The Very Best Honeymoon Destinations in July
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For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, July brings laid-back summer vibes and warm, sunny days. With its pleasant weather and abundant sunshine, summer has long been a popular time for weddings.
But planning a honeymoon in the warmest of months can also pose a challenge. Tropical honeymoon destinations like the Caribbean can be unbearably hot this year, and hurricane season makes many couples uneasy. So where should you go to avoid the heat and humidity associated with July? Luckily, there are plenty of wonderful honeymoon options that bring the romance, but beat the heat!
Here are our picks for the best honeymoon destinations in July!
Scotland
Full of rich history, gorgeous architecture, and astounding natural beauty, Scotland enjoys its warmest and driest season during the month of July.
Where is the Best Place for a Honeymoon in July?
For many couples, the “best place” for a July honeymoon will be a destination that combines temperate weather with plenty of romance. And in Scotland, you’ll get just that!
In Scotland, “hot” means lows of about 55°F and highs of about 65°F. Combined with long summer days, the country’s pleasantly cool summer weather makes it one of the very best honeymoon destinations in July.
How Long Do I Need in Scotland?
For a relaxing and romantic Scotland honeymoon, consider a longer-length itinerary that includes medieval Edinburgh as well as the country’s legendary Highlands. Choose a length of stay that allows you to experience all that Scotland has to offer – at a slower pace that encourages romance and relaxation.
Begin your honeymoon in Edinburgh, where you’ll enjoy romantic accommodations like the 5-star Balmoral Hotel.
With its enchanting alleyways, dramatic medieval architecture, and rich and interesting culture, Edinburgh offers all the charm and magic you’d expect of an ancient European city.
If you’re short on time, it’s entirely possible to experience Edinburgh’s highlights in just a day. For a more immersive and relaxing experience, consider three nights (or more!) in the city.
Be sure to hit the city’s most iconic historic and cultural sites – including Holyrood Palace, The Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle – before moving on to the Highlands.
In the Highlands, you’ll experience breathtaking natural beauty and explore the area’s ancient castles. For the true royal treatment, book a stay in a luxury castle hotel like Inverlochy Castle Hotel near Fort William. Even Queen Victoria – who stayed on the property in 1873 – was impressed with the enchanting hotel, proclaiming, “I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot!”
Enjoy romantic windswept strolls and fine dining at your hotel, but be sure to venture out to discover the magical Isle of Skye, wander the lush green glens, and look for the Nessie at Loch Ness!
Iceland
For another cool-weather honeymoon option in July, consider the rugged beauty of Iceland.
If you’ve ever marveled at the otherwordly landscapes featured in HBO’s ‘Game of Thrones,’ you’ll love visiting the real-life filming locations of those magnificently fantastical scenes. Full of lush greenery, breathtaking waterfalls, and dramatic mountain peaks, Iceland is a land of unbelievable beauty and epic enchantment.
For a comprehensive Icelandic itinerary, book a stay in the capital city of Reykjavík, which will serve as your home base for all your Iceland explorations.
Small in size and easily navigable on foot, Reykjavík offers an excellent food scene and vibrant nightlife. Choose romantic accommodations like the Reykjavík Residence Apartment Hotel, where you’ll enjoy spacious apartment-style suites in a charming historic setting.
With its convenient central location, Reykjavík offers the perfect opportunity to explore all of Iceland’s most beautiful locations. Explore a glacier by snowmobile, indulge your senses at the Blue Lagoon, and discover the beauties of Iceland’s Golden Circle.
Where is the Best Weather in July for a Honeymoon?
Iceland’s weather in July is cool and relatively dry. Be sure to pack in layers and stay warm on your outdoor expeditions! Summer in Iceland means average high temperatures of about 55°F, so sweaters and jackets are crucial for comfort.
While July in Iceland offers pleasant weather conditions and extended daylight hours, be aware that those longer days mean the Northern Lights are unlikely to be visible this time of year. If the Northern Lights are a must-do for you, plan to visit between September and April, when the long, dark nights allow for maximum visibility.
The Cook Islands
If you revel in the summer sun and long for tropical island vibes, your ideal July honeymoon may lie in the far-flung waters of the South Pacific.
Situated between American Samoa and French Polynesia, The Cook Islands are comprised of 15 separate islands. As the largest island – and the nation’s capital – the island of Rarotonga offers a remote, romantic, and relaxing honeymoon destination.
Where is the Best Place to go for a Romantic Honeymoon?
Far from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism, the Cook Islands offer magnificent beaches, authentic local culture, and an idyllic sense of tranquility. With average daily highs of around 77°F, the Cook Islands enjoy tropical breezes and cooler nights.
With a circumference of just 20 miles, Rarotonga is easily navigable without a car. To explore the island, hop on a bike or a public boat (referred to as the “island bus”). Or, for maximum flexibility, just use your own two feet!
In Rarotonga, you’ll be on island time, discovering the island’s natural beauty at a slow and relaxing pace. Try snorkeling or sightseeing by day, and enjoy the island’s nightlife after sunset!
While the Cook Islands are more expensive to visit than Australia, Europe, and Asia, they’re less expensive than other Pacific destinations like Hawaii, Tahiti, and Fiji. You’ll find comparatively good deals, even in the high season.
Of course, travel to a truly remote area like the Cook Islands is never easy. The Cook Islands can be difficult to reach from the U.S., with direct flights to Rarotonga departing from Honolulu in Hawaii.
Still, with its romantic locale, picturesque beaches, and ideal weather, the Cook Islands qualify as one of the best July honeymoon destinations around. If the South Pacific is on your honeymoon bucket list, the Cook Islands are sure to deliver romance and relaxation in spades.
Ready to Book Your July Honeymoon?
Whether you want a cool-weather reprieve or a sunny holiday, we can help you achieve the honeymoon of your dreams! Contact us today to get started!