10 Best Places to Visit in July

July has many possibilities, whether you crave adventurous terrain, sunny beaches, or cultural events. In the Northern Hemisphere, July marks the height of summer, with warm temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, while the Southern Hemisphere hunkers down for winter, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing or enjoying cooler climates away from the heat. Here are the world's best places to visit in July with all you need to know.

Why we picked it:

• Best time for beach tours.
• Extended hours of sunlight for sightseeing tours
• Festivals and events like the Bastille Day Celebration and Tour de France Festival.

Climate range: 17°C to 26°C (Paris), 20°C to 30°C (Marseille), 18°C to 28°C (Lyon).

With long sunny days and mild temperatures, July is an ideal month for a France trip. Coastal destinations like the French Riviera flourish, drawing visitors to its luxurious resorts and fashionable towns such as Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. These areas are perfect for beach tours, relaxation, and enjoying the chic ambiance of the Mediterranean coast. Extended daylight hours offer the chance to leisurely explore iconic sites like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. At the same time, Provence, with its blooming lavender fields, becomes a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

July’s calendar is packed with vibrant festivals and events. Bastille Day on July 14 is a significant national celebration featuring parades, fireworks, and parties country-wide. Later in the month, the Tour de France captivates cycling enthusiasts as it weaves through stunning landscapes. Additionally, the Fete de la Musique on June 21 transforms cities into open-air concert venues, adding to the lively atmosphere.

The highlights of visiting France in July vastly outweigh any summer peak season crowds and prices, but we do recommend booking tours and accommodations in advance.

Top 3 Popular Destinations to Visit in France in July.

Why we picked it:

• Prime festival season: the Montreal Jazz Festival, Calgary Stampede, Canada Day, and more.
•  Pleasant weather for hiking and exploring national parks like Banff and Jasper
• Long days perfect for sightseeing tours of popular cities

Climate range: 14°C to 26°C (Toronto), 13°C to 25°C (Vancouver), 16°C to 28°C (Montreal)

July in Canada is perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural festivities. Canada Day on July 1 kicks off the month with parades, fireworks, and events nationwide, creating a lively atmosphere. The Montreal Jazz Festival, one of the biggest jazz events in the world, attracts renowned performers and enthusiastic audiences. Another highlight is the Calgary Stampede, known as the “Greatest Outdoor Show in Earth,” featuring thrilling rodeos, concerts, and carnival attractions.

For those exploring the best places to visit in Canada in July, cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer long daylight hours perfect for sightseeing tours or enjoying any of the many street festivals. The warm weather is also ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring national parks like Banff and Jasper, which provide breathtaking mountain views, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. East soastl regions (Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia) and lake regions (Lake Louise and Okanagan Lake in the west, and the Great Lakes region in Ontario), are great for boating, fishing, and swimming. However, this month is the peak season for a reason, and you’ll be competing with locals on holiday in July as well— we recommend early booking to secure the best deals.

Top 3 Popular Destinations to Visit in Canada in July

Why we picked it:

•       Pleasant sunny weather
•       Festivals like the Bali Arts Festival
•       Prime time for outdoor activities like surfing, diving, and snorkeling

Climate range: 24°C to 32°C (Jakarta), 22°C to 30°C (Surabaya), 23°C to 29°C (Bandung).

Visiting Indonesia in July offers a delightful mix of sunny weather, cultural celebrations, and natural wonders. The dry season ensures warm temperatures and low humidity in popular destinations like Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands, perfect for outdoor pursuits such as surfing, diving, and snorkeling. Adventurers can embark on volcano hikes, such as Mount Batur in Bali, or wander through Ubud's picturesque rice terraces. The Bali Arts Festival is a highlight, from mid-June to mid-July, showcasing traditional Balinese dance, music, and crafts. Visitors can enjoy vibrant parades, intricate performances, and lively markets selling local cuisines, souvenirs, and handicrafts.

July is peak tourist season, so accommodations and activities are more expensive, especially in Bali. It's best to make reservations in advance to ensure the best prices. Despite the crowds, the festive atmosphere and favorable weather make Indonesia one of the best places to visit in Asia in July.

Top 3 Popular Destinations to Visit in Indonesia in July

Why we picked it:

• Best time for beach tours
• Nightlife and festivals like the Santorini Jazz Festival and Naxos Festival
• Extended daylight hours perfect for sightseeing tours

Climate range: 24°C to 34°C (Athens), 23°C to 32°C (Thessaloniki), 22°C to 30°C (Heraklion).

