July is a busy vacation month for many people around the world as children go on summer break and families start travelling. As the climate gets warmer, July is a fantastic time of the year to explore another beautiful country for your summer vacation.
The sun emerges in all its glory as people flock to the most amazing beaches, explore the arts and culture of another city, and create their best summer memories in another part of the world.
Not sure where to travel in July? We have simplified your choices into a list of the best places to visit in July, breaking down where to go based on what fits your interest best!
What are the best places to travel in July 2024?
Where to travel in July in Asia
- Tioman Island, Malaysia – for water activities
- South Korea, Boryeong – for the mud festival
- Mandalay, Myanmar – for culture
- Nha Trang, Vietnam – for an affordable beach getaway
Where to travel in July in US and Americas
- Wyoming, USA – for scenic landscapes
- California, USA – for fun and entertainment
- Bahamas, Caribbean – for summer vacation
- Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico – for the beach
- Ambergris Caye, Belize – for off-season
- Montreal, Canada – for the excitement and laughters
Where to travel in July in Europe
- Provence, France – for sightseeing
- Vienna, Austria – for families
- Brussels, Belgium – for Tomorrowland Music Festival
- Azores, Portugal – for the nature lover
- Reykjavík, Iceland – for a soothing trip
Where to travel in July in Africa
Where to travel in July in Oceania
Best places to visit in July 2024 in Asia
Tioman Island, Malaysia
Gambol about with the local sea turtles
This tropical gem experiences the high season in July. It is easy to tell why – the turquoise seas reflect a clear sky where sea-loving travelers snorkel, dive or just simply frolic about in the calm water.
A hike through the secluded jungles will reveal beautiful waterfalls and other scenic nature views. If you are just looking to relax, merely lying on the white sand beaches to soak in the summer rays can be enriching.
READ MORE: Tioman Island is also one of the world’s best places to travel alone
Boryeong, South Korea
Get muddy in one of the biggest festivals in South Korea
The mud festival in Boryeong attracts about 2.2 million visitors every year, a feat they have achieved since starting out in July 1998. Prepare to be showered in mud and bodypaint for two weeks as millions flock to the small town in Korea for one of the biggest festivals there.
The events all revolve around good, clean fun – ironically ranging from mud wrestling, swimming to sliding. The festival originates from the belief that mud is beneficial for the skin but quickly evolved to incorporate the parties and parades which we know today.
READ MORE: Boryeong Mud Festival makes our list of biggest and best festivals in the world
Mandalay, Myanmar
For a cultural experience
The Spirit Festival in Myanmar has become a significant event for the local LGBT community in a country with traditional gender ideas. Thousands of members of the community travel across Myanmar to meet with Nat Kadaws, or “spirit wives”. Get to experience a cross between religious tradition and embracing modernity by attending the festival this July.
Other cultural experiences in Mandalay include the elaborate performances at Mintha Theatre and immersing yourself in local culture at the Mandalay Marionettes. A trip to Myanmar can be a truly rewarding one which makes it one of the best places to visit in July.
READ MORE: Why Myanmar is one of the safest countries to visit
Nha Trang, Vietnam
A pocket-friendly coastal paradise
Tropical areas of the world tend to suffer from the rainy season, which may limit where to travel in July if you seek a sunny beach holiday.
The good news is Nha Trang, Vietnam does not experience the rainy season pattern that the rest of the tropically-located country goes through. This makes it the perfect weather to lounge by the beach or go island-hopping, surfing and other water sports.
Combine the sunny, clear weather with the freshest seafood in the country at jaw-droppingly low prices, it is no wonder Nha Trang is a beach destination favourite in July.
READ MORE: Check out our lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world
Best places to visit in July 2024 in the US and Americas
Wyoming, USA
For exploring the wilderness
The Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is most often visited in July, so you can expect to see other visitors during your trip. But the warmer weather makes it possible to sleep outdoors, which opens up a beautiful opportunity to fully immerse in the pristine wilderness of the park.
Not only an incredible place for adults, but the kids will be fascinated by the buffalo herds, geysers, rock formations, and near-mystical walking trails.
READ MORE: Check out our list of places to visit before you die
California, USA
Ideal place to spend a fun family day
There is nowhere better for a trip to Disneyland than Anaheim, a memory that all children and adults dream of having. The warm weather in Anaheim makes it one of the best places to visit in July with family.
