July is an excellent time for a sunny holiday in Europe. School holidays have begun, warm temperatures not only in Mediterranean destinations are drawing holiday makers to beaches, lakes and mountains. Do you prefer hot or moderate climate in July? We’ll show you the best places for international travel and where to go on holiday in July.
Which country is best to visit in July?
If you like hot weather then Mediterranean holiday destinations like Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Turkey, Cyprus and Malta are a great choice. If you prefer good but not too hot weather, consider a July holiday trip to the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Scandinavian countries, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Ireland or United Kingdom.
July holiday destinations: Our picks
1. Sardinia: Italy’s beautiful island in July
Sardinia is an Italian island in the Mediterranean. It has a population of about 4 million people, and its capital city is Cagliari (population 1.3 million). In July you can expect to see lots of tourists on the beaches, but it’s not as crowded as other places in Italy.
Sardinia is a place of contrasts. The island has long been known for its natural beauty, the spectacular coastline, its unique culture and traditions and its welcoming people. But it also offers visitors an abundance of activities, from hiking on the highest peaks to diving into crystal clear waters or simply enjoying a day at the beach.
There are many things to do in Sardinia: visit the ancient Nuraghe villages, admire the amazing views from the top of the Monte Ortobene mountain, discover the secrets of the island’s underwater world, take part in festivals, taste local cuisine and much more.
The weather is usually nice all year round. The summers are hot, with temperatures averaging around 30°C.
Book your holiday in Sardinia
2. Cyprus holiday in July
Cyprus holidays are a great way to spend your summer holidays in July. The island is located on the eastern Mediterranean and has been attracting tourists from all over the world for many years now. There are plenty of things to do, see and experience while visiting this beautiful country and its stunning beaches.
In July there will be no shortage of sunshine and blue skies. Temperatures should average around 32 degrees Celsius during the day time and drop down to around 22 degrees Celsius at night. This means that you’ll have perfect conditions for swimming and water sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling and sailing.
You might want to consider taking a trip to one of the numerous national parks scattered throughout the island. They offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the whole of Europe. Some of them are even home to rare species of flora and fauna. You could also visit the archaeological sites, museums and churches dotted across the island.
If you’re looking for an adventure holiday, try hiring a kayak or boat to explore the sea caves around the Ayia Napa area. These caves are close to the entrance to the Cape Greco National Forest Park – they can also be explored by foot at low tide. You could also visit the nearby village of Limassol, which is famous for its sweet wine, Commandaria.
3. Cyclades Greece in July
Why go to Greece in July? For vibrant blue seas with islands on each horizon. If it‘s hard narrowing down your choice of which Greek island you should visit, you can fudge it most beautifully in the Cycladic Islands, a group whose clustered layout and many ferry routes allow for multiple island hopping.
With an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius and little rain, it’s little wonder that Greece is popular in July and many people dream of a holiday in the Greek Islands. Santorini has captured the limelight in recent decades, with its Instagrammable Blue Dome Churches and spectacular sunsets. White Beach, on the southern tip of the island, has a calm cove perfect for swimming while Ero Beach is a secluded location known for the dramatic cliffs that plunge down onto its dark volcanic sandy and rocky shoreline. However, the island is often too crowded, so try one of its equally beautiful but less visited islands; there are plenty of options.
While July heralds peak holiday season, especially on the most visited islands such as Santorin and Mykonos – there’s still plenty of room to enjoy the scenery at low tide. A great base is Naxos, with its friendly vibe and lack of crowds. For extra crowd avoidance, sail over the less crowded islands such as Sifnos and Serifos.
Fantastic hotels in Greece
4. Spanish coasts in July
Costa Brava is a great place to visit during the summer months. There are lots of small towns and villages along the coastline, and many of them offer a lot of culture and history. You can also go hiking, surfing, sailing and scuba diving. If you’d like to stay active while you’re there, check out the local festivals and events.
Costa del Sol is the perfect destination for those looking for a beach vacation. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants, and you can spend your days relaxing at the beach or exploring the area. For those wanting to party, head to Malaga, Granada or Fuengirola.
