26 best places to travel during the July

The month of July is usually one of the busiest for traveling. School is out and the weather in many parts of the world is warmer and sunnier. In the Northern Hemisphere, summer celebrations are in full swing, national parks are ideal for exploring, and the world's best beaches are in action.

▷ The best destinations in July to enjoy nature and an ideal climate

1. Portugal, Madeira and the Azores

July is one of the hottest months of the year in Portugal , with average temperatures of 24°C during the day. The Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores in the North Atlantic are a few degrees colder, but all three destinations are ideal if you're looking for the sun.

Nicknamed the Floating Garden of the Atlantic, Madeira blooms all year round. As its name suggests, Madeira Pride - a shrub with conical purple flowers - is native to the island, but if you visit in July you'll see magnolias, red poker trees and hydrangeas. Hydrangeas are also popular in the Azores, especially around Sete Cidades, near Lake Azul.

Festival fans might want to book a trip to Fiesa, an annual sand sculpture festival held in summer in Pera on the mainland. In addition to watching artists sculpt 12-meter-high sculptures and seeing them illuminated at night, visitors can attend workshops. Meanwhile, in Tomar, women parade through the city carrying bread on their heads during the Festa dos Tabuleiros, held every four years.

In Madeira, visitors can attend a 24-hour folk dance festival in Santana, a jazz festival in Funchal, and a canoe regatta and games during Sea Week in Porto Moniz, from July 26 to August 1. Meanwhile, the Azores host a week-long party and regatta on the island of Sao Jorge every July and the Santa Maria Blues Festival on the island of the same name between July 15 and 17. And although spring is the best time for whale watching in the Azores, sperm whales and minke whales cruise its waters all year round, so take a whale watching excursion and keep your eyes peeled on land.

2. Gibraltar

Located at the southern tip of Spain, this peninsula reaches highs of 28°C in July and benefits from 11 hours of sunshine a day. If it's beaches you're after, visit the east side of the hill overlooking the center, nicknamed The Rock.

Visitors can explore the Gibraltar Botanical Gardens all year round, while the endemic Gibraltar blooms on the rocks and cliffs of Europa Point and Camp Bay in July.

The height of summer is also the best time to experience festivals. The Calentita Gastronomic Festival takes place at the beginning of July, while the Gibraltar Regatta usually takes place at the end of July.

3. Albania and Montenegro

Most of Europe benefits from brilliant weather in July, but along with August, this is when you'll find the beaches busiest and cities packed with visitors.

Fortunately, it is possible to find a European hot spot that, even in high season, is somewhat less crowded than the others: the Balkan countries of Albania and Montenegro. Temperatures in both countries reach the hot levels of 30°C to 35°C.

Spend a day or two in Albania's capital, Tirana, for an unusual city break, and discover that the resort town of Sarandë is a dream combination of beaches, history and hiking, and don't miss The Blue natural spring Eye, in Muzinë.

Travel by bus for about four hours to Montenegro, settle in and enjoy a walk through Kotor, the city of Dubrovnik , sunbathe on the beaches of Budva and enjoy nature in Durmitor National Park.

4. Provence, France

The fragrant lavender fields of Provence are at their peak in July, and are best seen from Sénanque Abbey in Gordes. There are few floral sights anywhere in the world as pretty and purple as this one.

A visit to Provence in July should also coincide with France's national holiday, Fête Nationale, commonly known as Bastille Day. It is an annual celebration in France that takes place on July 14 and is usually marked by celebrations, fireworks and the occasional parade.

The Tour de France, a must-see event on the calendar of any cycling fan, is also held in July. So, if you like the excitement of sporting events, and want to extend your visit beyond Provence, now is the right time.

5. Lebanon

With maximum temperatures of 29°C and minimal rainfall, July is an excellent month to visit Lebanon. A getaway to the capital, Beirut, has a lot to say. Visit Martyrs Square, a central place that highlights Beirut's past, or stroll through the marina, Zaitunay Bay. There are countless museums: a national museum, an art museum and others.

When you're ready, head further afield to tour the picturesque Kadisha Valley and discover monasteries hidden in the hills. See also the Cedars of God, a forest of rare cedars and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

6. The Seychelles

The good weather in the Indian Ocean archipelago will continue throughout the month of July, reaching pleasant maximum temperatures of about 28°C, with an average of between 25°C and 26°C.

And what better place to enjoy such a warm sun than one of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles? Relaxation on the beach is a fact, but you can certainly take an adventure trip around the islands...

