7 Best places to travel in July in 2025
Where are the best places to travel in July? Explore exotic destinations with tropical weather and balmy temperatures alongside places you can go for cooler summer days.
July brings pleasant weather and warm temperatures to many parts of the world, making it an ideal time to travel and experience summer in full swing.
This month is the perfect time to explore a mix of seaside towns, vibrant cities, and cultural hubs that come alive with activities like music festivals, wildlife watching, outdoor adventures, and fireworks displays.
With so many options to choose from, if you’re wondering where to go in July, you’re in the right place.
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1. Maui, Hawaii
🗓️ Why visit in July: Experience the perfect mix of warm ocean waters, lively summer festivals, and seasonal, diverse wildlife encounters.
The first on our list of best places to travel in July is Maui, Hawaii. Maui is a living story woven with legends, breathtaking landscapes, and the aloha spirit.
According to Hawaiian lore, the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from atop Haleakalā, the massive East Maui Volcano, to slow its journey and give his people longer daylight — a fitting tale for July.
Before you go, read our travel guide for Hawaii. It covers everything from local cuisine, climate, and currency to public transport, souvenirs, and time zones.
Top activities
To make the most of your summer visit, here are some top activities that truly capture the magic of Maui in July:
- Celebrate Lahaina’s 4th of July fireworks: Enjoy a stunning fireworks display over the Pacific Ocean in the historic town of Lahaina.
- Snorkel with Baby Honu: July is the peak season for spotting baby sea turtles at Turtle Town near Maluaka Beach.
- Watch cliff divers at Black Rock: Sunset divers at Pu‘u Keka‘a honor the legendary leap of Maui’s last chief.
- Take a bioluminescent night dive: Experience glowing plankton while night-diving in Makena’s warm July waters.
- Hike the lush bamboo forest: July rains make the Pipiwai Trail’s greenery especially vibrant on your way to Waimoku Falls.
- Catch the first mangoes of the season: July marks the start of mango season, best enjoyed fresh from a local market.
💡 Travel tip: Plan your visit at the end of June to catch the Ki-ho’alu 2025 Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival on June 29th. It’s a free event featuring premier slack key guitar artists, inviting locals and visitors to immerse themselves in one of Hawaii’s richest musical traditions.
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2. Phuket, Thailand
🗓️ Why visit in July: Fewer crowds, lower prices, green landscapes, and a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty in a relaxed atmosphere.
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, was named after the Malay word Bukit, meaning hill, due to its mountainous terrain.
It’s also known as “the pearl of the Andaman” thanks to its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The mix of tradition, nature, and outdoor adventures makes it a must-visit destination, especially in July, when the island takes on a slow, serene vibe with balmy temperatures.
Top activities
If you’re visiting Phuket during the rainy season (May to October), you’re in for some peace and quiet as this time of year overlaps with Phuket’s shoulder season.
Despite the weather and fewer crowds, there’s plenty for you to do in Thailand, including:
- Jungle trekking: Cool weather and lush greenery make July ideal for exploring quiet jungle trails. Much more comfortable than hiking during the dry season.
- Fishing villages: Visit quaint villages like Rawai for fresh seafood.
- Explore local markets: Visit local markets like the Phuket Weekend Market or the Old Phuket Town Night Market to experience the local culture and cuisine.
- Check out the Upside Down House: This unique and quirky museum is a great way to spend a rainy day.
💡 Travel tip: In July, some attractions and businesses in Phuket may be closed or have reduced hours. Research and make reservations in advance to avoid any disappointments.
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3. Amalfi Coast, Italy
🗓️ Why visit in July: Experience Amalfi’s vibrant summer atmosphere with warm weather, lively festivals, and stunning coastal views.
This one is our first European destination on the list of best places to go in July, and is featured in most travel guides to Italy.
Introducing: the Amalfi coast, with its bohemian bays, rocky cliffs, and turquoise waters.
Amalfi, nestled along Italy’s stunning coastline, is a place steeped in history and legends, like the tale of Flavio Gioia, the local inventor credited with perfecting the compass.
