15 best places to travel in July outside the US in 2026

Best places to travel internationally in July

One of the main things to keep in mind if you’re looking for the best place to travel to in July outside of the US is the weather, which varies by region. In Europe, for example, the more popular cities such as Barcelona, Spain, or Paris, France, can get quite warm. In Asia, Bali, Indonesia, the sunny weather is just perfect because the rainy season is long gone.

The caveat is that good weather typically equals large swaths of travelers going to the same place, even the same landmark. That’s why your choice should consider weather as well as the potential summer crowds, price, and activity options.

And, of course, if you’re booking any activities online while you’re traveling, whether museums or open-air buses, make sure you’re not relying on potentially unsafe Wi-Fi. An eSIM app like Saily lets you browse the web, upload those beautiful, picturesque sunsets on your Instagram, and potentially save you some cash while you travel, even if you visit multiple places during your international hops across oceans with Saily’s Global plans!

1. Santorini, Greece

Santorini, the island just south of Athens, has become one of the most iconic places to visit in July. Describing it just as charming, beautiful, or scenic wouldn’t do it justice. Santorini has achieved icon status due to its memorable white paint architecture, stunning beaches, and sunsets. (And what sunsets they are!)

If you pick the island as the place to be in July for your international travels, be mindful of a couple of things. First, if you’re flying to Santorini from the US, nonstop or direct options are nonexistent and will typically include a layover somewhere in Europe. Second, with July being the peak travel month on the continent, the island can get crowded, and the prices shoot up. The place might be more suitable for travelers who are okay with paying a premium to stay in Santorini during the peak season.

But consider the long daylight hours, the amazing food, and the beaches. They alone are worth the trip to Santorini, even if you’re there for a handful of nights.

📌 Tip: Santorini can be expensive during the busiest travel months of the year, but budget accommodation options are available. Book your trip early to make sure budget-friendly hotels or rentals are still up for grabs.

☀ Mean temperature is around 84°F (29°C), with highs reaching up to 90°F (32°C).

💡 July brings fantastic sunny weather with almost no rainfall and around 14 hours of sunlight each day. Humidity is high.

2. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast, the coastline stretching dozens of kilometers along the Tyrrhenian Sea in Central Italy, is one of the best places to visit in Europe in July. It has also become one of the major tourist hubs in Italy.

It would be hard to define the region using a single word or a phrase, considering that the Amalfi Coast is not a singular town or city. The best way to truly experience it is by driving along the coast, visiting villages along the way, and tasting the delicious Italian cuisine that never disappoints.

Traveling to the Amalfi Coast is relatively easy, at least compared to Santorini. The three major US airlines — American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines — offer direct connections to Naples International Airport (NAP), the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast.

📌 Tip: A simple itinerary in the region could include visiting Amalfi (the town), Cetara, Positano, and Vietri sul Mare.

☀ Mean temperature is around 81°F (27°C), with peaks up to 88°F (31°C).

💡 You can expect hot and sunny conditions, though it can be quite humid, making it ideal for enjoying the coast.

3. Paris, France

Paris, France, is a city that perhaps does not need any introductions. If it does, well, the City of Love is the home of such iconic landmarks as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum. Paris has also featured in numerous iconic TV shows, such as Emily in Paris, and movies, like Amélie.

The beauty of the place — apart from the fact that Paris itself is synonymous with beauty — is that the whole city has dozens of landmarks to visit or historic districts to see. If you want to avoid the masses and queues at those sites, take a boat excursion across the Seine, the city’s main river, to see Paris from a different perspective. Get a local tour guide through local neighborhoods to truly understand the daily routine of a Parisian, or explore what French cuisine has to offer by visiting neighborhoods off the beaten path, like the  13th or 20th arrondissements.

Considering that France is one of the major exporters of wine in the world, wine tasting of the country’s produce is something I’d strongly recommend at bars like Ambassade de Bourgogne or Le Barav, known for their wide-ranging wine menus.

And if you do decide to visit Paris in July, do not forget that the city hosts Bastille Day celebrations on the 14th. A must-see festivity that includes a jaw-dropping flyover by France’s Air Force and Navy!

