When deciding on a trip for a summer vacation, it can be hard to decide where to go. Many of the more popular places such as Italy, the UK, and around the United States are insanely crowded and expensive during July. However, there are many of the best countries to visit in July that are less crowded and will not break the bank. Check out the following places to help plan your next vacation.
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Best Countries to Visit in July: North America
Dominican Republic
By Mette of Butterfly On a Journey
July is the low season in the Dominican Republic (DR), and even though the reasons for that are valid (hurricane season and rain), the weather in the DR is eternal summer! July is one of the hotter months, but if you stay out of the major cities, the breeze from the coast will be sure to give you the perfect temperature.
Honestly, the DR has everything, so if you only have a couple of days or if you have a month or more, it will be worth a visit! The more time, the more places you can visit. Plan on taking your time and getting to know each place as they have so much to offer.
There are several airports to fly into. Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata are some of the most commonly used.
When you get there, you can either get a taxi, Uber, rent a car, or use the public buses called ‘guagua’ to get around on the Island. Renting a car you should be aware of the poor roads and hectic driving. The local buses are easy – especially between major cities, and by far the cheapest choice.
In July I would recommend going to the north coast to visit Puerto Plata, Cabarete, or Las Terrenas. Beachy towns, with loads of expats and locals. Vibrant restaurants as well as a good amount of culture.
Everything from lush mountains, beach towns, surfing/kite, waterfalls, natural pools, desert, riding, hiking to loads and loads of dancing.
During the off-season, the prices are dropping slightly. The currency is Dominican Pesos (DOP) and the prices are generally quite low. Go, enjoy, drink a pina colada, and dance some Bachata on the beach. The DR is one of the best countries to visit in July.
Canada
By Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
July is one of the best months to visit Canada, given that its famously chilly weather has warmed for the year and the skies have cleared. The snow and ice has cleared from the roads and hiking trails at high elevations and wildflowers have started to blanket the country’s seemingly endless mountain slopes and alpine meadows. Thus, Canada is one of the best countries to visit in July.
Canada is enormous, at almost 4 million square miles, so you could literally spend a lifetime exploring the country. If you don’t quite have that long, a week is a good amount of time to explore a specific area of the country. For example, you could head to Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta and canoe through its Gatorade blue-colored lakes, hike through the Canadian Rockies, and enjoy its steamy hot springs.
Alternatively, you can head to the Whistler-Squamish area in British Columbia, where there’s tons of bucket list-worthy hikes, like Wedgemount Lake; boat tours into the Howe Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve; and adventurous activities, like the Sea to Sky Gondola.
Canada has several large cities that are absolutely worth exploring, like Calgary and Vancouver. Most of these have international airports so you might consider spending a day or two of your week in Canada, getting to know its more urban areas before exploring its stunning natural beauty. The country’s star attractions are generally somewhat remote, though, so your best bet will be to rent a car.
Certain areas of Canada are definitely more budget-friendly than others—for example, due to its popularity, Banff is definitely pricier than other parts of the country that aren’t quite as Instagram-famous. However, keep an eye on the currency conversion rate—in recent years, Canada’s dollar has been weak, making it more affordable for international travelers.
Best Countries to Visit in July: South America
Argentina
By Rebecca of Becci Abroad
Argentina is one of the best countries to visit in July if you are looking for a place to escape the summer heat of the Western Hemisphere. Argentina is located in the southern part of South America, which means July is in the middle of the Argentine winter. So, if you are not a fan of overheated cities and beaches, you should consider a trip to Argentina in July!
Argentina is an enormous country, and there are plenty of things to do and see in July. You can easily spend one or two months traveling around. However, with a 10-day trip, you can cover a good selection of all the beautiful places to visit in Argentina.
During the winter in Argentina, one of the most popular places to visit is Bariloche. The small mountain town is located in Argentina’s Patagonia region and features one of the best ski resorts in South America. Of course, you also have to spend some time in Buenos Aires.
Another popular place to visit in Argentina in July is the famous Iguazu Falls. The waterfalls are located on the border between Argentina and Brazil in the Atlantic rainforest of the Argentine province of Misiones. In July, the rainforest subtropical climate offers nice temperate weather to explore the impressive waterfalls.
