Too many locations, not enough time. July is when summer truly takes off, and while you would expect high ticket costs, hotel minimum stays, and rate increases, the reality can be quite different. Simply follow our advice to the seven locations that are now among the most well-liked (yet affordable) destinations.
How We Choose the Destinations
Weather
Of course we consider the weather in each individual location and how that would impact a stay—and perhaps even prices—during the month of July.
Special Events
What’s happening locally? We dig into events, concerts, activities and cultural experiences or other cool happenings.
Airfare and Other Travel Data
We scoured over data from airfare booking platform Skyscanner, comparing flight prices from everywhere across the U.S. in the month of July. We also looked at lodging pricing in each location from Vrbo, Airbnb, and other hotel search platforms including Expedia and Kayak to help reveal the very best deals for you.
Our Own Travels
And finally, we sprinkled in some anecdotal knowledge of what jet-setting readers like you will absolutely love this month.
1. The Hamptons, New York
- Why We Recommend It: peaceful with plenty to do, family friendly, gorgeous home rentals, quality restaurants that are scene-y or a downright party
- Where to Stay: Home in Water Mill (from $500/night), The Hamlet Inn (from $179/night), East Hampton Beach House with Pool (from $1,250/night)
Global holiday deprivation has hit a 10-year high, according to Expedia’s new holiday Deprivation Report, with Gen-Z and millennials being the most impacted—hey, that’s us! Whether you live nearby or are visiting from afar, Hampton’s sun-kissed beaches and quaint, retail-oriented villages are perfect for a long weekend getaway to rejuvenate. They provide the perfect amount of solitude without being overly quiet (read: boring).
Here’s what’s on the agenda: family-friendly sand and swimming at Coopers Beach in Southampton, a surprising art tour at Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, which features contemporary and historical pieces, lots of al fresco dining filled with seafood towers or casual lobster rolls at Bostwick’s Chowder House. New and bound to be buzzy this summer: Maison Close Montauk, an outpost of the Soho, NYC French restaurant that’s always a party; and Talya, which a rep described to us as a “Mediterranean restaurant concept infused with Greek provenance and bearing delicate nuances of coastal-French whimsy.”
You’ll be going out in the Hamptons, so you’ll want to look your best. In honor of the launch of their newest location in the Hamptons’ Water Mill, Jeuveau and UnionDerm are branding a Jitney if you need a touch-up in July. On July 14, there will be a special pop-up event where attendees may consume local food and wine, chat with company representatives, and get a midsummer skin boost with Jeuveau.
2. Danang, Vietnam
- Why We Recommend It: favorable weather, discounts and deals, ancient mountain carvings
- Where to Stay: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula (from $479/night), Da Nang Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa (from $79/night), Superior Room Pool View Balcony (from $42/night)
Few locations compare to Danang for summer vacationers looking for perfect white sand beaches, enormous shopping malls, and top-notch dining options everywhere they look. The famous Dragon Bridge, which is illuminated at night and spits water and fire on weekends, is one of the many cultural attractions in Da Nang, which is tucked away in the center of Vietnam.
The last night of the Danang International Fireworks Festival (7/8) in July will transport you back to your childhood. The recently refurbished InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort will also provide a package that includes free access to Bana Hills, a thrilling entertainment park with an amazing cable car ride of its own. In July, we also discovered additional hotels in the area with really affordable prices (starting at $52/night) and Airbnb rooms with balconies and a pool for as little as $27/night.
The typical July temperature in the city is in the mid 90s, and flights are reasonably priced for the busy summer months (especially when you take into account the distance you’re traveling). If you’re concerned about the heat, remember that Da Nang’s sea breezes and shaded trees provide a welcome respite from the sun, just like much of Vietnam’s South Central Coast.
In addition to its natural beauty, Da Nang is home to a number of fascinating historical landmarks, such as the Marble Mountains, a collection of five hills made of marble and limestone that are dotted with Hindu and Buddhist temples. The historic city of Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, offers a diverse range of well-preserved architecture and cultural practices that you may explore from Da Nang.
