Whether you want to eat your way through a food capital, explore the most beautiful natural landscapes, or immerse yourself in culture, half of Americans have already started to think about where they’re going for their summer 2023 vacations. According to a recent AMEX survey, almost three-quarters are choosing to spend more on travel next year, and three-quarters also consider travel as important for their well-being.
AMEX looked at its bookings from its travel portal for the upcoming summer and has identified the top 10 destinations that travelers have booked for 2023—and there is something for everyone. Check out the 10 destinations below:
Europe
Istanbul, Turkey
This magical city brims with culture and offers a beautiful intersection between the new and the old. If you have 72 hours, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like the 6th century Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque or look for treasures at markets as old as the Roman and Ottoman empires.
Take a sailing trip to the Prince’s islands, observe the works of the best contemporary artists, or enjoy a delicious meal at the many fine dining restaurants; this city promises to charm you and give a warm welcome from its people.
Copenhagen, Denmark
This city is an architectural dream and is renowned for its innovative designs and practical functionality. With one of the world’s oldest monarchies, there is plenty for history buffs and royal enthusiasts to experience.
It’s easy to explore the city by bike, where you can locate treasures at the markets, have a picnic in parks like Tivoli Gardens, and cross bridges over charming canals. With plenty of delicious cafes and traditional restaurants to choose from, you won’t be left hungry.
Paris, France
Paris hardly needs an introduction, from the dazzling lights illuminating the Eiffel Tower to the romantic sidewalks and the Seine River, which flows through the city; this is a place that you can keep coming back to time and time again.
Enjoy a coffee in one of the bustling street cafes or tour the beautifully manicured gardens and iconic museums. There are endless historic hotels to get your night’s rest after you’ve enjoyed a cocktail at a legendary bar or learned how to make some macarons.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a historical city with plenty of reasons to visit, with temperatures rarely falling below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and the sun shining for more than three-quarters of the year. Nestled on a peninsula next to the Atlantic Ocean, this city is known for its legendary seven hills, where old and new customs combine with cultural entertainment and innovation.
Taste one of the many ways that bacalhau (salted cod) is made, followed by a visit to the ancient ruins like the Largo do Carmo, and then wander downtown to discover the Portuguese artisanal shops.
Montenegro
With just over half a million people residing in the country, expect to be immersed in the culture and history but with not so many crowds. With charming ancient villages, cliffside monasteries, and the picturesque Bay of Kotor, it’s a natural wonderland with endless adventures, from climbing limestone peaks to whitewater rafting down turquoise rivers and bungee jumping into deep canyons.
This former Yugoslavia country hasn’t attracted the level of tourists that its western neighbors have, but it won’t remain like this for long.
Oceania
Fiji
When you think of a beach holiday, the white sands of Fiji are typically what come to mind, but its stunning beaches aren’t the only thing that this tropical paradise has to offer.
With endless amounts of resorts to choose from, you’ll always be greeted with a warm smile and plenty of activities like snorkeling and diving through mysterious caves and canyons, taking village-to-village hikes, or sailing to some of the 300 islands the country has to offer.
Sydney, Australia
After being closed to tourists for two years, Australia is welcoming tourists back with open arms. This cosmopolitan city offers something for everyone, whether it be the luxurious shopping and quaint specialty cafes to watching the Australian Ballet at the Opera House or a decadent lunch at a world-class restaurant.
Be transported to a secluded beach within 20 minutes from the central district and get around the city by ferry – it’s how the locals do it. Day trips include hiking along the misty Blue Mountains or tasting some of Australia’s best wines in the Hunter Valley.
USA
Vermont, USA
No trip would be complete without a maple syrup tasting in the state that produces over 2.5 million gallons of this delicious syrup. Abandon the highways and weave through the gorgeous back roads nestled between the maple forests.
With miles of lakes, rivers, and hiking trails to explore, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose between, like fishing, mountain biking, and paddle boarding. The town radiates New England charm, and you’ll find some excellent locally-made food products in its many cozy stores.
Florida Keys, USA
Take the Overseas Highway from the mainland to where you can access over 1,700 tropical islands filled with white sand beaches and natural parks with local flora and fauna. Arrange a snorkeling tour of the United States’ only living coral barrier reef or a boat trip for some world-class sport fishing.
Fresh fish and seafood populate almost every restaurant menu, and the indigenous cuisine incorporates diverse and delicious influences – particularly Cuban in Key West.
Latin America
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico’s thrilling capital and oldest city in the Americas is a blend of tradition and modernity and has become a popular destination for Americans over a long weekend.
Vibrating culture at every turn, from its archeological sites to its Latin American art, the city also possesses an incredible food scene, which is still connected to its tradition. From fine dining to street side food stalls and friendly locals always serving you with a smile.