You can travel around Argentina by domestic flights, long-distance buses, or by renting a car. One thing to keep in mind when traveling around Argentina is the distance. Since the country is immense, the distances are large too. It can normally take 15 to 20 hours by bus to get from one city to another.
Argentina lives in a constant economic crisis. Currently, the value of goods and services changes almost weekly. This situation can make it slightly more complex to visit the country for foreigners. However, generally speaking, Argentina tends to be a more budget-friendly location for international travelers.
Brazil
By Anna of No Space in My Passport
Brazil is one of the countries that is great to visit all year long. However, July is particularly great as this is winter in the country, which means that it is off peak for travel. There are much less tourists than in the summer and the weather is still great and not too hot. This makes it an amazing escape from the scorching heat and the crowds during summer in Europe.
I would recommend at least a week in Brazil. Considering it is a long flight away, and also the fact that Brazil is a very big country. It also depends on where you plan on visiting as distances between places can be big.
There are a few big international airports throughout the country, so flying between destinations if you plan to visit a few in one trip is recommended. Otherwise, renting a car depends on where you are visiting. In most big cities such as Sao Paulo and Rio, you can get around by taxis, but if you want flexibility to explore at your own pace then a car is a good idea.
If you are visiting Rio, then staying near Copacabana or Ipanema Beach are the best options. There are plenty of hotel and accommodation options here, and you are close to the main beaches and shopping areas. Brazil is a very diverse country with lots to do and see. From surfing to boat trips, to adventurous hikes, there is something here for everyone.
Brazil is very budget friendly and you can find very affordable pousadas (guest houses) all around the country. Food and drink are also very cheap and very delicious. Brazil is an amazing place to travel but it is important to be aware at all times and use common sense when it comes to safety. In places like Rio, crime rates are very high so make sure you are aware of this before you go.
Best Countries to Visit in July: Europe
Poland
By Valeriya Of Valeriya Goff
One of the best countries to visit in July is Poland. The summers in the country are usually rather mild and you can expect temperatures around 20-25C, which makes being outside pleasant.
Poland has many beautiful, diverse cities with a lot of history. There are also opportunities for going to the beach at the Baltic Sea. The country is safe and hospitable, with a great cuisine to enjoy. Finally, this is not an expensive vacation compared to various Western European cities.
I recommend 2 weeks for visiting Poland. My suggestion is to fly into Warsaw, the capital city, and stay for 1 week there. Warsaw is a historical city with many things to do and see. It’s a great walking city, so you can get to many attractions on foot. You’ll be able to visit such attractions as the Old Town Warsaw, Łazienki Królewskie (the largest park in Warsaw dating back to the 17th century), Palace of Culture and Science (Warsaw’s famous landmark), and various museums which fit your taste.
Warsaw is a modern city with plenty of hotels, both local and international. I recommend staying centrally in order to have good access to various attractions. A good choice is the Polonia Palace which is located close to many sites you will be exploring. There are also plenty of great restaurants in the area which are walking distance. The hotel has excellent facilities and a nutritious breakfast.
Once you’ve had a chance to explore Warsaw, you can head to the beach. There are multiple options of Baltic beach towns where you can stay. My recommendation is to go to Sopot which offers a great experience. The train ride to Sopot is about 3 hours. If you stay at Polonia Palace, you can just walk to the train station, it’s right across the street. While at Sopot, you can enjoy the beach, soak in the life of this charming town, and even take some day trips to neighboring cities. Gdansk, for example, is just a short taxi ride away.
Spain
By Anna of Spain Inspired
Heading to the north of Spain in July is a great choice if you’re looking for a cooler, quieter alternative to the country’s bustling tourist hotspots. This region is at its best during summer, offering a solid blend of scenery, culture, and cuisine.
Spending about a week here allows ample time to enjoy the area without feeling rushed. Arriving is easy with flights into Bilbao or Santander, where you can easily rent a car to better explore the region’s more secluded spots at your own pace.
In terms of where to stay, you’ve got a wide range of choices between small coastal towns like Llanes or lively cities like San Sebastián. They provide a great mix of beaches, history, and food, and position you well for exploring surrounding attractions.
Your days can be filled with anything from surfing at Zarautz Beach to hiking in the Picos de Europa National Park. July is also ideal for sampling fresh seafood and local pintxos, which are a must-try in San Sebastián in particular.
