20 of the Best Places To Visit in August (2023)

August is an extremely popular month to travel, especially to Europe, when temperatures soar. Prices tend to skyrocket, too, as the school holiday rush means that families nab flights to make the most of their fixed six weeks off.

Of course, there are brilliant places to visit all over the world during August.Whether you're after a hot island holiday, a life-changing wildlife experience or an unexpected long-term adventure on the road less travelled, we've got you covered.

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list:

  • The best August destinations for nature and ideal weather
  • The best longer-term travel experiences for August
  • Where to go inAugust for arts and cultural experiences
  • The best places tovisit for wildlife watching in August

Here are the 20 best places to visit in August…

The best August destinations for nature and ideal weather

1. Off-the-beaten-track Croatia

20 of the Best Places To Visit in August (1)

Sibenik, Croatia (Shutterstock)

Croatia's hottest (and driest) month is August- with temps climbingas high as 28°C - so of course the likes of Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar and other classic destinations will be packed with visitors making the most of the sun.

If you want to enjoy the sparkling weatherin Croatia without the crowds, head to the Mamma Mia island ofVis.Or for a city vibe, discover all of the amazing things to do in Sibenik, or Rovinj. But hurry, these gems are starting to be discovered.

Alternatively, why not skip Plitvice and Krka and head to one of Croatia's six lesser-visited national parks? Kornati may be tricky to visit, butit is perfect fortrue explorers. PaklenicaNational Park is another gem, ideal for hikers unafraid of a hot, hot hike.

2. Matera, Italy

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Matera, Italy (Shutterstock)

Materais one of Basilicata's biggest draws and was named one of two 2019 European Capitals of Culture. A few days is the perfect amount of time to delve deeper into how Matera turned its reputation around from 'Italy's shame' to 'iconic cultural hot spot'.

With highs of29°C in August, summer is the ideal time to explore its fascinating cave districts in the sun,enjoy the natural beauty of Polino National Park, Italy's largest, and sample the region's authentic cuisine. For a longer trip, rent a car and head towards Pompeii, Sorrento, or in the opposite direction to coastal Bari.

3. Medellin, Colombia

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Medellin, Colombia (Shutterstock)

August in Colombia, weather-wise, is a bit hit and miss. Whether you'll get sun or showers really depends on which region you're visiting, whether you're after a wildlife adventure in the Amazon or some time in the city.

One thing Medellin has in Augustthat makes up forits – at times – overcast appearance?Thespectacular 10-day celebration of nature, known asFeria de Flores(Festivals of the Flowers).

Every August, the city blooms with thebright colours of flowers, paraded down the streets. Hundreds of concerts, crafts sessions and floral parades take to the streets and fill the city's best venues. It's a must for any nature lover's travel wish list.

4. Off-the-beaten-track Greek island hopping

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(Video) 10 Best Places to Travel in August

Ithaca, one of our off-the-beaten-track Greek Island picks (Shutterstock)

Sunseekers won't be surprised to see Greece on our list for August. It's a classic summer holiday destination, whether you've booked with a travel agent, arrangedan island-hopping boat tour or you've planned your trip yourself.

As with Croatia, just because it'll be busy doesn't mean you can't enjoy the perks. After all, there's a reason it's so rammed.

Simply take the road(or waterway) less travelled to one of Greece's secret islands, for an unforgettablebeachside break with a difference. It'll be incredibly warm, whichever island you choose. Average highs in August are31°C, so make sure you're prepared.

Read next Top 10 little-known Greek islands

5. Tallinn, Estonia

When you think ofTallinn, you may find the peach-coloured Alexander Nevsky Cathedral springs to mind, surrounded bydroplets of crisp white snow.

We don't blame you. Though freezing, Estonia and its neighbours Latvia and Lithuania make fine winter breaks. Butthey shouldn't be overlookedin summer.

