Best Places in Europe to Visit in July: Your Ultimate 2023 Guide
July is a magical time to visit Europe. The weather is warm, the days are long, and the continent is buzzing with activity. From sun-soaked beaches to vibrant festivals, Europe offers a wealth of experiences in the summer. But with so many countries to choose from, where should you go? In this guide, we'll explore the best places in Europe to visit in July 2023.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Europe has something for everyone. Each country offers its unique charm and attractions, making it a perfect destination for all types of travellers. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Table of Contents
- 1. Italy
- 2. France
- 3. Spain
- 4. Portugal
- 5. Greece
- 6. Croatia
- 7. Sweden
- 8. Iceland
- Key Takeaways
- Common Misconceptions
- Conclusion
1. Italy
Italy, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, is undoubtedly one of the best places in Europe to visit in July. The weather is warm, perfect for exploring the ancient ruins of Rome, the romantic canals of Venice, or the stunning coastline of Amalfi.
July is also the time for numerous festivals in Italy. One of the most famous is the 'Festa del Redentore' in Venice, a spectacular event with fireworks and gondola races. For opera lovers, the 'Verona Opera Festival' is a must-visit.
However, do remember that July is peak tourist season in Italy. So, make sure to book your accommodations and attractions in advance. Check out our Travel Essentials Reviews for some handy tips.
2. France
France, the country of love and lights, is another fantastic destination for a July visit. The weather is lovely, and the country is full of summer festivals. The most notable is Bastille Day on July 14th, a national holiday with parades, fireworks, and parties.
Paris, the capital, is a must-visit with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum. But don't forget to explore the French Riviera for some beach time, or the lavender fields in Provence, which are in full bloom in July.
France is also famous for its cuisine. Whether it's a simple baguette and cheese picnic in a Parisian park or a gourmet meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant, your taste buds are in for a treat. For some great flight deals to France, check out our Flight Deal Finder.
3. Spain
Spain is a vibrant country that comes alive in the summer. July is a great time to visit, with plenty of sunshine and lively festivals. The 'Running of the Bulls' in Pamplona and the 'Feria de Julio' in Valencia are just a couple of the exciting events you can experience.
From the stunning architecture of Barcelona to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol, Spain offers a diverse range of attractions. Don't forget to indulge in some delicious Spanish cuisine, like paella and tapas, while you're there.
Spain can get quite hot in July, so make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks during the hottest part of the day. For more travel tips, check out our Travel Hacks blog post.
4. Portugal
Portugal, with its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious cuisine, is another excellent choice for a July vacation. The weather is perfect for exploring the cobbled streets of Lisbon or lounging on the golden beaches of the Algarve.
July is also a great time to visit the Douro Valley, where you can tour the vineyards and sample some of Portugal's famous Port wine. For music lovers, the 'NOS Alive' music festival in Lisbon is a must-visit.
Portugal offers a great value for money compared to some other European destinations, making it a great choice for budget travellers. For the best hotel deals in Portugal, check out this link.
5. Greece
Greece, with its ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and delicious cuisine, is a fantastic destination for a July holiday. The weather is perfect for beach activities and exploring the country's numerous archaeological sites.
The Greek islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, are particularly popular in July. These islands offer stunning beaches, charming villages, and vibrant nightlife. Don't forget to try some traditional Greek dishes, like moussaka and souvlaki, while you're there.
However, Greece can get quite crowded in July, especially the popular islands. So, it's a good idea to book your accommodations and ferry tickets in advance. For some helpful tips on planning your trip, check out our Helpful Tips When Flying blog post.
6. Croatia
Croatia is a gem of the Adriatic, offering beautiful beaches, historic cities, and stunning national parks. July is a great time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of sunshine.
The Dalmatian Coast, with its crystal-clear waters and charming towns like Dubrovnik and Split, is a must-visit. For nature lovers, the Plitvice Lakes National Park offers breathtaking scenery.
Croatia is also known for its summer festivals. The 'Ultra Europe' music festival in Split and the 'Dubrovnik Summer Festival' are just a couple of the exciting events you can experience. For the best flight deals to Croatia, check out this link.
7. Sweden
Sweden, with its long summer days and cool climate, offers a unique European experience in July. The country celebrates 'Midsommar' in late June, a festive event that spills into July, featuring maypole dances, flower crowns, and traditional food and drink.
From exploring the historic sites of Stockholm to hiking in the stunning national parks, Sweden offers a diverse range of activities. The archipelagos on the west coast are particularly beautiful in the summer, perfect for boating and swimming.
Sweden is also known for its sustainability efforts, making it a great destination for eco-conscious travellers. For more information on sustainable travel, check out our Travel Essentials Reviews.
8. Iceland
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a fantastic destination for a July vacation. The country experiences 24 hours of daylight in the summer, giving you plenty of time to explore its stunning landscapes.
From the geysers and waterfalls of the Golden Circle to the black sand beaches of Vik, Iceland offers a wealth of natural beauty. July is also a great time to go whale watching or take a dip in one of the country's many geothermal pools.
However, Iceland can be quite expensive compared to other European destinations. So, make sure to plan your budget carefully. For some great travel hacks, check out our Travel Hacks blog post.
Key Takeaways
Europe offers a wealth of experiences in July, from vibrant festivals to beautiful beaches. Here are some key takeaways from our guide:
1. Plan in advance: July is peak tourist season in many European countries. So, it's a good idea to book your accommodations and attractions in advance.
2. Stay hydrated: Some countries, like Spain and Greece, can get quite hot in July. Make sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks during the hottest part of the day.
3. Explore beyond the capitals: While cities like Paris and Rome are must-visits, don't forget to explore the smaller towns and countryside. These areas often offer unique attractions and a break from the crowds.
4. Try the local cuisine: Each European country has its unique cuisine. Make sure to try some local dishes during your visit.
Common Misconceptions
When planning a trip to Europe in July, it's important to be aware of some common misconceptions:
1. Europe is crowded everywhere in July: While it's true that July is a busy time for tourism in Europe, not all places are crowded. Some lesser-known destinations offer a peaceful vacation away from the crowds.
2. Europe is expensive: While some countries like Switzerland and Iceland can be quite expensive, others like Portugal and Croatia offer great value for money.
3. You need to know the local language: While it's always helpful to know a few phrases in the local language, English is widely spoken in most European countries.
Conclusion
Europe is a fantastic destination for a July vacation, offering a wealth of experiences for all types of travellers. Whether you're exploring the ancient ruins of Italy, lounging on the beaches of Greece, or experiencing the midnight sun in Iceland, you're sure to have an unforgettable trip.
Remember to plan in advance, stay hydrated, and make the most of your trip by exploring beyond the major tourist spots. And most importantly, don't forget to enjoy the journey!
For more travel tips and advice, check out our Flight Plan Book website. Safe travels!