Just make sure to keep an eye on the weather in this part of Spain in July, as it can be a bit mixed – but, at the very least, you’ll find it’s generally always fresher than the stiflingly hot south of the country, thus making Spain one of the best countries to visit in July.
Budget-wise, northern Spain is generally more affordable than the popular southern regions, although that isn’t always true for San Sebastián specifically. Because of this, eating and staying in smaller towns typically offers good value, and a mid-range budget should suffice for a comfortable trip.
Finally, even though Spanish is widely spoken, picking up a few phrases in Basque can be fun, especially in the Basque Country. Also, check out the local festivals in July – they’re a great way to experience the area’s rich culture and traditions.
Lithuania
By Mary of Two Week Traveller
Lithuania is located in the eastern region of Europe, near Poland. While July is the peak of the summer season, it’s not as busy, not as hot, and not as expensive compared to Central and South Europe, thus making it one of the best countries to visit in July.
Lithuania has medieval castles, an interesting Old Town, World War II history, lots of art museums (even an outdoor one), and offers delicious locally-made ciders. If you prefer to be by the beach, head to eastern Lithuania and find yourself walking around Klaipeda, which is located along the Baltic Sea.
If you’re only visiting Lithuania, about 7 to 10 days would be great for exploring its top locations or cities. But if you have more than that, you can spend 2 weeks in the Baltics and include Latvia or Estonia (or both) in your travel plan. It’s easy to get to Lithuania anywhere from Europe, while for those coming from North America or Asia, you should only need to take one connection before you arrive at Vilnius International Airport (VNO). The airport is so close downtown and there’s a local bus that costs about €3.
You can rent a car if you want freedom of your time, but traveling around using the bus, train, and domestic flight is very easy and more affordable. Vilnius is the capital city, and you can take day trips here to Kaunas and Trakai. Plan to stay in the Old Town Vilnius for easy access to everything.
From here, you can do a walking tour at Uzupis, Gate of Dawn, Vilnius TV Tower, Gediminas Castle Tower, KGB Museum, Three Crosses Monument, and a day trip to Trakai Castle where you can go paddle boating and hire a yacht. There’s also a man-made beach in Vilnius called Green Lakes Public Beach or you can book a hot air balloon ride overlooking the Old Town.
Plan to budget about €100 a day covering accommodation, food, transportation, and basic tour fees. If you want to stay in a more luxurious hotel, you can budget about €200 a day and enjoy premium dining and tours. Either way, Lithuania will be one of the best countries to visit in July.
France
By Lisa of Travel to Lyon
France is a popular travel destination year-round, and one of the best countries to visit in July as you can experience renowned festivals if you visit in July! Plan to spend 7-10 days so that you can visit a wide variety of cities and attractions.
Most travelers will fly into Paris via the Charles de Gaulle airport, but to experience the best of France in July you’ll want to head out of the busy capital. Most cities in France are easily reached by train, so you can avoid the hassle of renting a car.
You’ll definitely want to visit Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France. Delight your taste buds with a fine dining meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant or stretch your budget with a hearty meal at a traditional bouchon. You’ll certainly want to see the sights of historic Vieux Lyon, with its colorful Renaissance buildings, secret passageways, and stunning cathedrals. Plus, in July, you’ll enjoy Lyon’s famous Nuits des Fourvière music festival, with performances in the Gallo-Roman theater.
Another fantastic city in France to visit in July is Avignon. It’s known for being the home of the papacy in the 14th century and for its famous bridge, the Pont D’Avignon. Theater lovers will enjoy the Festival d’Avignon, a huge festival featuring a wide variety of shows and performances across the city!
While a trip to France can be expensive, you can stretch your travel dollar with a few travel tips. For example, choose one city (i.e. Lyon) as a home base and rent an Airbnb for a week. You’ll save a lot of money compared to staying in a hotel (plus you’ll have access to a kitchen and laundry). Then you can explore the region by taking day trips via regional train.
Portugal
By Alyssa of An Apple a Plane
Madeira is one of the tiny Portuguese islands located north of Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the best countries to visit in July. The weather in the 70’s (Fahrenheit) which makes for perfect weather.
Spending 4 days in Madeira is ideal to do some of the top activities like hiking Pico do Arieiro and Sao Lourenco and having time to relax, but you can go for 2 or 3 full days if you are tight on time.
