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Where to go on holiday in July 2026: 8 perfect summer cities
Where to go on holiday in July? If you’re planning a summer escape, you’ve chosen peak season for European sunshine. July delivers the longest days of the year, warmest temperatures, and vibrant festival atmosphere across the continent.
From Barcelona’s Mediterranean beaches to Edinburgh’s world-famous festivals, we’ve curated eight of the best places to go on holiday in July. Each destination offers something special: beach weather, cultural celebrations, or those perfect long summer evenings that make July unforgettable.
🎯 Why July is ideal for European travel:
- ☀️ Peak summer sunshine
- 🌅 Longest daylight hours
- 🎭 Summer festivals and major cultural events
- 🏖️ Perfect beach weather
Your accommodation? That’s where we come in. GuestReady handles every detail with precision, ensuring your space is clean and ready for your arrival. Because when your stay runs smoothly, you’re free to focus on what matters – making those summer moments count.
🗺️ Let’s explore your options. Here are eight destinations where everything falls into place.
1. Paris, France
Paris in July offers quintessential summer with warm weather and extended daylight perfect for a Paris city break. The city’s gardens come alive with picnics, whilst outdoor cafés buzz with Parisian life. Warm evenings are ideal for Seine river cruises and strolls through illuminated streets.
Explore iconic landmarks like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower with longer opening hours, enjoy picnics in Luxembourg Gardens, and experience Bastille Day celebrations on 14th July with fireworks. Paris Plages brings temporary beaches along the Seine with sand and deckchairs. Choosing the right neighbourhood matters – explore our guide to holiday apartments in Paris to find your perfect location.
- Good for: Classic summer city break and cultural experiences
- Average temperature: 25°C
- Weather: Sunny with occasional showers
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona in July offers peak Mediterranean summer with warm temperatures and vibrant beach atmosphere. The city combines stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and beautiful beaches, though expect significant crowds as July is peak season. Book Sagrada Família tickets weeks ahead.
Stroll through the Gothic Quarter’s medieval streets, marvel at Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, and relax on Barceloneta Beach. Sample authentic tapas in El Born or Gràcia, browse La Boqueria market, and enjoy the city’s legendary nightlife. July brings music festivals and outdoor cinema across the city.
- Good for: Cultural exploration and beach days
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Weather: Warm and humid
3. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin’s charm shines in July with mild temperatures and long summer evenings perfect for exploring. The compact centre makes discovering literary heritage, historic sites, and legendary pub culture easy on foot. July means Ireland’s most reliable weather, with pubs spilling onto streets and outdoor events across the city.
Visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, take a literary pub crawl following Joyce and Wilde’s footsteps, and relax in Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest. Temple Bar offers vibrant nightlife and traditional music sessions, whilst coastal Howth provides cliff walks and seafood restaurants.
- Good for: Literature lovers and history buffs
- Average temperature: 20°C
- Weather: Mild with frequent rain
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh in July offers historic charm with pleasant summer weather and sets the stage for the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe beginning in August. The city’s medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town create stunning backdrops, whilst Arthur’s Seat provides panoramic views across the city and sea.
Explore the Royal Mile connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, visit the Scottish National Gallery, and discover rich literary heritage. The Edinburgh Art Festival begins in late July, previewing August’s cultural explosion. Traditional pubs serve local whiskies and Scottish fare.
- Good for: Historic exploration and cultural experiences
- Average temperature: 19°C
- Weather: Mild with occasional showers
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s July heat reaches 30°C, but Atlantic breezes keep the city comfortable whilst most European capitals swelter. The Portuguese capital spreads across seven hills, each offering different character, from bohemian Bairro Alto to traditional Alfama where washing lines stretch between buildings.
Take Tram 28 through narrow streets (go early to avoid crowds), time miradouro visits for sunset when the light turns everything golden, and join locals dining outdoors past midnight along the riverfront. July evenings stay warm late, perfect for experiencing neighbourhood tascas serving proper Portuguese cooking.
- Good for: Cultural experiences and panoramic views
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Weather: Sunny with a gentle breeze
6. Lyon, France
Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, comes alive in July when outdoor dining and food festivals take over. At the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon combines 2,000 years of history with world-class cuisine.
Explore hidden traboules in UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon, experience authentic cuisine in traditional bouchons, and take river cruises along the Rhône and Saône. Visit hilltop Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for city views, discover Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market, and explore the modern Confluence district.
- Good for: Gastronomy and historical exploration
- Average temperature: 25°C
- Weather: Warm and occasionally humid
7. Brighton, United Kingdom
Brighton in July epitomises British seaside summer with its iconic pier, pebble beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. The city combines traditional seaside fun with contemporary culture and thriving arts scene. July means Brighton at its liveliest with beach parties, outdoor events, and distinctive bohemian vibe.