As you revel in the California sun at the happiest place on earth, don’t forget to check out the smaller theme parks in the area such as Knott’s Berry Farm and Adventure City for their own idyllic charm.
READ MORE: Here are 10 of the best amusement parks in the world
Bahamas, Caribbeans
Dive into the resort paradise
With more than an astounding 700 islands, the Bahamas offers the perfect summer vacation paradise. Sunny weather, white-sanded beaches, magical boat trips, underwater snorkelling, vast parks, and countless water activities await you and your family.
Because the winter months are the most popular vacation periods in the Bahamas as Americans and Canadians escape the cold in their respective home country, you can find great summer discounts during July for popular resorts such as Atlantis on Paradise Island.
READ MORE: The Bahamas are also one of the best places to swim with dolphins in the world
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Swim in the crystal clear waters on the tropical coast
Set in the heavenly Carribeans, the Yucatan Peninsula along Mexico’s tropical coast is ridiculously beautiful. During July the temperature will be hot and tropical, making the beach vibes very strong.
What makes this time of the year special, however, is the annual Whale Shark Festival. Held in July every year, the festival allows swimmers to swim alongside majestic whale sharks in a safe manner.
Combining the incredible ocean views, exciting adventure activities, and the July Whale Shark Festival, the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in July.
READ MORE: World’s best places to swim with whale sharks
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Take advantage of the off season!
The welcoming aura of Belize is a juxtaposition against the gloomy weather in July as you arrive to a blend of jungle views and spectacular ocean sights. You might not be able to do as many activities as compared to peak season, but it rains less than in the neighbouring parts and the rain tends to last only an hour or two.
In July, there is a wide selection of food festivals just as fruit and seafood season descends. Indulge in delectable Belizean food from your pick of vendors.
The island was once home to the Maya civilization, which has resulted in a delightful view of historic sites.
READ MORE: The Great Blue Hole in Belize is considered one of the best places to scuba dive in the world
Montreal, Canada
Immerse yourself in the celebrations and laughters!
July is one of the most festival-filled months in Canada. Not only does the city celebrates Canada Day on the first of July with a variety of events, but there are also interesting happenings such as the International Fireworks Competition, Montreal Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs Comedy Festival.
On Wednesdays and Saturdays in July, there are amazing fireworks by the best pyrotechnicians around the world. And on other days, immerse in the Jazz outdoor shows that are part of the largest in the world in the 2004 Guinness Book of World Records. One of the best ways to enjoy your holiday is non-other than having loads of laughter. Travel down to Montreal for the Just for Laugh Comedy Festivals participated by comedians and stars from all over the world to laugh your stress away!
READ MORE: The vibrancy and creativity in the city have ranked itself in the top 10 most beautiful cities in the world.
Best places to visit in July 2024 in Europe
Provence, France
Indulge in breathtaking lavender fields
Sharing a beautiful moment with your partner is a memory that will never fade. This special moment can be even more beautiful by being surrounded by one of the world’s most unique floral sights: the fragrant lavender fields of Provence.
Pretty and aromatic, the purple lavender fields start to come to full bloom during July, offering you and your loved one of the best places to visit in July in Southern France.
READ MORE: Here are the top 10 most beautiful travel destinations in the world
Vienna, Austria
The ideal destination for families
Vienna is a wonderful city to explore. If you like to take it slow and spend quality bonding time with your family, Vienna might just be the right family vacation you need.
With countless free walking and cycling tours, your family can access all of the city’s top attractions, including museums, the world’s oldest zoo, and a giant Ferris wheel. If you are looking for a place where it gets hot in July, Vienna’s warmest month of the year is July.
READ MORE: Here’s our list of the best and largest zoos in the world
Brussels, Belgium
Attend the Tomorrowland Music Festival in Boom
Narrowing down your many options to go in Europe can be a tricky thing to do in July, but one of the best cities to visit this month would be Brussels.
The weather ranges from 19°C to 22°C, which means that you get plenty of sunshine and outdoor time.
The key attraction here in Belgium for partygoers is Tomorrowland Music Festival, one of the biggest and most anticipated EDM festivals in the world held in the small town of Boom.
As prices for lodging can soar to insane rates during these two weeks, your best bet would be to get an AirBnb in Brussels so you get to explore the town too.