Fly into Madeira from Porto or Lisbon in mainland Portugal. You can also catch a direct flight from many other European countries like Austria. New York in the United States has even begun implementing direct flights!
Funchal is the most popular place to stay on the island because it is central and many day trips pick up from here. It is also where the international airport of Madeira is located. If you have more time and you’re planning on renting a car, you might want to stay in different parts of the island to maximize your time on a particular coast, such as the incredible Porto Moniz in the north region. However, driving on the island can be difficult due to narrow, mountainous winding roads. Check out safety conditions and gauge your comfort levels first!
When considering the budget, I would consider Madeira a mid-range destination. You can find both hostels and luxury resorts on the island.
Turkey
By Olga of A Girl in Istanbul
Turkey is one of the hidden gems and underrated and best countries to visit in July. During this month you can enjoy the longest days. This makes it perfect to explore as much sightseeing as for a short stay.
You’ll have a lot of sunshine, and hot and dry weather (28-30 degrees Celsius / 82-86 degrees Fahrenheit), so if you’re here for the beaches, this is your destination!
If you choose to explore Istanbul, the biggest city in Turkey with endless historical landmarks, then I recommend you stay at least four days here. It’s the absolute minimum to visit the most famous places like Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, Istiklal Street, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe & Topkapi Palaces, and Grand Bazaar.
To enjoy your coastal vacation you’ll need a minimum of a week or 10 days. While there, consider having a day or two for a trip to one-of-a-kind places like Cappadocia (where you can ride a hot-air balloon) or the ancient Greek ruins of Ephesus.
You can easily reach big cities like Istanbul or coastal Antalya by plane. Then use the well-organized public transport system to get inside the city or visit other places on your list. Avoid driving a car in Istanbul as it’s a chaotic megapolis and a nightmare for Western drivers.
In Istanbul, the Sultanahmet area and Taksim Square on the European side are the best choices to find your accommodation and have the popular attractions within walking distance. If you prefer less-crowded areas, definitely pick a place on the Asian side in the modern and cozy Kadikoy district.
To enjoy a seaside vacation on the Aegean or Mediterranean coast choose an all-inclusive resort in Kuşadası, Antalya, Bodrum, Didim, Marmaris, Fethiye, or Ölüdeniz.
Turkey is still a budget-friendly tourist destination, although prices are constantly going up due to the decreasing value of the Turkish lira. In Istanbul, you can find hostels at $15 per night and budget private hotel rooms in the historical center for $40-50. Try the famous Turkish cuisine – very delicious and it won’t break your wallet. Save your money for the attractions – the entrance fees have risen and tickets for Hagia Sophia are around $26 but others like the Blue Mosque are still free to visit.
For the luxury all-inclusive resorts on the seaside, you’ll need a larger budget but still a great value for the money. Despite these increases, Turkey still remains one of the best low-cost destinations compared to the other European countries, making it an excellent choice for budget-friendly travel.
Romania
By Joanna of The World in My Pocket
July is a great month to visit Romania. The weather is hot, perfect for either exploring the capital, relaxing on the beaches at the Black Sea, or hiking in the Carpathian mountains.
Romania is a relatively large country and you would need quite a bit of time to explore its attractions, which are spread around.
For a good introduction to the country, two weeks would be a good time. You would be able to explore Bucharest, the capital, see the castles in Transylvania, go up Bucegi mountains, see the painted monasteries in Moldova, and end with a few days at the beach, in one of the resorts between Constanta and Mangalia.
Romania has great public transport, so you can move around easily by train or bus. You don’t need to hire a car.
For a first time visit, you should spend a few days in Bucharest, Brasov, Iasi, and Constanta. These are great cities to have as a base. In Bucharest you can explore the Palace of Parliament, which is the largest building in Europe, party in the old town, and taste traditional Romanian mici at the best restaurant in town, Caru cu Bere.
In Brasov you can visit Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, as well as Peles Castle. Here you can also take the cable car up in the mountains of the Prahova Valley. Iasi is a great base for taking day trips to the Unesco painted monasteries. Constanta is the gateway to the seaside. Resorts like Mamaia, Eforie, or Neptune are very popular in July.
Romania is a relatively affordable country, with accommodation starting at 50 euros in two to three stars hotels, and dinners under 10 euros per person. Thus, it is one of the best countries to visit in July.
