The top 10 travel destinations for July

July marks the beginning of peak travel season. With schools out and much of the world enjoying sunny days, family vacations are on the horizon. Many of the best spots to visit in July cater to families, but there are also plenty of options for adults.

In the US, Independence Day celebrations transform city streets into vibrant parties. Meanwhile, summer breathes life into ancient towns, charming villages, and secluded beaches across Europe. Food, culture, and music festivals flourish—some lasting throughout the entire month. Are you considering your budget or weather conditions? Check out Dinogo’s data-driven recommendations based on temperature, popularity, flight costs, and hotel rates.

Top travel destinations for July

Best spots to explore in July across the US and North America

July isn’t the most budget-friendly month to travel. It marks the beginning of peak season in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to higher prices across the board. There's intense competition for flights and accommodations, but deals can still be found if you know where and how to search. Here are some of my favorite locations, with plenty more highlighted in Dinogo’s data-driven selections.

1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

• Discover more: Guide to traveling in Philadelphia
• Why visit in July? Experience the ultimate Independence Day festivities in the US.

What better city to explore in the month celebrating the US's 248th birthday than Philadelphia, the birthplace of the nation? Here, the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, and the Fourth of July celebrations promise to be as patriotic as they come. Expect vibrant parades, lively street parties, spectacular fireworks, marching bands, cotton candy, and a sea of red, white, and blue.

But it’s not just about July 4th and Independence Mall. The ‘city of brotherly love’ is famous for its friendly atmosphere and dynamic party scene. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town and enjoy an array of art, from Impressionist masterpieces to impressive murals in the city center. Just try to pace yourself with the Philly Cheesesteaks—it’s definitely a challenge!

2. Bend, Oregon, USA

• Discover more: Guide to Bend
• Why visit in July? Enjoy outdoor adventures and a variety of beverages.

With nearly 300 sunny days each year and a wealth of outdoor activities, Bend is a quintessential year-round getaway. While its skiing and winter charm are notable, I prefer it during the warm, inviting days of July.

As the snow melts away, the mountain transforms into a haven for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Embrace the water by canoeing or paddleboarding along the Deschutes River, or visit Bend Park & Float to grab an innertube for a leisurely float down the river, navigating the rapids at Bend Whitewater Park.

After the excitement, it’s time to unwind. The Bend Summer Festival takes place from July 12th to 14th this year, featuring a vibrant mix of art, music, shopping, food, and fun, all complemented by local breweries and cocktail artisans. The renowned Bend Ale Trail offers a delightful exploration of breweries, tasty beverages, and ideal pairings.

3. Montréal, Canada

• Discover more: Guide to Montréal
• Why visit in July? Experience laughter, dance, and even more laughter.

July begins with Canada Day on the first, which in Montréal means a month full of summer festivities.

From July 4th to 14th, the Festival Montréal Complètement Cirque transforms the streets into a circus, showcasing the city’s renowned performers with vibrant shows and entertainment. Sainte-Catherine Street, between Saint-Urbain and de Bleury, becomes a pedestrian zone, providing ample space for festival-goers to revel throughout the month.

Just For Laughs is Montréal’s equivalent of the Edinburgh Fringe, proudly claiming the title of the world’s largest comedy festival. Spanning much of July, it fills the city with laughter, featuring quirky street parades, comedy performances in diverse venues, and stand-up routines from top comedy stars. It’s a true delight for humor enthusiasts. 

Top travel destinations in July across Europe

Summer often brings higher costs in Europe, but that’s simply because it’s when European destinations shine the brightest. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or seeking a deep cultural experience, Europe has something for everyone.

4. Mallorca, Spain

• Discover more: Palma de Mallorca travel guide
• Why go in July? Enjoy sunshine and spectacular fireworks at the vibrant Correfoc.

Many of my friends in Germany consider Mallorca their second home, and it’s easy to understand why. This largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands boasts a captivating landscape, with the towering Serra de Tramuntana mountains descending into lush plains, leading to countless beautiful beaches.

According to Dinogo data, July showcases Mallorca in its sun-drenched glory. With an average temperature of a delightful 77°F and virtually no rainfall, the beaches may be crowded, but they are alive with energy. You'll also discover numerous local eateries and bars offering freshly caught seafood and robust Spanish wines. 

It's also a time for festivals. In mid-July, the La Verge del Carme (Virgin of Carmen) Festival prompts coastal fishing communities to engage in solemn sea processions, accompanied by fireworks and lively music.

Make your way to Porto Cristo, where week-long festivities begin on July 13th, culminating in the exhilarating Correfoc ‘parade of the devils’ on the night of July 22nd. This is not for the faint of heart; prepare for a close encounter with fireworks and flames, so dress for safety with gloves and goggles. 

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Discover more: Dubrovnik travel guide
• Why visit in July? Enchanting architecture and a summer festival marathon.

Croatia is enjoying a moment in the spotlight, and not just because it’s July. Explore its stunning coastline, breathtaking waterfalls, and historic cities, and you’ll quickly see why. Of its many incredible cities, Dubrovnik is my top choice for a July visit. 

Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik showcases the best of Croatia’s natural splendor, rich history, and vibrant culture. Famous as the backdrop for much of Game of Thrones, its beauty and heritage are undeniable.

