VnExpress selects monthly domestic and international destinations, activities, and festivals based on popularity, commonality with Vietnamese tourists, diverse experiences, and convenient transportation.

Asia Film Festival in Da Nang

Besides the international fireworks festival, visitors to Da Nang can also attend the Asia Film Festival (from 29/6 to 5/7). This year's program features 106 films with 184 screenings at various cinemas across the city. All screenings are free, allowing the public and tourists to access quality films from Vietnam, the region, and the world.

This year's focus is on South Korean cinema, with popular films such as The Housemaid by director Kim Ki Young, A Bittersweet Life starring Lee Byung Hun, Seopyeonje, The Story of Janghwa, Hongryeon, and Painted Fire.

Cat Ba Island's coastal road. Photo: Anh Thai

Beaches in northern and central Vietnam

The dry weather and diverse natural landscapes continue to attract visitors to beaches in northern and central Vietnam, such as Quan Lan, Co To, Cat Ba, Ha Long, Sam Son, Cua Lo, Thien Cam, Nhat Le, Da Nang, Hoi An, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang, and Mui Ne.

Each destination has summer tourism programs to attract visitors, including art performances in Cat Ba, street carnival festivals in Sam Son, fireworks festivals in Da Nang, and beach tourism and cultural festivals in Nha Trang.

Note that July is still the peak domestic travel season, so visitors should book flights and hotels early to avoid crowds and high prices, especially on weekends.

Exploring Bali (Indonesia)

Indonesia is a vast archipelago with a diverse culture and landscape. July is the dry season in Indonesia, with pleasant weather, sunshine, and little rain. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for outdoor activities, exploring nature, historical and cultural sites, and family activities with young children.

Tourists can explore long white sand beaches and snorkel at islands like Bali, Lombok, or Gili. In July, the famous island of Bali hosts many cultural events, festivals, and special activities like the Bali Arts Festival and the Bali Kite Festival. Popular entertainment areas for children include Bali Safari & Marine Park, Waterbom Bali, and Bali Treetop Adventure Park. An ideal trip to explore Bali lasts from 5 to 7 days.

Numerous fun activities in Jeju Island (South Korea)

July is the perfect time to enjoy beaches, festivals, and outdoor activities in Jeju. Several prominent beaches officially open from 1/7, such as Hamdeok, Hyeopjae, Woljeongri, Gwakji, and Jungmun Saekdal, with warm seawater and sunny skies.

July is the season for many festivals on the island, offering visitors the chance to experience the local culture, including the Jeju Light Art Festa, the Jeju Fire Festival, the Jeju International Wind Festival, the Stepping Stone Festival, and the Jeju Food Festival. Other popular destinations on the island include Hallasan Mountain, flower fields, and Jeju Shinhwa World amusement park.

Jeju Island offers visa exemptions for Vietnamese visitors for up to 30 days from the date of entry, applicable when visitors enter Jeju directly (through Jeju International Airport or Jeju seaport).

Summer in the Tuscany countryside (Italy). Photo: Tripavvy

European itinerary

If you plan to travel to Europe, July is the most suitable time. The weather is cool and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius depending on the region. Long days and short nights are convenient for travel and leisure, and lively festivals abound everywhere. Popular summer destinations in Europe include Provence (France), Santorini (Greece), Tuscany (Italy), Salzburg (Austria), Copenhagen (Denmark), Budapest (Hungary), and many others.

Visitors should choose a European itinerary covering 3 or 4 countries for 10 to 14 days to fully appreciate the beautiful scenery and avoid rushing. Summer is also the peak tourist season in Europe, with visitors from all over the world. Be sure to book tickets early at attractions to avoid queues.

Tam Anh