Hotels by the Costa del Sol
5. Balearic Islands in July
The most famous Balearic islands are Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. While Mallorca and Ibiza are crowded in the peak season, Menorca might be less overrun but sun hungry tourists. My pick for a holiday in July would be Menorca, also because of the stunning secluded beaches.
The weather is hot and dry in all of the 3 islands. By the way: Ibiza is not necessarily a party place. It also has many options for families.
Here are my hotel picks for a family holiday in July:
6. Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is the largest island of the Canary Islands. The capital city of Gran Canaria is Las Palmas, where you’ll find many things to see and do in one day. There are many beaches along the coast of Gran Canaria, including Playa de Maspali, Playa del Ingles, and Playa del Caracol. You’ll also enjoy visiting the famous dunes at the Maspalomas.
The good thing about a holiday in July on the Canary Islands is, that it’s pleasantly warm, but not too hot compared to the Mediterranean holiday destinations. And it’s a bit cheaper that in other season because winter is peak season in Gran Canaria.
If you love nature, then you will not want to miss out on visiting the Jardín Botánica Canario Viera y clavijo. This botanical garden has over 515 plant species and some great places to enjoy a picnic. If you’re looking for an alternative to the beach, this is the perfect place to go!
7. Black Sea Coast Bulgaria
Summer is the peak season in Bulgaria, especially around the country’s seaside towns. There are plenty of cheap hotels and apartments available, and you will get the best deals if you book well in advance. During the summer, the weather at the Bulgarian Coast is usually warm and sunny.
My pick on the Black Sea Coast in Bulgaria is Sunny Beach. It’s located about 30 km north west of Varna, and has been an important port for centuries. The town was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD as Colonia Julia Victrix. In the Middle Ages, the town was called Sveti Stefan (Saint Stephen) after its patron saint. Today, the name of the town is still Saint Stephan.
Sveti Stefan is a popular tourist resort with beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear water. The town itself is very picturesque, with cobbled streets, old churches and narrow alleys. The main attractions include the old Roman amphitheater, which dates back to the 2nd century BC, and the Church of St. George built in the 14th century.
A trip to Sunny Beach won’t be complete without visiting the nearby ancient Thracian ruins of Perperikon. Another interesting sight worth seeing is the Black Sea Cave. Located near the town of Sozopol, it is said to be the longest cave in Europe. You can visit the caves during low tide when the water recedes into the underground river, or take a boat tour.
In addition to these sights, there are lots of fun activities to do in Sunny Beach. For example, you can try your hand at windsurfing, parasailing, scuba diving, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, and much more.
8. Portugal: Madeira
Madeira is a small island in the Atlantic Ocean located about halfway between Africa and Europe. The capital city of Funchal is the largest town on the island and offers plenty of activities for tourists. There are also several beaches along the coast. The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is warmest.
It is famous for its beaches, mountains and forests. It’s great for hiking in July. The island is covered in lush vegetation, including palm trees, ferns, and cacti. There are many species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects found here. The island is also home to many different types of plants, including magnolias, redhot pokers, and hydrangeas, among others.
Madeira is famous for its music festivals, including Jazz Festivals in Funchal and Santana, and a 24-hour dance festival in Santana. There are also many other events throughout the year, like the Sea Week Regatta and Games in Porto Moniz. While you’re there, check out the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood dishes, pastries and breads, and delicious Portuguese wines.
9. Hue Vietnam in July
There are also many other places to visit in Central Vietnam, which is best to visit during the European Summer, because it’s dry season in Central Vietnam. Check out our article on things to see and do in Central Vietnam.
The most interesting place in Vietnam for a holiday in July is Hue. The Hue summer festival is a major event in the city of Hue, capital of central Vietnam. It is held annually during the third week of July to celebrate the birthday of Emperor Gia Long (1841–1883), who founded the Nguyễn dynasty that ruled over all of Vietnam until 1945.
