Best Places to Visit in July: Top Destinations for Summer Adventures
July is peak summer in many parts of the world — which means beach holidays, vibrant festivals, alpine escapes and even Arctic expeditions are all on the table. Whether you're chasing sunshine, looking to beat the heat, or keen to explore somewhere completely off the radar, this list has something for every type of traveller.
In this guide, we’re skipping the obvious spots and focusing on fresh, unforgettable adventures. From whale-watching off Canada’s rugged coastline to hiking among Himalayan monasteries, here are the best places to travel in July — curated for explorers, culture seekers and sunshine chasers alike.
Vancouver Island, Canada
Why Visit in July?
July is the sweet spot on Vancouver Island — warm but not humid, with long sunny days perfect for exploring its wild coastline, temperate rainforests and charming harbour towns. It’s also prime time for spotting orcas, humpbacks and grey whales, which frequent the waters off the island this time of year.
Victoria and Tofino buzz with life in July, offering everything from artisan markets and seafood festivals to surf-friendly swells and tranquil forest hikes. Plus, wildflower meadows in full bloom make this one of the most photogenic times to visit.
Top Things to Do
Go whale watching from Tofino or Telegraph Cove — one of the best spots in the world for orcas
Hike through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, with trails that wind through old-growth rainforest and down to driftwood-strewn beaches
Catch some waves or relax at Chesterman Beach or Long Beach
Explore the capital city, Victoria, with its colourful harbour, local food scene and British-Colonial architecture
Drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route for epic ocean views and remote forest landscapes
What to Pack
Layers (it cools off in the evenings, especially near the coast)
Lightweight waterproof jacket — showers are always possible
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Hiking shoes for forest and coastal trails
Fun Fact
The waters around Vancouver Island are home to the largest resident population of killer whales in the world — with up to 80 orcas regularly spotted in the summer months.
Vancouver Island, Canada.
The Dolomites, Italy
Why Visit in July?
July in the Dolomites is when the snow has melted, alpine wildflowers bloom across high-altitude meadows, and hiking trails are at their best. The weather is dry and sunny, with cool mountain air making it an ideal escape from Europe’s sweltering cities.
This is also the season for high-mountain huts (rifugi) to open their doors, offering warm meals, cold beers and breathtaking views — a real treat for trekkers and climbers. The landscapes here are like nowhere else in Italy: jagged limestone peaks, turquoise lakes and charming Tyrolean villages that feel plucked from a fairy tale.
Top Things to Do
Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo trail, one of the most iconic alpine walks in Europe
Ride a cable car up to Seceda for panoramic views over the valleys below
Spend the night in a rifugio, perched high in the mountains
Explore Lago di Braies, a turquoise lake perfect for early morning photos or a peaceful rowboat ride
Visit traditional villages like Ortisei and Canazei, where Ladin culture still thrives
What to Pack
Hiking boots with good grip
Trekking poles (especially for longer hikes)
Light layers and a windproof jacket
Refillable water bottle — the mountain springs are drinkable
Sunscreen and a sunhat — the UV is strong at altitude
Fun Fact
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised not just for their beauty, but for their unique geology — they were once coral reefs in a prehistoric sea.
Dolomites, Italy.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Why Visit in July?
July falls within the dry season in the Galápagos, meaning cooler temperatures, blue skies, and calmer seas — ideal for both land and marine exploration. It’s also one of the best months for wildlife viewing: think blue-footed boobies performing their courtship dance, sea lions sunbathing on beaches, and giant tortoises roaming the highlands.
Whether you’re island-hopping by boat or staying on land-based eco-lodges, July offers a perfect balance of comfort and adventure. It’s a popular month, so book early — but the payoff is incredible access to some of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
Top Things to Do
Snorkel with marine iguanas, sea turtles and playful sea lions
See the blue-footed booby mating dance, one of nature’s quirkiest spectacles
Visit Santa Cruz’s highlands to spot giant tortoises in their natural habitat
Hike Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela Island for panoramic views across lava fields
Explore lava tunnels and unique geological formations scattered across the archipelago
What to Pack
Lightweight clothing with UV protection
Snorkel gear (some tours provide, but personal fits better)
Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
Waterproof bag for boat excursions
Good walking shoes or hiking sandals
Fun Fact
Roughly 97% of the Galápagos’ land area is designated as a national park, and over 20% of marine species here are found nowhere else on Earth.
Galapagos, Ecuador.
Mongolia
Why Visit in July?
July is Mongolia’s most festive and travel-friendly month, thanks to its warm, dry weather and the celebration of the Naadam Festival, a nationwide celebration of nomadic culture featuring wrestling, horse racing and archery. The vast steppes are lush and green, and traditional gers (yurts) welcome travellers looking for a truly off-grid experience.
With endless open landscapes, glacier-fed lakes and untouched mountains, July is perfect for slow, immersive travel — whether that’s horse trekking through the Orkhon Valley or camping beside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Khövsgöl.
