The Best Places in Europe to Visit in July 2026: 4 Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations from Travel Experts

July is the most popular month for vacations in Europe, but travelers are increasingly choosing off-the-beaten-path destinations instead of crowded resorts. Find out where travel experts recommend going in July 2026

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Despite the huge crowds and sweltering heat, July remains the most popular month for summer vacations in Europe. For most families with children and students, it is the only convenient time to take a vacation. However, in 2026, the approach to choosing a destination has changed significantly, reports The Independent.

“July remains one of the most popular months for travel, but in 2026, the decision-making process has become much more thoughtful. Travelers no longer simply choose the most popular destinations—they weigh factors such as comfort, the number of tourists, and the overall experience," explains Tim Hentschel, CEO and co-founder of Hotel Planner.

Southern Europe remains the main draw for summer vacations thanks to its sunshine and the lively atmosphere of peak season. But more and more travelers are combining classic destinations with cooler, less crowded alternatives. Travel experts themselves have suggested four destinations worth considering this summer.

Read also: The Sea in Summer 2026 — 8 Affordable Destinations for Ukrainians to Vacation Abroad.

Slovenia: Turquoise Rivers and Tranquility Instead of Crowds

Slovenia is recommended by Sam Bruce, co-founder of Much Better Adventures. According to him, more and more travelers—especially those who dislike crowds—are discovering the less-visited destinations of Eastern Europe.

“Slovenia is a wonderful example of this. Nearly 60% of the country is covered in forests, so it’s incredibly green,” he says.

Bruce advises paying special attention to the Soča Valley with its unusual turquoise river, which, in his opinion, “is in no way inferior in beauty to the French or Austrian Alps, but is much less crowded.” Also worth visiting is the picturesque Lake Bled—the country’s most recognizable symbol, though it gets quite busy in July.

For lovers of water activities and a more peaceful getaway, Bruce recommends Lake Bohinj—Slovenia’s largest natural lake—and the town of Bovec, situated between the Julian Alps and the Soča River in Triglav National Park.

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Montenegro: The Adriatic, Mountains, and Europe’s Deepest Canyon

Montenegro is another underrated destination, according to Bruce. Despite its location on the Adriatic coast, it remains largely unknown to most Western tourists.

The country offers a rare combination: beaches along the Adriatic, mountains perfect for hiking, bright blue lakes, and traditional old towns. Bruce highlights two destinations in particular.

The Tara Canyon—the deepest canyon in Europe, through which the river of the same name flows. Here, he recommends trying rafting on packrafts—lightweight inflatable rafts that can be folded up and taken along on a hike.

Durmitor National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site with no car traffic. “Here you’ll find vast, breathtaking, wild landscapes and fantastic spots for mountain climbing,” the expert emphasizes.

Norway: endless light, fjords, and wild camping

For those looking to escape the Mediterranean heat, Bruce recommends looking north.

“In Northern Europe, Norway in midsummer is a wonder. There’s endless light, long days, epic fjords, and wild camping that feels completely natural. Our kayaking tours through the fjords are among our clients’ favorites. People go once and start planning their return even before they get home,” he enthuses.

Tim Hentschel also singles out Norway. According to him, July brings “long, light-filled days and comfortable temperatures,” making the country ideal for travelers who appreciate nature, active recreation, and stunning landscapes rather than crowded beaches.

Apulia, Italy: “the new Tuscany” with its own character

For lovers of heat and an authentic atmosphere—Apulia in southern Italy. Yes, it can get very hot here in July, but that is precisely what attracts those seeking a true Mediterranean summer without the tourist hustle and bustle of big cities.

Since the early 2020s, Apulia has been dubbed the “new Tuscany”—and tourist traffic here has been steadily growing ever since. Despite its growing popularity, the region retains its rural charm and laid-back atmosphere.

“Apulia offers a more peaceful alternative to Italy’s main tourist hotspots. Known for its snow-white towns, the Adriatic coast, and exceptional local cuisine, it offers a true summer getaway without the hustle and bustle and crowds typical of Rome or Florence," Hentschel concludes.

Tip: When traveling to any of these destinations, it’s also worth taking care of health insurance in advance—you can quickly obtain a policy for travel abroad without waiting in lines through Visit Ukraine.

We remind you! Extreme heat is increasingly affecting Europe’s tourism industry. Some travelers are already postponing their vacations until spring and fall or choosing cooler countries instead of traditional Mediterranean resorts. Read more about how climate change is forcing tourists to rethink their vacation plans.

Photo: Alamy/PA

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