Good countries to visit in July (2026)

July is a great time to travel, with long days, warm weather, and loads to do. If you love the outdoors, you can explore Iceland’s wild landscapes under the midnight sun. Beach lovers will feel right at home in Spain with its sunny coastlines and lively festivals, while Provence is perfect for slowing down among lavender fields and pretty villages. For something more adventurous, Kenya offers unforgettable safaris, and British Columbia is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or with friends, we’ve picked some of the best places to go in July — plus four great hotels in each — to help you plan your trip.

Iceland

July is a great time to go to Iceland with long days, the midnight sun, and comfortable summer temperatures. It’s perfect for ticking off the Golden Circle, seeing waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, or hiking through Landmannalaugar’s colourful mountains. Reykjavík is a fun base with plenty of cafes and summer festivals, while the South Coast and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are the places to go for a road trip through some of the country’s best scenery. To mix things up, it’s worth spending a few nights outside the city in a countryside guesthouse or by a quiet fjord for something a bit more low-key. Summer in Iceland is all about making the most of the daylight and getting out into the landscape.

• Ion Hotel is all about the views. Huge windows look out at Iceland’s wild landscape, there's Nordic food in the restaurant, plus a lava spa and outdoor hot pool for relaxing after a day exploring nearby geysers, lagoons, and the Silfra fissure.
• Aldan Hotel & Restaurant feels more like staying in a cool, old Icelandic home than a typical hotel. It's spread across three cosy buildings with plenty of wood and character, but still feels fresh and modern. You’ll find a good restaurant, stylish rooms, and apartment options that work well for families or groups.
• Hotel Akureyri pairs cosy touches with contemporary design, from parquet floors to retro furniture and local artwork. Its fine dining restaurant, North, focuses on seasonal Icelandic ingredients. With rooms, apartments, and even a villa, it suits families and groups, and you’re right near the botanical gardens, museums, and galleries.
• Right in the heart of Reykjavík, Kvosin Downtown Hotel offers spacious suites close to the city’s main sights. Rooms come with kitchenettes, balconies, and local art, giving it a home-away-from-home feel. There’s also a bar and easy access to tours like glacier hikes and whale watching, making it a good choice if you want to mix city time with outdoor adventures.

Spain

Spain is made for July, with hot weather, long days, and loads going on. The Balearic Islands — Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca — are great for clear water, beach time, and lively nights out, while the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava mix good beaches with pretty seaside towns. For a city break, Barcelona and Madrid are full of energy, with great food, art, and busy squares. It does get hot inland, so it’s a good idea to combine city time with a few days by the coast, or head north to places like San Sebastián or Galicia where it’s cooler and more laid-back. If you'd prefer something quieter, smaller spots like Cadaqués or Ronda are well worth a look.

• La Bionda is a small, adults-only hotel right in the middle of Begur’s old town. The rooms are fun and quirky, with a slight Wes Anderson feel, each one inspired by an interesting woman. There’s a rooftop terrace, a quiet garden, an honesty bar and some rooms even have their own balconies. A great choice for active couples in search of beaches, coastal walks, and snorkelling in hidden coves.
• Acouga Hotel Boutique is a calm, cosy hotel set on a quiet street in Celanova in Galicia. Inside, it’s all stone, wood, and soft neutral colours, so it feels really relaxed. The Junior Suites looking out over the garden are especially peaceful. Wander around local squares, markets, and monasteries during the day, then come back and unwind. It’s pet-friendly too, and ideal if you want something slow, quiet, and a bit romantic.
• Cortijo del Marques feels like staying in a classic Spanish country house, with antique furniture, wooden beams, and big four-poster beds. Expect rolling countryside views, a pool in the courtyard, and space to switch off. Close enough to Granada for day trips, but also great if you want to go riding or just relax on the terrace in the evenings. It works well for families, but still feels peaceful and intimate.
• Hotel Viura is a stylish, modern base right in the heart of Rioja wine country. Rooms have private balconies, there’s a rooftop terrace, and the restaurant focuses on local Riojan and Basque food. You can cycle through the vineyards, go wine tasting, or just hang out by the pool or in the garden. Perfect for wine lovers, design enthusiasts, and those looking for a laid-back countryside break.

Provence, France

Provence in July is all about sunshine, lavender fields, and long days spent outside. Markets, festivals, and cafe terraces are in full swing, but if you stay in places like Gordes, Roussillon, or up in the Luberon hills, you can enjoy it all without feeling surrounded by the crowds. For some beach time, Cassis and Saint-Raphaël are great for a dip in the Mediterranean, while cities like Avignon and Aix-en-Provence are perfect for mixing history, culture, and summer events. Whether you’re wandering through vineyards, exploring hilltop villages, or just taking it easy by the coast, Provence in July is relaxed, sunny, and easy to love.