Look for the elusive Aldabra giant tortoise, snorkel and admire the natural beauty of San Pedro Island, or get your feet dirty hiking through the rich, green forests of Morne Seychellois National Park.

7. Cyprus

If you're craving sun, head to the island of Cyprus this July. Set factor 50 as temperatures can reach 30°C on the west coast and a few degrees higher on the south-east coast. Inside, it is even hotter, with temperatures reaching 37°C.

Rent a kayak or boat and explore the sea caves around Ayia Napa, which are near the entrance to the Cape Greco National Forest Park; They can also be explored on foot when the tide is low. If it's too hot, relax with a glass of wine. Cyprus is known for Commandaria dessert wine, and the Commandaria wine route connects 14 villages and vineyards that produce it.

8. Greece

With average daily temperatures of 25°C and little rain, it is no wonder that Greece is a very popular place in July and that many dream of a stay on the Greek islands. Santorini has grabbed the spotlight in recent years, with its blue-domed churches that are so easy to photograph. White Beach, at its southern end, has a quiet cove perfect for swimming, while Eros Beach is a secluded spot known for cliffs that drop dramatically to its dark volcanic sand and pebble coastline. However, the island can be almost too popular, so try one of the equally beautiful but less visited islands; There are many to choose from.

Kythira has an authentic feel, with sleepy villages and quiet beaches. The quiet island of Skyros has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, and a main town of white cube-shaped houses, with a spectacular configuration. You can cool off underground in the Milos Catacombs on the island of Milos, or hike the 16km Samaria Gorge in the Samaria National Park on the island of Crete. Whatever your interest, there is an island for you. Or explore the charms of the continent, whether it be the spectacular monasteries of Meteora, the historic sites and beautiful landscapes of the Peloponnese peninsula, or the mountains of Pindos with its bears and wolves.

9. Ireland

There has never been a better weather time to get in the car and travel around Ireland (unless you count March, for St. Patrick's Day). In July, you can expect 18 hours of daylight and a cool temperature. There may be a surprise summer shower, but you can't have everything...

Where you drive is up to you, but a stop in colorful Kilkenny can take you directly to the capital, Dublin, passing through the wild countryside of County Carlow.

If you can, be sure to stop off in Galway, and visit Connemara National Park, to soak up the nature and hiking, as well as the coves and bays along the coast. County Cork is also a must-see... but we could go on.

10. Mexico

Sun lovers can rejoice in the July temperatures in Mexico, which reach 28°C. In the afternoons it cools down, so you won't spend the day suffocating. You might want a light jacket, and even a raincoat just in case it rains in the summer.

The best-known beaches and most hidden coves in Mexico are usually found on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, in Tulum and Cancún. But the heat has other benefits besides catching a few rays for yourself: July is peak season for sea turtles in Mexico.

Even in the colorful cities, far from the beach, you can find natural wonders to enjoy in the sun. Nature reserves and national parks abound.

▷ The best destinations in July for wildlife observation

11. Whale and Puffin Watching in Iceland

Although Icelandic sheep, cows and horses - a breed of small, intelligent horse - can be seen all year round, in summer you can also see herds of reindeer around Snaefell and colonies of Atlantic puffins breeding on the island's cliffs. . July is also peak season for whale watching. The best place to take a trip to see humpback, minke and blue whales is from Husavik, in the north of the island.

The days are long and the temperatures are high, making this the perfect month to really explore the charms of Iceland. Check out this 8-day Iceland tour with whale watching.

12. Brown bear watching in Sweden, Finland and Arctic Norway

Early to mid-July is usually the best time to spot a brown bear in Finland, Sweden or Arctic Norway. Brown bears typically emerge from hibernation around April and tend to disappear to mate in June, before becoming visible again, often to feed.

The best way to see them is at night, often from a "bear hide" hotel, and with the help of a specialized guide, also known as a "bear safari." You will have many tours and places to choose from.

The Lakeland region of Finland is covered in thick forests and has about 2,000 bears. In central and northern Sweden, it is even harder to see the region's 3,000 brown bears, although Hälsingland, Bollnäs and Sandviken are popular options.

Honestly, it's much rarer to see a bear in Norway; If it does, it will be near the Swedish and Finnish border.

13. Birdwatching in Vanuatu

The 80 islands that make up Vanuatu County in the Pacific Ocean may not have the greatest number of birds ever, but the ones it calls its own are pretty special.

There are believed to be 30 rare species flying, 11 of which are said to only occur in Vanuatu. The rainbow lorikeet, for example, may be native to Australia, but it frequents Vanuatu, and is a very colorful sight for bird watchers.

