Travel destinations in August are more in demand than ever – no wonder, because for many people August is the classic month for summer holidays. The summer holidays are in full swing, the weather is (mostly) good – and we all crave sun, sea or adventure. It is high season in Europe, with destinations like Italy, Spain, Turkey and Greece being particularly popular.
But long-distance trips are also worthwhile, as many regions now enjoy ideal conditions. But where should you actually travel to? Whether it’s a relaxing beach holiday, pure nature or exciting cities – there are plenty of options worldwide in August. In this article, we show you 12 great travel destinations in August that are particularly worthwhile. Have fun browsing and planning!
- 1. Germany – Alps & Lakes
- 2. Italy – South Tyrol & Dolomites
- 3. Norway – Fjords & Midnight Sun
- 4. Greece – Cyclades & Crete
- 5. Iceland – Pure nature in midsummer
- 6. Canada – West and East
- 7. Indonesia – Bali & Gili Islands
- 8. South Africa – Safari & Winter sun
- 9. Peru – Andes & Machu Picchu
- 10. Croatia – Coast & Islands
- 11. Japan – Hokkaido
- 12. Portugal – Azores & Algarve
- Other travel destinations in August
- Destinations in August – Conclusion
1. Germany – Alps & Lakes
In August, Germany can once again become truly summery – ideal for an active holiday in the Alps or a relaxing beach holiday on one of the many lakes, e.g. E.g. at Eibsee, Königssee or Chiemsee. Perfect for hiking, cycling or simply enjoying yourself.
Regions such as the Berchtesgadener Land, the Allgäu Alps or the Bavarian Prealps not only offer beautiful nature, but also plenty of cozy accommodations, alpine huts with Kaiserschmarrn (sweet pancakes), and options for short or multi-day hut tours. Those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere can swim in one of the Bavarian lakes, go stand-up paddling, or simply take a pedal boat ride across the water. Ideal for anyone who wants that summer feeling without traveling far.
Quick Facts Germany
- Type of trip: Nature, hiking, relaxation
- Climate: 20 °C – 30 °C
- Price range: €80 – €120 p. p./day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: Michael Müller Bavarian Alps*, Kompass Hiking Guide Alps*
Blog posts and travel tips for Germany
- Franconia round trip – highlights of our trip through 15 Franconian towns
- Short break in Bad Tölz – our romantic break in the Tölzer Land
- The hikearound Herzogstand & the beautiful Walchensee
2. Italy – South Tyrol & Dolomites
While the south of Italy is often scorching hot in August, the north offers a wonderful alternative. In South Tyrol or the Dolomites, the weather is pleasantly warm, the landscape spectacular, and there are plenty of outdoor activities. Particularly beautiful: the mountain lakes such as Lake Braies or Lake Carezza – perfect photo spots and refreshing spots at the same time.
Many cable cars will take you comfortably to the higher elevations, from where you can start great panoramic hikes. Alpine pastures also tempt you with regional specialties such as speck, dumplings, and apple strudel. If you still haven’t had enough after hiking, you can combine culture and wellness in cities such as Meran or Bressanone.
Quick Facts Italy (South Tyrol)
- Type of trip: Active holiday, nature, enjoyment
- Climate: 18 °C – 28 °C
- Price level: 100 € – 140 € p. p./day
- Travel guide: Rother Hiking Guide Dolomites*, Lonely Planet Italy North*
Blog posts and travel tips for South Tyrol
- Therme Meran in South Tyrol – Short break with wellness & bathing fun
- South Tyrol holiday in winterter – Our road trip through Northern Italy
- Hiking in the Dolomites (South Tyrol) – My best tips & Experiences
3. Norway – Fjords & Midnight Sun
In August, Norway is still pleasantly warm (for Nordic conditions), and you have long, bright days. Perfect for exploring the fjords by car or hiking – for example, to the famous Preikestolen or Trolltunga. The west coast around Bergen and Ålesund is ideal for a road trip – one postcard-perfect spot follows the next.
For those who prefer a quieter experience, head north, perhaps to Lofoten or Senja, where you’ll find wild beaches, mountains, and small fishing villages. With luck, you might even spot the first signs of the Northern Lights. Norway may not be cheap in the summer, but the scenery is simply stunning.
Quick Facts Norway
- Type of trip: Road trip, nature, active
- Climate: 15 °C – 25 °C
- Price range: Expect approximately €150 to €300 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: DuMont Norway*
Blog posts and travel tips for Norway
4. Greece – Cyclades & Crete
Hot, sunny, and perfect for a beach holiday: The Greek islands are a classic in August. Those who want to escape the heat a little can opt for islands with more wind, such as Paros, Naxos, or Amorgos. Crete offers plenty of variety even in midsummer – from relaxed beaches to traditional mountain villages and hiking trails through gorges like Samaria or Imbros.
Greece in August is also a feast for all those who love good food – tzatziki, grilled fish, moussaka, and Greek salad taste best right by the sea. In the evening, the harbor towns invite you to stroll, and those who like to be active can let off steam with windsurfing, snorkeling, or island hopping.