Walking through Tallinn's comprehensive Old Town and soaking up the atmosphere inFreedom Square is just as satisfying in the sun. With plenty of steep hills to climb, to get to the best views of the city, it's almost easier without all theice...

The best longer-term travel experiences to take on inAugust

6. Guyana & The Guianas

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The rainforest of French Guiana (Shutterstock)

South America's smallest wonders Guyana, French Guiana and Suriname are prime for visitors at the end of August. It's the perfect time to witnessthe breathtaking Kaieteur Falls in Guyana, follow in Papillon's footsteps in French Guiana, and sample Suriname's tasty, speciality rums.

Firstly, the weather'salways warm, butit's dry season on the Guianan coast during August, andFrench Guiana tends to be drier and warmer in August – as does Suriname.

All three countries are sandwiched between Venezuela and Brazil, so we'd say you're best off lengthening your trip and visiting all three at once. At least you'llhave the benefit of being as far off the beaten track in South America aspossible.

Read nextWhat a trip through the 3 Guianas is really like

7. Mongolia

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Mongolia (Shutterstock)

You can't really go wrong in Mongoliaat this time of year.Expect vibrantsteppesrich in shades of green during August, and just-right temperatures between 20°C and 25°C.

If you head to the mountains, you'll probably find it's slightly colder than everywhere else – arguably better conditions for longer treks, which won't require sweating it out in the heat. Wild campingand cycling are other must-do activities in August– as is heading to the Gobi Desertin the south.

It's also prime time to visitLake Khövsgöl in northern Mongolia, near the Russian border. The country's biggest and most beautiful freshwater lake dazzles in the sunlight, and seems to stretch for miles on end.

8. Northern Kyrgyzstan

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Burana Tower in Chuy Valley, northern Kyrgyzstan (Shutterstock)

August lands firmly in the middle of Kyrgyzstan's peak season (May to October), so certain areas will be packed with visitors and locals (here's looking at you, Lake Issyk-Kul).

However, it is a good time to take onthe epic hikes thatCentral Tien Shan (the 'Celestial Mountains' in Chinese) has to offer. The highest peak reaches7,439m, so this is no casual climb. You'll need to be an experienced walker, with a high-level of fitness to make the most of it.

(Video) THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AUGUST

9. Jodhpur, India

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Jodhpur, India (Shutterstock)

The Blue City of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is a travel photographer (and Instagram lover's) dream come true. A seemingly endless mazeof bluehouses, winding alleys, and colourful doors awaits.

Of course, there's much more to it than that. Expecthistory and art in the renowned, 15th centuryMehrangarh Fort. Admire the ornate decoration of Jaswant Thada. Get out into nature at the impressive Mandore Sculpture Garden, get active with water activities in Lake Kaylana, or picnic at the 12th century Balsamand Lake.

Visit in August particularly for bearable heat (lows of 26°C and highs of 34°C),and the good chance that you'll find somesavvy accommodationdeals. August is off-season, so though you won't find yourself a lone visitor at any stage, it's likely you may experience a tiny bit less of thetypical bustle.

10. Langkawi, Malaysia

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The stunning views of Kilim Geoforest Park in Langkawi, Malaysia (Shutterstock)

There's so much to explore in Malaysia, it almost seems unfair to single out the archipelago of Langkawi. Though we suppose, with more time, there's nothing to stop you heading further afield...

But withsuitably warm temps (often around 28°C to 31°C), incredibly natural beauty to marvel, cable cars and boat trips galore,and unusual wildlife sightings practically guaranteed it's anappealing all-rounderfor a sunny getaway without the'packaged holiday' feel.

The best August destinations for arts & culture

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A sign for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, in 2018 (Shutterstock)

In August, you won't struggle to find a variety of culture and entertainment festivals inmost of the major British and European cities. For the best of the best in summer fun, you need to head to the Scottish capital.

Not only does the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival and its world-class comedy and theatre take over the architecturally-stunningcity for the entire month of August, but you'll also find a host of other big name festivals.

