Like every year at the beginning of July, the summer vacations are the time to set off on what we hope will be unforgettable holidays. But where to go in July? Here's a non-exhaustive selection of choice destinations for vacations in France and around the world. Adventure, idleness, culture, for a weekend or three weeks, there's something for every taste and budget!
Where to go in July with your family?
For family vacations, if you're a camping enthusiast, head for the Ardèche. The many activities on offer in the region will satisfy your desire to get away from it all, and delight your children. By planning your family holiday well in advance, you should be able to get great value for money. Check out our article on the 18 most beautiful villages in the Ardèche to help you plan your stay.
More touristy and bordered by 7 km of sandy beach on one side and wild ponds on the other, Palavas-les-Flots in the Hérault is also a family-friendly destination, with plenty of campsites and hotels, rentals or vacation villages at affordable rates, and in any case less expensive than on the Côte d'Azur at the same time of year.
If you'd like to leave France behind, you can head for the fine sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean or the unforgettable California Parks in the USA. Wondering what to do in California? Discover the 21 must-see things to do!
Where to go in July in the sun?
Head for Greece and its must-sees, a sure bet in July for lovers of seaside pleasures! The coastline of mainland Greece, and the 6,000 islands that anchor in the Mediterranean basin, symbolized by Crete, Corfu and the Cyclades, boast some of the finest sandy beaches and hidden coves. You'll be spoilt for choice, and you'll be able to find more intimate beaches on the islands. If you're looking for a little more excitement, why not take a trip to Mykonos to see the sights, or to the seaside resorts on the Apollo coast south of Athens! Discover our dedicated article on the Greek islands to see on your vacation!
Elsewhere in the Mediterranean, you can also head for Sicily or Andalusia.
In Brittany,France, Belle-Île-en-Mer, the largest of the Ponant islands, just 14 km off the coast of Quiberon, is a very pleasant destination in July for its superb se aside: it's not too hot and there are fewer tourists than elsewhere. Superb landscapes come together here: fertile fields, the jagged cliffs and coasts of the Atlantic seaboard, with the famous Port-Coton needles, and of course beaches of fine golden sand facing the mainland... A change of scenery guaranteed!
Where to go in July in France?
In France, there are of course many options for discovering our beautiful territory. The Basque country is a very popular destination, whether for young people looking for a fiesta between two surfing sessions, or for families who enjoy the beaches and superb hinterland after having packed their bags in one of the many lively and friendly campsites. Bayonne, the economic and port capital, is steeped in history and charm. Biarritz, once a small whaling village, has become a prestigious seaside resort. Bidart and Guéthary are intimate villages, while Saint-Jean-de-Luz attracts tourists as soon as the warm weather arrives. These towns and villages, like so many gastronomic or green getaways, host traditional or trendy celebrations, sporting events and festivals that punctuate the summer. The Basque Country's gastronomy is also inseparable, with its unmissable pintxos, chipirons, fish from the fish market and sweet delicacies, all sublimated by the craftsmen and women who are true magicians. That's why the Basque Country remains one of France's favorite destinations. And take the opportunity to discover the 15 most beautiful villages in the Basque Country!
Where to go in July as a couple?
Venice remains the ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Boasting an exceptional architectural heritage, Venice is dotted with palaces, museums and religious buildings that are not to be missed. It's dotted with rios, bridges and thousand-year-old cobblestones, not to mention the warmly-colored facades that serve as a backdrop whatever the season. In summer, between two visits, you can cool off on the Lido beach, just a few minutes by boat from the Serenissima. Then it's on to Veneto and its subtle heritage, from the Dolomites to Lake Garda, via witty Padua, romantic Verona, Palladian Vicenza and radiant Treviso.
If you plan a trip to France, the sumptuous landscapes of the Camargue will also be a joy to discover hand in hand with your other half!
Where to go in July for less?
Opposite Spain, the Canary Islands offer great deals and all-inclusive hotels that regularly undercut prices. Thanks to white sandy beaches exposed to the wind, kitesurfing enthusiasts will find plenty of terrain and schools to enjoy this discipline! All against a backdrop of turquoise waters, azure skies, sand dunes and volcanic backdrops. Hikers and cyclists won't be outdone! The many paths and cycle tracks, and even some high-speed arterial roads authorized for bikes, make for unforgettable rides. And if you're looking for relaxation, you'll find that the farniente, spas and thalassotherapy are just what you need!
Away from Europe, Tunisia offers a wide range of all-inclusive hotels, making it an ideal budget destination for couples or families.
If you're on a tight budget or haven't had time to plan your trip, be sure to check the offers from tourism professionals regularly . At the last minute, good deals can be found. Taking advantage of the latest promotions is a great way to go on a last-minute vacation!
Where to go in July for a city break?
Located in eastern Spain, on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia is a great city break destination, less crowded than Barcelona or Seville in summer. Among the sites to discover: Lonja da Seda, a trading post where the price of silk was negotiated (listed by Unesco), or the Tribunal des Eaux opposite the imposing cathedral. The vibrant barrio del Carmen will appeal to night owls, while Russafa will attract lovers of urban and emerging culture. Cosmopolitan, beach-lined, festive and modern, Valencia has a few solid trump cards up its sleeve for a romantic getaway or simply a cheap weekend getaway.
A port city on the Gironde estuary, Bordeaux is a major tourist destination that doesn't get too crowded in July and August, with most tourists concentrated on the coast. This prestigious city boasts a Unesco World Heritage site and architectural jewels, including Saint-André Cathedral. On the right bank, discover the Darwin Eco-System, a former military barracks with an urban farm, skatepark, organic grocery store and recycled decor. Take the whole family to the romantic Miroir d'Eau, with its fog effects, and the Jardin Public in the heart of the city, home to France's oldest Guignol. Other Bordeaux pleasures include embarking on a river cruise, strolling along the quays of the Garonne, visiting playgrounds and green spaces, or strolling through the historic Saint-Pierre district...
Where to go in July for a breath of fresh air?
To enjoy nature in July, Turkey is a great idea! It's a wonderful mosaic of landscapes. From the lush, monastery-decked mountains overlooking the Black Sea to the relief sculpted by erosion and volcanic eruptions in Cappadocia, from the steppes and canyons of Anatolia to the 7,000 km of coastline washed by four seas, this destination has plenty to fascinate lovers of beautiful landscapes. Want to find out more? Discover the must-sees for your trip to Turkey!
In Brittany, the Crozon peninsula is a very pleasant nature destination in July. Here you can admire the picturesque, rugged coastline, including Cap de la Chèvre: at the southern tip of the peninsula, it faces the northern coast of Cap Sizun and closes off the Bay of Douarnenez. Other points of interest include the Pointe du Kador, the Pointe de Dinan, the Pointe de Lostmarc'h, the Pointe du Dolmen, the Pointe des Grottes, the Pointe du Menhir and many others. In addition to its indented coastline, Crozon and its surroundings are home to a rich but fragile fauna, populated by grey herons, ducks, harriers and other marsh birds.