There's also the Coconut Parrot, the weird and wonderful Vanuatu Megapodium, and the super-cute Red-tailed Tropical, to name a few... a must-see for fans of sensational birds.

14. Kangaroo Island, Australia

The month of July is the middle of winter for Australians, although don't expect sub-zero temperatures or piles of snow. It may rain a little, but temperatures remain around a pleasant 14°C.

Kangaroo Island is in southern Australia, and is a must-see for marsupial fans. Kangaroos roam freely around the island, in protected nature reserves, which occupy approximately a third of the island.

You will also be able to see koalas and a wide variety of birds. Head to Flinders Chase National Park if you like seeing penguins in their natural habitat, as the park is home to a colony. Seal Bay Conservation Park is also worth a visit to see the protected sea lions doing their thing.

15. The Great Migration, Tanzania and Kenya

One of the largest and most daring wildlife migrations in the world is the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. It begins in northern Tanzania, in the Serengeti, and more than 1.5 million animals head to the Masai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya, thirsty for water and fresh grass. Check out this private Masai Mara safari!

In reality, part of the migration can be experienced almost any time of the year, as our Great Migration calendar . In July, you can expect to see the herds "spread from the Grumeti Game Reserve and the Ikorongo Game Control Area to the northern edge of the Serengeti," according to our expert William Gray .

The passage to Kenya depends largely on the rains in Tanzania, so you have to go by ear. Migration can occur in mid-June, if the waters have dried, or even in September, if the zebras and wildebeest are not as thirsty. There is often a chance to see the crossing in July, so you have to choose the time well.

16. Polar bear sighting in Spitsbergen, Norway

Sighting a polar bear in the wild is one of life's great joys, whether you love wildlife watching or it's just part of your travel experience.

In the Svalbard archipelago, April to September is the main wildlife viewing season, including polar bears, which roam incessantly in search of food. This is the time when official tours take place, and it's the best opportunity to see these beautiful (and dangerous) creatures up close at home. Unfortunately, you cannot go looking for polar bears on your own.

The most popular way to explore Svalbard is to take an expedition cruise along the western coast of Spitsbergen and around the archipelago. These cruises last several days and combine shore excursions with wildlife viewing from the deck. Polar bears often appear on cliffs and beaches in search of marine life. Another option is to settle in Longyearbyen, in Spitsbergen, and take excursions from there. In July, the deep snowfalls of the early season will not have occurred, and the ice will not have completely melted, as it does at the end of the season. That's why July is usually one of the best times, weather-wise, to explore.

▷ The best July destinations for long-distance travel

17. Belize (and its neighbors)

At Wanderlust we have talked a lot about the beauty of Belize, and we believe that July is a good time to enjoy everything this Central American gem has to offer.

The weather, first of all, is the best. Hot days are (often) followed by rainy nights, with a cooling breeze arriving soon after. It's a chance to dive the Belize Barrier Reef and Glover's Reef, explore ancient Mayan cities like Lamanai, and marvel at the Blue Hole, a large natural sinkhole off the coast that is both mysterious and the largest of his class.

You could spend weeks soaking up Belize, but take a multi-country trip (if you have time) and check off the neighboring Central American countries of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador along the way.

18. Alaska, USA

Alaska's peak season has a small window: late May to July. During a hike in July there will be between 17 and 18 hours of daylight per day, and it is also the warmest time of year to visit, with highs of approximately 18°C.

It may not be the cheapest time of the season to visit (it's probably late May), but it's the best time to explore. The good weather makes exploring the vast Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park a real pleasure. It is a highlight for any nature lover.

Whale watchers will also benefit from a trip in July, as this is when humpback whales are most likely to be seen swimming in the sea. Anglers, for their part, will find that it is also the best month to catch Alaskan king salmon.

19. Namibia

It is true that Namibia, in southern Africa, is a country that has it all. Famous for its imposing red sand dunes, it is also a meeting point for wild fauna and flora, with an extensive sandy coastline. It's no wonder it's often voted best country in Wanderlust .

We'd say you'll need the better part of two weeks, if not more, to take it all in. The month of July is the ideal time to do it. For starters, the weather is sensational. There is little chance of rain and the temperature is usually around 20°C, making exploring the Sossusvlei dunes and expanse of the desert much cooler than you would expect.

The lack of rain is also perfect for wildlife lovers: The many animals in Etosha National Park will gather around the waterholes to quench their thirst, so you'll have a good chance of seeing zebras, giraffes and elephants on your side. with elbow

20.Indonesia

Where do we start with Indonesia? For round trips to the islands? The numerous and unusual religious festivals that are celebrated? The melting pot of cultures, evident especially in its cuisine? There is so much to see and do that you could spend months here without getting bored.