Top Things to Do
Attend the Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar or a smaller rural version for an authentic experience
Go horse riding through the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO-listed cultural landscape
Stay in a traditional ger camp and learn about nomadic life
Visit Gobi Desert dunes and flaming cliffs — surreal, cinematic landscapes
Explore Lake Khövsgöl, known as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl” for its pristine waters
What to Pack
Lightweight trousers and long sleeves for sun and bug protection
Layers for chilly nights (it can drop sharply after sunset)
Wide-brim hat and high SPF sunscreen
Basic first-aid kit and any personal medications (you’ll be remote!)
Reusable water bottle with filtration, ideal for multi-day treks
Fun Fact
The Naadam Festival dates back over 2,000 years and is so important to Mongolian identity that locals refer to it simply as “eriin gurvan naadam” — “the three manly games”.
Mongolia.
Faroe Islands
Why Visit in July?
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands are a jaw-dropping blend of green cliffs, crashing seas and peaceful villages — and July is their sunniest and driest month. While the weather is still unpredictable, this is your best shot at catching clear skies and calm conditions for hiking, birdwatching and boat trips.
It’s also puffin season, and seabird colonies on remote islets are teeming with life. Despite being part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroes feel like another world — raw, remote and wonderfully under-touristed.
Top Things to Do
Hike to the iconic Múlafossur Waterfall in the village of Gásadalur
Take a boat tour beneath sheer cliffs to see puffins and storm petrels
Visit Saksun, a picturesque village set in a natural amphitheatre
Drive the buttercup routes, scenic roads that wind past turf-roofed houses and dramatic fjords
Explore Tórshavn, one of the world’s smallest and most charming capitals
What to Pack
Waterproof jacket and warm base layers
Sturdy hiking boots — terrain can be wet and uneven
Hat and gloves (yes, even in July!)
Binoculars for birdwatching
Camera or drone for capturing wild landscapes
Fun Fact
There are more sheep than people in the Faroe Islands — around 70,000 sheep to just 50,000 humans — and many roads even have dedicated sheep underpasses.
Faore Islands.
Bhutan
Why Visit in July?
Bhutan in July means lush, misty landscapes and fewer crowds. While it's technically monsoon season, the rains mostly fall in the afternoons or overnight, leaving mornings clear for hikes and sightseeing. For travellers who don’t mind the occasional downpour, this is a more peaceful, introspective time to explore the kingdom.
Valleys like Paro and Punakha are beautifully green, and the famous cliff-hanging Tiger’s Nest Monastery is especially dramatic when shrouded in low cloud. You'll also find better availability and rates at hotels and guesthouses, and more personal attention from local guides.
Top Things to Do
Hike to the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
Wander the rice terraces and dzongs (fortresses) in Punakha Valley
Visit local artisans and weavers in Thimphu
Experience a traditional hot stone bath in a mountain village
Trek through flower-filled meadows in the Haa Valley
What to Pack
Light waterproofs and an umbrella
Quick-dry clothing and spare socks
Comfortable hiking shoes with grip
Mosquito repellent for lower valleys
A journal — this is a reflective kind of trip
Fun Fact
Bhutan famously measures success not in GDP but in Gross National Happiness, a philosophy that prioritises cultural preservation, sustainability and wellbeing over economic growth.
Bhutan.
Svalbard, Norway
Why Visit in July?
In July, the sun never sets in Svalbard — literally. With 24 hours of daylight, this remote Arctic archipelago becomes a surreal, otherworldly landscape where you can hike glaciers, cruise past icebergs and spot polar bears under the midnight sun.
This is also the best time for wildlife: walruses lounge on rocky beaches, Arctic foxes roam, and seabirds nest in dramatic cliff faces. Boat trips around the fjords and to the edge of the sea ice are in full swing, offering unforgettable views of Svalbard’s rugged and icy heart.
Top Things to Do
Take a boat tour to see glaciers, icebergs and walrus colonies
Visit Pyramiden, a Soviet ghost town frozen in time
Join a guided expedition to look for polar bears (at a safe distance)
Kayak or hike near Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town
Learn about Arctic life at the Svalbard Museum
What to Pack
Thermal base layers and a warm insulated jacket
Beanie, gloves and scarf — even in summer
Sturdy waterproof boots
Sunglasses (yes — 24/7 daylight!)
Motion sickness bands for boat excursions
Fun Fact
Svalbard is so remote that it’s home to the Global Seed Vault, a facility designed to store duplicates of the world’s crop seeds in case of global catastrophe.
Svalbard, Norway.
Lake Malawi, Malawi
Why Visit in July?
July is dry season in Malawi, bringing warm days, cool nights and crystal-clear waters — ideal for enjoying the laid-back magic of Lake Malawi. Often called the “Lake of Stars,” this massive freshwater lake has some of the clearest water in Africa and a surprising variety of aquatic life, including hundreds of colourful cichlid fish.
