Summer is in full swing. Long, sun-drenched days. Warm evenings on the terrace. No school. It’s time to pack your bags and explore.
July is one of Europe’s most energetic months—festival season is in full bloom, coastlines are buzzing with beachgoers, and mountain towns offer crisp air and cool hikes. Whether you’re chasing epic landscapes or sipping espresso in a sunlit piazza, these five destinations make the most of high summer in Europe.
1. Cinque Terre, Italy
There’s no place quite like the Cinque Terre in July. Five colorful cliffside villages cling dramatically to the Ligurian coastline, connected by scenic trails and sprinkled with trattorias serving up the catch of the day. Hike between villages in the early morning, grab a gelato in Vernazza, and end your day with a swim in the clear turquoise waters of Monterosso. The longer days mean more time for seaside sunsets and lazy aperitivos. Just be sure to bring your camera—this is the Italy of your dreams. Join our trip to Cinque Terre this July.
2. Nice, France
Nice shines brightest in July. Nestled along the glittering Côte d’Azur, this French Riviera gem offers the perfect mix of beach days and old-world charm. Start your morning with a stroll through the Cours Saleya market, then take a dip in the Mediterranean or relax on the pebbled shores of the Promenade des Anglais. With festivals, fireworks, and long evenings filled with rosé and Riviera views, July in Nice is as glamorous as it is laid-back. Whether you’re exploring the narrow lanes of the Old Town or taking a day trip to nearby Èze or Monaco, summer here feels effortless and elegant. Discover the French Riviera with us this summer.
3. Barcelona, Spain
This Catalan capital is a feast for the senses: the scent of salty sea air, the rhythm of flamenco in hidden courtyards, and the colorful mosaic of Gaudí’s architecture around every corner. Spend your days exploring iconic spots like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell, and your evenings sipping sangria by the beach or watching the sunset from a rooftop bar. With summer festivals like Grec and open-air concerts happening across the city, Barcelona knows how to celebrate summer in style. And when you need a break? The Mediterranean is just a short stroll away. Check out our upcoming trip to Barcelona.
4. Bavaria, Germany
When the Alpine air turns warm and wildflowers paint the meadows, Bavaria becomes a summer paradise. July is ideal for hiking or cycling in the German Alps, where charming villages like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden serve as basecamps for outdoor adventures. Visit Eagle’s Nest, take a dip in Lake Königssee, or enjoy a traditional beer garden surrounded by mountain views. This is Germany at its most storybook-beautiful. Explore Bavaria with us this July.
5. Lucerne, Switzerland
Nestled between a sparkling lake and dramatic peaks, Lucerne is Switzerland at its most breathtaking. July is the perfect time to cruise across Lake Lucerne, ride the world’s steepest cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus, or stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge with gelato in hand. The air is crisp, the mountain views are endless, and the city hums with open-air concerts and lakeside dining. Whether you’re after alpine hikes, lake swims, or just some quiet Swiss serenity, Lucerne delivers summer magic with every step. Travel to Switzerland with us this summer.
Where will this July take you?
From dramatic coastlines to mountain escapes to vibrant cities, Europe is alive with energy, color, and unforgettable moments this season. Pack light, bring your curiosity, and let the adventure unfold.
Ready to explore with us? Check out our upcoming trips across Europe here.