Offering a perfect blend of Mediterranean charm, vibrant cultural events, and stunning landscapes, Greece is one of the best places in Europe to visit in July. With warm temperatures and extended daylight hours, a trip to Greece in July is the perfect time of year to visit ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos in Crete or the Acropolis in Athens. Coastal waters are ideal for sailing trips around the Cyclades, with stops at charming islands and hidden coves. The nightlife also thrives, particularly on islands like Mykonos and Santorini, known for their energetic clubs and beach parties. During the day, visitors can swim, snorkel, and dive in the Aegean Sea's warm, clear waters.

July hosts several festivals, including the Santorini Jazz Festival and the Naxos Festival, featuring jazz, traditional music, dance performances, and local cuisine. Check out the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, which offers theatrical performances in ancient amphitheaters, providing a unique cultural experience. Moderate crowds should be expected, especially in tourist hotspots, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is a must. Learn more about Greece in July.

Top 3 Popular Destinations to Visit in Greece in July

Why we picked it:

• Great wildebeest migration.
• Best time for a safari and bird-watching.
• Events like the Kilifi New Year Festival, and Masai Mara Marathon

Climate range: 11°C to 23°C (Nairobi), 20°C to 29°C (Mombasa), 13°C to 26°C (Kisumu)

For those interested in wildlife and wanting to see the Maasai Mara’s wildebeest migration, July is a perfect time to visit Kenya. The dry and cool weather are excellent conditions for safaris and birdwatching, highlighted by the Mara River crossings, a major draw for global visitors. Beyond wildlife encounters, travelers can enjoy hot air balloon rides over the Mara, visit Nairobi's conservation centers, or engage in cultural experiences like village visits and workshops. Coastal destinations like Diani Beach offer water sports, while Hell's Gate National Park invites hiking and rock climbing adventures.

July also hosts cultural events such as the Sarit Centre Expo and Food Festival in Nairobi, which showcase various cuisines. The Masai Mara Marathon promotes wildlife conservation with a unique running event. While July isn't peak tourist season, popular national parks like Amboseli and Tsavo can still attract many visitors. Accommodation and safari prices are generally lower than in August, making it a good time to plan a safari adventure without the crowds. Learn more about Kenya in July.

Top 3 popular destinations to visit in Kenya in July

Why we picked it:

• Festivals like the Dubrovnik Summer Festival
• Great weather for island hopping in the Adriatic Sea
• Water sports like scuba diving, kayaking, and snorkeling

Climate range: 20°C to 30°C (Zagreb), 22°C to 31°C (Split), 24°C to 32°C (Dubrovnik)

Renowned for its historic cities, crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, and beautiful islands, July is one of the best times to visit Croatia. The warm summer weather makes it ideal for exploring historic sites such as Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Pula Arena, and Zadar’s Old Town. The inviting waters of the Adriatic are perfect for sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, drawing both locals and visitors to coastal hubs like Split and Dubrovnik. Island hopping is a popular activity, with destinations like Split, Dubrovnik, Hvar and Korcula, featuring serene beaches, picturesque villages, and lively nightlife. The clear waters provide excellent conditions for sailing excursions to discover hidden bays and charming ports.

When it comes to events, July highlights the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, a month-long celebration of dance, theater, and music in the historic ambiance of Dubrovnik's Old Town. The Pula Film Festival offers a unique experience of watching films in a Roman amphitheater. While moderate crowds can be expected, July is generally less busy than August, making it a great time to explore Croatia without the peak season rush.

Top 3 popular destinations to visit in Croatia in July

Why we picked it:

• Midnight sun
• Festivals and events like the Reykjavik Art Festival and Rauðasandur Festival in Westfjords
• Outdoor activities like whale watching, puffin watching, kayaking, and snorkeling

Climate range: 10°C to 15°C (Reykjavik), 9°C to 14°C (Akureyri)

July in Iceland offers nearly 24 hours of daylight due to the midnight sun, perfect for exploring the country’s dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic craters. The cool but comfortable temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities like whale watching, puffin spotting, kayaking, and snorkeling in the clear waters of the Silfra fissure. Hiking in Landmannalaugar and the Golden Circle is also popular. Visitors can enjoy river rafting in the Hvítá River, exploring lava tunnels and ice caves, and taking scenic flights over stunning landscapes.

