15 Best July Travel Destinations for a Summer Getaway
Sunshine, street festivals, and ice cream cones that melt faster than you can eat them–July is prime time for travel.
Some places just know how to do summer right, with blue skies, cool breezes, and local fun around every corner.
If you’re itching to swap homework for hiking boots or city strolls, these destinations totally deliver.
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1. Bridgetown, Barbados
Bridgetown in July is all about rhythm, flavor, and color. The city buzzes with the Crop Over Festival from July 30 to August 5, 2025, a centuries-old celebration packed with music, costumes, and parades that fill the streets with energy.
Foodies will love sampling Bajan classics on a street food tour–think fresh fish cakes and coconut-milk ice cream. History buffs can dive into the story of Mount Gay Rum at a hands-on cocktail class.
Add in warm weather, friendly locals, and easy access to craft markets, and you’ve got a trip that’s equal parts chill and thrill.
Where to Stay: Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle All Inclusive Resort. This beachfront resort stands out for its spacious rooms and legendary Lantern Bar with its epic rum selection.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali in July means sunshine, blue skies, and the island at its best–the dry season brings perfect weather for everything.
Surf in Kuta, hike through emerald rice terraces in Ubud, or chill on the white sands of Nusa Dua.
The Bali Arts Festival lights up the month with traditional dances and music, while the nightlife in Seminyak and beach clubs in Jimbaran keep the party going.
Where to Stay: Padma Resort Ubud. This jungle retreat is famous for its heated infinity pool and daily archery, golf, and aerial yoga.
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3. Maui, Hawaii, USA
Maui in July is a summer classic–think warm days, cool trade winds, and endless things to do.
The ocean is perfect for snorkeling, surfing, or kayaking in the mornings before the winds pick up.
Families fill the beaches, but there’s always a quiet spot if you head upcountry to Kula or cruise the Road to Hana.
Local food trucks serve up poke bowls and shave ice that hit the spot after a swim. Evenings are made for luaus, hula shows, and catching the last rays from a sandy beach.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Kea Lani. This all-suite resort stands out for its huge rooms, three pools, and direct access to Polo Beach.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik in July is a blend of endless daylight and wild landscapes. The city is alive with festivals, outdoor art, and packed cafés, while the countryside calls with glacier hikes, waterfall treks, and hot springs.
With mild weather and long days, you can explore Þingvellir National Park, join a Golden Circle tour, or even snorkel between tectonic plates.
Reykjavik’s quirky shops and lively nightlife are the cherry on top after a day of adventure.
Where to Stay: Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel. This central spot feels like your own stylish apartment, complete with a kitchenette and fresh breakfast delivered daily.
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5. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown flips the script with its winter landscape in July. Snow blankets the mountains, making it a hotspot for skiing, snowboarding, and sipping hot chocolate by the lake.
The local markets buzz with handmade crafts, and the Skyline Gondola lifts you up for jaw-dropping views of snowy peaks and Lake Wakatipu.
Even if you’re not hitting the slopes, the town’s cozy vibe and epic scenery make it a top pick for a Southern Hemisphere escape.
Where to Stay: Kamana Lakehouse. This boutique hotel is perched above Lake Wakatipu and is known for its panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range from every room.
6. Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
Bar Harbor is a coastal gem that shines in July. The weather is just right for hiking Acadia National Park’s scenic trails, spotting whales on a boat tour, or catching the Fourth of July fireworks over the harbor.
The town’s Victorian architecture, artisanal shops, and farm-to-table restaurants add charm, while the Bar Harbor Music Festival fills the air with live tunes. Don’t miss sunset from Cadillac Mountain.
Where to Stay: Balance Rock Inn. This historic waterfront inn is all about privacy and old-world charm, with ocean views and a fire pit for evening hangouts.
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7. Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu, Peru
July in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu is all about blue skies, crisp mountain air, and epic views that go on forever.
The dry season means you can hike ancient Inca trails without worrying about rain, and the weather is just right–warm during the day and chilly at night.
This is festival season, too: catch the Virgen del Carmen celebrations with music, dancing, and feasts, or join the countrywide Fiestas Patrias for a taste of Peruvian pride.
With clear days, the ruins and valleys look extra dramatic, and you might even spot Andean condors soaring overhead.
Where to Stay: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel & Villas. This hidden gem sits in a lush valley and is famous for its mountain views and friendly baby alpacas right on the property.
8. Yachats, Oregon, USA
Yachats in July is a breath of fresh air–literally. Cool ocean breezes, misty mornings, and sunny afternoons set the scene for exploring tide pools, hiking the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, or walking the 804 Trail right along the crashing surf.
The town’s laid-back vibe is perfect for unplugging, and local cafés serve up fresh seafood and Oregon berry pies.
