July is a wonderful time to travel in Europe. As it’s summer, the longer days mean more time to explore top attractions at a leisurely pace. You’ll also find unique cultural events and seasonal activities that can only be experienced during this time of year. The best holiday destinations to go in July include:
Best July Holiday Destinations
Tuscany, Italy
Why visit Tuscany in July:
Tuscany is especially vibrant in July, with warm temperatures, long sunny days and an inviting summer atmosphere. It’s a great time to explore the region’s rolling countryside, vineyards and historic cities while enjoying the lively pace of life across towns and villages. It’s also an ideal time to join one of our holidays to Italy, visit local wineries, where you can sample regional wines, learn about traditional winemaking, and admire the rolling hills in full summer bloom.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Explore Florence, the Renaissance capital, home to world-famous art, architecture and landmarks such as the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
- Visit Siena, a beautifully preserved medieval city famous for the Palio horse race and its stunning shell-shaped Piazza del Campo.
- Discover Pisa, instantly recognisable for its Leaning Tower and elegant Romanesque architecture.
- Explore San Gimignano, a striking hilltop town known for its medieval towers, charming streets and panoramic views across the Tuscan countryside.
- Stay in Montecatini Terme, a historic spa town known for its elegant architecture, relaxing thermal baths and excellent central location for exploring Tuscany.
Lake Garda, Italy
Why visit Lake Garda in July:
July is a great time to explore Lake Garda, known for its stunning scenery of vineyards, olive groves, and dramatic mountains. The warm summer weather makes it ideal for taking in the natural beauty and historic charm that surrounds the lake. From medieval castles and quaint villages to museums and botanical gardens, there are plenty of attractions to discover.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Take a relaxing boat trip across the lake, passing mountain scenery and small villages dotted along the shoreline.
- Discover Limone sul Garda, a compact lakeside village known for its lemon terraces, narrow lanes, and striking clifftop setting.
- Visit Malcesine, a historic town with a medieval castle, stone-paved streets, and the option to take a cable car up to Monte Baldo.
- Explore Riva del Garda, a lively lakeside town with a long promenade, harbour views, and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
- Enjoy an excursion to Verona, a city rich in history, home to a Roman amphitheatre, Juliet’s balcony, and elegant public squares.
- Experience a day trip to Venice, known for its canals, bridges, and historic buildings, with quiet streets and winding waterways to explore.
Sorrento, Italy
Why visit Sorrento in July:
A Sorrento holiday in offers clear skies and sunny weather, perfect for enjoying the stunning scenery. July is a month filled with festivals and events, including music concerts, food festivals, and religious celebrations.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Visit the ruins of Pompeii, an ancient Roman city remarkably preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, offering a fascinating insight into life in Roman times.
- Explore the island of Capri, where striking coastal scenery is paired with relaxed Italian style, including highlights such as the Blue Grotto and its inviting piazzas.
- Take a boat excursion along the Amalfi Coast, passing colourful cliffside villages overlooking clear turquoise waters, with stops in Positano and Amalfi town.
- Discover Sorrento, where winding streets lead past lemon groves, artisan ceramics shops and lively squares, all set against wide views across the Bay of Naples. Explore its beautiful gardens, including Villa Comunale and Villa Fiorentino, offering peaceful spaces to enjoy the scenery.
Lake Como, Italy
Why visit Lake Como in July:
July is an ideal time to visit Lake Como, when the surrounding hills and mountains are lush and green, creating a striking backdrop for the glistening lake. The warm summer days are perfect for enjoying the elegant villas, lakeside promenades, and picturesque towns that make the area so special.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Experience a boat trip across Lake Como, passing elegant villas along the shoreline before arriving in Bellagio, a charming lakeside town known for its winding streets and sweeping views over the water.
- Journey on the Bernina Express through the Alps between Italy and Switzerland, taking in dramatic mountain scenery along the way, with time to explore St Moritz once you arrive.
- Head to Milan on a guided tour, where grand historic buildings sit alongside stylish shopping streets and a lively, modern atmosphere.
- Visit the gardens of Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, which are at their most vibrant in July, with colourful blooms and beautifully kept landscapes throughout.
- Unwind at your lakeside base, with free time to wander through charming villages and enjoy the laid-back pace of Lake Como.
Ready to travel in July?
We have a range of incredible options to help you find your ideal holiday. Browse our website now to discover a variety of fantastic travel destinations for July.
