Best Places to Visit in July 2026 for an Unforgettable Summer

Summer’s coming. And that means vacation season is just around the corner. If you haven’t already planned where you’ll be heading this July, there’s no time like the present.

It’s a big world out there, and it can be hard to decide where to go. All you have to do is open any social media to see endless reels of people having amazing experiences in beautiful locations around the globe. But don’t worry – we’re here to help. 

In this article, we’re going to take a look at some great summer holiday spots, from the deservedly famous to those a little off the beaten path. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a much better idea of where you should spend your summer.

Where to Have a Summer Holiday in 2026

Amalfi Coast, Italy

For an iconic Mediterranean summer destination, this one is almost impossible to beat.

Think about it. You have colourful fishing villages perched on cliffs overlooking the glittering sea. You have excellent hiking trails to give you one gorgeous view after another. It’s Italy, so you know you’re going to have amazing food. Vibrant nightlife, fun daytime activities, and above it all, absolutely jaw-dropping scenery, give you everything you need to have an incredible time.

The Amalfi coast might be the perfect summer destination, but it doesn’t come cheap. If your budget is limited, you could consider staying in one of the smaller towns nearby and taking a bus or boat to the famous villages for the day. However you choose to enjoy it, you’re almost guaranteed a fantastic time here.

Hokkaido, Japan

A lot of Japan can be unpleasantly humid in July, but Hokkaido’s microclimate makes it a refreshing alternative to Tokyo. Temperatures here rarely get much past 25° C. Plus, you’ll experience fewer crowds here than you would in places like Tokyo and Kyoto.

July is lavender season, and seeing lavender fields in full bloom is an experience not to be missed. You can also explore flower farms in Furano or take a trip to Daisetuzan National Park. Plus, Sapporo is an amazing location for seafood, so you can enjoy delicious local delicacies while you soak up the sun. 

The French Alps

When most people think of a trip to France, they imagine enjoying a glass of wine in a bistro on the streets of Paris. But France has its wilder side too, and nowhere is that more dramatic than in the French Alps, close to the borders with Italy and Switzerland.

The busiest time in the Alps is in the winter, when people travel from across the world to ski these beautiful slopes. But summer is the perfect time to go hiking, biking, paragliding, or swim in pristine mountain lakes. Although this isn’t exactly an undiscovered gem, the Alps tend to be less busy in summer than they are in winter. Plus, you’ll have access to beautiful towns like Chamonix and Annecy, so you can combine outdoor exploration with experiencing French culture.

Bali, Indonesia

Some places are famous for good reasons. Bali is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, so don’t expect to escape the crowds here. However, once you visit, you’ll see exactly why it’s so popular.

July is right in Bali’s dry season, so if you’re looking for beach weather, you’ll find it. And along with the beautiful beaches, you’ll have endless jungle trails to explore. You can go surfing in Uluwatu one day, then visit magnificent temples like Tanah Lot the next. Plus, if you’re looking to cut loose, Bali’s nightlife is second to none.

Banff National Park, Canada

Maybe it’s because of the long winters, but Canadians really know how to enjoy the summer when it arrives. Banff National Park, located in Western Canada on the border between Alberta and British Columbia, is one of the most beautiful in this vast country. Stunning lakes like Louise and Lorraine offer a jaw-dropping experience of unspoiled nature, and the opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and outdoor fun are almost endless here. Banff is absolutely packed with wildlife too, so if you want to see iconic Canadian species like bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bears, this is one of the best places in the country to do it. 

The weather in July is awesome, too. You can expect to enjoy long, sunny days, and the mountain air keeps things cooler even in the height of summer.

Northern Spain

Most visitors to Spain end up in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Or they head to the mega resorts of the Mediterranean coast or the Balearic Islands to eat, drink, and party. Northern Spain, including the Basque Country and Galicia, manage to be a little off the beaten path, even in one of the world’s most visited countries.

This northern part of Spain offers cooler temperatures than the south. It also has an incredible food scene, with pintxos in San Sebastián a definite highlight. You can go surfing, explore mountain trails, or immerse yourself in the unique culture of this autonomous region of Spain for an experience you won’t forget.

Why eSIMs are Essential in 2026

Travel is always easier when you stay connected. Whether you’re navigating the streets of Sapporo, looking for restaurant recommendations in Bali, or uploading incredible Canadian wildlife photos to your social media, having a reliable Internet connection is crucial to enjoying your trip.

You don’t have to be at the mercy of your phone plan’s steep roaming charges. Download an eSIM from ZenSim, and you’ll enjoy affordable rates and the best coverage wherever you go. You can use our SIM cards in multiple destinations, too, so you can buy a plan to cover you across Europe, Asia, or North America. There is no physical SIM to put into your phone, and you can keep your number active for emergencies.

Make July 2026 Unforgettable

These are just some of the fantastic places you could spend your summer. With an eSIM to keep you connected, the world is your oyster. Start planning your summer holiday now, and you could be enjoying an amazing experience in one of these incredible destinations by the time summer comes.