Expect artsexhibitions, orchestras and dances at the Edinburgh International Festival, performances at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Festival – both throughout the month. Towards the end of August, there's a fireworks concert in the city centre, and a mix of multiculturaleventsat the Edinburgh Mela Festival on 31 August.

12. London, England

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London, England (Shutterstock)

Every month in London has something for everyone, but August really ups the ante in terms of arts and culture offerings for travellers.

As the name suggests, Greenwich + Docklands International Festival takes over south east London. Performance art takes place indoors and outdoors– expect everything from laser shows and colourful powder fights to stilt walkers and acrobats abseiling down historic buildings.

For classic music fans, BBC Proms has performances running throughout August.

As the month draws to a close, embrace the colourful madness of the iconic Notting Hill Carnival.The London Craft Beer Festival takes place in the middle of the month at Tobacco Dock, a former warehouse in Wapping.

And for thosefoodie travellers, the many street food markets dotted across London will delight in warmer months – go beyond Borough Market and try visiting Mercato Metropolitanoin Elephant and Castle, or Boxpark in Shorditch.

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13. Papua New Guinea

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Mount Hagen Cultural Show in Mount Hagen township, Papua New Guinea (Shutterstock)

The city ofMount Hagen in the western province of Papua New Guinea comes alive in the middle of August for days-long performances, feasts and musical festivitieshosted by locals during the Mount Hagen Cultural Show.

Drier than June and the coolest month of the year overall, the weather also makes a compelling argument for August as the best time to explore Papua New Guinea'sexotic cities and towns.

Of course, Papua New Guinea is a challenging destination andtruly off the well-trodden trail. As such, only very experienced travellers should plan to visit, keeping a close eye on theFCO's Official Travel Advicebefore going, too.

14. Guča, Serbia

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Guča, Serbia's famous Trumpet Festival (Shutterstock)

The Guča Trumpet Festival, known sometimes asDragačevski Sabo, is probably a little less well-known than the likes of the Edinburgh Fringe and Notting Hill Carnival.

Nevertheless, the small Serbian town of Guča comes alive for three days in early August for its annual festival, showcasing the best in brass music performances. Hundreds of thousands attend each year.

15. Tunisia

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The Roman ruins of Dougga in Tunisia (Shutterstock)

Tunisia's perhaps not the first place you'd think of for a short break with a focus on the arts. However, August provides a few opportunities to see a different side to this North African country.

Established in 1964, the International Festival of Carthage, is held every July and August, offering live music, theatre, opera and even a bit of ballet.

Dougga International Festival is another opportunity to experience live music – this time inthe ruins of a Roman amphitheatre, located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman city of Dougga. The festival ends in the first week of August.

The best places to visit for wildlife watching in August

16. Discover birds and monkeys in northern Ecuador

Ecuador is on South America's west coast.A delightful combination of the Andes, Amazon and theGalápagos Islands (just to name a few), it's home to many unique and colourfulwildlife species.No surprise then, that it's become one of our topAugust wildlifetrips.

Head to the northern part of the countryto give yourself the best chance of seeing the cheeky-looking squirrel monkey, a marmoset or tamarin in the wild.

Birdersin Ecuador have the opportunity to see around 1,600 species in total. Undeniably, it's one of the planet's best birdwatching countries. Staying in the north,you'll see rare macaws, the sleekAndean condor, hummingbirds aplenty and brightly-patterned toucans (again, to name a few). Get your binocularsready...

Read nextMore incredible things to do in Ecuador

17. Go polar bear watching in Arctic Canada

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Polar bears in the Canadian Arctic sunset (Shutterstock)

Summers in the Canadian Arctic are, unsurprisingly, rather short. They're also the best time to get out on the water in a Zodiac and do a bit of polar bear-spotting from your expedition boat.

As we all know, polar bears are best admired from a distance. They're nowhere near as cuddly as as they look. But you may have a chance of getting a little closer than usual, as the Zodiacs can get quite close.

