Looking for summer break ideas for teachers in 2025? This is the guide for you!
I love planning my trips with a bit of inspiration in mind, and this post is just the thing.
For teachers, summer break is a well-deserved opportunity to unwind and recharge after a busy school year. I find that taking time to relax and explore new places is essential for maintaining balance and mental well-being.
I have spent the past ten summers traveling on every break, and it’s my goal to help you do the same!
Whether you’re looking to lounge on a tropical beach, immerse yourself in history, or take off on a hiking adventure, there are countless destinations you can choose from.
From close-to-home getaways to international escapes, the world is full of options that allow teachers to rejuvenate and return to the classroom feeling refreshed and ready for the year ahead.
10 summer break ideas for teachers in 2025 include the Pacific Northwest, New York City, Chicago, California, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Greece, Spain, and Ireland.
10 Summer Break Ideas For Teachers
United States
1. Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is an ideal summer destination for teachers looking to enjoy cooler temperatures, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cities during the USA’s summer break.
Whether you are looking for a rugged outdoor adventure or city exploring, there are so many things to do!
With mild weather and long daylight hours, summer is perfect for exploring national parks like Olympic and Mount Rainier.
Summer also typically provides the clearest views of iconic outdoor gems like Mount Rainier and Mount Hood.
Seattle and Portland are two of the region’s major metropolitan cities. Summer can be a great time to explore each city’s urban culture, like farmers’ markets, craft breweries, and scenic waterfronts.
It’s also festival season, so you might consider outdoor events like the Portland Rose Festival and Seattle’s Capitol Hill Block Party.
2. New York
New York City is an exciting summer destination for teachers looking to immerse themselves in culture and outdoor events.
Summer is ideal because the city comes alive with free concerts and performances in parks like Central Park and Prospect Park.
The SummerStage concert series in Central Park offers a variety of genres, from jazz to hip-hop, making it a fantastic way to experience live music without the cost of a ticket.
Teachers can also explore the city’s numerous street festivals, outdoor art exhibits, and food markets that pop up during the warmer months.
3. Chicago
Chicagoans say that there is nothing quite like Chicago summer! From bustling patios to beach days along Lake Michigan, Chicago summer really is a great time of year.
Summer temperatures are considered milder in Chicago, rarely hitting 100℉. So yes, it’s hot- but bearable!
I have spent tons of city time in Chicago over the summer, and I agree it’s a favorite travel destination for many reasons.
It’s also the high season, so I recommend planning to secure the best prices.
⭐Popular Chicago Hotels
4. California
One of my favorite summer trips I have ever taken was hiking in Southern California! This is a perfect time of year to get off the beaten path and take a road trip to gems like Alabama Hills, Joshua Tree, or Bishop.
There are so many amazing places in the Eastern Sierra Mountains outside of more commonly visited national parks like Yosemite.
Visiting smaller towns provides more tranquility, lower costs, and more natural beauty to enjoy with fewer crowds!
Oceania
5. Australia
Summer is one of the most ideal times for teachers to fly across the world on a long flight! (As much as anyone wants to be on a long flight).
Getting to spend more time enjoying your destination and less time in transit is always key.
During the USA’s summer break, it’s winter in Australia, offering a refreshing change of pace with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
This is a great time to explore Australia’s natural wonders, such as the Great Barrier Reef or the rugged beauty of Tasmania.
Ski enthusiasts can head to the Australian Alps for winter sports in regions like Thredbo or Perisher. Australia’s northern region remains relatively warm and ideal for exploring beaches without the summer crowds.
6. New Zealand
New Zealand is an excellent winter destination for teachers seeking a mix of adventure and stunning landscapes.
While it’s winter in New Zealand (like Australia), the cooler temperatures create perfect conditions for exploring the country’s natural beauty.
On South Island, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the famous Queenstown or Wanaka regions, while North Island offers milder weather for hiking in places like Tongariro National Park.
This is low season in New Zealand, meaning fewer crowds and hopefully more affordable prices!
⭐More Teacher Travel Resources
Europe
7. Italy
Traveling as a teacher to Italy during summer break means you won’t be in a hurry and can enjoy traveling through the country at a relaxed pace.
I spent one month in an apartment in Italy during one of my summer breaks. Summer is the high season for tourism in Italy, and it’s also super hot. Heat and high prices are not usually the best combination, but the country is so beautiful that it just makes sense!
The summer months are ideal for soaking up Italy’s stunning coastline. Enjoy beautiful beaches and crystal waters in world-class destinations like Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.
Summer in Italy can be hot, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s°F, so be prepared for the heat and drink plenty of water.
Consider exploring early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and heat.
8. Greece
Greece is an ideal summer destination for teachers looking to enjoy rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture.
Summer in Greece brings plenty of sunshine, perfect for lounging on the iconic beaches of Mykonos, Santorini, or Crete. I spent 10 days in Crete last summer and loved my experience!
However, it’s super hot, so I recommend sightseeing early in the morning or later in the evening when possible. I also recommend being not like me and packing hydration packets.
Summer is also the time for lively festivals, like the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, which celebrates Greek music, theater, and dance.
9. Spain
Spain is a popular summer travel destination! The country is filled with incredible beaches, beautiful mountain scenery, and endless city exploring.
You can base yourself out of a major metropolitan city like Barcelona or Madrid while taking day trips by train to smaller towns and mountain regions.
Alternatively, you can plan a trip around the entire country, exploring other popular regions like Southern Spain (one of my favorites).
Be prepared for Southern Spain’s intense heat in July, like 110℉ hot. This means it’s low season in this region of the country, but it can also be very uncomfortable.
Plan accordingly if popular Andalusian cities like Granada or Seville are top priorities on your Spain trip, such as exploring early in the morning when possible.
10. Ireland
Ireland is a fantastic summer destination for teachers looking to explore rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.
Summer is known as one of the most beautiful times to visit! Sunny days are more common, which means more sunshine spreads across the country’s lush greenery like the Cliffs of Moher.
Other must-see attractions include the Ring of Kerry and Dublin’s historic landmarks like Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse.
Summer is the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Tip: Pack layers, as Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or a relaxing beach escape, there are plenty of great destinations for teachers during summer break.
From the vibrant cities of Europe to the natural beauty of New Zealand and Australia, each place offers unique experiences.
I recommend keeping in mind factors that are most important to you while planning, such as weather, crowds, and pricing.
No matter where you go, these destinations provide teachers with an opportunity to unwind and recharge!
