July signifies the summer season, a break from school, annual holidays, rising temperatures, and an abundance of festivals. It has a long-standing reputation as a prime time for international travel.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam in July is synonymous with delightful cuisine, splendid weather, and positive vibes. Spend leisurely summer days at Vondelpark, where you might catch free open-air comedy, dance performances, or musical shows. Alternatively, visit Roest urban beach, which features an adult-friendly jungle gym. Despite possible adjustments to the city’s usual festivities this year, keep an eye out for street food markets and events.
- Greenland
While Greenland is sometimes referred to as “the new Iceland,” it remains relatively less crowded than its popular sibling. July is considered high season in Greenland, so be sure to secure your hotel reservations in advance. However, as the world’s largest and arguably wildest island, there are ample opportunities to experience solitude. If you’re interested in icebergs, join a nighttime cruise of the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, where, until approximately the 24th of the month, the midnight sun casts a magical glow on the creaking icebergs in shades of pink, purple, and orange.
- South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is a no-brainer for a winter escape in July, offering excellent ski slopes, luxurious hot springs, and exceptional whale-watching opportunities. During the coldest months, you can witness the aurora australis (southern lights) dancing along the horizon, best observed in Dunedin around the new moon. Additionally, July marks the rise of the Pleiades star cluster, signaling the start of Matariki (Maori New Year), celebrated with cultural festivals and feasts. For unparalleled stargazing, visit Mt. John Observatory in Tekapo, nestled within an international dark sky reserve.
- North West England, United Kingdom
While the weather in northwest England is often characterized by drizzle, July brings the long-awaited appearance of the sun. The major cities in the northwest, such as Liverpool and Manchester, shine particularly bright when the sun is out. Despite the region’s reputation for drizzle, there’s nothing like enjoying a Saturday afternoon in an Aigburth beer garden. Combine that with excellent park festivals, and you have a truly unique part of the world.
- Hoi An, Vietnam
As monsoon rains fall in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, savvy travelers in Vietnam head to the central coast, where the weather is dry and warm. This region boasts some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, UNESCO-listed cities, and breathtaking national parks. Step back in time in the historic port city of Hoi An, where lantern-lined streets reveal Chinese temples and ancient tea houses. Then, venture out of town to relax on the pristine white sand beaches around Da Nang, brave the Hai Van Pass on a motorbike tour, and explore Hue’s Imperial citadel before heading inland to visit the immense Phong Na Caves.
- Montreal, Canada
Montreal kicks off a month of summer fun with Canada Day celebrations, showcasing the city’s vibrant summer atmosphere, often overshadowed by its wintry reputation. Highlights include the Sainte Catherine Street Fair, the largest in the country, and the world’s largest international comedy festival, Just for Laughs. The Cirque Festival ensures there’s no shortage of street entertainment, with performances by Cirque du Soleil, the National Circus School, and more, celebrating one of Quebec’s most renowned art forms. If festival-hopping isn’t an option this year, July remains an excellent time to explore this incredible city and savor the culinary delights at Time Out Market Montreal.
- Madagascar
Madagascar, home to a diverse array of wildlife, is a joy to visit in July when the weather is cooler and drier, making lemur-spotting on rainforest treks more comfortable. Humpback whales migrate to Madagascar during this season to calve their young, with the best sightings in Tulear and Nosy Be or during the humpback whale festival on Nosy Boraha. In Morondava, the local community celebrates the island’s precious ecology with the Baobab Fosa festival, where you can spot fossa, a relative of the mongoose, and walk along the stunning Avenue of the Baobabs.
- West Coast, North America
It’s time to embark on a road trip along the West Coast of North America, with California and the Pacific Northwest calling your name. Aside from July 4th, when U.S. roads are packed with long weekenders heading to family barbecues and baseball games, this month provides an excellent opportunity to explore the best of the American and Canadian West Coast. Whether you want to soak up the sun in San Diego, experience forest bathing in Oregon, explore Seattle’s street art, or take advantage of Vancouver’s least rainy month, this slice of North America is as diverse as its long summer days.
- Cape Town, South Africa
If you’re hoping to spot some whales in Cape Town, July marks the beginning of the whale season in this part of the world. It’s best to plan your visit accordingly, as southern right and humpback whales are most likely to make their appearances at this time. Furthermore, winter is at its peak in the city, offering mild temperatures and a charming atmosphere without the scorching summer heat. You’ll have the city’s attractions mostly to yourself in July.
- Provence, France
From Avignon and Marseille to Nice, St. Tropez, and Cannes, Provence is teeming with historic cities and chic towns, not to mention the picturesque countryside in between. Travel to Provence in July to frolic in the lavender fields near Aix en Provence and Senanque Abbey before the harvest, partake in the Fête Nationale celebrations in virtually every town and village, or catch a glimpse of Tour de France cyclists on the breathtaking Mont Ventoux trail.