3. Taos, New Mexico
- Why We Recommend It: eclectic shopping, beautiful views, interesting people
- Where to Stay: The Blake (from $337), El Prado Home (from $188/night), La Doña Luz Inn (from $204/night)
Taos, New Mexico, nestled in the valleys of the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is a must-visit destination for experiencing the uniqueness and isolation of the American Southwest. (It also offers amazing and well-known steep skiing if you visit in the winter instead of the summer.) Home to a unique mix of galleries and shops, Taos is famed for art collectors, both amateur and professional in nature, and the historic Taos Plaza contains local works for sale that will satisfy every taste, not to mention decor boutiques and wonderful apparel alternatives you won’t find in the mall.
The Taos ranch owned by Julia Roberts is well-known. However, Taos is where most people “run away to hide from something,” according to a local shop owner, so the locals respect her privacy and leave her alone. In addition to the many outdoor activities Taos offers in the summer, such as hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and hot air balloon excursions, this adds to the excitement.
Do you have some spare time? You will be in the ideal state of ecstasy to soak up all the red rocks after receiving a massage at The Blake’s tranquil spa. The Taos Pueblo, one of the oldest villages in North America with adobe houses and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, and the Millicent Rogers Museum are just two of the region’s many educational attractions that offer an escape into its rich history and culture. This July, there will also be Laughter Yoga, which promotes lightheartedness for therapeutic reasons. Additionally, you are welcome to explore the area’s breathtaking views from every direction, but make sure to note down the West Rim Trail or Sunset Park for a breathtaking sunset hike or brisk stroll.
4. Savannah, GA
- Why We Recommend It: historical city, walkable, ghost tours, flight deals, gastronomical hub, Victorian architecture
- Where to Stay: The Perry Lane Hotel (from $405/night), River Street Inn (from $205/night), Planters Inn (from $189/night)
Savannah is still thriving three centuries later because of the ideal fusion of amazing historical sites and tours driven by ghosts! Thanks to its quaint historic neighborhood location and easy 11-minute walk to Forsyth Park, where the old oaks and Spanish moss trees provide a dreamlike backdrop, the Perry Lane Hotel was just selected #1 TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice in the nation. Numerous outdoor events in July, including the Summer Concert Series, take place in the park, which has a French-inspired fountain that was constructed in 1858.
The City Market, which has been a center for trade, shopping, and socializing since the 1700s, is just a short stroll in the other direction. Belford’s is among the numerous eateries in the region that have won awards for their delectable beef and seafood dishes. If you keep walking around the market, you’ll come across six galleries on the street level as well as an Art Center upstairs where you can interact with local artists and see them at work. Several museums, such as the Telfair Museum or Ship Of The Sea Maritime Museum, are also within walking distance for history buffs.
With its Victorian-era mansions and 22 charming squares, Savannah is proud to be America’s most haunted city. Walking through the downtown area is like traveling back in time, as tour companies vie to offer you one of the town’s renowned Ghost Tours! Are they kitschy? Somewhat, but they’re also very entertaining, and there are many options. There is a unique tour designed just for you, whether you prefer walking tours or take a funeral car tour through the most macabre parts of the city.
5. Mykonos, Greece
- Why We Recommend It: walkable and historical island, mesmerizing sea views, island hopping, cruise friendly, party atmosphere
- Where to Stay: Yi Hotel (from $487/night, offering 30 percent off for their recent opening), Mykonos Blu (from $419/night), A Little Hidden Paradise (from $217/night)
In addition to its inexplicable beauty, Mykonos is full of enough mythological lore and fun party vibes to make visiting feel like a walk — or swim — through paradise. If your explore page looks anything like ours, you must be overwhelmed by Mykonos photos come summertime. As they say, if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. July is definitely the month to go and stroll through the island’s maze of white Cycladic houses and other architecture, which is dotted with colorfully painted shutters and the most enticing views of the ocean.
Discovering Chora’s meandering streets, with its attractive squares, historic churches, and quaint cafes and restaurants, is the first step in this maze. Visit Kazarma for the stunning views and a menu that combines Greek and European cuisine, and head to Matogianni Street for shopping. After that, head to Little Venice, a popular destination for influencers but well worth the trip, to take some pictures. The famous windmills of Mykonos (Kato Mili) are seen over it.After taking pictures at Greece’s most photographed church, the Paraportiani Church, which consists of five chapels, visit the island’s second-largest settlement, Ano Mera. The picturesque 16th-century marble monastery of Panagia Tourliani is located in the laid-back hamlet. Interested in Greek mythology? Delos, a short 30-minute boat journey from Mykonos and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see while visiting Mykonos. It is believed to be the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis.
