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Best books to read in summer: recommendations

Published on
July 9, 2026

Summer is one of the best times of the year to get back into the habit of reading. The days are longer, we have more free time and feel like enjoying quiet plans on the beach, on a terrace, or during a trip. That is why choosing the best books to read in the summer can help you turn any moment of rest into a even more pleasant experience.

It does not matter if you prefer the mystery, the romance, the fantasy or las inspirational stories. There is always a book capable of accompanying you during the vacations and making you disconnect from the routine. Below, you will find some recommendations to choose your next read.

What should a good summer book have?

There is no single formula, because every reader looks for something different. However, summer books usually have a fast-paced rhythm, interesting characters, and a story capable of hooking you from the very first pages.

For many people, the best books to read in the summer are those that can be enjoy without rushing and what they allow escape for a few hours. An entertaining novel can become the perfect companion for a beach afternoon, one train journey or one rest time after touring Vigo.

It is also a good time to try new genres. If you normally read historical novel, perhaps you can discover a romance story. If you prefer the fantasy, you can take advantage of the holidays to start a book series you've been putting off for a while. This way you'll discover that the best books to read in the summer can be found in genres you've never explored before.

Page-turner mystery novels

The thrillers and the mystery novels they are Sure bet for the summer. Its brief chapters, unexpected twists, and constant tension make it hard to put the book down.

Authors like Dolores Redondo, Juan Gómez-Jurado o Joël Dicker feature stories capable of keeping the reader in suspense until the end. This type of novel is part of the best books to read in summer for those looking emotion, intrigue, and characters with secrets.

In addition, many mystery novels are set in places full of personality, from small coastal towns to large cities. This allows travel through reading without moving from the spot, one of the reasons why these titles are among the best books to read in the summer.

Romance stories and contemporary novels

Summer is also an ideal time to enjoy romantic stories. Novels in this genre are usually light, close, and easy reading them, although many also address topics such as friendship, the family, the second chances or the personal growth.

Contemporary novels allow us to get to know characters with whom it is easy to identify. Their everyday conflicts, relationships, and decisions make the reader quickly connect with the story.

If you are looking for the best books to read this summer to disconnect and get excited, a romance or contemporary novel can be a great choice. In addition, there is a wide variety of styles, from romantic comedies to deeper and more emotional stories.

Fantasy and adventure to travel with the imagination

There are readers who prefer to use the holidays to enter completely different worlds. The fantasy and the adventure novels they are perfect for discovering impossible places, amazing creatures and characters who must face big challenges.

This genre offers options for all ages. You can choose from young adult novels quick-reading up to extensive sagas with complex universes. Among the best books to read in summer, fantastic stories stand out for their ability to make you forget the routine and stimulate the imagination.

You can also choose a adventure novel set in exotic destinations. These stories convey the feeling of traveling and are ideal for those who enjoy discovering new cultures and landscapes.

Classics that are always worth discovering

Vacations can also be the perfect time to read that classic you've always meant to get around to. Authors like Jane Austen, Gabriel García Márquez, Stefan Zweig o Agatha Christie they feature works that continue to win over readers of different generations.

Not all classics are difficult or too long. There are novels brief, entertaining, and accessible which can become some of the best books to read in the summer. In addition, many publishers publish careful and comfortable editions to transport.

The important thing is to choose a story that truly sparks your curiosity and enjoy reading without rushing.

Find your next read at Vialia Vigo

Dedicate time to a good book is one of those small pleasures that make summer even more enjoyable. Whether during a trip, at a café, or while relaxing outdoors, there is always a story waiting to accompany you.

If you still don't know which will be your best books to read this summer, come on over to Vialia Vigo and discover the What's new and recommendations available at their establishments. Take advantage of the visit to enjoy their shops, a meal at their locations in restoration or a movie session and turn any summer day into a Full plan.