Where's hot in July?

It's July and that means you don't have to travel far to take a break filled with sun, sea and sand. All of southern Europe reclines and soaks up the abundant sunshine during July. So, where is hot in July, and where will you unpack your hot-weather wardrobe this coming summer?

*Average temperature and sunshine in July

Average temperature in July - 24C

Average hours of sunlight in July - 12 hrs

July holidays to the Algarve are ideal for those who wish to relax, play, shop, dine and do everything else that makes a perfect break. The Algarve is ideal for sun-worshipping holidaymakers looking for that little bit extra.

While it's got as much sun, sea and sand as any weary traveller could dream of, the Algarve also serves up generous helpings of golf, luxury spas, shops, water sports, historic sites, and walks, plus scenery that is unique to the coastline of Portugal. It's a great place to be to make your holiday varied, exciting and totally unforgettable.

In July, of course, the weather begins to reach its summer-time peak in terms of average daytime and night-time temperatures. From the break of dawn until those gorgeous sunsets in the west, 12 long hours of sun-filled skies bake the beaches and rugged terrain of the Algarve.

For a sunset to remember, the headland of Cabo de Sao Vicente, near Sagres Point, is a super spot to see the daylight hours come to a magnificent close. Resort areas to select from in the Algarve include Albufeira, Lagos and Faro, with destinations such as Alvor, Praia da Luz and Carvoeiro proving popular.

Average temperature in July - 24C

Average hours of sunlight in July - 13 hrs

Whether you want two weeks reading the latest bestseller, a family holiday crammed with beaches and parks, a cultural time in the city, a yoga retreat in the hills or nights filled with the loudest dance-floor fillers on the planet, the beautiful Balearics have a special place just for you.

Lapped by the warm waters of the Mediterranean, these idyllic Spanish isles have been popular among British holidaymakers for decades. The four major islands of Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera each offer something slightly different.

Ibiza, famed for its wild nightlife has become a wellness hotspot in recent years. Majorca, a favourite with families has cosmopolitan city Palma and the staggeringly beautiful Serra de Tramuntana Mountains up its sleeve. Menorca is quieter, where the secluded coves and deserted beaches really are just that, while Formentera has some of the best windsurfing in Europe.

The weather in July is almost guaranteed to be incredible, with average high temperatures of 29 degrees and well over 300 sunshine hours in the month.

Average temperature in July - 25C

Average hours of sunlight in July - 13 hrs

This island nation in the Mediterranean Sea gets very hot in July – the sparkling ripples of your hotel's swimming pool will never be more inviting. The sea looks pretty good in July too, with those 30°C days tempting visitors into the gentle shallows that lap onto the glorious beaches of Cyprus.

Spend some time on TravelSupermarket researching the various tourist areas of Cyprus, as party towns like Ayia Napa might not suit those looking for rest and relaxation (you could consider Pissouri if you hope to totally unwind). Other popular resorts include Protaras, Paphos and Limassol.

Besides the beaches, the island is dotted with ancient ruins and intriguing archaeological sites that date back thousands of years. The Kourion (Limassol), the Bellapais Monastery (Kyrenia), Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and The House of Dionysus (both Paphos), are among some of the country’s best historical areas of interest.

Prices tend to creep up for Cyprus in July, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a good deal if you’re prepared to shop around. Search and compare package holidays to find the best deal.

Average temperature in July - 26C

Average hours of sunlight in July - 12 hrs

Hit the shores of Greece's attractive islands for guaranteed sunshine in July. Just like the Spanish Costas, the islands that dot the Mediterranean waters around Greece offer a huge variety of holiday types.

Young night owls can dance under an inky blanket of stars while, on the same island, couples enjoy candle-lit dinners with nothing but the sound of singing cicadas on the warm evening breeze. Families can spend two weeks by the gentle waves of the sea, or take some time to delve into the fascinating history and heritage of this enchanting nation.

Some of the islands are very quiet, where daily life is as slow as the donkeys in the fields, while some islands are known for lively nights and days spent at the beach, having a go at the water sports on offer. Most of the bigger islands feature a resort to suit every taste, so you don't have to compromise.

The Greek islands are popular in July thanks to plenty of sun, blue skies and hot weather. Almost everywhere, daytime averages are in the late twenties and night-time temperatures drop no lower than 20°C.

More than 12 hours of sunshine every day ensures that these hotspots will never fall out of favour with sun-seekers. Take your pick from islands such as Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Kos, Zante, Mykonos and Santorini.

Average temperature in July - 27C

Average hours of sunlight in July - 12 hrs

A little way south of Italy is the island nation of Malta, which features an abundance of charm and a zesty cocktail of culture. It feels a little British, a bit Italian, and it has a pinch of exotic Arabian flavour - the people and culture here are quite unlike anywhere else and you have to feel it to believe it.

Malta is also kissed by year-round sunshine, with the best weather in July for those who like it hot. Daytime temperatures pushing past 30°C are the norm during July, with nights dropping to a balmy 20°C.

July also boasts the most sunshine hours in Malta, with up to 14 hours of sun beating down each day. You can stay on the main island of Malta, either in the enchanting and historic capital of Valletta or at a resort such as Mellieha Bay, Bugibba and Sliema.

The other main holiday islands of Malta are Gozo and Comino, which are much smaller and quieter and feature many luxury hotels. Wherever you stay in July, the swimming pool and pure blue seas will be impossible to resist.

Average temperature in July - 25C

Average hours of sunlight in July - 12 hrs

Hundreds of kilometres of shoreline and a multitude of magnificent resorts to choose from - you'll love the Spanish Costas. Tapas and sangria at the water's edge, long stretches of golden sands, family-friendly hotels, sublime scenery, water parks, theme parks, culture, art, romance... just a few of the reasons that holidaymakers simply adore the Spanish Costas.

For most, July is the prime time to visit as daytime temperatures soar to sizzling highs of 30°C and beyond. And there's nothing nicer than leaving that jacket at home and feeling the warm Spanish evening air on your arms after a day in the sun.

The other advantage of holidays along the southern coastline of Spain is the sheer volume of options available. You can pack your bucket and spade and give the children a week or two to remember on the sunny shores, or make room for the golf clubs and book a break on the fairways.

Food lovers can eat their way around chic city restaurants, while families and groups can check in at great-value all-inclusive hotels where even the fussiest of eaters are catered for. There are spa hotels and quiet retreats in the mountains, or you can stay on the doorstep of some of Europe's most thrilling theme parks.