Summer’s here, and Europe is buzzing like a hyperactive bee – from big cities where patios are crammed with sun-worshippers, to beach towns overflowing with sand-speckled picnics and ice cream cones in various states of meltdown.
If you’re searching for the best places to go in July, prepare for a sensory overload. The farmer’s markets are bursting at the seams, foragers are out pretending they discovered wild berries, and top chefs are practically overwhelmed with options. Want to escape to Canada? Even they’ve managed a brief stint of sunshine (yes, miracles happen). Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not flop onto a beach somewhere exotic? Indonesia, Mexico, or even Wales (yes, Wales), are waiting with open skies and hot sun. Still wondering about the best places to go in July? Don’t worry – we’ve got the inside scoop on 6 destinations you’ve been totally overlooking this summer.
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Summer’s Sizzling! Time to Find the Best Places to Go in July
Oslo: The Scandi Cool Capital You’ve Been Overlooking
TRAVELICIOUSBITES nailed it ages ago – Oslo is officially the capital of Scandi cool, and if you’re hunting for the best places to go in July, look no further. After months of snow-dusted hibernation, locals pour out of their stylish nests to soak up every bit of that glorious summer sun. With 17 hours of daylight, July in Oslo is all about outdoor concerts (Salt Langhuset hosts summer English stand-up, because why not?) and quirky bric-a-brac markets taking over the city’s green spaces. It’s a far cry from the frozen tundra of winter, making this one of the best places to go in July for culture, community, and, let’s be honest, people-watching.
For sustainable travel, avoiding flights might be tricky unless you’ve got time for an interrail adventure. But, good news – Norway’s rail system is a gem. Hop on a train to Bergen, and boom – two adventures in one.
Where to stay? Villa Inkognito is the spot. This 18th-century townhouse turned cozy hideaway will make you feel right at home, without your louder neighbor (Sommerro) cramping your style. So, why not add Oslo to your list of the best places to go in July? It’s cool. Literally.
Paris in July: Olympics, Bastille Day, and Unmissable Vibes!
Temperature: 26°C high; 16°C low
Season: Summer
All eyes are on Paris this summer as it rolls out the red carpet for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. But if you’re still on the hunt for tickets – don’t panic! Resales and ballots might just save the day. Even without the sports, Paris is one of the best places to go in July, and with good reason. Bastille Day (14 July) promises fireworks, parades, and street parties where Parisians celebrate in style. Add that to the ever-changing scene of new restaurants, bars, and attractions, and you’ve got one of the best places to go in July for both foodies and culture seekers.
Pro tip: Take the Eurostar from London. It’s fast, eco-friendly, and there are no battles over liquid limits or luggage. Plus, nothing screams sustainable travel quite like a high-speed train.
Where to stay? Look no further than TRAVELICIOUSBITES’s guide to Paris’s best hotels. Ready to explore one of the best places to go in July? Paris awaits – and this time, it’s more than just croissants and the Eiffel Tower.
Seychelles: Where the Sand is White, the Sea is Blue, and the Tortoises Are… Giant?
Temperature: 28°C high; 23°C low
Season: Dry
The Seychelles – home to some of the best places to go in July if your vacation dreams consist of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the occasional giant tortoise. North Island, a true VIP playground, has hosted everyone from George Clooney to royalty in its luxurious treehouses, nestled between the forest and ocean. If you’re after something a bit wilder, Frégate Island Private is the place to be, where the company of aldabra giant tortoises and rare magpie robins awaits.
For nature lovers, the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a must-see. Stay nearby at the stunning Raffles Praslin hotel for that perfect mix of luxury and adventure, because Seychelles isn’t just one of the best places to go in July, it’s paradise on Earth.
Sustainable travel tip: Visit the carbon-neutral Cousin Island Special Reserve, where giant tortoises, hawksbill turtles, and vibrant exotic birds roam free – park fees support conservation efforts!
Where to stay? The Four Seasons Seychelles on Mahé is still ruling the luxury scene with 67 villas hidden among 69 hectares of tropical beauty. Ready for one of the best places to go in July? Seychelles is calling!
Provence in July: Lavender, Markets, and All the French Fairytale Feels
Temperature: 30°C high; 18°C low
Season: Summer
Provence in July is like stepping into a French fairytale. Picture this: endless vineyards, hand-churned cheeses, and fields of fragrant lavender painting the landscape in vibrant purples. One of the best places to go in July, Provence’s summer markets are bursting with fresh olives, tomatoes, garlic, and orchard fruits, ready to inspire your inner gourmand. And let’s not forget the lavender-infused goodies – think honeys and sorbets that make you question why lavender isn’t in everything.
Travel back in time by staying in centuries-old mansions and châteaux, prolonging the magic well past sunset. And while Provence’s lavender steals the show in July, the region’s cliff-top drives, Roman ruins, and charming seaside towns are just as enticing.