The festival features cultural performances, food stalls, fireworks displays, children’s games, and traditional dancing. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the imperial gardens, watch acrobatics, and admire the artistry of Vietnamese dancers.
There are many things to see and experience while in Hue. One of them is the Imperial City, where visitors can explore the palace grounds and walk through the Forbidden Purple City, where only royalty were allowed to enter. Also, don’t miss the Temple of Literature, one of the oldest universities in Asia.
10. Bali: perfect time to visit is July
I’m sure you’ve heard of Bali before. Bali is a tropical island located in the south-east Asian country of Indonesia. It’s dry season in July and hence the best time to visit this famous island. It is famous for its beaches, temples, volcanoes, rice paddies and lush jungles. The island is also known for its culture and traditions. People come here because of the beautiful scenery and friendly locals. There are many places to visit in Bali like Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot Temple, Mount Agung, Kintamani Volcano, Jimbaran Beach, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur, Lovina, Candidasa, Padangbai, and Amed. Bear in mind that European summer is also peak season in Bali.
11. Mexico: Riviera Maya in July
The weather is warm and dry, with temperatures around 33°C during the day at the Mexican Caribbean coast. The rainy season starts in May and usually lasts until October. In this period it rains every afternoon, but not much, making it ideal for swimming and water sports even on a July holiday.
If you’re looking for an alternative to Cancun in July, consider heading to Isla Mujeres instead. There, you’ll be able to see hundreds of whale sharks gathering offshore. The event aims to raise awareness about conservation, while giving swimmers an opportunity to swim with the gentle giants in an environmentally friendly way. Rainy season is usually the best time to go because there are fewer people going out.
One of the main reasons people travel to the Riviera Maya is to enjoy the beach. There are more than 3,000 kilometers of coastline with white sands, so you’re bound to find a secluded spot that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Some of the most popular tourist destinations include Cancún, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, and Puerto Morelos. The area has some great attractions including Xcaret Eco Park, Tulum Ruins, Coba Archaeological Zone, Chichén Itzá, Laguna Bacalar, Playa del Carmen, and Akumal.
12. Iceland: the place to go on holiday in July to escape from the heat
Chances are you won’t be going to Iceland for its weather, but it’s certainly more pleasant in July. If you like to escape from the European summer, Iceland is a great July holiday destination. The long days mean even more time to explore the nearly otherworldly natural landscape – go for a dip in Geysirs hot springs or visit Thingvallir National Park. Or head north to Troll Peninsula for an action packed trip. Foodies will enjoy the capital, Reykjaviks, where the Nordic folk food movement has taken hold, focusing on fresh fish and local meat. Don’t miss a visit to Harp, Reykjavik’s new concert hall with its magnificent multi faceted glass facade.
Sustainable Travel Tip: Iceland’s meteoric growth has placed a strain on its capital city. While Reykjavík has become an international hub for tourism, it also means there are fewer opportunities for locals to get away from the crowds. Consider traveling to the less visited areas of the island to rediscover that magical feeling of being completely cut off from civilization. Take a kayak trip through the Westfjords region, for example, and camp on deserted islands. You’ll see nothing but water and sky for days at a time. Or go hiking in the highlands. There are plenty of trails to choose from, and the views are breathtaking.
Frequently asked questions about where to go on holiday in July
Where’s hot in July for a holiday?
A holiday in July will give you plenty of sunshine, but it won’t necessarily be hot everywhere in Europe. It depends where you’re going. If you want to enjoy the sun, then Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece and Turkey are all great options. But if you prefer cooler climes, then Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark are all better bets.
Where is the cheapest place to go abroad in July?
One of the best places for a holiday in July with great value for money is Turkey. Due to the devaluation of the Turkish lira it has become a cheap place for Europeans. Another inexpensive destination is Albania.
Should I go to Maldives in July?
If you want to enjoy the sun and sea temperature in July, then the Maldives is the place to be. It has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the climate is perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Which Caribbean island has the least rain in July?
Aruba, Curacao, Saint Maarten and Saint Thomas are the Caribbean islands with the least rainfall in July.