The Best European Cities to Visit in July

One of the greatest pleasures of visiting Italy is being able to dine and drink outside in charming piazzas, and July is a perfect time to do so, with sunny weather almost guaranteed. Northern Italy is full of gems, including the capital, Rome – with its myriad of ancient archaeological sites – Florence, characterised by ornate renaissance churches and palaces – and Milan, renowned for its cutting edge fashion scene and rich artistic heritage. Gastronomic delights, meanwhile, are guaranteed wherever you go. Why not see the best of all three in a single trip, accompanied by a Local Insider, by joining this specially curated nine-day Northern Italy Rail Trip?

When we think European summer, we picture sunsets over the blue-domed buildings of Santorini, or the pristine beaches of Naxos, but there’s no reason not to blend your Greek adventure with a city break in the capital. Our eight-day island-hopping odyssey in the Cyclades blends all three into one, starting with the historic wonder of Athens. You will, of course, get to visit the Acropolis, as well as dining in a traditional Greek taverna and exploring the trendy Keramikos neighbourhood – proof that, for all its ancient landmarks, Athens is as vibrant as ever.