July 2024 is particularly significant as it heralds the start of the 75th Dubrovnik Summer Festival. This six-week celebration features open-air theater, performances, classical concerts, and art exhibitions within the historic city walls, kicking off on July 10th.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

• Discover more: Reykjavik travel guide
• Why visit in July? Non-stop sunlight and a wealth of natural wonders to uncover.

For those who truly adore the sun, Iceland might just be the ultimate July destination. Not only for its long summer days but also for its endless summer nights thanks to the midnight sun. 

Iceland’s already breathtaking landscapes are illuminated by a mystical glow, as the sun barely dips below the horizon before rising again. Waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss take on an enchanting brilliance. The powerful geyser Strokkur casts intriguing shadows as it erupts its hot waters high into the air.

With nearly constant daylight, you can visit at any hour to avoid the crowds and immerse yourself in Iceland’s natural beauty. Even though it’s light outside, I found that exploring at night adds a uniquely strange and otherworldly feel to the experience.

In addition to top-notch accommodations and dining, staying in Reykjavik allows easy access to popular natural attractions. Day trips to the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and fantastic boat tours are all conveniently arranged.

7. Aquitaine, France

• Discover more: Biarritz travel guide
• Why visit in July? Vast golden beaches and lively surf opportunities.

France’s southwestern coast is paradise for beach enthusiasts and surfers, as well as for urban explorers and culture lovers. I personally enjoy the stretch between Biarritz and Hossegor for the best experience.

July may not be peak surfing time, but the Atlantic still brings in smaller swells to Biarritz’s Grande Plage and Hossegor’s Estagnots. These beaches are gorgeous, featuring vast golden sands lined with pine trees and trendy clubs offering loungers and cocktails.

When the waves are calm, head to Hossegor for a taste of surfer culture. Explore the many surf and souvenir shops along its streets, and enjoy coffee and cake at the Café de Paris, whose spacious terrace is ideal for people-watching. As night falls, make your way to Rock Food, right on the beach. This surf culture hotspot is known for its vibrant parties, with locals calling it ‘ground zero for good times.’

Top destinations to explore in July worldwide

Embrace the winter sun and embark on thrilling adventures across the globe. While the flights may be lengthy, the experiences awaiting you in Africa or Asia make every mile worthwhile.

8. Cape Town, South Africa

• Learn more: Cape Town travel guide
• Why visit in July? To avoid the summer crowds.

If relentless sunshine and bustling crowds aren’t your idea of a good time, there are many hidden gems to explore. July in Cape Town is mid-winter, bringing cooler, occasionally drizzly weather. However, it’s a time when the city flourishes amidst the wild months.

With temperatures ranging from 55-60°F, tourists are sparse, giving you a chance to enjoy the attractions. Table Mountain is particularly stunning on clear days, so make sure to visit before it closes for winter on July 24th. Hiking the Cape Peninsula is a must, especially with foggy morning walks leading to hidden waterfalls nestled in lush forests, followed by cozy evenings at a wine pub with mountain views.

July marks the beginning of whale-watching season. Join a local tour for a close-up encounter or simply stroll along the shore, watching for southern right and humpback whales calving in the shallow waters.

9. Hoi An, Vietnam

• Learn more: Hoi An travel guide
• Why visit in July? For sunny days in a historic backdrop.

Though it’s quite a trek, Vietnam’s central coast is undoubtedly one of the top choices for July travel. While monsoons drench tourist hotspots like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, July here remains bright and dry.

Hoi An, at its core, is a captivating city, resembling a scene from a historical novel. Its ancient streets are adorned with wooden teahouses and age-old temples, all beautifully illuminated by lanterns, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. 

Stop by a local tailor to get a custom suit or dress crafted in just one day. Take a scooter ride to the pristine beaches of nearby Da Nang and visit the stunning Golden Bridge, supported by colossal hands rising from the earth.

10. Madagascar

• Learn more: Antananarivo travel guide
• Why visit in July? For sunny dry season in a historical setting.

July marks the dry season in Madagascar, an ideal time to discover its extraordinarily diverse wildlife. With pleasant temperatures around 75°F, it’s a much better choice for rainforest hikes and lemur adventures compared to the sweltering summer months.

A trip wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the stunning Avenue of the Baobabs. Celebrating the iconic tree of the island, the Baobab Fosa festival occurs just an hour away in Morondava. 

Located five miles offshore, volcanic Nosy Be boasts Madagascar’s postcard-perfect beaches and is a sanctuary for humpback and dwarf fin whales. While beautiful, it offers a more developed experience, trading the island’s wild charm for resorts and dining options. It’s a delightful spot to unwind for a few days.

Data-driven recommendations from Dinogo

If seasonal events aren’t your priority, consider exploring one of the data-backed destinations. These options are curated based on Dinogo flight and hotel data, factoring in budget, weather, and popularity to help you sidestep the crowds. For tailored suggestions based on your location and selected destination, check out the Best Time to Travel tool.

Uncover more amazing travel destinations

With summer in full swing, the world offers endless vacation opportunities. For more ideas, check out my recommendations for the top places to visit in June and August. 

If you’re seeking additional inspiration, explore Dinogo Explore and Dinogo Trips. No matter your plans, Dinogo provides excellent value for flights, trains, car rentals, and accommodations.