Where to go in July

Where to go in July

Summer is in full swing across the Northern Hemisphere in July. Make for the Mediterranean in search of sun-baked corners far from the crowds, be it in the rolling Tuscan hills or one of Greece’s far-flung island idylls. Further north, Norway’s lush green landscapes entice with the promise of outdoor adventures and Scandinavian cities buzz with life (hello, sunny Stockholm). Head east to Indonesia, where dry, sunny days are prime for exploring Bali’s verdant greenery, hiking up Lombok’s volcanoes and hanging out with Komodo’s eponymous dragons. In Central America, Costa Rica’s mini dry season beckons sun-seekers, while in the Southern Hemisphere, enjoy balmy mid-winter temperatures down under – ideal for exploring Australia’s sprawling outback and cosmopolitan cities.

BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL IN JULY

Australia

Australia

Australia has been at the top of destination wish lists for generations of travellers. And it’s easy to see why. The legendary continent-sized island boasts iconic sprawling landscapes, glittering cities and fantastic wildlife (to name just a few of its draws), so there’s no shortage of things to see or do. Given its location in the Southern Hemisphere, July is mid-winter in Australia and sees temperatures cool considerably in the south of Australia. But fear not, Sydney and Melbourne still bask in breezy, sunny days – ideal for getting under the skin of the cities. The northern side of the island, from Darwin to Cairns, dances to a different tune, with daily maximums hovering around 30°C. These are the perfect balmy conditions for sipping cocktails under the night sky and diving between rocks and waterfalls in Kakadu National Park.

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Italy

Italy

In mid-July, the Italian peninsula sparkles. The sun splashes across Italy’s landscapes from north to south, the blue sky knows no bounds and its striking coastline shimmers. Picture Tuscan hills accompanied by delicious Chianti wine; expansive olive groves in Sicily; wild, baking valleys in Sardinia; Puglia’s distinctive conical Trulli houses – we could go on and on about the possibilities for a mesmerising Italian holiday. For an unmissable July event, watch the rival neighbourhoods of Siena battle it out during the Palio – one of the world’s greatest, most dramatic horse races and a major spectacle for all who dare attend – which has been running since the 1600s.

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Indonesia

Indonesia

July is the start of the dry season in Indonesia, bringing with it hot sunny days, blue skies and throngs of travellers eager to unearth its charms. Temperatures linger in the 30°Cs for most of the islands, optimal weather conditions for a variety of pursuits from deep-sea diving and valley hiking, to wildlife watching and volcano climbing. Discover Java’s smouldering active volcanoes, meander the rice fields of Ubud, spot turtles in Lombok’s calm waters and stumble across paradise on the deserted beaches of Sulawesi. It may be peak season across Indonesia, but peace and serenity are ubiquitous here.

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Costa Rica

Costa Rica

At first glance, July – the third month in Costa Rica’s seven-month rainy season – doesn’t seem like an ideal time to visit Costa Rica. But for those in the know, it’s a heavenly summer escape. A weather phenomenon in July ensures it typically experiences a mini-dry season for at least three to four weeks. So, you can enjoy the great value and smaller crowds of the low season while relaxing in sun-kissed tranquillity. And if it does rain? Well, that’s all part of the fun – and, it’ll only enhance your vivid green surroundings. Watch turtles nesting on immaculate beaches, disappear behind natural waterfalls, walk in a cloud forest, see monkeys play in treetops, get lost in traditional beach towns and dance in the streets during carnival – you’ll leave Costa Rica longing for more.

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Norway

Norway

July is one of the best times to discover the beautiful surroundings of Norway. Summer in the south of the country sees landscapes thaw and shake off the winter chill, flourishing with life and charm. One of the best ways to experience the majesty of Norway is on the water – hop onto the Coastal Express – which travels from Bergen in the south-west to Kirkenes in the far north, with over 30 stops in between – and you’ll witness the emerald waters of fjords, forested mountains and serene fishing villages in all their glory. It’s thanks to these voyages that remote, magical places like Lofoten have made their way onto the international tourism map. During the summer months, Norway lets its hair down with food and music festivals aplenty. It’s a time of national merriment, when the thermometer sometimes flirts with 30°C for a brief, beautiful moment.

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