Top 20 Summer Vacation Destinations Around the World

It's no secret that Americans embrace the sunshine and warm weather in the summer and covet those traits in a vacation destination. AAA Travel recently crunched the numbers on bookings for upcoming trips from June 1 through August 15 to determine the top 10 most popular summer vacation destinations in the U.S. and abroad and the results may surprise you.

Few would've guessed but Salt Lake City is on the rise as a summer vacation destination in 2018, climbing four spots from 2017 to crack the top 10 most popular cities domestically. Though it might not boast beautiful beaches, Utah's capital offers tremendous weather, scenery and underrated attractions, especially those who prefer the outdoors.

Boston is also trending up this summer, according to AAA Travel bookings. Interestingly, U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Boston as the top summer vacation destination in America for its pleasant temperatures and vast appeal.

Sin City holds steady in eighth place domestically this year. Somehow, the year-round vacation destination is even more popular in the summer when average high temperatures climb into the triple digits and pool season is in full swing. Travelers can also save big on a hotel this summer when they time their booking right.

Perhaps the most surprising destination to make the top 10, Fairbanks is Alaska's second-largest city and also one of its most diverse. Temperatures in the 80s and long days (more than 22 hours of daylight on June 21) also make this an appealing summer city.

Maui is one of Hawaii's many gems and the ideal summer vacation destination for paradise seekers. It's home to approximately 30 miles of beaches and the scenic Hana Highway. Of course, there are plenty of other reasons to move it to the top of your list in 2018.

Another warm-weather destination close to the coast, Los Angeles and nearby Anaheim stand out for their variety of summer fun. Beach lovers can head to the shore while families can celebrate their time off at Disneyland.

Down just one spot from 2017, Seattle remains a premier summer vacation destination as sunshine is commonplace during the Emerald City's dry season from June to September. Cross Pike Place Market and the Space Needle off your bucket list or grab a kayak or paddleboard and hit the Puget Sound.

Anchorage is quintessential Alaska and the 49th state's largest city. It combines all the foodie, craft beer and cultural attractions one would expect from a great city with unrivaled nature.

The Hawaiian capital is up two spots from last year, making it the most popular domestic destination for summer vacation outside of the mainland U.S. Honolulu's weather certainly can't be beaten and its also home to world-class beaches and resorts.

Unsurprisingly, Orlando retains its title of the most popular summer vacation destination in America. The Theme Park Capital of the World is not only home to endless family-friendly attractions but plentiful sunshine.

According to AAA, more than one-third of families who are planning a trip together this year will visit an international destination and many will wind up in Amsterdam, where the warmer months bring about countless festivals and add to the appeal of the city's parks, waterfront and outdoor entertainment.

The beloved Mexican resort city of Cancun hasn't been content to rest on its laurels despite drawing tourists in droves year after year. Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula boasts incredible beaches, luxury resorts, nightlife and close proximity to unique attractions such as natural cenotes and ancient sites.

Easily the most surprising city among this summer's most popular international destinations, Calgary is trending up, rising two spots from last year to once again represent Canada in the top 10. June through August is easily the best time to visit as celebrations are frequent. July's Calgary Stampede has been dubbed the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.

Solo travelers, couples and even families are eyeing Punta Cana, Dominican Republic this summer as the resort destination offers everything one could want in a vacation, including entertaining family resorts, adults-only hotels and unparalleled all-inclusiveness.

Whether visiting via plane or cruise ship, vacationers touching down in Montego Bay, Jamaica this summer will immediately fall in love with its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, the combination of which makes for the perfect summer locale.

The City of Light is somehow even more popular than it was a year ago, rising two spots to fifth among international destinations, based on AAA Travel bookings. In addition to new hotel and restaurant openings, fresh attractions are certain to win over visitors this summer.

London's tourist attractions are second to none but it's also home to a slew of character-rich neighborhoods that are worth exploring as well as a handful of kid-friendly spots for visiting families.

Dublin is more than the ultimate St. Patrick's Day destination. It's home to one of Europe's most popular attractions in the Guinness Storehouse, one-of-a-kind pubs, museums, cathedrals and other attractions that visitors will appreciate this time of year.

Summer is the most popular season for travel to Vancouver as average high temperatures in the low 70s lure visitors outside of their hotel rooms and into scenic attractions such as Queen Elizabeth Park and the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

In addition to being the most popular city in the world among foodies, Rome is attracting summer vacationers in 2018, jumping two spots from third one year ago. The weather is at its best during the summer months but visitors should expect large crowds and sizable lines at major tourist attractions.