🎵 Potential concerts to attend in Paris in July 2026 include performances by Bad Bunny, Guns N’ Roses, and The Weeknd.

July is the peak travel season, and Paris is one of the busiest places to visit during the month in the world. Still, the size and diversity of the city mean that everybody will find something to do while visiting without having to run into masses of tourists.

Just imagine yourself sipping coffee at a Parisian café and eating a French pastry as the world around you goes by in the city. How can you not consider Paris as one of your places to visit this July?

🌤 Mean temperature is around 68°F (20°C), with daily highs averaging 77°F (25°C).

💡 While Paris generally offers pleasant days, be prepared for potential heatwaves that can push temperatures above 88°F (31°C).

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain, is another excellent choice to travel to in July. This Catalan city will suit anybody’s desires for a holiday, whether it’s a stay for two weeks or a short weekend trip.

Why?

Barcelona has some of the most unique landmarks in the world, thanks to the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. His magnum opus, the Sagrada Família, is still being finished in the Catalan city. But it also has the museums, the events, and its own easy-going vibe that is perhaps like no other in Europe, or even the world.

Situated on the coast, Barcelona also has beaches within walking distance of the city’s center. If you do get tired of running around the city, consider relaxing for a few hours under the sunny skies and the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea to recharge!

Beyond the main sights and the beaches, Barcelona’s nightlife has plenty to offer with pubs, bars, and clubs all around the city. While it will get crowded in July, consider spending time in some of the more unique neighborhoods, such as Sant Andreu. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, great food options, and tranquility even during the busiest travel months of the year.

☀ Mean temperature is around 77°F (25°C), with highs of 84°F (29°C).

💡 July in Barcelona is characterized by its warm weather, perfect for enjoying the city’s beaches and lively bars and/or restaurants.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Calling Dubrovnik, Croatia, a city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, a hidden gem, would be a bit bizarre considering the number of tourists arriving here each year. But to some extent it is, especially when compared to some of the other cities across Europe, including the aforementioned Barcelona or Paris. Whether or not Dubrovnik and its cobblestone streets have been outside of your radar, hear us out on why it could be one of your favorite July destinations.

There is plenty to see and plenty to do while visiting the Croatian city. Barring the obvious — and an absolute must — tour of the city’s old town, which alone makes Dubrovnik one of the best places to visit in July, the Pearl of the Adriatic is also a hub for day trips to nearby islands.

You can also take kayaking tours, sailing, or, for those who want to still get a dose of adrenaline even while you are on holiday, windsurfing and kiteboarding.

July might as well be the perfect month to visit the Croatian city. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival kicks off on July 10, 2026, and runs until August 25, 2026. During the festival, visitors will have an opportunity to attend various musical and theater performances as part of the festival’s lineup.

Whatever you decide to do, you’ll likely have a blast in Dubrovnik. Be mindful, though, that since the city itself is quite small, it can get fairly crowded in July since it sees one of the largest influxes of visitors throughout the year.

Getting to Dubrovnik might be tricky for some visitors. If Dubrovnik is your choice of destination this July, the only nonstop or direct option from the US is United Airlines’ daily flight from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Other than that, you’re looking at layovers most likely somewhere in Europe. Like on all of your travels across the Atlantic Ocean, do not forget to bring your passport to the airport and anything else that might be on your international travel checklist.

📌 Tip: Consider visiting islands near Dubrovnik, such as the Elaphiti Islands or Korčula.

☀ Mean temperature is around 79°F (26°C), with highs climbing to 86°F (30°C).

💡 July promises long sunny days with very little rain.

6. Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken, Switzerland, sitting between two Alpine lakes and literally named for this fact, is a bit of a different destination compared to the aforementioned locations.

The Swiss city is not exactly a bustling metropolis, nor does it have golden beaches. What it does have, though, is some of the most remarkable jagged peaks and one of the great north faces of the Swiss Alps. It also serves as a great location if you like spending active and leisure time in the open air.

