Where to Go in August: A Traveler's Guide
August is a fantastic month to travel, but with peak season in full swing across the Northern Hemisphere, choosing the right destination is key. Whether you're dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, epic mountain adventures, or vibrant cultural festivals, there’s a perfect trip waiting for you. This guide is organized by travel style to help you find your ideal August getaway.
For Sun, Sand, and Sea
For many, August means one thing: the beach. These destinations offer classic summer heat, warm waters, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for those looking to soak up the sun.
The Mediterranean Coasts: Greece, Italy & Croatia
August is the pinnacle of the Mediterranean summer. The days are long, hot, and drenched in sunshine, while the sea is wonderfully warm and inviting. Coastal towns in Greece, Italy, and Croatia are buzzing with energy, outdoor dining, and a celebratory spirit. This is the busiest and most expensive time, so booking far in advance is essential. For a slightly less crowded experience, consider islands like Naxos in Greece or the southern region of Puglia in Italy, which offer all the charm with fewer people than the most famous hotspots.
Alanya, Turkey
For an quintessential high-summer beach escape, Alanya on Turkey's Mediterranean coast is in its element. August is the hottest month, guaranteeing blazing sun and bath-like sea temperatures. The resort town is in full swing, with its famous beaches bustling with activity, abundant water sports, and a nightlife that lasts until dawn. Expect hot and humid conditions, making it a top choice for dedicated sun-worshippers and travelers seeking a vibrant, all-inclusive resort experience.
Batumi, Georgia
Batumi offers a fascinating alternative on the Black Sea coast. The weather in August is hot and sunny but often tempered by a refreshing sea breeze, making it more comfortable than the sweltering Mediterranean. The sea is warm and perfect for swimming. What makes Batumi unique is its blend of modern architecture, a lush botanical garden, and a famous seaside boulevard, all alongside incredible Georgian cuisine. While it's peak season, it delivers a rich cultural experience alongside its beach resort feel, perfect for travelers who want more than just a fly-and-flop vacation.
Sochi, Russia
As Russia's premier summer resort city, Sochi hits its stride in August. The weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the Black Sea is ideal for swimming. This is the time to enjoy the city's long pebble beaches and lush, subtropical parks. Beyond the seaside, you can explore the impressive modern legacy of the 2014 Winter Olympics. It’s a very popular holiday spot for Russians, so expect a lively and crowded atmosphere, offering a unique glimpse into Russian summer culture.
For Epic Nature and Adventure
If you'd rather trade beach crowds for mountain peaks and wide-open spaces, August offers incredible opportunities for adventure in the great outdoors.
The Canadian Rockies: Banff & Jasper
August is when the Canadian Rockies are at their most postcard-perfect. The iconic glacial lakes, like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, are a brilliant, surreal turquoise, all hiking trails are snow-free, and the long daylight hours give you ample time to explore. Wildlife is active, and the air is filled with the scent of pine. This is peak season, so be sure to book accommodation and any necessary park permits well in advance for this unforgettable landscape of majestic peaks and pristine wilderness.
East Africa: Kenya & Tanzania
For a truly life-changing wildlife experience, August is the absolute best time for a safari in Kenya or Tanzania. It's the dry season, so animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Most importantly, this is the peak of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra make their dramatic crossing of the Mara River. It is a breathtaking spectacle of nature at its most raw and powerful, making it an undisputed bucket-list trip for any wildlife lover.
Peru: The Andes & Machu Picchu
Escape the summer rains and head to Peru, where August falls in the middle of the dry season. This means clear blue skies and ideal conditions for trekking in the Andes. Whether you're hiking the classic Inca Trail or exploring other routes, the views of the mountains are spectacular. Visiting the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu is a highlight, made even more magical by the crisp air and bright sunshine. Book trail permits and entry tickets far ahead of time, as this is a very popular month.
For Vibrant Cities and Culture
For those who thrive on urban energy, these cities are bursting with life, festivals, and pleasant weather in August.
Edinburgh, Scotland
There is nowhere on earth quite like Edinburgh in August. The entire city transforms into a stage for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival. The streets are filled with performers, the pubs are overflowing, and you can find theater, comedy, music, and art on every corner. The atmosphere is absolutely electric. This incredible energy comes with a price: the city is extremely crowded and expensive, so book your accommodation as far in advance as possible.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
To escape the Northern Hemisphere's summer heat entirely, head to Buenos Aires. August is winter here, but it's a mild, crisp, and often sunny winter—perfect for exploring the city's grand European-style architecture, cozy cafes, and world-class museums without breaking a sweat. Better yet, the city hosts the spectacular Tango World Championship in August, offering a passionate cultural immersion. You'll also benefit from fewer tourists and lower prices.
Russian City Exploration
August is an excellent month to explore Russia's grandest cities, offering pleasant weather before the cool of autumn arrives.
Saint Petersburg, Russia
August in Saint Petersburg is a final, glorious celebration of summer. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for long walks along the canals and admiring the imperial architecture. The world-famous fountains at the Peterhof Palace are in full, spectacular operation. While the famous "White Nights" of June have passed, the days are still long. Be prepared for crowds at major sites like the Hermitage Museum and for the occasional rain shower, but the city's beauty is undeniable this time of year.
Moscow, Russia
Russia's dynamic capital is comfortable and very much alive in August. The weather is generally pleasant for exploring iconic landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square, or for enjoying the city's many beautiful green spaces like Gorky Park. As the last month of summer, there's a vibrant energy in the air, with various city-wide events and festivals often taking place. It's a fantastic time to see the city's grandeur before the seasons change.
Kazan, Russia
For a unique cultural journey, visit Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan. In August, the weather is warm and ideal for exploring this city where Europe and Asia meet. Its centerpiece is the stunning Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features both a grand mosque and an Orthodox cathedral. Kazan offers a fascinating glimpse into a different side of Russia, with its unique blend of Tatar and Slavic cultures, vibrant cuisine, and beautiful riverside setting.