All this rich history has left you dazed? At one of the many beaches on the island, such as the serene Platis Gialos, kick back and relax on a towel. Are you looking for a nightlife? With three beach clubs, Paraga Beach is a popular destination for partygoers. Scorpios is its most well-known location, while Kalua and SantAnna are other excellent places to have fun and enjoy life in the Dionysus fashion!
6. Big Sky, Montana
- Why We Recommend It: Yellowstone vibes, access to pristine nature, food festivals
- Where to Stay: Summit Hotel (from $350/night), Big Sky Condo (from $191/night), Studio Near Lifts (from $100/night)
Long after the ski slopes have melted, Big Sky, Montana, is still a desirable vacation destination. This mountain village, which is only a few miles north of Yellowstone National Park, offers a variety of outdoor recreational possibilities, such as numerous hiking and biking routes, along with breathtaking views. Wildlife sightings are frequent along the Gallatin River, where you may enjoy rafting and horseback riding in the summer. Among the animals that live in Big Sky are grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and moose.
Big Sky has a thriving central business center with lots of boutique stores in addition to its spectacular, outdoor appeal. You may hone your cowboy or cowboycation skills at Rhinestone Cowgirl. We also strongly suggest a martini from the attached speakeasy bar, Drunken Monk, before or after dinner, as well as the Blue Buddha sushi lounge. Alternately, visit nearby cultural institutions like the Crail Ranch Homestead Museum to spend some time learning about the rich history of the area and experiencing genuine Western hospitality.
Big Sky is the place to go if you want to get away from the daily grind, get back in touch with nature, and have an amazing Great West trip. You can take part in their recently launched Savor Big Sky food festival if you plan to visit in late June or early July (6/29–7/2). In addition to sampling from renowned wineries, distilleries, and brewers, participants will have the chance to enjoy hiking excursions, picturesque chairlift rides, and breathtaking mountain views during the events, which will blend food and the great outdoors.
7. Rome, Italy
- Why We Recommend It: gastronomical hub, religious and ruin sites, art history, modern art
- Where to Stay: Sonder (from $261/night), InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace Hotels (from $1,051/night), Luxury Passetto Walls (from $228/night), Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel (from $582/night)
Act like a Roman or a foreign tourist when in Rome. According to TripAdvisor’s Summer Travel Index, Italy is a popular international destination, according to a study of respondents from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and Singapore. It’s simple to understand why the boot receives so much attention, whether it’s due to leftover White Lotus energy or something else entirely. This is always evident in Rome. The city is brimming with culture, history, and breathtaking architecture, and it now has the best airfare in and out this July.Seeing the Colosseum in person is only the beginning, and we like that other famous sites, such as the Pantheon and the Roman Forum, are completely free to enter. Another journey through history, this time via the medium of art, is provided by Galleria Borghese. However, Rome’s modern art scene is equally captivating, with the best exhibits found at MAXXI, a museum dedicated to Roman art from the twenty-first century.
When it comes to desserts, a visit to Giolitti for gelato is a must. For dining, the popular Scarpetta is the most recent addition to Rome’s thriving culinary scene. A restaurant in Rome that serves contemporary Italian American cuisine? Intriguingly, it is—and it has already been called a “maximalist Roman dream with a New York twist.” The restaurant is located inside the stunning InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace, which features Roman arches in its pricey rooms.Also run by Scarpetta/LDV Hospitality, Charlie’s is a rooftop bar that offers exclusive live music and DJ sets, as well as Aperol Spritz for a great start to a night out!
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the historic port of Ostia Antica and the picturesque lake town of Castel Gandolfo, which is well-known as the Pope’s summer residence, or spend a day at the beautiful and frequently disregarded beaches of Sperlonga and Santa Marinella, both of which are only a short train ride from Rome. However, before you depart, toss a penny into the Trevi Fountain for good fortune and to guarantee that you will return to this wonderful city. —With Beatriz Verneaux providing supplementary reporting