Best Countries to Visit in July: Africa
Mauritius
By Shweta Zest in a Tote
Mauritius makes for a great getaway for families looking for a beach vacation with water activities and one of the best countries to visit in July. Located in the Indian Ocean east of Africa, you will also find cultural sites, hiking and outdoor options at this tropical island. I would recommend a week to relax and explore Mauritius.
Mauritius is a good destination to visit in July due to several reasons. July is shoulder season for this island, so the hotel prices and crowds are not at their peak. You are bound to get good rates for beach resorts. It is also good weather for national parks, hiking and outdoor activities.
We made the most of the pleasant daytime weather at Black River Gorges National Park. This largest national park of Mauritius has volcanic origins, beautiful waterfalls and the famous Seven Coloured earth to see.
There are plenty of things to do in Mauritius in July besides lazing at the beach. You can snorkel, swim and dive in the ocean, and take a boat tour to nearby islands like Ile Aux Cerfs. Visit the capital city of Port Louis for a cultural excursion. And definitely add a visit to a rum distillery on this tropical island. It is good to rent a car to explore the island for the days outside your beach resort.
We stayed at Westin Turtle Bay Resort but there are several excellent properties in Mauritius.
Tanzania
By Alexandra of The Bucket List Mermaid
It is no surprise that Tanzania sparks inspiration among travelers. It is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, witness some incredible wildlife, immerse yourself in culture, and go on an unforgettable adventure that you will be talking about for years to come, thus making it one of the best countries to visit in July.
There are many wonderful things to do in Tanzania, with the most popular being a safari. Of the months of the year to visit, July is right in the middle of the dry season. It may be a little hotter, but it’s worth it! July means that there is less vegetation for animals to camouflage themselves in and there are higher concentrations of wildlife around watering holes.
The sweet spot for the amount of time in Tanzania is around 3-5 days, but some tours even go up to 18, especially if you are also venturing out to Zanzibar (hello, idyllic beaches!) and other parts of the country.
Because of regulations and safety, it is recommended to take a guided tour throughout your trip and not rent a car yourself. Plus, you then get first-hand knowledge about Tanzania and its local cultures and wildlife, not to mention advice on how to spot the more elusive species found here.
The most popular safari areas in Tanzania are the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Since this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, budgets for a trip to Tanzania can be steep. Fortunately, if you have a sense of adventure, you can cut costs by camping instead of staying in lodges or luxury camps.
Seychelles
By Alina of The Luxury Travels
The Seychelles are a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean. They attract travelers with its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and unique granite boulders, making it the perfect scenery for a dream holiday and one of the best countries to visit in July.
You can reach the Seychelles by flight to the main island of Mahe. Renting a car gives you the best way to explore the islands. However, driving might be tricky and dangerous for an inexperienced driver due to narrow roads and a lack of guardrails in some areas.
July is a great month to visit the Seychelles. It is a cold windy season hence there might be fewer crowds and lower prices, but it is still very warm as there is a mild temperature difference between the seasons. Also, it is the driest month which is ideal for a beach vacation.
For a quick taste of the Seychelles, 3-4 days can be sufficient, visiting Mahe island only. But it is better to experience them to the fullest with 12-14 days of island hopping in the Seychelles.
The best place to stay in the Seychelles is at JA Enchanted Island Resort on Round Island near Mahe. It is located right in the heart of Sainte Anne Marine National Park, where you can explore the abundant underwater marine life and get the best beaches in the Seychelles all to yourself.
Yet, Seychelles has so much more to offer, especially for nature enthusiasts, such as encountering the Aldabra Giant Tortoises, witnessing the iconic Coco de Mer at the UNESCO World Heritage site Valleé de Mai, and hiking through lush rainforest vegetation leading to picturesque vistas.
While the Seychelles can be expensive, they are more affordable than other tropical destinations like the Maldives. Overall, the Seychelles offer the perfect blend of a relaxing beach getaway and adventurous activities, making it a great option for your July vacation.
Kenya
By Pamela of the Directionally Challenged Traveler
One of the best countries to visit in July is the iconic Kenya for the Great Migration. While known for its jaw-dropping wildlife, Kenya has an overabundance of unique experiences for any type of traveler.