READ MORE: When is the best time to book a hotel?
Azores, Portugal
The natural beauty of Portugal
In July, the temperatures of Azores are at their highest, at a comfortable 25°C making it the best time to visit this group of islands. Look forward to dramatic landscapes, beautiful green pastures, blue hydrangeas and welcoming fishing villages.
For those looking to partake in the festivities and excitement, the Azores hosts a week-long party and regatta on Sao Jorge Island annually and there’s also the Santa Maria Blues festival.
READ MORE: Travelling solo? Get the top 10 travel accessories
Reykjavík, Iceland
A relaxing getaway in the capital of Iceland
July is the main summer period in Iceland, ever heard of the midnight sun? This is the best time to travel down to Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, to catch a glimpse of the 15-22 hours soaring sun. Fear not, the average highest temperature is just 14 degrees Celcius (57 Fahrenheit). Head down in July for a getaway from the warm heat elsewhere in the world!
Thanks to the long-day and short-night setting in July, all the hiking trails will be open. You can visit the Heidmörk Nature Reserve where there is a wide range of biodiversity — 26 species of trees and 60 species of wild birds. Not only that, you can even try the tölt, the famous gait of the Icelandic horse for a whole new experience! When you are done exploring nature, join Reykjavík’s famous nightlife that includes more than just drinking but also upbeat energies to end the day with a blast!
Now that Iceland has removed all restrictions for travellers, it’s more than convenient to travel down!
READ MORE: Notably, the low crime rate in Iceland has justified itself to rank as one of the best places for women to travel alone
Namibia, Africa
Gaze at the stars and watch the wildlife roam
Best place to visit in July 2024 in Africa
During July in Namibia, the weather gets pretty sensational, hovering around 20 degrees Celsius and nearly nonexistent rainfall. This gives you and your partner a chance to enjoy the towering red sand dunes, natural wildlife, and one of the best star-gazing locations in the world in a cool, comfortable climate.
Spotting wild zebras, giraffes, and elephants at the Etosha National Park will surely add a magical spark to your trip, as well as exploring the mystical Sossusvlei desert expanse.
READ MORE: Find out what are the most dangerous animals in the world
The Seychelles
The islands of wonders
Enjoy pleasant temperatures around 25°C to 26°C in July on one of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles. Their water activities, especially diving, sailing and snorkelling are known to be world-class and the waters are home to some of the richest fishing grounds in the world.
Beyond the beaches, venture into the islands for even more adventure. Hike through the green forests of Morne Seychellois National Park or see if you can seek out the rare Seychelles warbler or the elusive giant Aldabra tortoise.
READ MORE: Where else should you go for a scuba diving adventure?
Best place to visit in July 2024 in Oceania
South Island, New Zealand
Get the best views
Many of the activities in South Island are couple-based. This island offers glazed lakes and gigantic glaciers which is a sight to behold. The winter air is milder compared to other parts of the world, with relatively cool temperatures, it is the perfect cuddle weather!
New Zealand offers so many different views of landscapes everywhere that can account for weeks of experiences meshed into one. The place is also brimming with appetizing cafes that make the perfect date night location.
READ MORE: Can you guess what are the seven wonders of the world?
Kangaroo Island, Australia
See the wildlife that call this island home
July may be midwinter for Australians but don’t expect minus temperature and piles of snow are nowhere to be seen as temperatures are a comfortable 14°C. Catching sight of the ‘roos roaming the island is easy since they roam about in the protected nature reserves that take up a decent portion of the island.
You can also expect to come across koalas and various birdlife, sea lions in the Seal Bay Conservation Park and penguins in the Flinders Chase National Park.
READ MORE: Kangaroo Island made our list of the best tourist attractions in Australia. Guess where else made the list?
July is right in the thick of summer when almost everyone will be out to play. It’s an exciting time to explore the world and have epic outdoor adventures in places where it is hot and sunny. Especially as most of the countries are opening up their borders, travelling has been made easier.
Regardless if you are travelling with your family, your lover, or simply solo, the best places to visit in July are found all over the world and have something to offer for the ultimate summer vacation!
We hope our July destination guide has inspired you to get started on the next big vacation plans. From perfect sunny vacations to ideal beach getaways, choose what you like and get started on your big July 2024 holiday plans now!
