Sun-kissed coastlines of Europe, world-famous festivals in Asia and wildlife migrations in Africa, where will you be in July?
Whether you’re a thrillseeker, sunbather, or a little bit of both, we’ll match your vibe for your next vacation. July means summer in Europe is in full swing, the once-sweltering African heat is simmering down and the Americas – even the rainy parts – are drenched in sunshine. Sure, there may be crowds this time of year, but your local leader may know just the right spots to take you into some untapped locales…
1. Kyoto, Japan
Why go? Experience Japan’s most famous festival
Temperature: 28ºC (82ºF) high, 23ºC (73ºF) low
Season: summer
You can’t go wrong visiting Kyoto, Japan, any month of the year, but we recommend planning a trip in July to experience the cultural richness of Gion Matsuri. Branch out from your typical summer routine and check out Japan’s most famous festival for an epic change of pace.
The entire month of July honours the festival but the grand procession of floats, Yamahoko Junko, takes over the city on July 17. Massive, colourful floats, traditional music, dance performances, street food and craft vendors stimulate all your senses as you explore a new culture.
The weather may get a little toasty in July but that’s what “kawadoko” is for: a dining experience that will cool you down as you enjoy Nishin soba on a wooden platform beside, and sometimes over, a flowing river. Explore the traditional fishing village of Ine, hike the scenic trails of Miyama City and Zen out at a Buddhist temple for some peace away from the crowds.
2. Croatia
Why go? Sunny days ideal for sailing, swimming and sipping local wine
Temperature: 30ºC (86ºF) high, 23ºC (73ºF) low
Season: summer
When you think about summer, you probably dream of clear waters, long sunny days and squeezing in as much time outdoors as possible. If this sounds familiar, Croatia in July will grant you your ideal summer getaway. Bask in the sun on the turquoise waters of Zlatni Rat, dip into the emerald-green lakes of Mljet and cool down with a regional wine.
Combine seaside exploration with relaxation by setting sail along Croatia’s sparkling coastline and island hopping across Hvar, Korcula and Vis. You may wonder why you would ever want to step foot off the boat, but getting your land legs back is worth it to indulge in the thriving food scene on the Dalmatian coast. Savour the lively restaurant scene that comes alive in the warm evenings of July and paint the perfect summer night with a feast of fresh seafood straight from the coast you were just swimming in.
3. West Coast, United States
Why go? Minimal rain in the rainest part of the country
Temperature: 27ºC (80ºF) high, 15ºC (59ºF) low
Season: summer
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts: July is the optimal time to enjoy the adventures of the Pacific Northwest in the United States. If you’re keen to explore this part of the states, July is your (and the sun’s) time to shine, as it’s one of the few months when you’re not sheltering in place from the region’s regular rainfall. Well, pack an umbrella just in case.
Collect a lifetime’s worth of sea glass at Glass Beach in California, ogle at the towering giants in the Redwood National Park and cool off in the blue waters of Crater Lake in Oregon.
Take advantage of the good weather and get lost (not literally, you’ll be with a local leader!) in the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park, where you will seriously feel like you’re in a fairytale movie. Along the way, visit a local winery and cheers to the sunniest month in Seattle.
4. Kenya
Why go? Mild climate, better chance to see wildlife
Temperature: 24ºC (76ºF) high, 11ºC (52ºF) low
Season: dry
While it’s never guaranteed, July tends to mark the start of the great migration when thousands of wildebeest and zebras make the journey from Tanzania to Kenya. It’s a tense watch as these animals leap across the treacherous, crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River in search of greener pastures. Witnessing this phenomenon can only be described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Temperatures in Kenya also begin to dip around this time of year and the milder climate encourages wildlife to congregate by watering holes and rivers, making them far easier to spot. Enjoy taking game drives through the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five. Travellers are also able to visit a traditional Maasai homestead and meet the local Maasai tribespeople.
5. Ecuador
Why go? Mild weather, fewer crowds
Temperature: 30ºC (86ºF) high, 15ºC (59ºF) low
Season: dry
Ecuador’s landscapes are as diverse as its weather in July. While the temps are fairly consistent throughout the year, they differ dramatically based on where in the country you’re visiting.
There’s no wrong choice in July and we may even nudge you to explore it all. Relax on the coast for a lowkey vacation or take on cultural adventures in the cool highlands. Head home with bragging rights that you explored the iconic Amazon rainforest with an Indigenous leader and canoed to a riverside eco-lodge.
Whether you’re hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, braving unique wildlife encounters in the Galapagos, or slowing down like the sloths, we’ll make sure you get the most out of this South American paradise.
6. Southern Italy
Why go? Cold wine, clear waters and Calabria
Temperature: 32ºC (88ºF) high, 24ºC (75ºF) low
Season: summer
A July spent in southern Italy is a sun-seeking adventurer’s dream come true. Imagine island-hopping through the heart of the Mediterranean surrounded by crystal clear waters, taking a cooking class in Palermo, wandering the Sicilian countryside and sharing a hearty “Buongiorno!” with the local farmers.
If you’re hesitant about the summer crowds, we’ll take you to Calabria, a lesser-known paradise with pristine swimming spots, a mix of mountains and seaside, and Italian cuisine galore.
7. Scandinavia
Why go? Ample time for outdoor adventures under the midnight sun
Temperature: 22ºC (73ºF) high, 12ºC (55ºF) low
Season: summer
Do you ever wish there was more time in the day? If so, add the Scandinavian countries to your must-visit list for July. This northern European subregion most commonly refers to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark and during the summer months, parts of these countries see 19 hours of sun per day, with some areas having a whopping 24 hours of daylight. (Don’t worry, this is why blackout curtains exist.) Not only do you have more time to frolic outside but you get to enjoy this stunning part of the world when it’s at its warmest, which means the clear lakes won’t be a tease and you can actually take a refreshing dip.
Make your way through Viking cities, explore the rugged and picturesque Lofoten islands, kayak around the Gothenburg Archipelago, bike through Copenhagen and discover Norway’s quirky capital of Oslo. We’ve got it all and you’ve got the time to do it under the midnight sun.
Not sure about July?
Check out our recommendations on where to travel in August and September.