To make the most of your visit, plan to stay for at least 7-10 days. You can easily access Kenya by flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which is well-connected globally. Spend a few days exploring the capital city. There are plenty of things to do in Nairobi, yet many travelers skip over the city to go on safari. Most people work with a company, like Africa Adventure Vacations, so you have access to a safari vehicle and guide.
Since July is the dry season, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the best safari parks in Kenya, thus making it one of the best countries to visit in July. These include the Kimana Sanctuary, Amboseli National Park, and Hell’s Gate. No visit to Kenya is complete without a day or two in the Maasai Mara National Reserve for the Great Wildebeest Migration. You’ll find millions of wildebeest and zebras migrating between Kenya and Tanzania.
You can also learn about Kenya’s rich culture by visiting Maasai villages, and take part in traditional customs, dances, and crafts while engaging in conversations with locals.
After your safari escapades, unwind on Kenya’s stunning coastlines, with Diani Beach and Watamu offering pristine beaches, water sports, and vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.
For a smooth and enjoyable trip in July, pack accordingly with lightweight clothing for warm days and a jacket for cooler evenings. July and August are peak season, meaning a trip to Kenya during this time will be more expensive and popular. It’s essential to book accommodations well in advance.
Kenya in July promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences and warm hospitality, catering to nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.
Best Countries to Visit in July: Asia
Sri Lanka
By Avantika Chaturvedi of Wayward Wayfarer
Sri Lanka is an island nation in the Indian Ocean which has two monsoons: on the northeast coast half the year (called Maha monsoon) and on the southwest coast the other half (called Yala monsoon). While most people consider coming to Sri Lanka during the winter months and traveling to the southwest coast, July is the time of the Yala monsoon, making it perfect to visit the lesser explored part of the northeast coast.
Sri Lanka’s northeast coast is known for its diverse terrains including lush rainforests, hilly tea plantations, colonial towns and beautiful coastlines. So anything less than a week would be simply doing it injustice. However, I recommend 2 weeks to absorb all of it well. Sri Lanka is one of the best countries to visit in July.
To get to Sri Lanka, you will mostly fly into Colombo. Getting around Sri Lanka is a breeze. There are buses and trains connecting the country very well. Getting a car would definitely make things easier. But I recommend driving a tuktuk in Sri Lanka. It’s a fun way to road trip and immerse yourself in the local culture!
Places like Jaffna, Anuradhapura, Wilpattu National Park, Trincomalee and Arugam Bay are a must. The best things to do in Sri Lanka in July include doing a wildlife safari in Wilpattu National Park, visiting the Hindu villages and temples of Jaffna, going whale watching and scuba diving at Trincomalee, snorkeling at Pigeon Island and surfing at Arugam Bay.
Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest countries to visit in the world, perfect for both backpackers and luxury seekers. If you are a backpacker, a budget of $45/ day on average including everything is enough. However, if you prefer luxury, Sri Lanka is a great place for affordable luxury too with all-inclusive beachfront resorts costing as low as $250 for two adults!
South Korea
By Zhen of A Love Letter to Asia
One of the best countries to visit in July is South Korea. Whilst Korean summers can be uncomfortably hot and humid, Busan is a port city with Korea’s most beautiful beaches and you’ll enjoy the most wonderful sea breeze there in July, making it much more comfortable to visit than, say, Seoul.
During the summer, there are also many festivals organized, and the city comes to life with buskers and free performances on the beach. (Of course, this also means that July is peak season for traveling to Busan, so it will be quite crowded.)
You can spend as few or as many days in Busan as you like. (There is a lot to do in the city, but those who are not spending much time in Korea, sometimes just visit for a day. Ideally, I would recommend a minimum of 2-3 days, if you can spend the time. I personally spent 2 weeks there in 2023.) The great time about Busan is that taxis are relatively inexpensive, and that the public transport system is pretty good, so you will not need to rent a car to get around, unlike other parts of Korea, such as Jeju.
The top things to do in Busan are definitely visiting one of the culture villages (either Gamcheon or Huinnyeoul) and walking around Jagalchi Market, all of which are free to enter. As such, the budget for Busan is also very flexible, you can travel there as cheaply or as luxuriously as you like. (It is slightly cheaper than visiting Seoul, even if you only want to stay at 5-star hotels, such as Lotte Hotel Busan.