Read nextWhat else can you do in Arctic Canada?

17. Whale watching in San Juan Islands, Washington State

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Whale-spotting from San Juan Islands (Shutterstock)

Hop on a Washington State Ferry fromAnacortes to reach four of the 172 San Juan Islands. The weather here is mild most of the year, but the sunniest time to come is during August –coincidentlyalso the best time to see killer whales.This is one of the top places in the world to see the black and white beauties.

San Juan is the most popular islands, with its Whale Museum and plenty of outdoor activities. If you want a more peaceful, wild experience, head to lesser-visited Orcas Island and take on the 6km climb up Mount Constitution. If you're lucky, you can spot Vancouver from the top on a clear day.

19. Watch macaws in Manu National Park, Peru

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Macaws in Manu National Park, Peru (Shutterstock)

Visit the south-east region of Peru in August and you'll find yourself stunned by the natural prowess of Manu National Park. Also classed as a BiosphereReserve, you'll be awed by itslushAmazonian jungle, and the striking Andean Highlands.

It's the perfect place for the avid birdwatcher to see the wow-worthy macaw in its natural habitat. These beautifulparrots – often amix of red, yellow, blue and green feathers – are best spotted collecting clay at'clay banks' or 'clay licks'around the park, to feed on later. It's quitean incredible sight.

August is typically the beginning of the season for the most sightings, with September and October also thought to be ideal months.

20. Meet orangutans in Borneo

20 of the Best Places To Visit in August (20)

A young orangutan in Borneo (Dreamstime)

Borneo's orangutans basked in the spotlight when Dame Judi Dench visited an orangutan sanctuary during filming of her documentary, Wild Borneo Adventure, for ITV.

August is one of the best times for us non-knighted folk to head to this South-East Asianisland paradise to try for a wild sighting.

Danum Valley in Sabah (in the northern part of the island) offers 400 sq km of rainforest reserve for wild orangutans to swing in. Travel along theKinabatangan River, too, to try and see these magnificent creatures in their homes.

Read nextThe best places to see orangutans revealed

21. See grizzly bears in Yellowstone National Park

20 of the Best Places To Visit in August (21)

Grizzly on the move in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA (Shutterstock)

Unlike polar bears, we think it's fair to say that grizzlies do look a little bit mean.They're quite elusive, too: there are only around 150 bears living within theYellowstone Natonal Park itself, or around 700 in the Greater Yellowstone Area.

To see one roaming, you'll needproper viewing kit. Wake before sunrise or wait until sunset and use dusk and dawn to to scour the areawith your telescope and/or binoculars.

Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley are two of your best sighting spots, butDunraven Pass,Swan Lake Flats and Gardiners Holeare also good places to try.

(Video) Best Travel Places in August

FAQs

Where is good weather in August? ›

If you're on the coast, it will usually feel cooler. If you want to escape the heat and high humidity, consider Northern Europe or Scandinavia. Or head for the mountains: the Alps will be sunny and warm with low humidity. The Caribbean (31ºC) and Bali (29ºC) are popular long-haul options in August.

Where is the cheapest place to holiday in August? ›

14 Best Cheap Places to Travel in August
  1. Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas at night. ...
  2. Berlin, Germany. Brandenburg Gate. ...
  3. Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Dunn's River Falls near Ocho Rios. ...
  4. Barbados. Bottom Bay, Barbados. ...
  5. Cancun, Mexico. Aerial view of Cancun. ...
  6. Key West, Florida, USA. Aerial view of Key West. ...
  7. Quito, Ecuador. ...
  8. New York City, New York, USA.
3 Jan 2022

Is August a good time to travel? ›

August is an extremely popular month to travel, especially to Europe, when temperatures soar. Prices tend to skyrocket, too, as the school holiday rush means that families nab flights to make the most of their fixed six weeks off. Of course, there are brilliant places to visit all over the world during August.