With mild temperatures and endless coastline, Yachats is the spot for anyone who wants a chill summer trip that’s big on nature and small on crowds.
Where to Stay: Overleaf Lodge & Spa. Every room here has a front-row seat to the Pacific, and the spa’s ocean-view soaking tubs are a welcome respite after a day on the trails.
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9. Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau in July is all about sun, sand, and that laid-back island rhythm. The beaches are pure white, the water is a dreamy turquoise, and there’s always something happening.
From fish fry nights at Arawak Cay to local art shows and the big Independence Day bash on July 10, there’s no shortage of activities.
Snorkel with colorful fish, swim with friendly pigs, or just float in the warm, clear sea.
Even though it’s technically hurricane season, most days are sunny and perfect for water sports, and you’ll find sweet deals on resorts.
Where to Stay: Sandals Royal Bahamian. This all-inclusive resort is famous for its private offshore island, top-notch spa, and swim-up suites.
10. Athens, Greece
Athens in July is a sun-soaked adventure where ancient ruins and modern life mix in the coolest way.
The city bakes under blue skies, with temperatures often topping 30°C, making it prime time for rooftop views of the Acropolis or lazy afternoons at a café in Plaka.
Hit up the open-air cinemas, browse lively markets in Monastiraki, or head to nearby beaches for a swim in the Aegean.
Where to Stay: Electra Palace Athens. This luxury hotel is known for its rooftop pool and jaw-dropping Acropolis views, all right in the heart of historic Plaka.
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11. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
July in the Galapagos is a front-row seat to some of the wildest animal action on Earth. The weather is cool and dry-perfect for hiking and wildlife watching without breaking a sweat.
This month, sea lions and their pups fill the beaches, blue-footed boobies show off their famous mating dances, and whale sharks, dolphins, and migrating whales swim just offshore.
Snorkelers can spot everything from playful sea lions to penguins darting through the water, while birdwatchers catch rare chicks hatching and cormorants building nests. The only catch? July is peak season, so book early to snag your spot.
Where to Stay: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel. This eco-friendly hotel is famous for its private beach and easy access to wildlife tours.
12. Vejle, Denmark
Vejle in July is pure Danish summer–think long, sunny days, and a laid-back vibe that makes you want to slow down and savor every moment.
The beaches are perfect for swimming and ice cream breaks, while the pedestrian streets buzz with outdoor cafés and local shops.
Nature fans can hike or bike through lush trails, explore the fjord, or picnic in city parks. Don’t miss the iconic Fjordenhus building and the UNESCO-listed Jelling Monuments.
With family-friendly festivals and plenty of outdoor fun, Vejle is a hidden gem for a summer getaway.
Where to Stay: Munkebjerg Hotel. This forest-surrounded hotel is known for its panoramic views over Vejle Fjord and its indoor pool and casino.
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13. Lake Chelan, Washington, USA
Lake Chelan turns up the fun in July, with warm days made for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding on the crystal-clear, glacier-fed water.
The lake stretches for over 50 miles, framed by dramatic mountains and dotted with orchards and vineyards.
July is packed with events–fireworks over the water, music festivals, and the Lake Chelan Rodeo.
The southern end buzzes with activity, while the northern end is wild and peaceful for those who want to escape the crowds.
Where to Stay: Lakeside Lodge and Suites. This lakeside hotel stands out for its stunning water views, indoor and outdoor pools, and spacious family-friendly rooms.
14. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik in July is sun-soaked, with golden beaches, clear blue water, and the city’s famous stone walls glowing in the summer light.
The weather is hot and dry, perfect for swimming or walking the historic city walls. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival fills the streets with music, theater, and dance, while beach bars and seafood spots offer a taste of the Adriatic.
The city is buzzing, but the energy is contagious–wander the old town, take a cable car for epic views, or hop a boat to nearby islands for a change of pace.
Where to Stay: Sun Gardens Dubrovnik. This resort is famous for its sea-view rooms, multiple pools, and a private beach club.
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15. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul in July is hot, humid, and full of surprises. It’s monsoon season, so expect sudden downpours–perfect for ducking into a cool café or exploring one of the city’s five grand palaces.
The city’s parks and riverside paths are green, and the Garden of Morning Calm hosts colorful flower festivals.
If you need to cool off, head to Lotte World or Everland amusement parks, or take a Han River cruise at sunset.
July is also less crowded with international tourists, so you can snag deals on hotels and enjoy the city’s buzzing food and shopping scenes.
Where to Stay: Grand Hyatt Seoul. This luxury hotel is perched on a hill with sweeping views of the Han River and Namsan Tower, and is known for its outdoor pool and live lobby music.