Georgia
By Nofar of Traveling Outside the Box
Georgia is one of the best countries to visit in July. A combination of amazing nature, hiking between villages, good food, delicious wine and kind people.
It depends on where you are. It will be cooler in the mountains but the average is between 18-33 degrees Celsius during the day and 7-21 degrees at night. The recommended transportation there is by train or taxi or local bus. I don’t recommend renting a car there since the roads there are bumpy in certain areas and the drivers there also drive fast.
First, you will want to visit the capital of Tbilisi. In Tbilisi make sure to wander around the old city and take the cable car to the top of the old city. Then spend 4-5 nights in Mestia and from Mestia we went straight to a 4-day trek between villages. The typical hiking route is Mestia – Zabashi – Adishi – Aprili – Oshgoli.
From there, spend 2-3 nights in Kazbegi. In Kazbegi there are stunning hikes to a cross on a mountain. Finally, spend 2-3 nights in Sigangi. This magical town from the 18th century.
Tajikistan
By Dotti of Explore Travel Oasis
July is a fantastic time to visit Tajikistan and it is one of the best countries to visit in July. Since July is peak summer in Central Asia, it’s the best time of year for trekking in the Fann Mountains and embarking on a road trip along the high-altitude Pamir Highway.
To really get the most out of Tajikistan, you’ll need a minimum of 10 days in the country. This will allow you to drive the Pamir Highway, visit Iskanderkul Lake and embark on a day hike. With 14 days, you’ll have more time for trekking and exploring some Silk Road sites as well.
To get to Tajikistan, the most convenient option is to fly into Dushanbe’s international airport. You’ll need a car for driving the Pamir Highway, which is most often arranged with a private driver in Dushanbe, the capital. Dushanbe is also the most convenient place to base yourself to get organized for trips around the country.
Tajikistan has a lot to offer the adventurous traveler. You can spend weeks trekking through the Fann Mountains, where the only people you’ll likely meet will be friendly shepherds. You can also mountain bike through the Yagnob Valley, visiting hidden mountain villages along the way. And then there’s the mountainous Pamir Highway, easily one of the world’s best road trips.
Tajikistan is relatively budget-friendly. Whilst food and accommodation are cheap, a private driver and car for the Pamir Highway cost around $2000, which, even when sharing with other travelers, will increase your budget significantly.
Best Countries to Visit in July: Oceania
New Zealand
By Oli of Travel Bugs World
New Zealand may not be the first destination that comes to mind for July travel. However, for those seeking a less crowded destination than popular places to travel in July, like Europe and Asia, New Zealand provides a unique experience with breathtaking landscapes and diverse attractions. From snow-covered landscapes to lush rainforests, this off-the-beaten-path destination is one of the best countries to visit in July.
July is the middle of winter in New Zealand, and many places, particularly on the South Island, are blanketed in snow, giving the landscape a surreal and magical appearance. While the weather is crisp and cool, the winter temperatures are mild. However, remember to pack warm clothing.
July is a perfect time to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The towns of Queenstown and Wanaka offer the best ski fields in New Zealand and a massive range of adventure activities, making them the best places to visit in July.
New Zealand offers many activities, including hiking in national parks in ancient forests, visiting geothermal hot springs, wildlife cruises, epic coastal road trips and indulging in world-class cuisine and wine tasting.
While the country is generally considered a mid-range to slightly expensive destination, budget travelers can find affordable accommodation at holiday parks and backpacker hostels. Dining options can include cheaper fast food takeaways and cooking your own food.
We recommend spending at least 14 days in New Zealand to experience the highlights of the North and South Islands. However, if you want to avoid feeling rushed and also have enough time for day hikes, skiing and discovering all the incredible things to do in the South Island, we recommend staying for 28 days.
International flights are available to Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Christchurch, as well as domestic flights between the North and South Islands and major cities. Additionally, the bus network connects all cities. But for the chance to explore remote areas and go on an epic road trip, renting a car or campervan offers the most flexibility and fun.
With its breathtaking scenery, New Zealand in July promises an unforgettable adventure for those willing to venture to this underrated July destination.
Final Thoughts on Best Countries to Visit in July
There are many amazing and best countries to visit in July that are perfect for a summer vacation. No matter where you choose, there are many adventures to be had! Other spectacular countries to visit in July include Fiji, Serbia, Peru, and Ecuador.
