Image courtesy of Hotel Sanders

Now is the time everyone is booking summer travel. Tried-and-true destinations are popular for a reason — and are likely to be booked up. But it's worth venturing to lesser-known locales. Not only will you avoid the crowds by doing so, you'll also help counteract overtourism.

Below, I’ve listed a few alternatives to the traditional summer spots (Italy, Paris) that will inevitably be awash with tourists this summer. Sometimes the wisdom of crowds doesn’t apply.

Instead of Spain, consider Budapest

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest

Spain will be packed with tourists this summer—but I have an alternative idea: Budapest. The fairytale-like Hungarian capital is brimming with charm and culture. And because it’s still somewhat under the radar, you’ll avoid massive crowds while soaking up plenty of lively summer energy. Budapest is actually a dual city—Buda and Pest—separated by the Danube River. Both sides are worth exploring at length.

Meander along cobblestone streets, savor chicken paprikash in cozy bistros (or indulge in Michelin-starred dining at a chic gourmet restaurant), and marvel at the city’s ornate historic architecture. Don’t miss Castle Hill, home to the famed Buda Castle—a Baroque masterpiece. The neoclassical St. Stephen’s Basilica is also a sight to behold. (Try to catch the organist in action if you can.)

As for where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest is a refined, stunning choice housed in a 20th-century palace in the vibrant Belváros-Lipótváros district. Another standout is the regal Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, ideally located near top landmarks like the Dohány Street Synagogue and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge.

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest:

When you book Four Seasons with me, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. I'll be pleased to give you more details.

Fora Perks at Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest:

$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & early check-in whenever possible.

Instead of the UK, consider Denmark

Image courtesy of Nobis Hotel Copenhagen

There’s a reason Denmark is often cited as one of the world’s happiest countries. Copenhagen, in particular, offers a vibrant urban landscape with a distinctly local feel and an overall sunny disposition. It’s a fantastic alternative to busier UK destinations like London—and even better, there are direct flights from New York and Los Angeles to the Danish capital.

In the summer months, locals and visitors alike flock to Copenhagen’s many rooftops for al fresco drinks. The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art’s outdoor sculpture park and seaside views are especially enjoyable this time of year. And if you're looking to extend your trip, Copenhagen is just a short ferry ride from Sweden.

As for where to stay: Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, Nimb Hotel, and Hotel Sanders are three luxurious, design-forward options that beautifully reflect the city’s sophisticated, creative spirit.

Fora Perks at Nobis Hotel Copenhagen:

A welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Fora Perks at Nimb Hotel:

$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Fora Perks at Hotel Sanders:

Complimentary three-course dinner for two, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Instead of the Greek islands & Athens, consider the Mani Peninsula

Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

The Mani Peninsula is a true hidden gem in Greece. This mountainous region, part of the Peloponnese in southern Greece, is dotted with quiet fishing villages, rugged coastlines, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs.

While the Greek islands get overcrowded in the summer, the Peloponnese remains far less traveled and offers a more authentic, local experience. The region’s beaches are not to be missed—nor are its charming towns. (Nafplio is a great first stop en route to Mani, and Kardamyli is another lovely village.)

Don’t skip the historical sites, either. The Archaeological Site of Olympia—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—hosted the very first Olympic Games in 776 BC. In Mani, the 13th-century Venetian Methoni Castle is equally worth exploring.

You’ll find rugged hikes through ancient landscapes (the peninsula is believed to have once been home to the Spartans), as well as hilltop villages surrounded by olive groves and centuries-old stone towers. The beaches are sprinkled with hidden coves and impossibly clear water. Life here moves at a blissfully slow pace—and it’s blissfully uncrowded.

For a sleek, adults-only escape, the new Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino is a standout. For families, The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino is a solid, kid-friendly option.

Another gem is Kinsterna Hotel, a restored historic mansion nestled among olive groves and citrus trees. This five-star retreat makes the perfect home base for exploring the nearby Laconian Castle of Monemvasia.

Fora Perks at Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino:

$100 food / beverage or spa credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily and an upgrade.

Fora Perks at The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino:

A welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out.

Fora Perks at Kinsterna Hotel:

$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenities, breakfast daily and an upgrade.

Instead of Paris, consider Prague

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Paris is always a good idea, but this summer, it may not be. The 2024 Olympic Games will bring in waves of additional tourists, and soaring prices along with it. En lieu of the French capital, consider Prague.

The Czech capital looks as though it’s been plucked from a fairytale — medieval bridges and architecture, cobblestone streets, castles and clocks add to its magic. Even better, the city is far more affordable than Paris.

Another plus: Prague is compact and easily navigable. Many of the city’s top sites are within walking distance, too. Prague’s history is vast, spanning from the Holy Roman Empire to Habsburg rule and beyond. Plus, with fewer crowds, you’ll be able to enjoy an overall more relaxed pace.

One of the top Prague hotel picks is the Four Seasons Hotel Prague, right on the Old Town Square.

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Prague:

When you book Four Seasons with a me, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. I'll be pleased to give you more details.

Instead of Mexico, consider Puerto Rico

Image courtesy of Hotel El Convento

Early summer (May and June) is the ideal time to visit Puerto Rico. The weather is perfect, the crowds have thinned, and the rainy season has yet to begin. By contrast, late summer (July through August) brings heavier rainfall—but also even fewer visitors. If you can’t make it in June and don’t mind the chance of rain, a later summer trip is still worth considering.

Puerto Rico is endlessly vibrant. Starting with its energetic capital, there’s no shortage of things to do in Old San Juan—from exploring historic landmarks to wandering its cobblestone streets and popping into artisanal boutiques for handmade clothing and jewelry. And of course, the beaches are not to be missed. Another must-visit is El Yunque National Forest, a lush, biodiverse wonderland of hiking trails and waterfalls just a short day trip from the city.

In San Juan, stay at Hotel El Convento, a charming boutique property housed in a former convent, or the luxurious Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. For a beachfront resort experience, Fairmont El San Juan Hotel and The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort are both standout options.

Fora Perks at Hotel El Convento:

$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out.

Fora Perks at Fairmont El San Juan Hotel:

Hotel / resort credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out.

Fora Perks at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort:

$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out.

Instead of New York City, consider Toronto

Image courtesy of Park Hyatt Toronto

In the summer, NYC is hot (both literally and figuratively). For an alternative city vacation that also has a bustling vibe, great gastronomic scene, world-class museums and personality-driven neighborhoods, Toronto is a great choice.

Ontario’s capital is also Canada’s largest city, and you won’t be at a loss for things to see and do. Take in panoramic views from atop the CN Tower (you can even spot Niagara Falls on a clear day), check out the varied art exhibitions and galleries at the Royal Ontario Museum, stop by the Hockey Hall of Fame or meander among the gardens and memorials in Queen’s Park.

As for hotels, you can’t go wrong with the Fairmont Royal York, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, Park Hyatt Toronto or the Kimpton Saint George Hotel, all of which boast ideal locations and tasteful decor.

Fora Perks at Fairmont Royal York:

$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out.

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto:

When you book Four Seasons with me you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. I'll be pleased to give you more details.

Fora Perks at Park Hyatt Toronto:

$100 hotel / resort credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out.

Fora Perks at Kimpton Saint George Hotel:

$50 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenities, an upgrade & late check-out.

6 Underrated Summer Travel Ideas to Avoid Crowds And Venture Off the Beaten Path