While many travelers flock to popular destinations like Paris or Rome during peak summer vacation season, August offers unique opportunities to explore less crowded but equally rewarding corners of the world. The month brings comfortable temperatures to many regions that are typically too hot or cold at other times of the year, along with local festivals and events that showcase authentic cultural experiences.
From quiet Mediterranean islands to mountain towns in South America, here are 19 international destinations that make perfect sense to visit in August, whether you’re looking to dodge the usual tourist crowds or experience a destination at its seasonal best.
- Best tourist destination: Bali, Indonesia
- Underrated hidden gem: Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Best for families: Copenhagen, Denmark
- Best for couples: Santorini, Greece
- Best for solo travelers: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Best for beach lovers: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Reykjavik, Iceland
I first visited Reykjavik on a summer trip in 2018, drawn by stories of the midnight sun and outdoor adventures. Iceland’s capital sits along the southwestern coast, where modern architecture meets centuries-old Nordic charm. The city’s heart beats around the distinctive Hallgrímskirkja church, while colorful rooftops dot the landscape down to the old harbor. In August, the weather hovers around a pleasant 13°C (55°F), perfect for exploring the nearby hot springs and waterfalls. What makes this time special is the near-endless daylight, with the sun barely dipping below the horizon, turning every evening into a photographer’s dream of soft, golden light that seems to last forever.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh in August is a city that pulses with creative energy during the legendary Fringe Festival – the world’s largest arts festival. The medieval streets and stone buildings become one giant stage as thousands of performers fill every available space with comedy shows, theatrical productions, and street performances. Even if you’re not typically into arts festivals, there’s something magnetic about the way the entire city transforms into this massive cultural celebration. The pleasant summer weather (by Scottish standards) makes it perfect for wandering between shows and exploring Edinburgh Castle or hiking up Arthur’s Seat for views over the city. Just book your accommodation well in advance – the city fills up fast during festival season.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali feels like it was designed specifically for August travelers looking to escape their everyday routines. The Indonesian island hits its sweet spot during this time – clear skies create perfect conditions for lounging on black sand beaches, while gentle breezes rustle through the endless rice terraces of Ubud. It’s hard not to fall for the rhythm of island life here, whether you’re wandering through ancient temples, learning to surf in Canggu, or sharing stories with locals over a plate of nasi goreng. Sure, you’ll find plenty of other visitors during peak season, but venture just a bit off the main tourist track and you’ll discover quiet corners where traditional ceremonies still unfold exactly as they have for centuries.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
I first visited the Swiss Alps during a summer escape in 2019, when the mountain meadows were in full bloom. Nestled between towering peaks and pristine valleys, this region stretches across central Switzerland, offering a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and peaceful retreats. Small alpine villages dot the landscape, connected by scenic train routes that wind through the mountains like thread through fabric. In August, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it ideal for hiking the well-marked trails or taking cable cars up to viewpoints where the Alps spread out before you like waves in a stone ocean. The Bernese Oberland region, home to famous peaks like the Eiger and Jungfrau, draws outdoor enthusiasts who come to explore its network of trails and crystal-clear mountain lakes.
Vancouver, Canada
Ever chased a pod of orcas from your kayak? It’s a regular occurrence in Vancouver during August, where the Pacific Northwest’s mountains meet the sea. This Canadian gem combines outdoor adventure with city living – you can hike through ancient forests in Stanley Park in the morning, then sip craft beer at Granville Island’s public market by afternoon. The summer weather is perfect for exploring the local beaches, like Kitsilano, where locals play volleyball and families picnic with views of snow-capped mountains. From the bustling streets of Gastown to the peaceful trails of Grouse Mountain, Vancouver serves up a perfect mix of urban culture and natural wonders.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Ever wondered what winter wonderland looks like in August? In Queenstown, New Zealand, snow-capped peaks and cozy fireplaces make this Southern Hemisphere escape feel like Christmas in the middle of the year. Tucked between Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, this adventure hub draws ski enthusiasts to its nearby slopes at Coronet Peak and Cardrews. Beyond the slopes, you can sip local Pinot Noir in historic Arrowtown, take a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola, or join the locals for some hearty comfort food in one of the many lakeside restaurants. And if you’re feeling brave, this is where bungy jumping was born – the Kawarau Bridge still welcomes thrill-seekers looking for their next adrenaline fix.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Located in the northeastern corner of South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. While many travelers head to Tanzania or Kenya for safaris, Kruger offers something different – a self-drive adventure through nearly 7,500 square miles of wilderness. You can spend your mornings watching elephants drink from watering holes and your afternoons tracking lion prides across the savanna, all while setting your own pace. The park’s well-maintained roads and rest camps make it easy for independent travelers to explore, and August’s dry winter season brings animals out in the open as they gather around water sources. Plus, with fewer leaves on the trees and less vegetation, spotting the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo – becomes much easier than during other months.