• Le Relais de la Magdeleine is a family-run gem set in big, peaceful gardens filled with lavender, fountains, and shady spots to sit. There’s a large pool for cooling off, and the rooms have a classic Provençal feel. You can enjoy local food and wine on site, or head out on a bike ride through the countryside. A great choice for something quiet, romantic, and surrounded by nature.
• Right in the heart of Arles, L'Hôtel Particulier, Arles mixes old-world style with a more modern look. Some rooms are sleek and contemporary, others are more traditional, and all open onto lovely courtyards. After a day visiting Roman ruins, markets, or following Van Gogh’s footsteps, you can relax by the plunge pool or in the small spa. Ideal for a city stay that still feels calm.
• La Bastide de Moustiers is a peaceful country hotel with whitewashed rooms, rustic details, and lavender gardens surrounding a large pool. The food is a real highlight, with Michelin-starred dishes made using ingredients from the hotel’s own garden. You can spend your days relaxing in a hammock or heading out to explore the Verdon Gorge and Lake Saint-Croix. 
• Set on a huge estate just outside Aix-en-Provence, Chateau de la Gaude feels elegant but not stuffy. There are vineyards, modern art dotted around the grounds, a rejuvenating spa, and several top-class restaurants. Enjoy wine tastings, wander into Aix, or simply relax by the pool. A great choice for a mix of luxury, food, and culture.

Kenya

July is one of the best times to visit Kenya. It’s the middle of the dry season, so the weather is good, and wildlife is easier to spot. The Maasai Mara is a real highlight, with animals gathering around the rivers, which makes game drives especially rewarding. For a coastal escape, places like Diani Beach and Watamu are great for soft sand and warm water, while smaller lodges nearby are perfect for something quieter. A few nights in a tented safari camp followed by time at a beachfront villa is an easy way to pair adventure with downtime. July really shows Kenya at its best.

• Kitich Camp feels like a true old-school safari camp, set above the Ngeng River. Nights are lit by lanterns, hot water is heated over the fire, and you can even shower while looking out over the river. Days are spent tracking animals like leopards, elephants, and wild dogs with local guides, and evenings are all about sundowners and dinner out in the open.
• Borana is slightly more polished, but still very much about being out in nature. The eight stone cottages sit in a quiet valley with views over Mount Kenya’s foothills, and each one has a fireplace, designer bathroom, and its own terrace. Go horse riding, take guided walks, spot wildlife, or just relax by the pool or in the spa. A lovely mix of comfort and safari.
• The Majlis Resort is a laid-back, stylish spot right on the beach near Lamu. Everything is thoughtfully designed, from the rooms to the pool area, and it’s easy to spend the day swimming, sipping cocktails, and eating fresh seafood. Active travellers can windsurf, explore Lamu Town, or take a boat trip to nearby islands. The perfect balance of beach time and culture.
• Manda Bay is all about barefoot luxury on a quiet stretch of sand on Lamu. The 22 thatched cottages are full of local fabrics and open onto private verandas, just steps from the beach. You can snorkel, sail, fish, or simply chill out with a drink by the sea. Meals are casual and often served on the beach, with romantic candlelit dinners for couples and plenty of chances to head out on the water or visit nearby markets.

British Columbia, Canada

July is a great time to explore British Columbia’s outdoors. Vancouver has the city buzz with restaurants, culture, and beaches, while Whistler is all about hiking, biking, and alpine lakes under endless skies. For something slower paced, Vancouver Island is perfect for garden strolls in Victoria and scenic coastal walks, and the Gulf Islands are made for kayaking and relaxing in a boutique stay. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just some peaceful scenery, BC in July has it all.

• Emerald Lake Lodge's rustic cabins sit right by Emerald Lake, with fireplaces and private balconies looking out over the water. In summer, you can go kayaking, horse trekking, or relax in the hot tub under the stars. Great for families or couples who want an active, scenic getaway in the Rockies.
• The Douglas has sleek, minimalist rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city and harbour. There are five restaurants on site, a sister spa, and you’re close to galleries, markets, and the seawall. Perfect for a city stay with modern design and easy access to Vancouver’s culture.
• Siwash Lake Wilderness Resort boasts spacious, luxury tents with Egyptian cotton bedding and outdoor showers in a truly remote setting. Ride horses, hike, fish, or even take a helicopter tour, then relax with farm-fresh meals on quiet terraces. An intimate, immersive escape for travellers who love nature and adventure.
• Basecamp Revelstoke is a laid-back spot with comfortable rooms and two outdoor hot tubs, right by hiking and cycling trails. Close to the Pipe Mountain Coaster and other outdoor activities, making it a fun, family-friendly base for anyone looking for adventure in the Rockies during summer.

Still not sure?

• Refine your search to include our recommendations for the best central hotels in Reykjavík, the best wine hotels in Spain, the best B&Bs in Provence, the best lodges in Kenya or the top resorts in British Columbia,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.