Interlaken is the location for you if you want to get away from crowds of tourists, even if it is the middle of July, one of the busiest travel months of the year. With an abundance of nature around the city, you can hike, bike, or glide all day while avoiding large crowds that are typically associated with July in Europe.

If you want to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps but do not have the desire to hike dozens of kilometers or rent bikes to ride around the shimmering lakes, you can still hire a boat. They are available on either of the two lakes, making taking in the grandeur of the Alps on any side of Lake Thun and/or Lake Brienz effortless since all you’ll be doing is, well, nothing — apart from relaxing and taking in the view!

Alternatively, cable car and cogwheel train services around the city can take you up the peaks surrounding Interlaken. The Jungfraujoch railway station is the highest train station in Europe and is a must-visit for any rail enthusiast!

Another thing to consider if you’re thinking of visiting Interlaken is that even citizens from the European Union (EU) need roaming to connect to the internet in Switzerland. Downloading an eSIM app is a must if you’re planning a longer stay here, or anywhere else in the country, for that matter.

📌 Tip: Consider flying from the US directly to Zürich Airport (ZRH) and getting a train to Interlaken for an easier trip.

🌦 Mean temperature is around 64°F (18°C), with highs that can reach 77°F (25°C).

💡 Due to the mountainous terrain, the weather changes quickly. Beautiful sunny periods can swiftly be replaced with rain showers, so prepare for various conditions.

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, similar to Interlaken, is an ideal hub for travel Into the Wild.

And yes, that is a reference to the 2007 cult classic starring Emile Hirsch.

If you question whether Reykjavik is truly one of the best places to travel to in July, let me try to sway you into considering it as a destination. First, if you do want to avoid the hot weather typical of most destinations during summer, Iceland is perfect due to its northern latitude. Second, its natural environment is second to none. Sure, the Alps in Switzerland will never be an unpleasant sight to see, but Iceland’s volcanic origins create one of the most unique landscapes on Earth. 

As a result of its volcanic beginnings, you’ll find hot springs and geysers everywhere. If Reykjavik is your pick for the best place to be in July in Europe, one option for including the hot springs and geysers on your itinerary is the route known as the Golden Circle. The route works even if your visit to Iceland is short since it can be completed in under eight hours — even less if you spend less time at each stop.

Group tours from Reykjavik along the route are available for booking online and in advance. You can also rent a car and visit each stop along the Golden Circle at your own pace.

Third, you can go whale and/or puffin watching in July. What’s convenient about going on a tour to observe these cuties is that you can book a tour that will directly take you from Reykjavik to their natural habitats. I would bring a pair of binoculars and dress properly if I were to stay warm and actually see the whales and/or puffins!

Reykjavik itself is worth exploring for the curious traveler.  For example, Hallgrímskirkja, a unique church that looks like it’s out of a sci-fi film, the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden, which is next to the church, and the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture, also known as Sólfar in Icelandic, are some of the potential notable sights to swing by.

The best part about traveling to Reykjavik in July is the city’s connectivity to the US. In fact, Reykjavik’s Keflavík International Airport (KEF) has the eighth-most weekly arrivals from the US in all of Europe, beating out such cities as Barcelona or Munich in frequency.

📌 Tip: If you want to stay within Reykjavik for a few days, some museums to check out include the Árbær Open Air Museum for insights into how locals lived centuries ago, the interactive nature museum Perlan, and the Aurora Reykjavík for an immersive experience about the northern lights.

☁ Mean temperature is around 52°F (11°C), with highs averaging 56°F (13°C).

💡 July provides mild weather under the midnight sun, but skies are frequently overcast, and rainy days are common.

8. Bali, Indonesia

Switching gears — or, rather, continents — to Asia, a brilliant tropical location to travel to in July is Bali, Indonesia. The island has become one of the hottest travel destinations in the past few years, especially on social media, due to its accessible and picturesque landscapes.

But that potential con of overwhelming crowds as a result of its popularity is outweighed by the numerous pros of visiting Bali. For one, it has wide appeal no matter what type of traveler you are –– its beaches attract sun seekers, its spas are oases of calm for those looking to unwind, and its outdoor activity options draw in adrenaline junkies.

