Europe is a vast continent with lots of different countries, each promising a unique adventure to every tourist. As a large continent, the weather varies depending on where you visit. So the best places to visit in July may not be the best places to visit in December! What are the best places to visit in July in Europe?
Generally, July is one of the hottest months of the year for most countries in Europe, meaning that you will have to contend with sun, heat, and lots of tourists! Some parts of Europe are more popular during these months due to the beaches and relaxation on offer, but it all depends on what you want from your trip.
What are the best places to visit in July in Europe?
Below, I’ve summarised briefly a few key aspects of traveling to Europe, as well as the best countries to visit in Europe in July based upon your trip type. To find out more, keep reading this article now.
Traveling to Europe: documentation, authorization and travel information
At the start of 2022, traveling in Europe had a bit of a shift, meaning that visitors into the Schengen Zone who previously didn’t need any form of travel authorization, now do. The ETIAS system, an electronic form of travel authorization brought into Europe in 2022, is designed to enhance security in the Schengen Zone by asking security questions of travelers who previously did not need any authorization to enter these countries.
You might be wondering, “Do British citizens need a visa for Europe?”. The answer is no. Like all other citizens of visa-waiver countries, British citizens now need to apply for and hold an ETIAS before arriving in any of the 26 Schengen Zone countries.
What is ETIAS?
An ETIAS, or Electronic Travel Information Authorization System, is electronically attached to your passport and allows you entry into the Schengen Zone for 90 days in any 180 day period. It is valid for three years or until your passport runs out.
The ETIAS system has a straightforward and speedy application process, requiring only a short online application, but it is recommended that you apply well in advance of your trip to allow time for appeals upon rejection. An ETIAS covers you for travel that is related to tourism, business, medical purposes, or transit.
If you are not from a visa-waiver country then you will need to apply for a visa for travel into the Schengen Zone. Additionally, if you are traveling for purposes outside of those within the ETIAS criteria, or you intend to stay in the area longer than 90 days, then you will, too, need to apply for a visa.
For countries outside of the Schengen Zone, visa-waiver travelers will not require any travel authorization as usual and anyone who needs a visa will need to apply for country-specific visas to all countries they are traveling outside of the Schengen Zone. Always check with the country you’re traveling to for full details.
Don’t forget a valid passport and travel insurance
Along with your travel authorization, you will need a valid passport to travel into Europe and should take out some form of travel and health insurance to cover cancellations on your trip as well as any medical fees for emergencies that may happen.
I recommend SafetyWing travel insurance. They’re incredibly affordable and high efficient.
Click here to grab your Safetywing Travel Insurance.
The best countries to visit in Europe in July
As one of the hottest times of the year in Europe, the weather may be the reason you’re traveling. If it is, check out our recommendations for places with good beaches! For trips involving art and culture or nature, check out our recommendations below too!
Best places for art and culture
For art and culture, Europe is overflowing, but there are some places that are best in the summer.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands is a great choice for a summer trip. With the weather being colder and more unpredictable in the colder months, July is a good time to soak up the art and culture in this famed city.
London, England is also another good choice for a trip in July. While it can get hot and stuffy in London in the summer, the weather can be miserable at other times of the year. With a tonne of art galleries, museums, and other tourist attractions, why not check out London this summer?
Read how to spend 24 hours in London here.
Best places for beaches and relaxing
For beaches and relaxation, you’re pretty spoiled for choice in Europe. Why not head to ‘the best beaches in Europe’ on the Italian island of Sardinia, or maybe head to the increasingly popular beaches of Croatia?
You could also check out the Spanish islands, including Formentera in the Balearic Islands or La Palma in the Canary Islands, along with the many beaches along the southern coast of France.
One of my most favourite beaches so far in Europe have been found in Menorca whilst walking the Cami De Cavalls. Out of all the best places to visit in july in Europe, this is a beautiful spot to enjoy the sea and be as active as you want at the same time.
Discover beaches in Menorca on the Cami De Cavalls here.
Best countries for hiking and nature
When it comes to hiking and seeing nature in Europe in July, there are some fantastic hotpots. These include:
Taking a hike through Iceland and seeing some of the truly magnificent natural wonders this country has to offer.
Trying out the coast-to-coast hike in the UK to see the country at its best.
Trailing through the villages of Provence, France, and consuming the fantastic local food while soaking up the sights.
Check out my 18 Best Hikes In Europe post here
Which are your best places to visit in Europe in July?
There are so many top destinations in Europe, especially in the summer months, that it is hard to narrow it down. Here, we have discussed our top choices for a trip to Europe in July. With these ideas and inspiration, which destination will you choose?