The sun has got its hat on, hip, hip, hooray! Resorts are bursting into action, parks are prime for exploring and the best beaches in Europe are bathed in sunshine, in other words… holiday mode is well and truly on! There’s never been a better time to book a break, but are you wondering where’s best this time of year? Read on to discover our top picks for your July jollies.

Lanzarote

When it comes to beach breaks, Lanzarote’s been showing everyone how it's done since the 1970s. Strolling along the sandy shores of family-favourite resorts like Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca, it’s easy to see why. Aside from the bounty of beaches, there are stacks of other holiday treats in store. Outdoorsy types are well catered for, with surfers heading for Famara’s swells and hikers traversing the otherworldly landscapes. Design buffs can embark on a pilgrimage of Cesar Manrique’s curious creations like the Jardin de Cactus, an amphitheatre of prickly plants from across the world. Tours to the wine region, La Geria, showcase another side to this island of surprises. Here, traditional wine production has been flipped on its head, with verdant vineyards replaced with a carpet of black picón (volcanic ash). The result? A deliciously sweet Malvasia grape. It’s an island you’ll want to explore in full, and July’s long days mean more time to get out and experience it all.

Menorca

Mellow Menorca’s a sun-kissed slice of go-slow Spain. All golden sands, rolling hills and villages undisturbed by the passing of time. If you’re seeking some Vitamin D, you’re in luck, as there are around 13 hours of sunshine a day throughout July. Make the most of it by heading to one of the island’s beautiful beaches. It’s a real pick and mix selection, from pine-backed bays like Cala Turqueta to the Caribbean-style sands of Cala Galdana. Wherever you go in Menorca, this Balearic beauty lets Mother Nature do the talking. The UNESCO-listed Parc Natural S’Albufera des Grau showcases the island in all its glory, with dunes, forests, wetlands and cliffs, so grab your walking boots and have an adventure! There’s a duo of culture-rich cities to discover too. The capital, Mahón, is a quirky mix of Anglo-Spanish architecture, with Georgian townhouses sandwiched between Spanish apartment blocks. On the west coast, maze-like Ciutadella boasts a picturesque port and a charming old quarter.

Costa Dorada

Spain’s Costa Dorada has the sun, sea and sights formula spot on. Golden by name, golden by nature, its azure-ribboned shores are fringed with an endless stretch of sandy sweeps. Should you tire of beach dozing, UNESCO-protected Tarragona is great for a sightseeing-stuffed day trip. Walk through the pages of Roman history as you uncover the city’s wealth of ruins. For families, Sunny Salou is the frontrunner, full of activities to satisfy both big kids and tiny tots. Are you a clan of daredevils? Then a day tackling PortAventura World’s more than 50 thrilling rides is a must-do. Would you prefer to just kick back and indulge in some R&R? Then peaceful La Pineda has got you covered. Foodies are not forgotten about either, especially in the culinary capital, Cambrils, where net-fresh fish, rich romesco sauce and flavour-packed stews are all on the menu. Delicious!

Antalya

Holidays to this Turkish gem provide a goodie bag brimming with things to see and do. July’s warm days are best for three things that Antalya excels at: beach days, sightseeing sprees and al fresco dining. Blessed with some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to lounging locations. Take Lara Beach for example, a honey-hued paradise that’s a hit with the kids thanks to its soft sands and gentle waves. Swap the coastline for some culture and take a stroll through the historic district, Kaleiçi. As you wander, you’ll spy an ornate Ottoman Mosque, the ruins of Hadrian’s Gate and a Roman Harbour. After all that urban exploration, you can head to the Taurus Mountains for some fresh-air fun. Valleys, waterfalls, cliffs, and canyons await adventurers, perfect for hikes, bikes and breathtaking views.

Corfu

Summer and Corfu are a match made in holiday heaven. So, if you’re searching for a Greek getaway that offers a winning mix of lively resorts, charming villages, and unspoilt countryside, then look no further! Days in the rays are always on the cards here, especially on the west coast where the sands are golden and flour soft. Corfu’s more than just a beach destination though, its rugged mountains and sea of olive groves form an evergreen landscape that sets it apart from the other Ionian isles. Spend a day following one of the many hiking trails and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery. When it comes to resorts, the north’s all about the charm of towns like Sidari and Kassiopi, while in the south you’ll find the lively party hub, Kavos. Fun-filled family days are a breeze here too, head to Aqualand Waterpark to make some splash-tastic memories or take a glass-bottomed boat tour and marvel at the island’s marine life.