Where can I go on holiday in August 2023? ›

Best places to travel in August 2023
  • Australia. August is an excellent time to visit northern Australia, which experiences dry, sunny and warm conditions, making all areas easily accessible. ...
  • Borneo. ...
  • Sri Lanka. ...
  • Iceland. ...
  • Tanzania. ...
  • Brazil. ...
  • Mauritius. ...
  • Ecuador.
3 Aug 2022

Which place is best for honeymoon in August? ›

The Best Places to Honeymoon in August
  • The Best Places to Honeymoon in August.
  • Indian Ocean. Mauritius.
  • South Pacific. The Islands of Tahiti.
  • Greece.
  • Kenya.
  • Maldives.
  • South Pacific. Cook Islands.
  • Barbados.

Where is hot August 2022? ›

Hottest: Turkey, Rhodes, Cyprus & Sharm el Sheikh

In terms of sea temperatures, Bodrum and Marmaris see around 25°C, while further east you can expect 27°C to 28°C in Cyprus and around Antalya in Turkey.

Where is it not too hot in August? ›

Where is not too hot in August? Our top 10 destinations
  • CORNWALL, ENGLAND. AVERAGE AUGUST TEMPERATURE: 19°C. You can rely on the British seaside to never get too hot. ...
  • MANCORA, PERU. AVERAGE AUGUST TEMPERATURE: 21°C. ...
  • STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. AVERAGE AUGUST TEMPERATURE: 22°C.
5 Nov 2019

Where is hot in August in the world? ›

Hot places in August
LocationAvg. TempSunshine (Hrs)
Abu Dhabi36 °C12
Cancun28 °C11
Bodrum28 °C10
Dominican Republic28 °C10
6 more rows

Where is the cheapest warm place to vacation? ›

Mexico. Unsurprisingly, Mexico makes the list of the cheapest places to travel in 2022. The country has long ranked as an affordable and easy-to-reach destination for many Americans; reasonably priced direct flights are abundant.

What's the cheapest country to visit? ›

14 Of the cheapest countries to visit
  1. Cambodia. Southeast Asia is a notoriously cheap area to visit. ...
  2. Laos. Laos is another affordable country in Southeast Asia. ...
  3. Vietnam. ...
  4. Indonesia. ...
  5. Nepal. ...
  6. Morocco. ...
  7. Nicaragua. ...
  8. El Salvador.

Where is not rainy season in August? ›

In particular, August is a good month to visit most regions in North India, i.e. Rajasthan, Delhi, Varanasi and the surrounding region. August is a great month to visit Leh and Ladakh in the Himalayas as the weather is clear with minimal or no rain.

Is it worth going to Maldives in August? ›

August is the most favourable month to plan a holiday in these beautiful islands making it a perfect blend of all the three things. Maldives is a destination, which is hot all around the year influenced by monsoons. However, August is considered to be the low season as you might experience some rainfalls.

How is Maldives in August? ›

Maldives Weather August remains hot and humid for the entire month as it is the middle of the monsoon season. Although the tropical climate of Maldives has rainfall throughout the year, the month of August sees torrential rainfall. The daily sunlight is for seven hours only.

Is Bali good in August? ›

August is a great time to visit the tropical island of Bali which has a long duration of monsoons from October to April. August is therefore quite dry and you need not worry about incessant showers. The weather in Bali during August is relatively warm with the temperatures ranging between 29ºC to 23ºC.

Which part of Australia is best to visit in August? ›

Here's our list of 6 top spots to visit in August.
  1. Uluru, NT.
  2. Port Stephens, NSW. ...
  3. Cairns, QLD. ...
  4. Litchfield National Park, NT. ...
  5. Fraser Island, Queensland. Average temperatures: 14.1 degrees Celsius to 25.0 degrees Celsius. ...
  6. Flinders Ranges & Outback, SA. Average temperatures: 7.6 degrees Celsius – 21.0 degrees Celsius. ...

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