Top travel destinations for July 2024

As July heats up, the northern hemisphere's summer temperatures add extra allure to some of the globe's most sought-after travel spots.

With Europe soaking up the sun, the Mediterranean beach vibe takes center stage, while tropical regions offer prime wildlife viewing during dry season. Even cooler areas become more accessible thanks to the warmth. Plus, summer festivals and celebrations bring excitement to numerous locations worldwide.

No matter what you’re looking for, here are our recommendations for July travel.

What are the top destinations in July for relaxation?

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Why visit now? Explore Stone Town and the Indian Ocean under clear blue skies.

The spice island of Unguja, commonly known as Zanzibar, is a sensory delight. As you wander through the winding alleys of historic Stone Town on a warm evening, the air fills with the fragrances of nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon from Darajani Market, sizzling seafood from the stalls at Forodhani Gardens, and the rich scent of black coffee at Jaws Corner, where locals gather to chat and watch TV. Zanzibar’s storied past, with its crumbling palaces and poignant relics from the slavery era, is just one highlight of this enchanting island, particularly splendid in July during the dry season. Take a dhow ride for snorkeling along the west coast, keep an eye out for dolphins, explore a spice plantation, and discover your own slice of paradise on one of its gorgeous beaches.

Andros and Bimini, Bahamas

Why visit now? Balance action with relaxation both on and below the surface.

The Bahamas may be nearly part of the Caribbean, but they hold their own distinct charm. This collection of islands and cays nestled between Cuba and Florida features crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches. Although summer is labeled “rainy,” it generally escapes the severe storms that can affect other islands. In July, the seas are calm, clear, and warm, perfect for diving and snorkeling off the less-trafficked Andros; its eastern shore is sheltered by the world’s third-longest barrier reef. A short trip to Bimini offers chances to encounter manta rays (most abundant in July when shark sightings decrease) and to swim alongside friendly Atlantic spotted dolphins. Add in mangroves, great fishing, vibrant birdlife, and powdery white beaches, but enjoy the absence of crowds—July is an even quieter and more affordable time to experience Andros.

Wisconsin, USA

Why visit now? Enjoy a refreshing escape by the great lakes.

In Wisconsin’s warmest month, the shores of Lakes Michigan and Superior attract countless city dwellers seeking relief from the heat. The charming waterfront towns and beaches of Door County, often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” thrive with vacationers, yet you can still find tranquility on Washington Island and in Newport State Park. For a true getaway, venture northwest to Lake Superior’s shoreline, making stops to swim or fish in the glacial lakes scattered throughout Vilas and Oneida Counties. The quaint town of Bayfield, with its Victorian architecture, is delightful, but it’s also the gateway to the Apostle Islands, an enchanting and mostly unspoiled archipelago of 22 emerald-green islands fringed with russet rocks.

What are the top destinations for wildlife and nature enthusiasts in July?

Northwest Territories, Canada

Why visit now? Experience the river’s wild beauty while immersing yourself in Indigenous culture.

This expansive region of tundra and taiga boasts a sparse population, smaller than that of the tiniest Caribbean nation, across an area nearly the size of Mongolia. To uncover the natural and cultural treasures of the Northwest Territories, embark on a river journey into its wild core, best undertaken for a few weeks starting in late June when temperatures become (relatively) mild and daylight lasts longer. Paddle along Canada’s longest river, the Deh Cho (Mackenzie); raft the roaring South Nahanni from the towering 96m-high (315ft) Virginia Falls in the magnificent Mackenzie Mountains; or opt for a serene kayak ride on Great Slave Lake, the deepest in North America. Along the way, delve into the traditional culture of the Dene peoples, who have thrived in this challenging landscape for millennia, and keep an eye out for caribou, Dall sheep, black bears, moose, and the continent’s largest land mammal, the wood bison.

Coral Coast, Western Australia

Why visit now? Encounter charming sea creatures, explore red-rock canyons, and stroll through fields of wildflowers.

Spanning over 1000km (621 miles) from Cervantes to Exmouth, the Coral Coast of Western Australia encapsulates much of the country's allure in a compact form, making this relatively less-traveled route perfect for a winter road trip through its vast landscapes. Here, you’ll encounter stunning rock formations like the Pinnacles, limestone spires emerging from the sand near Cervantes, and the rich russet gorges of Tumblagooda Sandstone in Kalbarri National Park. You can enjoy surfing and underwater experiences along the world’s largest fringing reef—a 300km (186 miles) stretch of coral teeming with around 500 fish species. Additionally, you’ll witness incredible wildlife events, such as the gathering of whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef (March to July), along with the abundant manta rays near Exmouth from May to September, while humpback whales join the spectacle too.

What are the top destinations for cultural experiences in July?

Aarhus and Jutland, Denmark

Why visit now? Enjoy sunny days and warm evenings in a vibrant cultural and culinary destination.

