Let’s be honest—July is one of those months where the travel bug bites hard. The sun is shining (in most places), the kids are out of school, and vacation feels like it’s practically mandatory. But with the whole world at your fingertips, the big question is: where should you go?

Whether you’re chasing summer vibes or escaping the heat, here’s a handpicked list of amazing destinations to explore in July. No fluff—just real recommendations, based on weather, events, and that magical “this is exactly what I needed” feeling.

1. Iceland – For Midnight Sun and Outdoor Thrills

Let’s start with a wild card. Iceland in July is absolutely unreal. You get 22+ hours of daylight, which basically means you can hike a glacier at 10 PM and still be home in time for a late-night soak in a hot spring. July is also one of the warmest months (by Icelandic standards), making it perfect for road-tripping the famous Ring Road, spotting puffins, or even whale watching.

🌞 Bonus: You don’t have to worry about snowstorms closing roads or layering up like an onion. Just pack a decent windbreaker and enjoy nature on steroids.

2. Japan – Summer Festivals and Fireworks Galore

Yes, Japan can be hot and humid in July, but hear me out. It’s festival season, and that alone makes it worth it. Cities like Kyoto and Tokyo come alive with colorful matsuri (festivals), street food, parades, and fireworks.

Don’t miss Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, one of Japan’s most iconic celebrations. Imagine traditional floats, lantern-lit streets, and food stalls that smell so good you’ll want to try everything—even things you can’t quite identify.

🔥 Pro tip: Head north to Hokkaido if you want cooler weather and lush flower fields. The lavender fields in Furano are peak Instagram-meets-serenity.

3. Canada – Nature at Its Best

From Banff’s turquoise lakes to the charming French vibes in Quebec City, Canada in July is chef’s kiss. The weather is just right—warm days, cooler nights, and loads of open trails, festivals, and wildlife spotting.

This is the time to get outdoors: kayak in Lake Louise, hike in Jasper, or catch the Montreal Jazz Festival if music is your thing. Even the cities like Vancouver and Toronto buzz with summer energy, patios, and waterfront vibes.

🍁 Heads up: Canada Day (July 1) is a whole celebration. Expect fireworks, parades, and nationwide good vibes.

4. Greece – Island Hopping and History

Yes, it’s peak season. Yes, there will be crowds. But Greece in July is also unreal. The beaches are warm, the sunsets in Santorini look like a screensaver, and the Aegean just begs you to jump in.

If you want to skip the packed hotspots, check out lesser-known islands like Naxos, Paros, or Milos. They’ve got all the charm without the elbow-to-elbow tourist traffic. Or mix it up with a few days in Athens—rooftop bars, ancient ruins, and epic street food make it more than just a stopover.

🏖️ Travel hack: Early July in Greece is way less chaotic than late July or August.

5. Kenya – Safari Dreams Come True

If seeing wildlife in its natural habitat is on your bucket list, July is one of the best times to go on safari in Kenya. It marks the start of the Great Migration, when thousands of wildebeest and zebra move from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Masai Mara.

You’ll get clear skies, cool mornings, and incredible game drives. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like spotting a lion at dawn or watching elephants stroll by your safari jeep.

🦓 Insider tip: Combine it with a few days at Diani Beach on the coast for a “safari + sea” Kenya combo.

6. Portugal – Sunshine, Surf, and Soulful Cities

Portugal hits the sweet spot in July—plenty of sunshine, gorgeous coastlines, and cities that feel alive with music, food, and culture. Lisbon and Porto are warm and wonderful, with buzzing nightlife and historic charm.

But if you’re craving ocean breeze and golden sands, head south to the Algarve. Cute towns like Lagos, Tavira, and Faro offer beach time, boat tours, and seafood feasts you’ll daydream about months later.

🌊 Best part: Portugal is more affordable than many other Western European destinations in peak summer.

7. Indonesia – Tropical Escapes with a Twist

While some parts of Southeast Asia are deep in monsoon season, Indonesia is thriving in July. Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are all dry, green, and postcard-perfect.

Whether you’re into surfing, yoga retreats, diving with manta rays, or just sipping something cold in a hammock—you’re covered. Ubud offers a spiritual and creative vibe, while Canggu is all beach clubs and digital nomads.

🌴 Quick tip: Book your Indonesian accommodation in advance—July is a popular month for both local and international travelers.

8. France – Wine, Lavender, and Summer Culture

Paris is always a good idea, but Provence in July? Next level. This is when the famous lavender fields bloom in full force, painting the countryside purple. Add in farmers’ markets, hilltop villages, and rosé by the jug and you’ve got a dream summer trip.

If you’re into festivals, Avignon’s Theatre Festival is in full swing. For beach lovers, the French Riviera is buzzing (but pricey—fair warning). Nice, Antibes, and even the glitz of Saint-Tropez are buzzing.

🍷 Idea: Make it a road trip—Paris to Provence to Côte d’Azur. Summer soundtrack optional but recommended.

9. Peru – Hike Without the Rain

If Machu Picchu is on your list (and let’s be real, it’s on everyone’s list), July is the time to go. It’s dry season in Peru, meaning sunny skies and fewer disruptions on the Inca Trail.

Explore Cusco, wander through the Sacred Valley, and take in the surreal beauty of Rainbow Mountain. It’s cool in the highlands, but you’ll be grateful for that when you’re hiking at altitude.

🦙 FYI: The trails are busy, but the views make it worth every step.

10. Slovenia – Europe’s Hidden Gem

Want the charm of Europe without the usual crowds and prices? Say hello to Slovenia. This small but mighty country has alpine lakes, fairytale castles, and wine country, all packed into one incredibly easy-to-navigate destination.

Lake Bled is as dreamy as it looks in photos, while Ljubljana (the capital) has a laid-back, artsy vibe. And for adventurers, the Soca Valley is perfect for rafting, kayaking, or just unplugging.

🇸🇮 Extra cool: You can pair Slovenia with a road trip into northern Italy or Croatia if you want to stretch your itinerary.

Final Thoughts

July is like the world’s open invitation to explore. Whether you’re after wild landscapes, cultural festivals, or sun-drenched beaches, there’s something magical waiting for you out there. The trick is choosing the vibe you’re after—and not stressing if it’s a little off the beaten path. Sometimes the best trips are the ones you didn’t expect.

Wherever you end up this July, make it count. Soak it all in. Try something new. Get a little sunburned, a little lost, and a whole lot inspired.

Where are you going this July? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for ideas, too.