Experiencing a new holiday destination in August can be a delightful experience, as the peak summer season provides optimal weather conditions for outdoor activities, visiting must-see attractions, relaxing on the beach or by the coast and enjoying alfresco dining well into the evening time.
The best holiday destinations to go in August include:
Best August Holiday Destinations
1. Tuscany, Italy
Why visit Tuscany in August?
Tuscany is especially beautiful in August, with warm temperatures, long sunny days and a wonderfully relaxed summer atmosphere. It's a great time to explore the region's rolling countryside, vineyards and historic cities while soaking up the unhurried pace of life across its towns and villages.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Explore Florence, home to Renaissance art, impressive architecture and famous landmarks including the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
- Visit Siena, a well-preserved medieval city known for the Palio horse race and the historic Piazza del Campo.
- Discover Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower and striking Romanesque architecture.
- Wander through San Gimignano, a hilltop town known for its medieval towers, cobbled streets and countryside views.
- Relax in Montecatini Terme, a historic spa town known for its thermal baths and elegant architecture.
2. Côte d'Azur, France
Why visit Côte d'Azur in August?
The Côte d'Azur is simply spectacular. The Mediterranean shimmers in the summer heat, the evenings are long and balmy, and the French Riviera buzzes with an energy that is hard to match anywhere else in the world. It's the ideal month to soak up the glitz and glamour of Cannes, venture along the coastline to discover charming towns and villages, and experience the very best of the south of France.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Visit the iconic Promenade de la Croisette, where beaches, luxury hotels and boutiques line one of Europe's best-known seafront boulevards, then head up to Le Suquet for views across the bay.
- Spend time in Nice, exploring the markets and historic streets of the Old Town before strolling along the Promenade des Anglais.
- Explore Antibes, known for its historic ramparts, marina and relaxed Riviera atmosphere.
- Discover Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a hilltop village filled with galleries, cafés and views across the surrounding countryside.
- Visit Grasse, famous for its perfume heritage and nearby lavender fields.
- Enjoy a day in Monaco, home to a famous harbour, grand casino and dramatic Mediterranean setting.
3. Costa de la Luz, Spain
Why visit Costa de la Luz in August?
August is one of the most popular times to experience Costa de la Luz at its best. Expect long sunny days, warm Atlantic breezes and lively coastal towns filled with a relaxed summer atmosphere. It is a great time for beach days, evening walks along the shore and exploring nearby historic cities, while still finding quieter stretches of coastline compared to other Spanish resorts.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Take a day trip to Seville, one of Spain’s most striking cities, known for the Alcázar Palace, Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower.
- Explore Niebla, a small medieval town enclosed by well-preserved ancient walls and gateways that reflect its long history.
- Visit Huelva province, where Columbus planned his voyage to the Americas and where inland history meets long Atlantic beaches.
- Cross the border into Portugal to visit Vila Real, a historic northern city known for its baroque architecture and cultural heritage.
- Enjoy time along the Costa de la Luz coastline, with long sandy beaches and a relaxed Atlantic coastal setting.
4. Lake Como, Italy
Why visit Lake Como in August?
It's just is a magical time to visit Lake Como, when the surrounding hills and mountains are at their most green, creating a striking backdrop to the lake. The long, warm days work well for exploring villas, lakeside promenades and small towns around the water, giving the region its relaxed and timeless feel.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Take a boat trip across Lake Como, passing villas and stopping in Bellagio, known for its lake views and narrow streets.
- Travel on the Bernina Express through the Alps, with views across mountain landscapes and onward time in St Moritz.
- Visit Milan on a guided tour, combining historic landmarks with modern city life and shopping streets.
- Explore the gardens of Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, both known for their lakeside settings and landscaped grounds.
- Spend free time in lakeside towns, with options for walking, dining and visiting smaller villages around the lake.
5. Canada
Why visit Canada in August?
It's one of the best times to explore Canada's stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, with long sunny days and warm temperatures making it the most inviting time of year to visit. Whether you're drawn to the dramatic peaks and glaciers on our Western Canada & the Rockies tour, or historic cities on our Canada's Maple Leaf Trail tour, August offers ideal conditions to experience it all.
Top attractions and things to do:
- Explore Vancouver, a coastal city that blends a lively urban centre with easy access to natural scenery, including the waterfront setting of Stanley Park.
- Discover Banff National Park, home to Bow Falls, Hoodoo rock formations and the turquoise waters of Lake Louise.
- Travel along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic routes in the Rockies, with glaciers, peaks and valley viewpoints.
- Visit Toronto, Canada’s largest city, known for its skyline, diverse neighbourhoods and attractions such as the CN Tower
- Experience Niagara Falls up close on a boat ride along the river to the base of the falls, one of the world’s great natural landmarks.
- Discover Quebec City, the only walled city in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ready to travel in August?
We have a range of incredible options to help you find your ideal holiday. Browse our website now to discover a variety of fantastic travel destinations for August.
