12 July Getaways That Are So Good, You’ll Want To Pack Your Bags

Are you looking for a destination to explore this summer? July means the sun is shining brightly, and the days are growing longer—perfect conditions for a summer adventure and being out there.

Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore vibrant cities, or immerse yourself in nature, there’s a destination that suits your taste, and we’re here to help pinpoint it to you.

In this article, we highlight 12 top summer destinations in July, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable memories. From the tranquil shores of Greece to the bustling streets of Miami, these destinations promise to make your summer vacation genuinely spectacular.

Table of Contents

Mykonos, Greece

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Warm weather, vibrant cultural scenes, lively social scene, and party after party – Mykonos is a dreamy destination in July. Start your summer getaway here at Little Venice, a colorful seaside neighborhood with cafes, bars, and nightclubs that stay open well into the early hours.

To sunbathe and swim, head to Platis Gialos or Psarou. Agios Sostis and Elia are are popular spots. In summer, Paradise and Super Paradise are popular partying spots.

In July, the average daily high temperatures are around 83°F (28.33°C). The pleasant weather allows visitors to tour the island’s attractions. Mykonos Town, or Chora, is a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings and charming shops. Some landmarks you cannot miss include the iconic windmills and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani.

Crete, Greece

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Crete is one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning islands, with a little something for everyone. Beach bums visiting this island in July will love the miles of sandy stretches and turquoise waters along the coast. Balos, Elafonissi, Vai, and Falassarna are some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

Adventure seekers can trek the Samaria Gorge or climb Crete’s highest peak, Mount Ida. That aside, history buffs will enjoy exploring the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos.

Summertime in Crete also means feasting on delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Start your day with a strong Greek coffee and honey-drenched yogurt with walnuts. Later on, say during lunch, sample mouthwatering souvlaki, grilled meat skewers, or calamari – crispy fried squid. The vibrant food scene in Crete alone is worth the trip in July!

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre, meaning “five lands,” is a collection of five colorful fishing villages along the Italian Riviera coastline. The five towns—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—are all situated within the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Each town has its distinct charm, best explored in July for the good weather – but keep in mind this also means more crowds. Relax on the beach or hike through the lemon groves in Monterosso al Mare. Vernazza, often considered the prettiest of the five towns, has a natural harbor and castle awaiting exploration.

Corniglia sits atop a 100-meter-high rocky hill with sweeping sea views. Photogenic Manarola is home to the oldest church in Cinque Terre, San Lorenzo. And in Riomaggiore, watch the sunset over the harbor and enjoy fresh seafood at alfresco cafes.

You can hike from one village to another, as they are well-interconnected with hiking trails. You can also visit some of its beaches, get a dip, or watch fishermen in action.

Majorca, Spain

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Majorca, is a perfect summer destination in July, thanks to its numerous Mediterranean beaches and vibrant culture. Its 25-mile (40-kilometer) coastline has over 250 beaches. July sees hot, dry weather, with average highs of 82°F (28°C) and 12 hours of sunshine daily.

When visiting, head to the western town of Deia for small, picturesque beaches flanked by the Tramuntana mountains.

This Spanish island also gets lively when the sun goes down. In Magaluf, You can party the night away at one of the many nightclubs along the Punta Ballena strip.

Porquerolles, France

Visiting Porquerolles is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the South of France at a slower pace. Reachable only by ferry from the port of Hyeres, its car-free roads and pristine beaches attract those seeking an escape from the bustle of the mainland. In addition, with less than 500 year-round residents, this island maintains a peaceful ambiance even in high season.

As evening falls, watch the sunset from Plage de Notre Dame beach while enjoying a platter of seafood, cheese, and olives.

If you are a beach lover, consider Plage d’Argent, Plage d’Or and Plage de la Courtage. This island is also an excellent destination for hikers. Many hiking trails lead to scenic viewpoints, coves, and secret beaches. If you are into the active lifestyle, you will love Porquerolles.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is among the most popular tourist destinations in July, and it is pretty obvious why everyone wants to experience its unique beauty and allure. The dry season from April to October makes July the perfect time to experience Bali’s vibrant culture and stunning natural scenery.