It won't be the calmest month in Indonesia, as temperatures reach a scorching 30°C and visitors flock to many of the more than 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia in search of a dose of glorious sunshine. But since it is the dry season, there is a good chance that the weather will be ideal on all the islands.

Bali is a classic, as is Java, the country's most populated island, where the capital, Jakarta, is located.

We also suggest Sumatra and Komodo Island to see the Komodo dragon in its natural habitat. Finally, Nusa Tenggara (the Lesser Sunda Islands) are good places to start.

21. Thailand

July is the rainy season in Thailand, but the rainy season has a bad reputation. There are downpours to be reckoned with, of course, but they rarely last all day and have the added bonus of creating incredible waterfalls. Plus, accommodation is usually cheaper.

Visit northern Thailand in July to experience Phi Ta Khon, or Ghost Festival. The origins of the festival are based in part on one of Buddha's past lives, when he was a prince who was presumed dead after a long journey, but his safe return led to celebrations so massive that they are said to have awakened the dead. In addition to parades, musical performances and parades, locals dressed in ghostly masks can be seen competing in games.

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival is also celebrated in the north this month. What began as a Buddhist tradition of donating candles to monks has turned into a spectacle of floating candles parading to local temples.

▷ The best destinations in July for art and culture

22. San Francisco, USA

A metropolitan US city seems like an obvious choice for the month of July, right? There will be plenty of fireworks and parades to celebrate Independence Day, which takes place every year on the 4th.

You'd probably do just as well in New York, Seattle, Portland, Houston, or anywhere else, really, if you're looking for the full red-and-white experience.

We have chosen San Francisco because it is known for being tolerant and friendly to visitors. It may be a little luxurious price-wise, but its riverside fireworks show is immensely beautiful with the iconic red Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop. Countless parades and parties can be expected throughout the city.

23. Copenhagen, Denmark

Roskilde, one of Europe's biggest music festivals, has been held every July in Denmark since 1971. Most musical tastes are catered for: Bruno Mars, Robyn, Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds, Cardi B and The Cure feature on the varied lineup from past festivals.

This 130,000-person festival takes place just south of the city that gives it its name, west of the Danish capital. In any case, a stop at the festival is the perfect excuse to spend a few days browsing the many luxury shops, minimalist cafes and Copenhagen's colorful port, Nyhavn. It is only half an hour away by direct train, or 40 minutes by car.

An advice? Book your accommodation in advance as this will naturally be a busy time.

24. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival) is one of Japan's most famous annual celebrations, taking place throughout the month of July. It has been celebrated since 869, when the reigning emperor ordered worship at the Yakasa shrine, hoping to prevent the plague.

Now, the plague - or the Covid-19 pandemic - is not the driving force of the party. It is part of the fabric of the city, with rituals, ceremonies and parades taking place throughout the month. On July 17 and 24, traditional floats slide through the streets full of people, and the festivities culminate on the last day of the month, with another street celebration, known as the closing ceremony of the "purification."

The magic is worth witnessing, especially if you have a keen interest in Japanese tradition and culture. But if he wants to experience the Gion Matsuri among the welcoming locals, he will have to reserve what he needs well in advance.

25. Montreal, Canada

Montreal's Just For Laughs festival includes people in the streets and parades of art floats, but it's all decidedly less serious.

The comedy festival began in 1983, and has reached the top: it is said to be the largest comedy festival in the world. Usually held for two or three weeks in July, it offers locals and visitors a variety of stand-up shows, comedy nights and late-night events, taking place in many different venues around the city.

Expect to feature the biggest names in American and Canadian comedy, some of the biggest stars in British comedy, as well as new talent and some off-the-beaten-track entertainment...

26. Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, one of the four main islands in the Mediterranean, comes alive in mid-July with the festival of the Virgen del Carmen. The festival dates back to the 13th century, when a monk had a vision of the Virgin Mary with his son in his arms. Nowadays, especially in coastal areas, visitors can see how an effigy of the Virgin guides a procession of floats carried by fishermen to the sea, where the parade continues in illuminated boats while fireworks are launched to the rhythm of music. .

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▷ Conclusion: Go out, travel and live your life to the fullest.

This year, treat yourself to a break from the ordinary and seek an adventure abroad. You'll come back refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to bore all your friends with travel stories.

Any time of year is a good time to travel. Discover the best places to travel by month:

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

If you want to read other articles similar to 26 best places to travel during the July. You can visit the category July.