The Most Popular Destinations for Summer 2021

The team at the flight-comparison site Jetcost recently analyzed the number of searches for flights from U.S. airports for May 2021 to August 2021 to determine the most-sought-after places for a summer getaway next year. "Admittedly summer 2020 has been a terrible one, and not many of us have been able to get away on vacation," said Jetcost spokesperson Alana Gomez. "However, encouraging signs show that people are already looking forward to a big trip next summer and we wanted to uncover the most popular destinations for these long-overdue getaways."

While most of Europe remains off-limits to Americans amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the continent is still high on travelers' wish lists for 2021. Located in the world's most-visited country, the City of Light is unsurprisingly attracting plenty of interest ahead of next year as culture-seekers and foodies anxiously await the day they can return.

Mexico City is a sprawling destination with something to offer everyone, from business travelers to history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The Mexican capital's vibrant markets, delectable street food and countless historic churches haven't been forgotten by travelers.

Los Angeles is one of five U.S. cities to crack the top 10. The City of Angels is unrivaled in its allure and attractions, many of which are centered on the film industry. However, Los Angeles is so much more than Hollywood as summer visitors will encounter miles of amazing beaches, incredible restaurants and nightlife and no shortage of iconic sites like the Santa Monica Pier.

No surprises here. The Theme Park Capital of the World should be running on all cylinders by next summer and travelers are apparently aware, with many targeting Central Florida for summer vacation next year. Few cities in the world are as family-friendly as Orlando and that's unlikely to change in the new year.

Barcelona is one of two Spanish destinations gaining significant momentum ahead of summer 2021, based on Jetcost's research. It doesn't hurt that the months of May and June are the best times to visit the city as temperatures are warm and comfortable and the city plays host to several festivals and tourist-friendly events.

Hawaii's tourism industry continues to be hampered by strict travel restrictions but travelers appear confident that Honolulu and the Aloha State as a whole will be reopened to out-of-state visitors in eight months' time.

New York City is a coveted destination in all seasons but the city really comes to life in the summertime when the Big Apple's legendary sights and attractions collide with marquee events ranging from NYC Pride to the U.S. Open tennis championships.

A perennial spring break favorite, Cancun has already reopened to tourism so travelers won't need to wait until what's sure to be a busy summer 2021 to experience the tourist-friendly Mexican Caribbean.

Sunny Miami is the hottest destination in the U.S. for summer 2021, according to Jetcost, offering vacationers plenty of beautiful beaches, luxe hotels, mouthwatering restaurants and lively nightclubs to choose from. The city's booming downtown is also worth exploring as visitors will find a slew of relaxing parks, fascinating museums and other family-friendly attractions.

The Spanish capital is beloved for its renowned art museums and inviting outdoor spaces, both of which might be filled with international visitors by the time next summer comes around, according to Jetcost's research.