Summer is calling… and if you’re anything like me, you’re already dreaming about your next escape.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit some incredible places over the past few years — and today I’m sharing my top 5 favorite destinations to explore in summer 2025, all personally tested and deeply loved.
No fluff. Just real travel vibes, honest impressions, and hopefully a little spark of inspiration for your own next trip 💛
🇦🇱 1. Albania – The hidden star of the Balkans
Albania is wild, raw, generous, and surprisingly untouched. It’s like stumbling across a secret your cool cousin didn’t want you to know about.
Between the Albanian Alps in the north, the Ottoman towns like Berat and Gjirokastër, and the turquoise coastline of the south, you’ll get a little bit of everything. And the best part? It’s way less expensive and crowded than Greece or Croatia.
✨ Talla’s tip: Avoid Ksamil in peak season if you’re craving calm. Instead, explore the Llogara Pass or the beaches near Himarë.
📘 Want help planning your Albanian road trip?
I just released a full 9-day itinerary with all my favorite stops, honest tips, local gems, and a printable travel planner.
👉 Click here to download the Albania guide
🇵🇹 2. Madeira, Portugal – For the nature lovers and sunset chasers
Madeira is a dream for hikers, ocean lovers, and anyone who feels alive in nature. Think jungle-like forests, volcanic cliffs, winding coastal roads, and the kind of peace you don’t realize you need until you’re there.
It’s a year-round destination, but summer brings longer days and golden sunsets that last forever.
✨ Talla’s tip: Rent a car, get lost in the mountains, and don’t miss the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro. Pure magic.
🇵🇹 3. Lisbon or Porto – The sweetest city break
Need a bit of city energy? Portugal has it all: pastel-colored buildings, tiled facades, friendly locals, incredible food (hellooo pastéis de nata), and the kind of charm you fall for fast.
Lisbon is a little more lively, Porto more relaxed and romantic — you can’t go wrong with either. Perfect for a long weekend or as a stop on a bigger trip.
✨ Talla’s tip: Go for the food, stay for the miradouros (viewpoints), and never say no to a second nata.
🇸🇮 4. Slovenia – A perfect mix of adventure and chill
Slovenia genuinely surprised me. It’s like someone blended Austria, Italy, and the Balkans, then added lakes, castles, and a super laid-back vibe.
You’ve got Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, the Julian Alps, caves, cute towns like Piran, and wine country too (yes, really). Everything is close — perfect for a mini road trip.
✨ Talla’s tip: Pair Slovenia with a few days in Northern Italy (the Dolomites are nearby). Nature + pasta = yes please.
🇷🇴 5. Romania – Affordable, authentic, and full of heart
Romania is underrated and overflowing with charm. From the medieval streets of Brasov to the rolling hills of Transylvania, to the unexpected (and super chill) beaches along the Black Sea — it has it all at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
And the people? So kind. So welcoming. It just felt good.
✨ Talla’s tip: Take the train across the country, stop in small towns, and leave space for the unexpected.
tallaadventures.com 
Leave a comment