Sustainable travel tip: Skip the plane and take the train from London to Aix-en-Provence, with a quick stop in Paris. It’s a scenic and eco-friendly route!
Where to stay? Check into La Bastide de Gordes for antique charm and killer views. For something private, how about a 12th-century Airbnb in Saint-Paul-de-Vence?
ALSO READ: Hotels in Provence France: 7 Amazing Spots – Which One Will Be Your Favorite?
Puglia in July: Sun, Sand, and Seriously Good Gelato
Temperature: 31°C high; 16°C low
Season: Summer
Puglia, the hidden gem in the heel of Italy’s boot, is one of the best places to go in July if you’re craving laid-back vibes with a side of rustic charm. With pristine beaches that are more chill than crowded, days in Puglia are best spent sipping Prosecco at a beach club while the Mediterranean sun works its magic. Puglia’s secret weapon? Its food scene. From fresh olive oil to melt-in-your-mouth gelato, this region will have you planning your next meal before you’ve finished the first.
Explore the winding, cobbled streets of old towns like Ostuni and baroque Lecce after sunset, or stay in a traditional masseria or trullo for a taste of the region’s rustic elegance. Trust us, you won’t want to leave.
Sustainable travel tip: Ditch the plane and take the scenic route! Train it from London to Lecce, via Paris and Milan. It’s eco-friendly and gives you bragging rights.
Where to stay? Try Masseria Torre Coccaro & Torre Maizza for that perfect mix of Puglian charm and French elegance. Or, check into Don Ferrante for killer sea views. Because, why not?
Canggu in July: Where Surf Meets Vegan Smoothie Bowls
Temperature: 31°C high; 22°C low
Season: Dry
Canggu, once Bali’s best-kept secret, has transformed into a sun-soaked haven for digital nomads who somehow manage to juggle coding, consulting, and sipping coconut lattes—all while watching the surf roll in. If you’re searching for the best places to go in July, this laidback paradise should top your list. By day, you’ll find travelers devouring vegan bowls in cafés and recharging at The Slow, a tropical brutalist hotel that redefined the Bali experience. By night, Canggu hipsters flock to The Lawn, a barefoot beach club slinging old-school hip-hop beats and hibiscus cocktails—a combo best enjoyed in Bali’s balmy July weather.
Looking for a luxe spot to crash? Como Uma Canggu just raised the stakes with stunning duplexes, each complete with its own rooftop pool for those post-surf dips.
Sustainable travel tip: As Bali battles overtourism, the JED ecotourism network offers a way to explore the authentic side of the island while giving back to local communities. Because who doesn’t want to help while sipping another cocktail, right?
Where to stay: The Slow—an Instagram-worthy hotel with a retro-modernist vibe, chic interiors, and a playlist that’s as cool as the clientele. It’s one of the best places to go in July for some serious tropical R&R.
10 Best Villas in Bali: Unbelievably Gorgeous Stays You Won’t Want to Leave!
Naxos in July: Your New Greek Obsession
Temperature: 27°C high; 23°C low
Season: Summer
Choosing the best Greek island is like picking a favorite child—impossible and a bit controversial. But if we’re playing favorites, Naxos is a top contender for the best places to go in July. As the largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos offers a beach for every mood. The west coast’s Agios Prokopios is your go-to for family-friendly fun, where the sands are as soft as a Greek grandma’s knitted blanket. Over in the south, Plaka Beach calls to wild souls with its dramatic dunes perfect for horseback rides, while Mikri Vigla challenges the daring with its kiteboarding escapades.
Despite its allure, Naxos keeps its cool, avoiding the frantic pace of other hotspots. Embrace the island’s laid-back vibe at beach bars and mountain village tavernas. Just be prepared to enter a state of pleasant stupor after indulging in generous pours of homemade wine and zesty citron liqueur.
Sustainable travel tip: For an eco-friendly journey to one of the best places to go in July, take a ferry from Athens to Naxos. The trip takes just over four hours. If you’re up for an epic travel adventure, you can journey from London to Athens by train in about three days. This involves taking the Eurostar to Paris (two hours 15 minutes), a TGV to Munich (six hours), an overnight Lisinski sleeper train to Zagreb, a train to Belgrade (seven hours), an overnight train to Thessaloniki, and finally an InterCity train to Athens (four hours).
Where to stay: Corona Borealis is your dream spot—a seven-suite retreat where the sunsets are as stunning as the private cove where you can dine under the stars. It’s one of the best places to go in July if you’re seeking a mix of relaxation and panoramic views.
