July is one of the most popular months for travel but where to go this year is a question on a lot of minds
The best destinations to visit this July during the peak of the summer(Image: Getty)
Travellers in the UK have been reassured that there is currently no need to change their holiday plans or put off holiday planning, despite wider concerns over fuel shortages. Officials have confirmed that UK airlines are not facing any shortages of jet fuel, with supplies supported by advanced purchasing and stockpiles held at airports to keep the system stable.
With that reassurance in mind, July remains one of the most popular months for travel. As the peak of summer arrives and the school holidays are well underway, July is traditionally linked with the classic sunny getaway. But experts are saying people are now taking a more considered approach when choosing where to go.
“July continues to be one of the most sought-after months for travel, but in 2026 the decision-making process has become far more considered,” says Tim Hentschel, CEO and co-founder HotelPlanner.com.
“Travellers are no longer simply defaulting to the hottest destinations, they’ve weighing up factors like comfort, crowd levels and overall experience.
“While Southern Europe remains a cornerstone of July travel, with its dependable sunshine and vibrant peak-season atmosphere, there’s a growing awareness around extremes. As a result, many travellers are broadening their horizons, mixing classic beach destinations with cooler, more spacious alternatives that offer a different pace.”
So, with plenty of choice still available and reassurance about fuel supplies, where should you go in July this year?
Canada
July 1 marks Canada Day, celebrating independence, and the month is also a great time to visit the country. The month begins with a lights and fireworks display at Niagara Falls as part of the Niagara Parks Two Nation Celebration, while Ottawa’s LeBreton Flats Park hosts a free all-day event featuring Canadian music and activities.
From July 3–12, the not-for-profit Calgary Stampede in Alberta celebrates Western heritage and culture, including the world’s largest rodeo.
For nature lovers, Canada’s outdoors are especially impressive in July, with long sunny days ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting and exploring turquoise lakes in the Rockies.
Banff National Park, which is home to Lake Louise, and Jasper National Park offer popular trails and scenic views, while quieter alternatives like Yoho and Kootenay in British Columbia provide rugged landscapes, rivers and grasslands.
Further north, Yukon’s Ivvavik National Park offers remote Arctic hiking and a chance to experience Inuit culture and traditional ways of life still practised today.
Slovenia
When much of Western Europe is crowded in summer, Slovenia offers a quieter alternative.
Sam Bruce, co-founder of Much Better Adventures, says: “We see a lot of our customers (adventure travellers who are typically allergic to crowds) tend to look beyond the classic tourism spots to lesser-visited destinations – or those with more space.”
He adds: “Slovenia is a brilliant example. Almost 60% of the country is covered in forest, so it’s extremely green. The Soča Valley has this extraordinary turquoise river, running through the Julian Alps, which are every bit as beautiful as the Alps in France or Austria but far less crowded.”
Lake Bled is one of the country’s most famous sights and will be busier in July, but remains a must-see. Nearby Lake Bohinj offers a quieter natural setting, while Bovec in Triglav National Park is a strong base for summer water activities.
Montenegro
According to Bruce, Montenegro remains relatively undiscovered “by a lot of even seasoned travellers” despite its striking scenery, but offers “serious scenery and adventure”.
The country combines Adriatic beaches with dramatic mountains, clear lakes and historic old towns. Bruce recommends packrafting (a raft that’s light enough to pack down and hike with) down the Tara River, which flows through Europe’s deepest canyon.
He adds: “Durmitor National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site without the traffic. It’s home to these immense, dramatic, wild landscapes and some fantastic mountain climbs.”
Norway
For cooler summer weather, Norway is a strong option for travellers who don’t love the blistering heat as much.
“In northern Europe, Norway in midsummer is magic,” says Bruce. “There’s endless light, long days, epic fjords, and wild camping that is completely natural. Our fjord kayaking trips are some of our customer’s favourites. People go once and start planning their return before they’re even home.”
Hentschel also highlights Norway’s fjord regions as a stand out region for the country, saying: “July brings long daylight hours and comfortable temperatures. It’s an ideal destination for travellers prioritising nature, outdoor activities and dramatic scenery.”
Jersey
For a shorter trip closer to home, Jersey offers an easy escape and is a perfect spot for both solo travellers and families.
Tricia Handley-Hughes, UK and Ireland managing director at InteleTravel, says: “Jersey offers passport-free travel with a flight under an hour. Connectivity to the island is rising with the new easyJet flights from London Southend Airport to Jersey and it’s a great option if you want the beautiful beaches but not the long flights.”
Puglia, Italy
Southern Italy’s Puglia region is a warmer but more affordable alternative to better-known destinations. Often described as “Italy’s heel”, it has whitewashed towns, an Adriatic coastline and traditional cuisine.
Hentschel says: “Puglia in Italy offers a more laid-back alternative to Italy’s major hotspots. Known for its whitewashed towns, Adriatic coastline and exceptional local cuisine, it delivers an authentic summer experience without the intensity and crowds of cities like Rome or Florence.”