While the beaches feel tropical, the vibe is much more relaxed than on the coast — think hammock naps, barefoot swims and small eco-lodges run by locals. It’s also one of the safest and most welcoming countries in Africa, perfect for off-the-beaten-path travellers.
Top Things to Do
Swim and snorkel among vibrant tropical fish at Cape Maclear or Nkhata Bay
Paddleboard or kayak along the shoreline at sunrise
Hike to viewpoints above the lake for panoramic views
Visit Likoma Island for colonial churches and slow island life
Combine your trip with a safari in Liwonde National Park — nearby and easily accessible
What to Pack
Swimwear and quick-dry clothing
Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
Water shoes or sandals for rocky beaches
A torch — power cuts are common
Light layers for breezy evenings
Fun Fact
Lake Malawi is home to more species of fish than any other lake in the world, most of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Lake Malawi, Malawi.
Riga, Latvia
Why Visit in July?
July is peak summer in Riga, and the city truly comes alive. Expect long daylight hours, buzzing outdoor cafes, and festivals in full swing — all set against a backdrop of cobbled streets, grand boulevards and Art Nouveau façades. The weather is warm (but rarely too hot), making it perfect for exploring the old town or heading out to nearby beaches.
The city’s youthful energy is infectious — live music spills into the streets, beer gardens take over the parks, and day trips to the Baltic coast are just a short train ride away.
Top Things to Do
Wander through Vecrīga, the UNESCO-listed old town with Gothic spires and pastel buildings
Admire some of Europe’s best Art Nouveau architecture in the central district
Take a tram to Jūrmala, a seaside resort town with white-sand beaches
Try traditional Latvian dishes at the Central Market (think smoked fish, rye bread and dill everything)
Rent a bike and explore the city’s many green spaces, including Mežaparks
What to Pack
Light clothing and a jacket for cool evenings
A daypack for beach or forest outings
Comfortable shoes for cobblestones
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A lightweight raincoat — summer showers are brief but possible
Fun Fact
Riga has the highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in the world, many of them designed by Latvian architects trained in St. Petersburg.
Riga, Latvia.
Palawan, Philippines
Why Visit in July?
While much of Southeast Asia is deep into monsoon season, Palawan’s western side (El Nido and Coron) often enjoys a drier microclimate, especially in early to mid-July. Fewer tourists, lush scenery and warm seas make this a hidden window for visiting paradise without the crowds.
Dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and turquoise waters await — and if you get a rain shower, it’s usually short-lived and refreshing. For travellers willing to go slightly off-peak, Palawan in July offers serious reward.
Top Things to Do
Island hop around El Nido’s Bacuit Archipelago, including Secret Lagoon and Big Lagoon
Snorkel or dive among WWII wrecks and coral reefs in Coron
Paddle through Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Relax on the white sands of Nacpan Beach
Try local seafood dishes and coconut-based curries
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag
Lightweight clothes and swimwear
Water shoes or flip-flops for boat trips
Waterproof phone case
Motion sickness tablets (boats can get choppy)
Fun Fact
Palawan has been voted the best island in the world multiple times by international travel magazines — but it still feels wonderfully low-key in the right places.
Palawan, Philippines.
Honourable Mentions
Alaska – July is peak season for wildlife, glaciers and epic landscapes. Whether you're cruising past fjords or hiking in Denali, this is adventure country at its finest.
Gaspé Peninsula, Canada – Remote and rugged, this Quebec gem shines in summer with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches and one of the best whale-watching spots in North America.
Białowieża Forest, Poland – One of Europe’s last primeval forests, straddling the Poland–Belarus border, and home to the rare European bison. Ideal for quiet nature walks in a truly untouched setting.
Ladakh, India – Known as the “Land of High Passes,” July offers dry weather, crystal skies and jaw-dropping Himalayan landscapes. Think monasteries, mountain lakes and dramatic desert plateaus.
Bogotá, Colombia – At a year-round springlike altitude, Bogotá avoids the July heat. Explore street art, colonial streets and Andean views — all while sipping some of the world’s best coffee.
Tasmania, Australia – It’s winter down south, but July is perfect for cosy hikes, empty trails and fresh truffle season. The landscapes are moody, misty and completely magical.
Bergen and the Fjords, Norway – Long daylight hours and warm(ish) weather make July the best time to sail Norway’s fjords, hike cliffside trails, or simply wander through Bergen’s colourful harbour.
Tasmania, Australia.
From Arctic frontiers to tropical freshwater lakes, July opens up a world of possibility for travellers craving adventure, sunshine, or just a break from the ordinary. Whether you’re kayaking with sea lions in the Galápagos, hiking wildflower trails in the Dolomites, or dancing with nomads in Mongolia, the destinations above offer something far beyond a typical summer holiday.
While Europe’s hotspots may be overflowing, there’s no shortage of under-the-radar gems, cool-climate escapes and cultural treasures waiting to be explored — if you know where to look.
So, where will you go this July?
Whether it’s fjords, festivals or far-flung islands, now’s the time to plan it. And if you’re already dreaming about August… stay tuned.
