The Best Traveling Destinations in Europe this August
August is the hottest month of the year in the northern hemisphere.
If you are happy about braving the heat, then the world is your oyster, but if extreme heat leaves you feeling faint and in need of urgent air-conditioning, read on to find out where to travel in August if Europe is your chosen destination.
Because August is slap bang in the middle of the school summer holidays, it’s classed as a peak travel month. Hotels, flights, and pretty much everything is costlier in August.
If you are planning an August wedding to take advantage of the awesome weather and you are looking at honeymoon destinations, do factor in the higher costs.
It is possible to find luxury vacation rentals and flights at the right price, but you will have to shop around.
Anglesey, Wales
Anglesey is a small island just off the coast of North Wales. The island is connected to the mainland via a bridge, so it’s very accessible. Unlike southern Europe, you won’t have to deal with extreme heat and rampant mosquitoes.
The scenery is beautiful and the beaches vast and mostly uncrowded.
Anglesey is all about history, nature, peace, and quiet. If you are hoping for a quiet week where you can get away from technology and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, Anglesey is a perfect choice.
Check out the local beer and enjoy a pint with a view.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a wonderfully historic city in Belgium. It has cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and a network of ancient canals to explore.
Bruges is popular in the winter, but in summer, you can take a leisurely boat tour and enjoy a glass of wine in a pavement café, watching the world go by. Visit Bruges and learn more about the many local folklore stories, such as the tragic tale of Mina and Stromberg.
The center of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage site, but if you have had your fill of history, visit one of the many charming cellar cafes that sell local beer made in the city’s Half Moon Brewery.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a uniquely laid-back city with a very modern vibe. It is full of culture and art, fantastic cafes and eateries, and a buzzing nightlife. Because the city is relatively small, it’s easy to explore on foot.
However, the layout of the streets makes navigating the city quite confusing when you first arrive, so consider booking a cycle tour to help you find your way around.
There are plenty of art galleries and museums to check out. The Ann Frank Museum is always a big draw and should not be missed – book your tickets online to avoid the lengthy queues. Stay in a houseboat if you want a real sense of what life in Amsterdam is all about.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the most fascinating cities in Spain. Antonio Gaudi’s famous cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, dominates the city and is worthy of a few photos for your Instagram feed, but Barcelona is more than just stunning architecture.
If you are a football fan, visit FC Barcelona’s home stadium and pick up a team shirt.
Check out the Picasso Museum and spend a few hours in the lovely Park Güell, where Gaudi let loose his passion for natural forms and landscape gardening.
Barcelona even has a beach, which is good to know on a hot August day. Barcelona is also famous for its amazing Catalan cuisine.
You can’t visit the city without sampling some paella, freshly made in a giant metal skillet. Wash it down with some local red wine.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Switzerland is popular a popular winter sports destination, but the country is equally fantastic in summer. In August, the mountain pastures are lush with green grass and the early morning air rings with the chimes of cowbells as cattle head up into the Alpine meadows.
Interlaken sits right in the center of two lakes, in the middle of the Bernese Oberland and surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the region.
You will be astounded by how beautiful Interlaken and the surrounding countryside is. Sporty travelers can find plenty to keep them amused, from hiking and kayaking to hang-gliding and mountain biking.
Use Interlaken as your base to explore the local area.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is full of wonderful architecture and amazing culture. It’s also relatively small, so easy to explore on foot or via the local tram network.
You can explore the ancient cobbled streets, cool off in quiet cathedrals, and learn more about this city’s fascinating history when you visit the ancient ruins. It’s a city for foodies, with lots of gourmet restaurants and delicious local delicacies such as bacalhau à Brás.
The fresh seafood is to die for! Climb one of the seven hills that surround Lisbon and admire the wonderful views. You won’t be disappointed!
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is a hidden gem in eastern Europe. The city has yet to become a major tourist attraction, so you can enjoy its many delights without having to deal with the summer crowds.
Because of this, it is still cheap, and the locals are very friendly. Ljubljana is one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, so you can explore its attractions and then head out to nearby cities and sights.
Visit the castle or take a leisurely stroll around Tivoli Park.
On a hot summer’s day, a few hours spent lying on the bank of the Ljubljana River eating ice cream and pastries is time well spent. Nearby Lake Bled and the Skocjan Caves are worth a day or two.
If you’re hoping for a laidback vacation, Ljubljana in Slovenia should be near the top of your bucket list.
Other Great Destinations
Berlin is renowned for its art galleries, museums, and nightlife. It has everything you need for a top vacation in August. London is also full of fun things to do in August.
You may also like to consider Oslo in Norway, which is very pretty in the summer.