Nature is the biggest attraction of the island, and you can still escape the crowds and have some alone time to be one with Mother Earth when exploring Bali. Potential spots to explore are Sidemen Valley, a lush valley full of rice fields, Munduk, the village to explore waterfalls from, and West Bali National Park for those true wilderness hikes on the island.

Getting to Bali may be a challenge for people coming from the US. No nonstop flights to Bali depart from the US. The saving grace is that Bali can be easily reached due to its connectivity to Asia’s and the Middle East’s busiest airport hubs, like Dubai International Airport (DXB).

📌 Tip: Other islands are within arm’s reach from Bali, including Nusa Penida. Consider visiting them for less crowded spaces.

☀ Mean temperature is around 81°F (27°C), with daily highs up to 88°F (31°C).

💡 July is the heart of the dry season, offering low humidity, cool breezes, and plenty of sunshine with minimal rain.

9. Phuket, Thailand

Unlike in Bali, July in Phuket, Thailand, is the rainy season. While that does mean that short rain showers are common, it also means that fewer tourists visit the Thai province during the month. The combination makes it one of the best spots to go to Asia if you’re on a budget or want to avoid crowds.

That does not mean that the province, which includes dozens of smaller islands, is empty. On the contrary, Phuket in July attracts surfers who hunt out larger waves, mostly on the western coast of the island of Phuket.

Sure, the island’s western coast might not be suitable for regular beach goers during the wet season, but the eastern coast very much is. The shallower coastlines on Cape Panwa, which include Ao Yon Beach, are perfect for a fslower pace beach days since the east coast waves are mild.

And the fact that July in Phuket is not the busy tourism season means that the island, as well as the province, could be one of the best places to travel, at least in Asia and Thailand, which is already one of the best cheap places to travel to in 2026.

📌 Tip: Getting from the US to Phuket in July is not possible with a nonstop flight. Consider flight options offered by such airlines as Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Turkish Airlines.

🌧 Mean temperature is around 84°F (29°C), with highs of 88°F (31°C).

💡 July is during the monsoon season, which means hot, humid conditions and frequent, heavy rainfall.

10. Tokyo, Japan

There is probably no bad time to visit Tokyo, Japan, including in July. Sure, the month falls in the middle of a season that is characterized by hot, humid, and at times, rainy weather, but the Japanese capital is a sprawling city. As such, you can still find places to visit and restaurants to eat at to avoid the hottest parts of the day!

Are you a foodie, traveling to enjoy the local cuisine? While recommending the best places to eat in Tokyo depends on the location you’re in, three places to consider are:

• Narisawa in Minato for fine dining.

• Tonari in Shibuya for the middle-of-the-road option.

• Ichiran Ramen for budget options across multiple locations in Tokyo.

Are you a manga and/or anime fan? Akihabara, the district in central Tokyo, Nakano Broadway, or any of the themed shops or cafés, are the places to go to immerse yourself in the local otaku culture. Even if you’re not an avid anime fan but still enjoy animated movies, the Ghibli Museum should be on your list of places to visit in Tokyo.

July is a great month for Tokyo festivals. The Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri, which fills the main street of Asakusa with various events and street food vendors, is typically held around July 7. The Mitama Matsuri, featuring thousands of lanterns on the approach to the Yasukuni Shrine, is held between July 13 and July 16 this year, and the Sumida River Fireworks will take place on July 25, 2026.

These are just some of the suggestions of what to do in Tokyo, but the recommendations could go on and on. Traveling to Tokyo from the US is also relatively easy, with numerous direct services by both Japan and US-based airlines.

📌 Tip: Other museums to consider for a visit include the Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.

♨ Mean temperature is around 79°F (26°C), with highs often reaching 86°F (30°C).\

💡 July in Tokyo is typically hot and very humid as the rainy season ends, giving way to full summer heat.

11. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa, also known as the Mother City, might be considered an unusual choice to travel to in July. Because Cape Town is in the southern hemisphere, it is winter in the city in July, bringing colder weather and rain with it.