The Reykjavik Arts Festival, a highlight in July, showcases various artistic performances and exhibitions, while the Rauðasandur Festival in the Westfjords offers music, art, and outdoor activities. Although July sees an increase in tourists, it's less crowded than the peak of the tourist season in August. Accommodation and tour prices can be high, so we advise booking in advance.

Top 3 popular destinations to visit in Iceland in July

Why we picked it:

•  Pleasant weather for beach vacations
•  Festivals like the International Istanbul Jazz Festival
• Water sports like scuba diving and whitewater rafting
• Outdoor activities like hiking

Climate range: 20°C to 32°C (Istanbul), 25°C to 40°C (Ankara), 23°C to 36°C (Izmir)

Boasting warm, pleasant weather ideal for beach vacations and outdoor pursuits, Turkey tops the list of best places to visit in July with family. Coastal areas like Antalya and Bodrum are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as scuba diving and windsurfing. Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore ancient sites such as Troy near Çanakkale or experience a surreal sunrise hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Evenings in Istanbul come alive with open-air Turkish meyhanes, offering traditional meze and live music. July's International Istanbul Jazz Festival adds a lively cultural touch with performances by regional and international musicians in historic settings.

July in Turkey is also great for hiking in regions like Cappadocia and the Lycian Way along the coast. Popular historical sites like Ephesus and Pamukkale are bustling with tourists. With July being peak tourist season, prices for accommodations and tours are high, so booking in advance is advisable for the best deals and a smooth travel experience on your trip to Turkey.

Top 3 popular destinations to visit in Turkey in July

Why we picked it:

• Ideal weather for coastal wildlife watching and beach activities
• Hiking on the Inca Trail
• Festivals like the Inti Raymi Festival

Climate range: 14°C to 19°C (Lima), 8°C to 22°C (Cusco), 23°C to 31°C (Iquitos)

July in Peru offers ideal conditions for outdoor and cultural experiences, with the dry season in full swing. Coastal regions like Lima have moderate temperatures, which is perfect for beach sports and wildlife observation. The Andes and highlands enjoy cooler, dry weather, including Cusco and Machu Picchu, making it the best time to hike the Inca Trail. Cusco's Inti Raymi Festival on July 24 is a major cultural event that celebrates the Incan sun god with traditional ceremonies, parades, and reenactments, attracting both locals and tourists. Due to high demand, prices for accommodations and tours can be elevated, so early booking is recommended.

Clear skies and breathtaking views make July perfect for photography and sightseeing. Visitors can explore Lake Titicaca, the Sacred Valley, and the Nazca Lines. Additionally, July offers culinary delights in Lima and Arequipa as well as adventure activities such as river rafting on the Urubamba River and exploring the Amazon rainforest near Puerto Maldonado, where wildlife sightings are abundant during the dry season.

Top 3 popular destinations to visit in Peru in July

Why we picked it:

• Midnight sun
• Best weather for cruising the Norwegian fjords
• Festivals like the St. Olav Festival

Climate range: 14°C to 22°C (Oslo), 12°C to 20°C (Bergen), 13°C to 22°C (Trondheim).

Norway in July experiences the captivating midnight sun, which offers over twenty-four hours of daylight, particularly in the northern parts of the country, making it possible to engage in prolonged outdoor pursuits like hiking and fishing. The weather is perfect for sailing and discovering the well-known Geirangerfjord and Naerøyfjord. Norway's vibrant cities like Oslo and Bergen also come alive in July with outdoor festivals and music concerts, while the Lofoten Islands in the north provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including seabird colonies and the occasional whale sighting.

The St. Olav Festival, held in late July in Trondheim, is a major cultural and religious event celebrating Norway’s patron saint with concerts, markets, and historical reenactments. Popular hiking trails to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Trolltunga (Troll's Tongue) also attract moderate crowds as July starts the peak tourist season.

Top 3 popular destinations to visit in Norway in July

July beckons with many travel opportunities, each destination offering its allure and adventure. From the sun-soaked beaches of Greece and the lively festivals in France to Kenya’s thrilling wildlife safaris and Peru’s vibrant cultural celebrations, there’s a perfect getaway for every traveler. Whether you seek the dramatic landscapes of Norway under the midnight sun or Iceland’s unique blend of geysers and glaciers, these best places to visit in July offer a rich tapestry of experiences. Take advantage of ideal weather, manageable crowds, and captivating events. Plan your journey now, and discover the magic in July.