Europe in July is the height of summer—a season of sun-drenched coastlines, lively festivals, and long, golden days. It’s the time when beaches are at their best, historic cities are buzzing with energy, and outdoor adventures in the Alps and fjords reach their peak. With warm temperatures, minimal rainfall in many regions, and some of the longest daylight hours of the year. However, while weather in Europe in July means plenty of sunshine and endless opportunities for adventure, it also comes with peak season crowds, soaring accommodation prices, and occasional heatwaves.
Weather in Europe in July: Region-wise
1. Southern Europe in July
Countries: Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Southern France, Croatia, Malta
Southern Europe in July is hot, dry, and perfect for beach lovers. Temperatures range from 28°C to 40°C (82°F to 104°F), with inland areas like Seville, Madrid, and Rome often exceeding 35°C (95°F) or higher. The Mediterranean coast, including Nice, Santorini, Ibiza, and the Amalfi Coast, benefits from cool sea breezes, making it slightly more comfortable but keep in mid sun is still pretty hot to cause sunburns.
July is peak beach season across the Mediterranean. The sea is warm and ideal for swimming, and coastal cities are full of life with festivals, outdoor concerts, and bustling nightlife. Island hopping in Greece and Croatia is at its best, offering crystal-clear waters and scenic ferry rides. Coastal towns in Italy, Portugal, and France come alive with night markets, seafood feasts, and local celebrations. However, traveling to Southern Europe in July comes along with intense heat, especially in inland cities like Athens, Rome, and Madrid, where temperatures can feel overwhelming. Tourist destinations like Barcelona, Dubrovnik, and Santorini are crowded, and hotel prices are at their highest. If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting lesser-known islands like Milos (Greece) or the Alentejo region in Portugal.
2. Western & Central Europe in July
Countries: France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, UK, Ireland, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary
Western and Central Europe in July offers warm temperatures, long days, and a lively summer atmosphere. Cities like Paris, Berlin, Vienna, and Amsterdam experience temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), though occasional heatwaves can push temperatures above 35°C (95°F).
July is a great time for city exploration, countryside adventures, and outdoor festivals. The Alps in Switzerland and Austria offer breathtaking hiking trails, while cities like Paris, Prague, and Budapest are buzzing with tourists. Outdoor cafes, beer gardens, and summer music festivals create a lively atmosphere in places like Munich, Vienna, and Brussels. While the weather in Western and Central Europe in July is generally pleasant, rain showers can still occur, especially in the UK, Ireland, and Belgium. Popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Charles Bridge in Prague are crowded, so booking tickets in advance is essential. Accommodation prices are high, and finding budget-friendly options in major cities can be challenging.
3. Northern Europe in July
Countries: UK, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Scotland
Northern Europe in July is cooler compared to the rest of the continent, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F). Rainfall is more common in the UK and Ireland, while Scandinavia experiences drier and pleasant conditions. One of the highlights of Northern Europe in July is the Midnight Sun, especially in Norway, Sweden, and Finland, where daylight lasts nearly 24 hours. This makes it a great time for road trips, fjord cruises, and outdoor adventures. In Scotland and Ireland, lush green landscapes, castles, and coastal drives make for stunning scenery. Iceland is perfect for exploring waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes.
While temperatures are mild, rain is frequent in the UK, Ireland, and parts of Norway. Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway, and Denmark) is expensive, so travelers should budget accordingly. Some regions, especially in Iceland, may still be chilly, so packing layers is essential.
4. Eastern Europe in July
Countries:mRussia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Baltic States, Serbia, Hungary, Poland
Eastern Europe in July is warm, sunny, and more affordable compared to Western Europe. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with occasional heatwaves in inland cities like Bucharest, Belgrade, and Kyiv. Cities like Budapest, Krakow, and Prague offer rich history, lively summer festivals, and affordable travel options. The Black Sea Coast in Bulgaria (Sunny Beach, Varna) and Odessa in Ukraine provide great beach alternatives to the Mediterranean. The Carpathian Mountains in Romania and Slovakia are ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
While coastal regions like Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast and the Baltic Sea in Estonia offer cooler temperatures, inland cities can get extremely hot. Some rural areas may have limited public transport options, so renting a car might be necessary.
July in Europe is an excellent time for beaches, festivals, and outdoor adventures. However, be prepared for crowds, high prices, and possible heatwaves. With proper planning and early bookings, you can experience the best of Europe in July!