Whether true or not, the story reflects the adventurous spirit of Amalfi, a town where maritime history meets Italian charm. In July, Amalfi comes alive with festivals and exciting events, offering a chance to see the town at its most colorful and festive.
Top activities
Add these to your Amalfi itinerary to get a taste of la dolce vita:
- Attend the Amalfi Coast Music & Arts Festival: Immerse yourself in Mediterranean culture through concerts, master classes, and regional cuisine.
- Relax on less-crowded, beautiful beaches in the early morning: Head to the Marina Grande beach early in the morning to enjoy the coast before the crowds arrive.
- Taste Amalfi’s fresh summer lemons: Amalfi is famous for its lemons, and July is peak season. Try the local limoncello (a lemon-flavored Italian liqueur) or a fresh lemon granita (lemonade slushie) made from the region’s giant lemons, which you won’t find anywhere else.
- Hike the Valle delle Ferriere: The summer rains nourish this nature reserve, where you can explore ancient ruins, thick forests, and waterfalls to escape the coastal heat.
- Take a boat tour at sunset: July’s long summer days make sunset boat tours extra special. You’ll have a front-row seat to Amalfi’s coastline bathed in golden light.
💡 Travel tip: Make sure to book boat tours and accommodations in advance, as July is high season and spots fill up quickly. Find more tips for traveling to Italy here.
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4. Rome, Italy
🗓️ Why visit in July: Open-air events, festivals, and a warm climate that’s perfect for evening strolls and cultural exploration.
If you haven’t figured it out already, we believe Italy is one of the best countries to visit in July. Our next stop: Rome.
Rome, often called the “Eternal City,” is a place where historic sites blend with vibrant modern life. Legend has it that Rome was founded by twin brothers Romulus and Remus, who were raised by a she-wolf — an enduring symbol of the city’s resilient spirit.
In July, Rome’s lively squares, alfresco dining, and rich culture shine, offering a special blend of history and summer magic.
Top activities
When visiting Rome in July, there are plenty of activities to make the most of your trip:
- Enjoy the Lungo il Tevere Festival: Every July, the banks of the Tiber River transform into a lively festival scene with pop-up bars, markets, and live music.
- Savor summer gelato: Rome’s gelato is great year-round, but in July, seasonal flavors like fig, peach, and watermelon are at their best. Head to places like Giolitti or Fatamorgana for a refreshing treat in the summer heat.
- Take an evening stroll through Piazza Navona: July’s warm evenings are perfect for wandering through Piazza Navona. The square comes to life with street performers, artists, and lively cafés.
- Explore Villa Borghese Gardens by bike: In July, a breezy bike ride through the lush Villa Borghese Gardens offers a peaceful escape from the summer heat.
💡 Travel tip: Read our guide on things to do in Rome to plan your perfect July itinerary.
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5. Melbourne, Australia
💡 Why visit in July: Experience Australia’s winter, with cozy events, cultural festivals, and crisp, refreshing air.
If you’re wondering where to visit in July to escape the heat, look no further than the southern hemisphere.
In Australia, winter settles in from June to August. Cozy up in Melbourne to experience the vibrant arts scene, cozy cafés, and iconic winter festivals.
Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, is a city known for its vibrant art scene, diverse cuisine, and unpredictable weather.
A fun local saying is that you can experience all four seasons in a single day here! In July, Melbourne transforms into a winter wonderland with outdoor ice skating, hot drinks, and festive lights, offering a cozy side to this lively city that many don’t expect.
Top activities
When visiting Melbourne in July, here are some activities you won’t want to miss:
- Go to the Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival: From July 24 to 27, music lovers can enjoy live blues performances at this (mostly) free festival, where the charming streets of Echuca-Moama come alive with music, street food, and a winter atmosphere.
- Go ice skating at Federation Square: During July, Federation Square transforms into a winter playground with a pop-up ice skating rink.
- Warm up with Melbourne’s coffee culture: Melbourne is famous for its coffee, and July is the perfect time to warm up in one of the city’s many cozy cafés. Try local favorites like Proud Mary or Seven Seeds for a true Melbourne brew.