Croatian Coast, Croatia
Explore the sun-soaked islands and seaside towns along Croatia’s Adriatic coastline in August, when the Mediterranean weather is at its finest. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, sailing, and island hopping between spots like Hvar and Korčula. Head to Split’s historic center to wander through ancient Roman ruins and grab fresh seafood at local konobas (taverns). For a quieter experience, visit the small fishing villages of Istria, where you can taste local olive oils and truffles while watching boats bob in the harbor. The beaches are busy this time of year, but that just adds to the lively summer atmosphere.
Maldives
Experience paradise on Earth in the Maldives, where crystal-clear waters meet powdery white sand beaches. The islands offer some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world, with coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and gentle manta rays. Stay in an overwater bungalow where you can jump right into the warm Indian Ocean from your private deck, or relax in an underwater restaurant watching sharks glide past your table. August brings perfect weather conditions with minimal rain, making it an ideal time to explore these tropical islands.
Norwegian Fjords, Norway
Sail through nature’s grandest waterways when you explore Norway’s majestic fjords in August. These deep, glacier-carved valleys offer perfect conditions for cruising, with comfortable temperatures around 65°F and extended daylight hours. Take a boat tour through Geirangerfjord, where waterfalls cascade down steep cliffs, or venture into Nærøyfjord, where mountains rise 5,500 feet straight up from the water. For a different perspective, hop on the Flåm Railway, which winds through the fjord landscape and gives you panoramic views of the valleys below. It’s an ideal destination for anyone who wants to experience the raw power of nature while enjoying modern Scandinavian comfort.
Cool Fact:
Did you know that Norway’s dramatic fjords were carved out by massive glaciers over 2.5 million years ago during the Ice Age, leaving behind deep valleys filled with seawater that stretch up to 1,300 meters deep? These natural wonders are now home to small fishing villages nestled between towering cliffs, where locals have adapted to life along the water by building traditional wooden houses on stilts known as rorbuer.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin’s charm reaches its peak in August, when the Irish summer brings longer days and pleasantly mild temperatures. Unlike many European capitals that burst with tourists this time of year, Dublin maintains its down-to-earth character with locals filling pub gardens and parks across the city. The heart of Ireland’s capital beats to the rhythm of traditional music spilling from Temple Bar’s pubs, while the smell of fresh bread and coffee wafts through the cobbled streets. Thanks to Dublin’s rich literary heritage, you’ll find bookshops and libraries around every corner, including the famous Trinity College Library with its ancient Book of Kells. The city’s Georgian squares and Viking history blend seamlessly with modern cafes and tech company headquarters, creating a place where past and present coexist naturally.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Step into the ancient world of the Incas at Machu Picchu, Peru’s iconic 15th-century citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains. The dry season in August brings clear blue skies and perfect hiking conditions along the winding paths of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Take the scenic train ride from Cusco to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, then hop on a bus up the switchback road to the entrance. For the best experience, arrive early to watch the morning mist lift off the stone terraces and ancient temples. Book a guided tour to learn about the fascinating astronomical alignments and agricultural innovations of the Inca civilization.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark’s capital city comes alive in August with perfect weather and long summer days. Unlike other European capitals that get overwhelmed with tourists, Copenhagen keeps its cool, laid-back atmosphere even during peak season. The locals zip around on bicycles, taking full advantage of the city’s web of dedicated bike lanes, while visitors drift between colorful townhouses and cozy cafes in the historic Nyhavn district. Thanks to Copenhagen’s deep Nordic food roots, you’ll find everything from traditional smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to modern restaurants where chefs experiment with local ingredients. The city’s connection to Hans Christian Andersen shows up everywhere – from the Little Mermaid statue to the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, which feels just like stepping into one of his fairy tales.