But hear me out. Picking Cape Town as your personal best place to visit this July means two things: fewer crowds since it’s not the peak season, and more options for those traveling on a budget. Even during the low season, flights from the US to this South African city are still plentiful.

If the colder weather doesn’t discourage you from visiting Cape Town this July, the area’s unique scenery and nature are worth taking in. Go on a hike, take a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain, spend a couple of hours at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, or enjoy the Sea Point Promenade. 

Don’t want to hoof it? Renting a car to experience the spectacular Chapman’s Peak Drive. The road, beginning in Cape Town’s Central Business District, follows the coast, passes by Table Mountain, and curves around Chapman’s Peak, offering sweeping ocean views.

The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is also nearby, or if you want to walk along the sea shore, the Sea Point Promenade isn’t exactly challenging, but it can be a bucket list item.

Since Cape Town is no small town, indoor activities include museums, art galleries, and shopping opportunities. If you like wine, visit one of the area’s vineyards for a tasting or book a tour. For example, at the 300-year-old Vergelegen Wine Estate, you’ll be introduced to the region’s winemaking history and learn about modern winemaking techniques.

🌦 Mean temperature is around 54°F (12°C), with highs averaging 64°F (18°C).

💡 As it’s mid-winter, you’ll find a mix of crisp, clear days and colder, rainy spells. A sweet spot for those who like colder temperatures for some sightseeing.

12. Zanzibar, Tanzania

If Cape Town might not spoil you with warm weather in July, Zanzibar, the island located just off the shores of Tanzania, will. Dare I say there is no better time to visit the island than July, considering that during the other months of the year, the sun might shine a bit too bright.

As such, Zanzibar is hands-down one of the best places to visit in July if you’re looking for beach escapes. During this time, you’ll be able to enjoy the tropical vibes without the sweltering temperatures. Resorts are dotted along the coast as one type of escape.

You can also visit smaller nearby islands. The Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve is perhaps the best example of this. The small sandbank in the middle of the ocean is oftentimes one of the stops on boat tours that span several islands west of Zanzibar. Changuu, also known as Prison Island, is another option because of its interesting history and a chance to observe (and even feed!) giant tortoises.

If you do get tired of the beach — if such a thing is even possible — there are a lot of sites to visit in Zanzibar City. Stone Town, the city’s historic district, is its main attraction, with the historic downtown being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

☀ Mean temperature is around 77°F (25°C), with consistent daily highs of 83°F (28°C).

💡 This is the middle of the long dry season, so you can expect beautiful clear skies and plenty of sun.

13. Banff, Canada

Haven’t heard of Banff, Canada, before? Well, it’s either because you’re not into outdoor adventuring or you were just not lucky enough! The town, considered a gateway to the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park, is a great destination for nature lovers seeking some fresh air.

Imagine sitting on the banks of one of the numerous lakes that are scattered around Banff National Park, taking in the peace and quiet.  Or go wildlife spotting, camping, climbing and mountaineering, mountain biking, or even scuba diving. The Banff Gondola also offers visitors amazing views of the mountains if you need to relax after hiking the scenic trails. 

Be aware that the park may get crowded during the peak July travel season.

Before traveling to this Canadian city, consider whether you should get the Canada Strong Pass. It offers free admission to all national historic sites, national parks, and other attractions operated by Parks Canada. The pass also includes a 25% discount for camping and overnight stays. It’s most cost-effective for stays longer than two or three days.

📌 Tip: Banff is located just west of Calgary International Airport, with shuttle buses and ridesharing apps providing direct options to travel from the airport to the city.

🌲 Mean temperature is around 57°F (14°C), with daytime highs reaching a comfortable 72°F (22°C).

💡 July offers some of the best conditions of the year with many sunny days, perfect for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of the national park.

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is, undoubtedly, one of the most famous landmarks in the Americas as well as the rest of the world. Seeing the Incan-built citadel up close is a dream of many, and visiting it in July could be the perfect time to witness its glory first-hand.

