Schwerin Castle | Photo by Daniel Brandt ()
As the days grow shorter, the temperatures drop and kids get ready to go back to school (hopefully), take time out of your busy schedule for one last summer trip. Let the warmth of the sun relax you on the beach or visit a castle that you’ve been dying to see. Whether you stay in your host nation or venture out a little further, there’s a never-ending list of vacation possibilities right outside your door! Check out these destinations for inspiration.
Schwerin, Germany This delightfully quiet city in northern Germany is the perfect place to check another castle off of your bucket list. Located on its own island, the fairy tale Schwerin Castle has sky-high towers, golden domes, and sparkling pinnacles. It was once the home to the Grand Dukes of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Inside the castle, the museum is open to visitors and features ballrooms, a throne room, weaponry, and a porcelain collection. The Baroque gardens that surround the castle are meticulously cared for and cover 50 acres. This spectacular duo of castle and gardens are sure to leave even the harshest of critics awestruck. Other notable attractions in the city include Schwerin Cathedral, the open-air museum and the local zoo. Explore Schwerin before the summer comes screeching a halt!
Sunrise at Sellin Pier on Rügen Island | Photo by jakobradlgruber
Rügen, Germany Visit Germany’s largest island for an escape filled with pristine beaches, white-washed cliffs and stunning national parks. If you want to soak in the sun, head to the beach, which stretches for 37 miles. Stay at a seaside resort or relax at a rejuvenating spa. Explore Jasmund National Park and hike along the cliffs for the perfect afternoon of outdoor activity. No trip to the area is complete without a ride on the Rügensche Kleinbahn, a steam locomotive railway that takes visitors through the beautiful forests and past lux beach resorts. This outdoor oasis is sure to exceed your expectations!
Burano, an island in the Venetian Lagoon | Photo by Elena Schweitzer
Venice, Italy If you’ve been dying to visit Venice, now is the time! There are fewer tourists but still plenty to do. Get on a gondola and eat more pizza than you thought possible. Don’t miss visiting major landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and Square, Doges Palace, Canale Grand and Gallerie dell’Accademia. If you’d like to relax on the beach, head to the island of Lido. Here you’ll find a gloriously long stretch of beach that is the perfect place to soak up some of summer’s last rays of sun! Italy is always fabulous, and getting one last trip in is the perfect way to say "addio" to summer!
Castlehead over Derwentwater | Photo by Matthew Gibson
Keswick, England One of the best places to be in the summer is on the lake. Why not head to the Lake District in England for the perfect outdoor experience? In Keswick, you’ll find Derwentwater Lake, just a short 10-minute walk from the center of town. Once there, you can stroll around the entire lake on an eight-mile loop and enjoy the stunning scenery. You’ll see the fells of Cat Bells, Friar’s Craig and the Borrowdale Valley, all combining to create the perfect ambiance. If you’d prefer not to walk around the lake, take a cruise or rent a kayak. If you’re up for more adventures, try your hand at the local climbing wall or High Ropes Course at Goosewell Farm!
Are you ready to hit the road? Don’t let summer slip away without getting in one last vacation! There’s no time like the present to book the perfect trip. Whether you want to explore castles or be on the water, there’s plenty of options out there. Pick a country, pick a place and get packing!