You can spend your days exploring the lush rice paddies, pristine beaches, and vibrant Hindu temples. At night, the beach clubs and bars in Seminyak and Canggu come alive with music and dancing.

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The central town of Ubud, nestled among rice fields and coconut trees, is a hub for wellness and spirituality. You can get your zen on with a yoga class, then browse the local artisan shops and cafes. That aside, adventurous souls can go whitewater rafting down the Ayung River.

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Miami, Florida

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If you are looking for a high-energy destination in July with lots of activities to keep you entertained, then you should consider Miami. If you are a beach lover, you will especially love how hot and humid Miami is in July—these are perfect conditions to make you appreciate its stunning beaches even more.

Miami is home to some of the best beaches in the US, such as South Beach. You can go sunbathing, swimming, or try thrilling watersports. Besides that, Miami has an electric nightlife with some of the best clubs in the country. If you are a night owl, head to downtown Miami for bar-hopping when night falls.

Beyond the beaches and nightlife, Miami has a vibrant culture. Tourists can visit the Wynwood Walls, a trendy museum opened in 2009, to see colorful street art.

Madeira, Portugal

Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Morocco, the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira is a subtropical paradise in July. The summer weather is warm and sunny, with average highs of 82°F (28°C), perfect for spending days at the beach or exploring the natural surroundings.

Madeira’s location in the Atlantic gives it a mild oceanic climate, resulting in refreshing sea breezes to combat the summer heat. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other watersports. Beachgoers will love the soft white sands of Praia Formosa and Praia da Calheta.

Inland, Madeira’s mountainous landscape is covered in forests, with hiking trails leading to dramatic cliffs and valleys. It is an excellent destination for nature lovers.

Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui is a tropical paradise and one of the top summer destinations in the US. In July, the temperatures average in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, the ocean is warm, and the island vibes are chill. You can fill your days lounging on the island’s famous beaches, like Wailea, endowed with golden sand and swaying palm trees. Alternatively, get your thrill-seeking fix at Haleakala National Park, where you can bike down the massive Haleakala volcano.

Afterward, refuel with fresh-caught seafood and a fruity cocktail at a beachfront restaurant.

For a change of scenery, head upcountry to ranch towns like Makawao. Or tour one of Maui’s many sugar cane distilleries and pineapple farms to sample the island’s sweet treats.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik in July is a perfect summer getaway, boasting nearly 24 hours of daylight and mild weather. The average high temperature reaches only 64°F (18°C), which is ideal for outdoor exploring without overheating.

You can experience the surreal midnight sun, where the sun remains above the horizon late into the night. For your exploration, walk along the harbor at Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, a charming area with shops, restaurants, and whale-watching tour companies.

When visiting Reykjavik in July, ensure you go whale-watching. These tours offer a chance to spot humpback whales, dolphins, or even orcas.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Whether you want to experience the festivals, soak in history, or enjoy summer sightseeing, July is an ideal time to visit the Scottish capital. The long summer days in Edinburgh mean you’ll have plenty of time to fit it all in.

Walk the Royal Mile, with Edinburgh Castle at one end and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. Additionally, you can take a free walking tour to learn about the city’s history.

Exciting events also take place in July. The Jazz and Blues Festival, for example, features over 130 performances.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar’s natural beauty and cultural charm will leave you with lifelong memories. And with budget-friendly accommodation and travel costs, this island getaway is just a destination you cannot ignore.

July falls within Zanzibar’s dry season, so you can expect little chance of rain and daytime highs of around 77°F (25°C). The historic capital of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow alleys, mosques, and traditional houses. Take a walking tour to soak in the unique architecture and shops in Stone Town.

Zanzibar’s beaches are the main attraction, from the popular northeastern ones like Nungwi and Kendwa to the more secluded southeastern ones like Jambiani Beach. The island’s mix of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences is reflected in its delicious cuisine, which you cannot afford to miss.