15 Best European Cities to Visit in July
July is the perfect month to explore Europe’s most exciting cities. With festivals, long sunny days, and buzzing street life, these destinations are ready to wow you.
Whether you crave mountain air, medieval streets, or seaside sunsets, this list has a city for every kind of traveler. Here are the best European cities to visit in July!
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1. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is all about long, bright days and endless things to do in July. The city’s streets are alive with music, food, and art, while the famous midnight sun keeps the fun going well past bedtime.
Don’t miss the colorful street art, the towering Hallgrímskirkja church, or a dip in the legendary Blue Lagoon just outside the city.
Where to Stay: Hotel Borg by Keahotels. This Art Deco gem sits right in the city center and mixes 1930s glamour with modern style.
2. Seville, Spain
Seville is hot in July, but the city’s shady lanes, leafy plazas, and air-conditioned tapas bars keep things comfortable.
Marvel at the Real Alcázar’s dreamy gardens, climb the Giralda tower for city views, and catch a flamenco show in the heart of the old town.
With fewer tourists and great hotel deals, you’ll have the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant culture almost to yourself.
Where to Stay: Las Casas del Rey de Baeza. This boutique hotel charms with its plant-filled courtyards and a rooftop pool that’s perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
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3. Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken is the adventure capital of Europe, and July is prime time for outdoor thrills.
Sandwiched between two turquoise lakes and surrounded by the Swiss Alps, you can go canyoning, river rafting, or just chill with a lakeside picnic.
Take the train up to Jungfrau for jaw-dropping mountain views, or skydive for the ultimate rush. The weather is perfect for both adrenaline and relaxation.
Where to Stay: Hotel Interlaken. This historic hotel is steps from the train station and shops, and its lush garden and mountain views make it a peaceful base.
4. Colmar, France
Colmar looks straight out of a storybook with its pastel houses, cobblestone streets, and winding canals.
July brings warm days perfect for wandering the old town, sampling Alsatian treats, and checking out local art festivals.
Don’t skip the Unterlinden Museum or a boat ride through “Little Venice” – it’s pure magic around every corner.
Where to Stay: Le Colombier. This boutique hotel puts you in the heart of historic Colmar, with luxurious rooms and a location just steps from shops and the prettiest canals.
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5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s ancient walls and red rooftops glow under the July sun, and the Adriatic Sea is the ultimate backdrop for summer fun.
Walk the city walls, swim at hidden beaches, and grab gelato in the old town’s marble lanes.
With epic sunsets, island-hopping tours, and Game of Thrones sights, Dubrovnik is a summer blockbuster you’ll want to star in.
Where to Stay: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik. This stylish hotel sits right on the water, offering unbeatable views of the old town and a sea-level terrace for sunset watching.
6. Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt in July is buzzing with outdoor festivals, riverside strolls, and a museum scene that’s tough to top.
The Museumsufer, a stretch packed with world-class museums, sits right along the Main River and is perfect for art fans and curious minds alike.
Don’t miss the Palmengarten, a botanical garden where you can chill among tropical plants, or the Sommerwerft Theater Festival for live shows under the stars.
The city’s Kleinmarkthalle is a foodies paradise, loaded with local treats and fresh produce.
Where to Stay: LUME Boutique Hotel, Autograph Collection. This stylish hotel stands out for its blend of modern luxury and historic charm, all just steps from Frankfurt’s best sights.
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7. Istanbul, Turkey
July in Istanbul means sunny days, cool breezes off the Bosphorus, and a city that’s always up for something new.
Wander through the historic Sultanahmet district to see the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace–all icons with centuries of stories to tell.
The Istanbul Jazz Festival and open-air concerts keep the nights lively, while a Bosphorus dinner cruise serves up city views and Turkish flavors.
Don’t skip the Grand Bazaar for a taste of the city’s legendary shopping scene.
Where to Stay: Hotel Empress Zoe. This boutique hotel charms with its courtyard, vintage townhouses, and rooms filled with local art. Plus, it’s just steps from Istanbul’s top sights.
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon in July is all about sun, music, and sea breezes. The city’s hills are alive with street parties, open-air concerts, and the famous NOS Alive music festival.