- Visit the Dandenong Ranges for a winter hike: Take in the fern glades, waterfalls, and stunning views without the scorching summer heat.
- Experience the Firelight Festival in Docklands: This festival lights up the winter night with fire displays, live music, street performances, and delicious food.
- Wildlife viewing: Go to the Healesville Sanctuary to see wombats and platypuses, or take a day trip to Phillip Island to meet penguins, kangaroos, and seals. If you’re visiting the Northern part of Australia, don’t miss Hervey Bay, a great spot for whale watching.
💡 Travel tip: If you’re planning to travel to Melbourne by yourself, check out our solo travel Australia guide to get tips on planning your adventure.
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6. San Francisco, USA
🗓️ Why visit in July: If you’re a fan of crisp air and mild weather during summer months, add the USA’s west coast city, San Francisco, to your list of best places to travel in July. Average daily temps are around 70°F ( 21°C).
Mark Twain once joked, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco” — a nod to the city’s famous fog, known as Karl.
In July, while most places are basking in the heat, San Francisco stays cool and vibrant, with festivals and outdoor activities offering a unique summer experience.
Top activities
There’s lots to do in San Francisco, including:
- Watch the 4th of July fireworks by the bay: Celebrate Independence Day by watching fireworks light up the sky over the bay. Head to Fisherman’s Wharf or Crissy Field for the best views.
- Experience the Fillmore Jazz Festival: From July 5 to 6, the Fillmore Jazz Festival brings live jazz, food stalls, and local art to the streets, making it the perfect summer cultural event.
- Meet Karl, the fog, on the Golden Gate Bridge: July’s foggy mornings create a mystical atmosphere over the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Watch the San Francisco Marathon: From July 26 to 27, the city hosts the San Francisco Marathon, a scenic race that winds through iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf. Even if you’re not running, it’s a great event to watch.
- Explore Alcatraz after dark: The museum is open until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, allowing you to take evening tours of the infamous prison. The cool weather and setting sun — and Karl — give the experience an eerie, atmospheric touch.
💡 Travel tip: Extend your trip beyond San Francisco if you’re visiting in late July. If you’re considering extending your trip and making a tour of the United States, our guide on things to do in August in the US can help you explore more destinations across the country.
7. Ålesund and Sunnmøre, Norway
🗓️ Why visit in July: Long daylight hours and mild weather, perfect for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.
Ålesund and Sunnmøre are among the best places to visit in July in Europe for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
The region is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes and lore.
According to local legend, the mountains surrounding Sunnmøre were formed by trolls, who were turned to stone by the rising sun.
With its blend of charming rural communities and dramatic fjords, Ålesund and Sunnmøre offer a magical setting for a July vacation destination that’s full of adventure and natural beauty.
Top activities
Before we wrap up our best places to travel in July recommendations, let’s go over the things you can’t miss when visiting Norway this summer:
- Hike scenic trails in the Sunnmøre Alps: July offers perfect hiking weather, and the Sunnmøre Alps provide stunning views of fjords and mountains.
- Explore Geirangerfjord by kayak: Paddle through this UNESCO fjord in July, passing waterfalls and towering cliffs in peaceful summer waters.
- Take a road trip along the Atlantic Road: One of the most scenic drives in the world, July’s mild weather makes this iconic route even more enjoyable.
- Visit Runde Island for birdwatching: In July, puffins nest on Runde’s cliffs, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.
- Fjord cruise at Hjørundfjord: Cruise through Hjørundfjord, a quiet, lesser-known fjord with some of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes.
- Explore Jostedalsbreen National Park: July is the best time for glacier walks in Norway’s largest glacier, located in this national park.
💡 Travel tip: Norway is not a member of the European Union and has different immigration and travel policies. Before booking your tickets to Norway, read about special requirements, such as the visa type you need.
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Stay connected on your trip with Holafly
From music festivals to fireworks displays, July has a lot to offer, making it the perfect time to embark on a memorable adventure.
Whichever destination you decide to travel to this July, don’t forget to buy an eSIM for your trip. It will help you stay connected to the rest of the world with minimal costs.
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