15 Best Places To Travel In July 2025
Planning your summer adventure for 2025? July offers perfect weather and exciting experiences in destinations around the world. From sun-soaked beaches to cool mountain retreats, there’s something for every traveler.
I’ve rounded up the absolute best places to visit during this peak summer month, with insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable getaway.
1. Santorini, Greece
The dazzling white buildings against the deep blue Aegean Sea create a postcard-perfect scene you won’t forget. July brings warm days perfect for exploring ancient ruins and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Sunset in Oia should be on your must-see list – arrive early to secure a good viewing spot as crowds gather daily for this spectacular show. The volcanic beaches with their unique black sand offer a striking contrast to the traditional Greek architecture.
Many travelers don’t realize that July is also wine harvest season on the island. Sample some exceptional Assyrtiko wines at local vineyards while enjoying panoramic caldera views.
2. Kyoto, Japan
July brings the spectacular Gion Matsuri festival to Kyoto, transforming this ancient city into a vibrant celebration of Japanese tradition. Dating back over a thousand years, this month-long event features elaborate float processions, traditional music, and locals dressed in beautiful yukata.
Between festival activities, duck into a traditional tea house to escape the summer heat. The city’s thousands of temples and shrines are less crowded than during cherry blossom season, giving you space to appreciate their tranquil beauty.
For a truly magical experience, head to the bamboo forests of Arashiyama early in the morning before the crowds arrive. The morning light filtering through the towering stalks creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
3. Banff National Park, Canada
Have you ever seen a lake so blue it seems unreal? That’s exactly what awaits at Banff in July. The snow has melted, revealing hiking trails that lead to spectacular vistas of turquoise lakes and jagged mountain peaks. Wildlife spotting reaches its peak this month with bears, elk, and mountain goats all actively foraging.
Keep your camera ready but remember to maintain a safe distance! The long daylight hours give you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. Moraine Lake’s brilliant blue waters are at their most vibrant in July due to the maximum glacial runoff.
This phenomenon, called rock flour, happens when glacial movement grinds rocks into fine particles that reflect the sunlight in stunning ways.
4. Bali, Indonesia
July offers Bali’s driest weather, making it perfect for exploring this island paradise without interruption. The beaches are at their most inviting with calm, clear waters ideal for snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Mornings in Ubud bring opportunities to join yoga sessions overlooking emerald rice terraces.
Don’t miss the chance to witness traditional Balinese dance performances that tell ancient stories through precise, elegant movements – many hotels arrange these shows weekly. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter and discover hidden waterfalls in the island’s lush interior.
The less-visited eastern coastline offers black sand beaches and authentic fishing villages where you can sample the freshest seafood straight from the morning’s catch.
5. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Midway between Iceland and Norway lies this archipelago of 18 volcanic islands that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. July delivers mild temperatures and extended daylight hours – sometimes nearly 20 hours of light – giving you ample time to explore the dramatic landscapes.
Hiking to Múlafossur Waterfall rewards you with views of water plunging directly into the ocean. The puffin colonies reach peak activity this month, with thousands of these charming birds nesting along coastal cliffs. Though increasingly popular, the Faroes remain refreshingly uncrowded.
You’ll find yourself alone on hiking trails that weave between sheep-dotted hillsides and alongside crystal-clear lakes. Don’t leave without trying traditional fermented lamb – if you’re brave enough!
6. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
July marks the peak of the Great Migration, when over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing lands. This wildlife spectacle is considered nature’s greatest show on earth, with dramatic river crossings where crocodiles lie in wait.
Morning game drives offer the best viewing opportunities as animals are most active. The dry season means vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot lions, leopards, and cheetahs on the hunt. Evenings bring spectacular sunsets painting the savanna in gold and crimson.
After dark, the Serengeti’s lack of light pollution reveals a dazzling canopy of stars rarely seen elsewhere. Many lodges offer special nighttime safari drives to observe nocturnal creatures like aardvarks and bush babies.
7. Queenstown, New Zealand
While the northern hemisphere basks in summer heat, Queenstown offers pristine powder snow and world-class skiing. July sits right in the middle of the winter season, with the mountains surrounding Lake Wakatipu blanketed in snow and the town transformed into a winter wonderland.
After exhilarating days on the slopes at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables, warm up with mulled wine beside roaring fireplaces in cozy alpine lodges. The annual Queenstown Winter Festival brings an extra layer of excitement with concerts, fireworks, and quirky events like the dog derby.
For non-skiers, winter jet boating through dramatic canyons provides an adrenaline rush without the need for snow skills. The clear winter air makes this season ideal for stargazing tours that showcase the stunning southern hemisphere constellations.
8. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Clinging dramatically to steep cliffs above the sparkling Mediterranean, the Amalfi Coast reaches its vibrant peak in July. The narrow, winding coastal road connects charming villages where pastel-colored buildings cascade down to crystal-clear waters.
Spend mornings exploring the Cathedral of Saint Andrew in Amalfi town before the heat builds. Afternoons call for swimming in hidden coves accessible only by boat or sampling lemon granita made from the region’s famous citrus fruits. Evenings transform Positano and Ravello into magical settings as twinkling lights illuminate the hillsides.