Explore Brighton Pier’s amusements, wander The Lanes’ vintage shops, and visit the exotic Royal Pavilion. The beachfront buzzes with beach volleyball and outdoor bars, whilst North Laine offers independent shops and street art. Brighton’s food scene ranges from seaside cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Good for: Beaches and cultural festivals
- Average temperature: 20°C
- Weather: Mild with a refreshing sea breeze
8. Cannes, France
Cannes in July offers French Riviera glamour with beautiful beaches and luxury shopping. Film festival crowds have departed, leaving a more relaxed atmosphere.
Stroll the palm-lined Croisette past designer boutiques and Belle Époque hotels, relax on beaches, and explore Le Suquet old town. Take a 15-minute boat trip to Île Sainte-Marguerite for peaceful beaches. Morning Forville Market offers Provençal produce, whilst evenings bring sophisticated dining with Mediterranean views.
- Good for: Beach luxury and French Riviera lifestyle
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Weather: Sunny and warm
General travel essentials
Here’s a checklist of items to pack for a holiday in July, considering it’s typically a warm month in the Northern Hemisphere. But remember, the exact items you’ll need can vary depending on your destination, planned activities, and personal preferences. Always check the weather forecast and any specific guidelines or requirements for your travel location.
- Passport/ID: Always ensure it’s valid for at least 6 months from your return date.
- Travel insurance documents: Digital and printed copies.
- Reservation confirmations: For flights, accommodations, car rentals, etc.
- Travel itinerary: Have a loose plan of what you’ll be doing each day.
- Travel guidebook: Especially if travelling abroad or to a new destination.
- Chargers: For all your devices, including a portable charger.
- Travel adapter: If travelling internationally.
- Local currency and credit/debit cards: Inform your bank of your travels to avoid card blockage.
- Basic first-aid kit: With plasters, antiseptics, pain relievers, etc.
- Prescription medications: In their original containers, with a copy of the prescription.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated this summer
Stay with us
Still asking yourself where to go on holiday in July? At GuestReady, we stand by to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From managing any mishaps to fulfilling your expectations, our friendly team ensures you have a hassle-free travel experience. So, why wait any longer? It’s time to pack your bags and embark on an extraordinary July adventure!
In case you’re thinking about postponing your trip to another time of the year, we’ve got you covered.
- January: Start your year with an amazing adventure. Discover our ‘Where to go on holiday in January’ guide for winter destinations offering beauty and renewal, meticulously chosen by GuestReady.
- February: Embrace travel love this month. Visit our ‘Where to go on holiday in February’ guide for romantic spots and peaceful retreats, selected by GuestReady.
- March: Spring travel opportunities await. Discover our ‘Where to go on holiday in March’ article for fresh destinations and exciting activities, curated by GuestReady.
- April: Spring adventures are here. Discover our ‘Where to go on holiday in April’ guide for blossoming landscapes and festive experiences, selected by GuestReady.
- May: Enjoy late spring’s charm with our ‘Where to go on holiday in May’ guide. GuestReady’s selections promise ideal weather and unique experiences.
- June: Celebrate summer’s start with our ‘Where to go on holiday in June’ guide. Enjoy beach paradises and lively festivals, curated by GuestReady.
- August: Plan a summer adventure with our ‘Where to go on holiday in August’ article. Discover the best summer spots and exciting experiences, selected by GuestReady.
- September: Welcome autumn’s arrival with our ‘Where to go on holiday in September’ guide. Find destinations that blend summer warmth with fall coolness, curated by GuestReady.
- October: Celebrate autumn’s beauty this October. Visit our ‘Where to go on holiday in October’ article for destinations rich in fall colours and cultural activities, chosen by GuestReady.
- November: Plan a special pre-winter getaway with our ‘Where to go on holiday in November’ guide. Discover serene countryside retreats and vibrant city breaks, curated by GuestReady.
- December: End the year with a festive holiday using our ‘Where to go on holiday in December’ guide. Discover winter markets, wonderlands, and cosy retreats, selected by GuestReady.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to go on holiday in July in Europe?
- For guaranteed beach weather, choose Barcelona, Lisbon, or Cannes. For cultural festivals, Edinburgh hosts the Edinburgh Art Festival in late July, leading into the famous Fringe in August. Paris offers classic summer city atmosphere with Bastille Day celebrations (14th July). Brighton provides traditional British seaside fun with milder temperatures.
Is July too hot to visit Europe?
- Southern European cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Cannes reach 28°C in July, which some find warm but sea breezes make it comfortable. Northern destinations like Dublin (20°C), Edinburgh (19°C), and Brighton (20°C) offer milder summer temperatures. Paris and Lyon at 25°C provide a middle ground. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during afternoon heat.
Is July a good time for holidays in Europe?
- Yes, but July is peak season meaning higher prices and larger crowds at major attractions. Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead for best rates and availability. Benefits include longest daylight hours, warmest weather, and numerous summer festivals. Museums and attractions have extended opening hours.
What can I expect when booking a GuestReady property?
- Every stay includes hotel-quality linen and toiletries, 24/7 guest support, contactless check-in, and professionally cleaned homes, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