Visiting Machu Picchu in July, the site’s busiest month, has pros and cons. On the one hand, July is a great time to visit the citadel since it is the dry season, resulting in near-perfect hiking conditions.

But on the other side of the coin, the site is not readily available to everybody, making it not as crowded like the some of the other New 7 Wonders of the World Proper acclimatization to the high altitude of Machu Picchu is a must, especially if you have never been to the higher-altitude mountains. A typical journey to the citadel includes a few days spent in Cusco, a city known as the hub for travelers looking to go to Machu Picchu, to get comfortable with the lower levels of oxygen at higher altitudes.

From there, a ride up the mountain includes a stop in Ollantaytambo, and then the onward journey to Machu Picchu. Inca Rail and PeruRail are options to travel from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu by train.

However, Inca Rail and PeruRail do not take you up to the temple. After arriving in Aguas Calientes, you can either take the 90-minute hike or take a shuttle bus, typically a half-hour ride.

You hike from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. For example, the Short Inca Trail is a great option to connect with your surroundings as you climb the Peruvian mountains for a couple of days, allowing you to slowly adjust to the higher altitudes. Be mindful that this option is best suited for more experienced travelers.

Whatever choice you make, Machu Picchu is definitely one of the best places to visit in South America in July. The combination of a modern wonder of the world, (usually) perfect weather, and breathtaking views makes a very strong argument why you should go to the site this summer.

📌 Tip: Both Inca Rail and PeruRail offer different travel classes. Some options include panoramic windows to observe the Andes while you’re riding up the mountains.

☀ Mean temperature is around 54°F (12°C), with pleasant daytime highs near 68°F (20°C).

💡 July falls in the middle of the dry season, which means you can expect bright, sunny days ideal for trekking, though it gets quite cold at night.

15. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenston, New Zealand, in July is all about skiing. Yes, you read that right, skiing during the summer. If you keep reminiscing about winter sports during the northern hemisphere’s warmer months, the Kiwi city should be on top of your places to go to this July.

The resort town is situated in the heart of the Southern Alps. Its own tourism site outlines that its four ski areas have “quality snow, terrain for all levels and easy access within a 20 to 45 minute drive from Queenstown.”

Skiing — or snowboarding, if that is what you prefer — is typically available between June and October. In addition to the slopes, Queenstown offers cafes, bars, and even spas to take a break in after a long day of grazing the snowy hills of the Southern Alps.

The Mardi Gras Queenstown festival also makes its annual return in July. Do not come without a costume since the locals will judge you for not dressing creatively, and be prepared to listen to some of the best music artists that part of the world has to offer!

📌 Tip: Fly from the US to Auckland, and then grab a connecting flight to Queenstown for the easiest and shortest journey.

❄ Mean temperature is around 37°F (3°C), with highs only reaching about 46°F (8°C).

💡 July feels cold weather and Queenstown gets plenty of snow, at least the surrounding Southern Alps, making it a perfect location to ski, even in July.

Stay connected during your July trip with Saily 

Whatever your destination of choice will be, remember that you can stay connected to the world with Saily. The eSIM service offers a wide range of plans, including a multi-country plan in Europe. Competitive prices make sure you won’t have to break your piggy bank to have data to post those pictures on Instagram!

The user-friendly app means that an eSIM is easy to set up, and unlike a physical SIM card that you will have to purchase at the airport, it will not require any physical swaps on location. How about that to reduce your chances of losing your physical SIM card?

In addition to providing you with data, Saily, powered by NordVPN, has several safety features. You can change your virtual location, enjoy zero ads since the app has a native ad blocker, and safely browse the internet with the eSIM’s web protection.

Globetrotting across multiple countries in July? You can look into Saily’s Global or Ultra plans, which offer international data in over 120 locations. The Ultra plan ranges from US$29.99, US$44.99, to US$59.99, while the Global plan’s pricing is laid out below:

Stay connected with the Saily eSIM app

Affordable mobile data plans for every journey.

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If you want to discover more interesting destinations, you can check out our guide with the best places to travel internationally and in the US in August.