ALSO READ: Naxos Island: The Ultimate Guide 2024 for a Blissful Greek Getaway
Iceland in July: Chilly Fun and Fiery Adventure
Temperature: 14°C high; 9°C low
Season: Summer
Iceland in July is like that one cousin who’s not great at parties but has an incredible collection of rare vinyl records—unexpectedly charming! While you’re not exactly heading to Iceland for sunbathing, the weather is mild enough to make the most of those endless daylight hours. Embrace the best places to go in July with a dip in the geothermal hot springs at Geysir or a jaunt to Thingvellir National Park, where you can hike, dive, or fish with the ION Hotel as your base camp. For adrenaline junkies, the Troll Peninsula offers an action-packed playground of adventures.
Food enthusiasts, rejoice! Reykjavik is a culinary hotspot with Nordic folk-food making waves—think fresh fish and succulent lamb that will have you drooling. Don’t miss Harpa, Reykjavik’s architectural marvel with its dazzling multi-faceted glass façade. It’s as if someone took the aurora borealis and turned it into a concert hall.
Sustainable travel tip: Iceland’s rising popularity has put some pressure on Reykjavik, so why not explore the more remote corners of this volcanic wonderland? Sea-kayaking in the Westfjords offers a chance to camp on deserted islands and avoid the tourist hustle. Support local operators to ensure that your adventures help preserve these fragile landscapes. These remote spots are among the best places to go in July if you’re looking for solitude and authentic Icelandic charm.
Where to stay: For a truly unique experience, check into The Retreat at Blue Lagoon. Nestled among bubbling lava fields, this hotel leverages the area’s curative waters to offer a soothing retreat—ideal for winding down after a day of exploration. It’s one of the best places to go in July for both relaxation and adventure.
ALSO READ: 8 Best Hotels In Iceland That Will Definitely Your Expectations
Yucatan Peninsula in July: Beach Bliss and Whale Shark Shenanigans
Temperature: 33°C high; 21°C low
Season: Wet
If you thought the Yucatan Peninsula was all about sun-soaked beaches and turquoise waters, you’d be half right. This tropical paradise is also a treasure chest of adventures that are simply begging for a splashy July. Skip the Cancun chaos and make a beeline for Isla Mujeres, where July’s Whale Shark Festival turns the island into a giant fish tank of conservation magic. Imagine swimming with these gentle giants—an eco-friendly selfie opportunity if there ever was one!
Next, sail to Tulum or Isla Holbox for your daily dose of zen and sand. Start your days with sun salutations, and end them with candlelit dinners where the sand is your tablecloth. While July is technically the rainy season, don’t let that deter you. This month usually offers a sweet break from torrential downpours, making it one of the best places to go in July for a beach escape with fewer crowds and still plenty of sunshine.
Sustainable travel tip: Isla Holbox is where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the way of life. With banned single-use plastics since 2018, locally owned eateries, and bikes replacing cars on unpaved roads, this island is a beacon of eco-consciousness. Arrive by a 30-minute ferry from the mainland and embrace the local charm without the guilt.
Where to stay: For a stay as rich in history as it is in luxury, check out Hacienda Uayamon. This former henequen estate dating back to 1685 offers a main house and 12 opulent villas, blending historic allure with modern comfort. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to go in July for a blend of culture, luxury, and eco-friendly vibes.
Coronet Peak: The Ultimate July Snow Thrills
Temperature: 2°C high; -7°C low
Season: Winter
Looking for snow in July? Coronet Peak on New Zealand’s South Island is your icy nirvana. This gem isn’t just about the snow—it’s about a snow-tastic party on the slopes. In July, Coronet Peak transforms into a playground for thrill-seekers and après-ski aficionados, with the oldest ski field in New Zealand keeping the fun going until 9pm. It’s like the ski equivalent of a 24-hour diner, but with fewer calories and a lot more adrenaline.
And if you think you’re going to miss out on the other delights of Queenstown, think again! Just a 20-minute drive away, Queenstown is practically a theme park for adults, boasting everything from bungee jumping (because why not?) to zip-lining and heli-skiing. But hey, if throwing yourself off things isn’t your style, just enjoy the stunning Southern Alps and the mirror-perfect Lake Wakatipu. Plus, the local vineyards offer mountain views and Pinot Noir that’ll make you forget all about that snowy, chilly weather.
Sustainable travel tip: Embrace eco-chic with a stay in a PurePod. These glass-walled tiny houses, tucked into remote spots across the island, run on solar electricity and biofuel. They’re the perfect mix of luxury and sustainability, making them one of the best places to go in July for those who love both adventure and eco-friendly vibes.
Where to stay: While Hotel Britomart in Auckland is the eco-champion of New Zealand, for the ultimate in snowy stays, nothing beats the cozy, sustainable charm of the PurePods scattered across the South Island. They’re a clear winner in the “best places to go in July” for an eco-conscious, adventurous escape.
