The Best Places to Travel in July

In July, summer temperatures see patios and beach towns brim with locals and tourists, dreaming of their next gelato. At this time of year, Italy is open for business in its entirety – and our nine-day Rail Trip shows you the highlights of the north. See Rome’s famed architectural attractions, tour Tuscany’s vineyards and take a dip in Lake Como, all alongside the gastronomic delights of Bologna and Milan. Naturally, wine-tasting and food tour opportunities abound.

Turkey’s warm seas, lean crowds and seasonal festivals – including the Istanbul Jazz Festival – qualify it as one of the best places to vacation in July. It’s a destination with something for every traveller, whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, solo tripper or honeymooner. Among the highlights on this 12-day journey is a river-rafting excursion in the Koprulu Canyon National Park, a hike through the Red and Rose valleys, and an unforgettable hot-air balloon trip over Cappadocia.

While Japan’s summer can be hot and humid, visiting in July allows you to experience some of the country’s best celebrations, including Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, which has been held since 869 and began as a religious ceremony to appease the gods. Kyoto is one of the many stops on this 12-day trip, where you’ll see geishas and explore the backstreets by bicycle. You’ll also see the floating torii gate and deer on Miyajima Island.