Denmark's second-largest city buzzes with energy. Established by Vikings around 13 centuries ago, Aarhus is now a hub of modernity, featuring the innovative ARoS art museum, the revitalized waterfront cultural center Dokk1, and striking Iceberg apartment complexes. Even the Moesgaard Museum, which houses the 2000-year-old bog-preserved Graubelle Man, offers an engaging journey through history. As night falls, the city lights up with cafes, cocktail lounges, and clubs that embody the charming Danish mix of friendliness and intellect. The peak summer season hosts numerous festivals celebrating flowers, jazz, Viking culture, and more, along with warm temperatures (hovering around 20ºC/68ºF) perfect for lounging on Baltic beaches: check out Den Permanente near the city center, the soft sands of Bellevue just north, or the tranquil shores of eco-friendly island Samsø, a short ferry trip away.

Gansu, China

Why visit now? Immerse yourself in the history of the Silk Road and the richness of Tibetan culture.

As the lowlands of China experience sweltering summer heat, the high Tibetan plateau offers a pleasant climate, making it an ideal time for exploration. Encompassing the northeastern curve of the plateau, Gansu province attracts many domestic travelers, celebrated as the entrance to the ancient Silk Road and home to stunning grottoes, particularly at Mogao near Dunhuang. Beyond these popular sites, you can discover tranquility, deep Tibetan traditions, and breathtaking landscapes, especially in Gannan prefecture south of the provincial capital Lanzhou. Here, the soothing chants of lamas drift over Xiahe from Labrang Monastery, one of Tibetan Buddhism’s six major monasteries; take a km (2-mile) kora (pilgrimage circuit) around what is said to be the longest series of prayer wheels in the world, and treat yourself to momo (Tibetan dumplings) afterwards.

What are the top destinations to explore in July for culinary delights?

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Why visit now? Enjoy delightful culinary experiences on the prairie.

While peak summer often brings crowds, Saskatchewan’s vast prairie offers plenty of room to roam without the hustle. This landlocked province is a realm of openness and tranquility – in fact, an audio-ecologist named Grasslands National Park one of the quietest spots on Earth. It’s also a fantastic destination for food and drink, being Canada’s agricultural heart, with 50% of its arable land and many charming grain silos. Trendy Saskatoon, situated in this fertile region, has emerged as a leading foodie haven. The vibrant culinary scene includes distillers, craft brewers, artisan bakers, and cocktail experts in the small yet dynamic “Paris of the Prairies.” Join a culinary tour, take a cooking class, and visit local farms to connect with producers. July is also the season for sweet, nutty Saskatoon berries – try them in everything from pies to wines.

Alta Badia, Italy

Why visit now? Indulge in exquisite cuisine surrounded by stunning mountains.

If the Dolomites showcase the Alps in their grandest form, then the Alta Badia valley in South Tyrol reveals the Dolomites in their most flavorful light. This dramatic landscape of deep valleys, soaring plateaus, and sharp peaks in northern Italy is steeped in history: from 1915 to 1918, Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces clashed in these rugged terrains, and today you can hike trails like the Kaiserjäger to explore their trenches and fortifications. While Alta Badia is famed for skiing, summer brings the reopening of cable cars and mountain huts, catering to hungry hikers, cyclists, paragliders, and trail runners. The region boasts Michelin-starred eateries, yet even the simpler refuges serve delightful and affordable dishes, including mountain cheeses, pasta, and strudels.

Where are the top destinations for adventure in July?

Colombia

Why visit now? Experience a mini dry season while savoring coffee.

With its Caribbean beaches, mountains, plains, jungles, and deserts, Colombia showcases a breathtaking variety of landscapes and climates. July and August offer drier weather, ideal for exploring coffee fincas in the stunning hills of the Zona Cafetera; observing vibrant birdlife in Reserva Ecologica Rio Blanco; stargazing among the cacti and surreal rock formations of the Tatacoa Desert; trekking through the lush highlands near Popoyán; and uncovering ancient tombs, petroglyphs, and monumental carvings around San Agustín and Tierradentro. This month also welcomes magnificent humpbacks, as they calve off Colombia’s Pacific coast between June and November—consider joining a whale-watching tour in Nuquí or from Buenaventura into Bahía Málaga to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Furthermore, July is the best time to spot sloths and pink river dolphins in Colombia’s Amazon region due to the dry conditions.

Khardung La, India

Why visit now? Enjoy snow-free roads for a stunning drive.

Some road trips are awe-inspiring – and then there are those that are literally breathtaking. The Khardung La pass is one of these. At 5600m (18,373ft) near Leh in the Indian Himalayas, it served as a vital route on the Silk Road and is now one of the highest drivable roads in the world. Traveling by bus is an adventure, but navigating it on a classic Enfield Bullet motorcycle is even more exhilarating. Either way, the stunning mountain vistas and high altitudes will leave you in awe. The roads remain open for just a few months each year, so take advantage of the warm, snow-free conditions. Bikers can twist and turn their way from Manali (Himachal Pradesh) to Leh (Ladakh)—considered one of the premier mountain rides worldwide—or fly from Delhi to Leh to explore the town’s Tibetan-style palace and stupas before venturing through Khardung La into the remote Nubra Valley.