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Nestled along Italy’s rugged Ligurian coastline, the five colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre offer visitors a slice of authentic Italian coastal life. Connected by scenic hiking trails and a local train line, these centuries-old settlements – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – feature pastel-colored houses perched on cliffsides, small harbors filled with fishing boats, and narrow streets lined with family-run restaurants serving fresh seafood and local wine.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
You’ll want to visit Victoria Falls in August when water levels are ideal for viewing the world’s largest waterfall. Located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, this natural wonder spans over a mile wide as the Zambezi River plunges 355 feet into a narrow gorge. Visitors can explore multiple viewpoints along the falls, take a helicopter ride for aerial views, or even swim in the Devil’s Pool – a natural infinity pool right at the edge of the waterfall.
Taipei, Taiwan
My first visit to Taipei was during a summer stopover in 2018. The capital city of Taiwan sits in a basin, surrounded by mountains and hot springs that dot the landscape. Night markets and ancient temples make up much of the city’s charm, with the famous Taipei 101 skyscraper rising above it all on the eastern side. The bustling streets come alive after dark, when locals and tourists alike flock to spots like Shilin Night Market for steaming xiaolongbao dumplings and bubble tea. Between June and August, afternoon thunderstorms roll in like clockwork, offering a welcome break from the heat and creating perfect moments to duck into one of the city’s many teahouses or museums. The nearby Yangmingshan National Park provides an escape from the urban buzz, where hiking trails wind through bamboo forests and past steaming fumaroles.
Santorini, Greece
Perched on the edge of a volcanic caldera in the Aegean Sea, Santorini draws visitors with its iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches. The island feels like it was plucked straight from a postcard, with narrow cobblestone paths winding through villages that seem to defy gravity as they cling to the cliff sides. While many come for the famous sunsets in Oia, the real magic lies in the lesser-known corners – from the black sand beaches of Perissa to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, buried for centuries under volcanic ash. Thanks to the island’s volcanic soil, local wineries produce crisp whites and sweet dessert wines, and you’ll find traditional tavernas serving fresh-caught fish and local specialties like fava beans and cherry tomatoes that grow nowhere else quite the same way.
Stockholm, Sweden
Experience summer like a local in Stockholm, where the sun barely sets and the city comes alive with endless possibilities. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, the city’s charming old town, where colorful buildings house cozy cafes perfect for your morning fika (coffee break). Take a boat trip through the archipelago, stopping at islands like Vaxholm or Sandhamn for a seaside lunch of fresh seafood. When evening comes – which might not be until 10 PM – join the locals at an outdoor restaurant in Djurgården, or explore the ABBA Museum to dance along with Sweden’s most famous export. With temperatures hovering around a comfortable 70°F (21°C), it’s the ideal time to experience Stockholm’s perfect mix of history and modern life.
Interesting Fact:
Did you know that Stockholm is actually built across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North”? The city is so clean that you can catch salmon right in the middle of downtown since the water flowing through Stockholm is pure enough for fish to thrive there.
Lake Como, Italy
Escape to Lake Como in August, where the warm Italian sun sparkles across crystal-clear waters surrounded by charming lakeside villages. Start your day at Villa Carlotta, where you can wander through 17th-century gardens and art-filled rooms before taking a boat ride to explore the lake’s famous waterfront towns. Stop for lunch in Bellagio, known as the “pearl of the lake,” where you can enjoy fresh pasta and local wine at outdoor cafes while watching boats drift by. For the best views, take the funicular up to Brunate – on clear days, you can see all the way to the Swiss Alps from the top.