The region’s cuisine shines brightest in summer when fresh seafood and local tomatoes feature prominently in simple, flavorful dishes. For an unforgettable experience, book a sunset dinner at a clifftop restaurant overlooking the sea.
9. Anchorage, Alaska
If midnight sun and wilderness adventures sound appealing, Anchorage delivers an extraordinary July experience. Daylight stretches for nearly 20 hours, giving you extended time to explore the spectacular surroundings with comfortable temperatures averaging 65°F (18°C).
Wildlife viewing reaches its prime as brown bears gather at nearby streams to catch salmon making their annual run. Whale watching tours frequently spot humpbacks, orcas, and belugas in the coastal waters of Cook Inlet and Prince William Sound.
The city itself comes alive with summer festivals celebrating Alaska Native culture through dance, music, and artisan crafts. Don’t miss the chance to sample reindeer sausage at local food trucks or fresh-caught halibut at waterfront restaurants. For a truly Alaskan experience, take a floatplane to a remote lake for world-class fishing.
10. Machu Picchu, Peru
Though high season brings more visitors, July offers the driest weather for exploring this ancient Incan citadel perched dramatically among cloud-shrouded Andean peaks. The clear skies provide perfect conditions for those iconic photographs of the stone structures against a backdrop of towering mountains.
Wake before dawn to catch the first shuttle buses up the mountain. Arriving at the site as the sun rises over the eastern mountains creates a magical experience as golden light gradually illuminates the ancient stones. Beyond the main complex, hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for a spectacular overview of the entire site.
July 24th marks Peru’s Independence Day, adding colorful celebrations and festivals in nearby Cusco. Remember that high-altitude acclimatization is essential – spend at least two days in Cusco before ascending to Machu Picchu.
11. Copenhagen, Denmark
Summer transforms Copenhagen into one of Europe’s most delightful capitals. The famous Tivoli Gardens burst with colorful flowers and evening concerts, while locals flock to harbor swimming areas and outdoor cafés. Rent a bicycle to explore like a true Dane – the city boasts some of the world’s best cycling infrastructure.
Pedal across the harbor bridge to Christianshavn to sample street food at Reffen, Copenhagen’s largest street food market, where shipping containers house diverse food vendors. The long summer days (with sunset after 10 PM) mean extended hours for enjoying the city’s beautiful parks and waterfront areas.
Don’t miss the opportunity to join locals for hygge (cozy togetherness) at one of the harbor-side bars where you can dangle your feet over the water while sipping Danish craft beer.
12. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park
July falls within Rwanda’s dry season, creating ideal conditions for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of mountain gorilla trekking. The forests are less muddy, making hiking easier as you follow expert trackers through bamboo forests to find gorilla families in their natural habitat.
Spending an hour observing these gentle giants – who share 98% of our DNA – as they interact, play, and care for their young creates memories that last forever. The misty mornings in the Virunga Mountains add a mystical quality to the experience.
Beyond gorillas, July offers excellent opportunities to spot golden monkeys and numerous bird species. After your trek, visit nearby communities to learn about conservation efforts and traditional Rwandan culture. The country’s commitment to sustainability has made it one of Africa’s most progressive conservation success stories.
13. Reykjavik, Iceland
When does the sun barely set? During an Icelandic July! The phenomenon of midnight sun means nearly 24 hours of daylight, giving you endless opportunity to explore this land of fire and ice without time constraints. Summer transforms Iceland’s harsh landscape into fields of purple lupines and verdant valleys.
The Golden Circle route showcases thundering waterfalls, erupting geysers, and tectonic plate boundaries all within a day trip from Reykjavik. After active days exploring, soothe tired muscles in natural hot springs like the Secret Lagoon or the famous Blue Lagoon.
July’s mild temperatures (around 55°F/13°C) make outdoor activities comfortable, though you’ll still need layers for changing conditions. For an unforgettable experience, take a midnight sun kayaking tour on a glassy fjord when the low-angled sunlight bathes everything in golden hues.
14. Quebec City, Canada
Step into a European atmosphere without crossing the Atlantic in this charming walled city. July brings Quebec City’s famous Summer Festival (Festival d’été de Québec), transforming the historic streets into stages for hundreds of musical performances ranging from international headliners to local talents.
Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where street performers entertain crowds and outdoor cafés spill onto sunny plazas. The historic architecture creates perfect backdrops for photos, especially along Petit-Champlain, North America’s oldest shopping street.
When city temperatures rise, locals head to Montmorency Falls just outside town. These impressive cascades stand 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls! For a truly memorable experience, cross the suspension bridge above the roaring water or try the thrilling zipline that runs alongside the falls.
15. Maldives
Contrary to popular belief, July offers an excellent opportunity to visit this island paradise at lower prices during what’s technically the “rainy season.” The reality? Brief, refreshing showers typically last less than an hour before brilliant sunshine returns.
Underwater visibility reaches its peak during July, creating perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs teeming with manta rays and whale sharks. Water temperatures hover around a blissful 84°F (29°C), making water activities comfortable even without a wetsuit.
Many luxury resorts offer significant discounts during this period, meaning you might afford that overwater bungalow you’ve been dreaming about. The slightly increased cloud cover actually creates more dramatic sunsets, painting the sky in spectacular oranges and purples that reflect beautifully on the calm lagoon waters.