summer holidays mean not only time away from school, but also long days, warm temperatures and plenty of free time. It is the ideal opportunity to escape a hectic routine, spend time with family or friends, enjoy nature or experience new cultures. For children and adolescents it is also an important period for recovery and personal development outside the classroom.
Popular destinations
During the summer months many people are drawn to classic holiday regions. Particularly popular are:
- Beach holidays at the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, the Mediterranean or on the Canary Islands
- Mountain regions such as the Alps or the Dolomites for hikers and nature lovers
- City trips to European metropolises such as Rome, Paris or Barcelona
- Long-haul trips to countries such as Thailand, Canada or Indonesia (if the holiday season fits)
Those who book early benefit from a wider selection and often lower prices – especially during peak holiday periods.
At home – ideas for those staying home
Not everyone travels during the summer holidays – and that is perfectly fine. You can also create a wonderful holiday time at home:
- Day trips to lakes, amusement parks or nature parks
- Bike rides and picnics in the local area
- Summer DIY projects in the garden or on the balcony
- Cooking and baking activities with fresh fruit and vegetables
- Outdoor movie nights with a projector or visiting an open-air cinema
- Reading challenges or creative days for children and adolescents
What matters is consciously interrupting everyday routines and creating small highlights at home as well.
Summer holidays with children – planning and tips
Families with school-aged children often have to travel specifically during the summer holidays. To ensure a relaxed trip, the following tips help:
- Plan early: Many families book up to six months in advance.
- Choose family-friendly accommodation, e.g. holiday apartments, hotels with childcare or campsites.
- Offer a varied programme, but don’t pack every day full.
- Prepare long car journeys or flights well – don’t forget snacks, games and breaks.
- Include a travel first-aid kit – sunscreen, insect repellent such as ARIES Anti-Mück Hautspray or ARIES Anti-Mück Textilspray and the Anti Mück roll-on stick, plus emergency medication.
It is particularly important for children to have freedom during the holidays, to experience new things and to simply be allowed to be a child.
Travel sustainably during the summer holidays
More and more people pay attention to environmental friendliness and sustainability even while on holiday. This is also possible during the summer holidays:
- Vacation in the region or within your own country reduces CO₂ emissions through shorter travel.
- Train travel instead of flying, especially for destinations within Europe.
- Sustainable accommodation such as organic hotels, eco-farms or climate-friendly campsites.
- Avoid plastic e.g. by buying bar soaps such as naturhaus Alepposeife. The soap is only supplied with a banderole and can be used for washing hands, showering and washing hair. Also, ideally buy weekly groceries regionally and separate waste – even on holiday.
A conscious use of resources ensures that future generations can also enjoy pleasant holidays.
Cultural highlights and learning holidays
Summer holidays are not only for resting – they also offer the opportunity to discover new things:
- Language trips for teenagers or adults to countries such as England, Spain or France.
- Cultural trips to museums, historical sites or theatre festivals.
- Music, art or sports camps for children and teenagers.
- Volunteering or work-and-travel programmes for young adults.
This way, relaxation, learning and personal development can be combined nicely.
The right preparation for a relaxed summer vacation
To start the summer vacation stress-free, good preparation is essential:
- Create a packing list – depending on destination and activities
- Check travel documents – IDs, vaccination status, insurance
- Plan the travel budget – include a buffer for spontaneous expenses
- Adjust sun protection and clothing to the climate and activity
- Allow time to arrive and unwind – vacation doesn’t have to be a race
Whether you travel for two weeks or can arrange six weeks flexibly: with some planning, your free time becomes genuine relaxation.
Trends – what is currently popular?
The past few years have shown changes in travel behaviour. Particularly popular right now are:
- Road trips with a camper or van – flexible, close to nature, individual
- Vacation on a farm or country estate – ideal for families
- Staycations – deliberate vacations at home or in the region
- Micro-adventures – short trips with big impact, e.g. hiking, camping or canoeing
- Digital detox vacations – phone off, nature on
Many people seek meaning, calm and genuine experiences – and they find them even without long-haul travel.
Conclusion: Summer vacations are valuable time
Whether a long-haul trip or vacations at home („Balkonien“) – summer vacations are an important break to recharge, create lasting memories and celebrate life’s joys. With good planning, suitable activities and intentional arrangement, every vacation period becomes a personal highlight. Whether you opt for action, relaxation or cultural experiences – summer vacations are your time.