Surf the waves at Praia de Carcavelos, wander the colorful lanes of Alfama, or take a sunset cruise on the Tagus River for epic city views.
Evenings are made for Fado music and fresh seafood in Bairro Alto, while day trips to Sintra and Cascais show off Portugal’s fairy-tale side.
Where to Stay: Hotel Avenida Palace. This grand hotel wows with its historic elegance, live piano music in the salon, and a location that puts you right in the center of Lisbon’s action.
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9. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana in July is a hidden gem bursting with green parks, riverside cafes, and summer festivals.
Stroll the pedestrian-only Old Town, snap a selfie on Dragon Bridge, or picnic in Tivoli Park.
The city’s street food festival fills the air with tasty smells, and a boat ride down the Ljubljanica River shows off the city from a whole new angle.
Ljubljana’s laid-back vibe and quirky art scene make it a fun stop for any traveler.
Where to Stay: InterContinental Ljubljana. This sleek hotel boasts a rooftop terrace with sweeping city views, a chic spa, and a prime spot just steps from Old Town’s best sights.
10. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca in July is pure Mediterranean magic, with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lively village festivals.
Palma’s Gothic cathedral glows in the morning sun, while the old town’s alleys hide cool courtyards and bakeries serving sweet ensaïmadas.
Hit the coastal markets, try watersports like paddleboarding or snorkeling, or join a boat trip to secret coves.
The island’s food scene is top-notch, with fresh seafood and local wines stealing the show.
Where to Stay: El Llorenç Parc de la Mar. This boutique hotel stands out for its rooftop infinity pool, modern design, and jaw-dropping views of Palma’s bay and cathedral.
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11. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest in July is all about soaking up the sun along the Danube, exploring grand sights like Buda Castle, and joining the city’s epic summer festivals.
Open-air baths like Széchenyi and Palatinus Strand are perfect for cooling off.
Don’t miss the buzzing food markets and riverside walks–there’s always something happening, from dance nights to concerts in City Park.
Where to Stay: Hotel Vision Budapest. This modern hotel stands out for its unbeatable riverfront location and sleek rooms that put you steps from the city’s top attractions.
12. London, England
London in July is a whirlwind of outdoor concerts, flower festivals, and world-famous events like Wimbledon.
Grab tickets for open-air cinemas, catch a jazz concert in Bermondsey Square, or stroll through Hyde Park and Regent’s Park for summer blooms.
The city’s energy is contagious, with rooftop bars and riverside walks making every evening feel special.
Where to Stay: Park Plaza London Riverbank. This hotel shines for its panoramic views of the Thames, Big Ben, and the London Eye, plus a sleek rooftop bar for soaking up the city lights.
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13. Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes in July is a mix of medieval magic and beach bliss. Wander the cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, then climb up to the Lindos Acropolis for sweeping sea views.
Day trips to Symi Island or St. Paul’s Bay add extra adventure, while Rodini Park is a shady escape from the heat.
Evenings are made for seaside dinners and exploring lively squares packed with shops and cafes. Rhodes is a dream for history buffs and sunseekers alike.
Where to Stay: Lindos Grand Resort & Spa. This resort is known for its private pools, stunning sea views, and a top-notch Italian restaurant.
14. Santorini, Greece
Santorini in July means jaw-dropping caldera views, whitewashed villages, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks.
Hike from Fira to Oia for the island’s best panoramas, swim at Red Beach, or hop on a boat tour to volcanic islands and hot springs.
Local wineries serve up crisp Assyrtiko wines, and the food scene is all about fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors.
Where to Stay: Athina Luxury Suites. This hotel is famous for its cave-style suites, private jacuzzis, and breakfast served right on your balcony overlooking the caldera.
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15. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh in July is festival central, with the city buzzing from the Jazz and Blues Festival to colorful carnivals on Princes Street.
Hike up Arthur’s Seat for city views, explore the Royal Mile’s ancient buildings, or picnic in the Meadows.
The castle looms over everything, and the city’s quirky shops and cozy cafes make wandering a treat.
Where to Stay: The Balmoral Hotel. This iconic hotel stands out for its grand clock tower, plush rooms, and a location right at the heart of Edinburgh’s historic action.