Quick Facts Greece
- Type of trip: Beach, island hopping, culture
- Climate: 28 °C – 36 °C
- Price level: Expect around €100 to €150 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: LONELY PLANET Travel Guide Greece*
Blog posts and travel tips for Greece
- Chalkidiki round trip – The most beautiful highlights and travel tips
- Rhodes sights – 12 great Highlights on the island
- Our Rhodes travel tips including sights & insider tips
- Short break on Corfu – Our best tips and highlights
5. Iceland – Pure Nature in Midsummer
August is the warmest month in Iceland – perfect for a road trip with a camper or rental car. The days are long, many roads (even in the highlands) are well-maintained, and the weather is often at its best. Perfect if you want to experience Iceland’s magnificent nature up close.
Highlights include waterfalls like Gullfoss or Skógafoss, geysers, black beaches, and, of course, the famous Ring Road, which takes you all the way around the island. If you’re looking for something special, you can go whale watching in Husavik, bathe in hot springs, or hike in the highlands. Iceland isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every cent – especially if you love nature.
Quick Facts Iceland
- Type of trip: Active, round trip, sightseeing
- Climate: 10 °C to 20 °C (depending on the region)
- Price level: Expect approximately €150 to €250 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: DuMont Iceland*, Stefan Loose Travel Guide Iceland*
Blog posts and travel tips for Iceland
- Click here for our Iceland travel blog
- Reykjavik Sights – The Coolest Spots in the City
- Iceland Sights – 30 Magical Highlights on the Island
- Routes for an Iceland Round Trip – Recommendations for 1 and 2 Weeks
- Iceland Packing List – What You Shouldn’t Miss in Your Suitcase!
6. Canada – West and East
Nature, vastness, and adventure: Western Canada is simply stunning in August. Whether in Banff and Jasper National Parks or on Vancouver Island – here you can hike, camp, canoe, or simply enjoy the scenery. You’ll travel past turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, and through endless forests. With a bit of luck, you might see moose, bears, or even whales.
If you’d rather head to the East, Nova Scotia is a great alternative – less well-known, but just as scenic. Coastal roads, lighthouses, small fishing villages and plenty of lobster await you there. August is also ideal here: stable temperatures, long days and perfect conditions for a road trip. And if you fancy a bit of city life, you can combine the trip with a stop in Vancouver, Calgary or Halifax.
Quick Facts Canada
- Type of trip: Outdoor, road trip, nature
- Climate: 20 °C – 30 °C
- Price level: Expect around €100 to €150 pp per day (mid-range)
- Travel guides: DuMont Canada East*, DuMont Canada West & Alaska*
Blog posts and travel tips for Canada
- Nova Scotia round trip – Experience eastern Canada
- Our podcast episode about the Nova Scotia round trip
- My Alaska round trip including highlights and travel tips
7. Indonesia – Bali & Gili Islands
Dry season in Bali – perfect travel weather! In August, it’s warm but not too humid, and the beaches are stunning. The small Gili Islands are also great for relaxing, snorkeling, or diving. A great mix of culture, nature, and beach vibes.
In Bali, you can marvel at rice fields in Ubud, climb volcanoes, relax on a yoga retreat, or hang out in hip cafés in Canggu. The Gili Islands (especially Gili Air) are car-free and ideal if you like peace and quiet. Indonesia is also comparatively inexpensive – perfect for a longer break.
Quick Facts Indonesia
- Type of trip: Active, round trip, beach
- Climate: 25 °C to 32 °C (depending on the region)
- Price level: Expect approximately €50 to €100 per person per day (middle class)
- Travel guide: DuMont Indonesia*
Blog posts and travel tips for Indonesia
- Banda Neira – The little paradise of the Indonesian Moluccas
- Nusa Penida – Sights, beaches and travel tips
- Travel report | Lombok Sights, Tips and Excursions
- Bukit Lawang – a journey to the last wild orangutans
- Thousand Islands Indonesia – a pearl far away from mass tourism
8. South Africa – Safari & Winter Sun
August is the dry season and therefore ideal for safaris – especially in Kruger National Park, where you can now see the “Big Five” particularly well. It’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere, but the climate is pleasantly mild and dry. Perfect for those who want to spend a lot of time outdoors.
A real highlight is the Panorama Route, which you can easily combine with a safari. Spectacular views such as the Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes await along the route. The landscape is varied, the roads well-developed – ideal for a short road trip before or after your time in the national park.
Quick Facts South Africa
- Type of trip: Safari, nature, road trip
- Climate: 10 °C – 25 °C (depending on the region)
- Price level: Expect approximately €100 to €200 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: DuMont South Africa*
Blog posts and travel tips for South Africa
9. Peru – Andes & Machu Picchu
In the Andes, August is the dry season. The days are sunny, the visibility is clear, and it almost never rains. Perfect conditions, then, for exploring Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu—whether on foot or by train.
In addition to the famous Inca Trail, there are also quieter alternatives such as the Salkantay or Lares Trek. Cusco is a great base with plenty of history, delicious food, and good accommodations. If you want to see even more, you can also fly further to Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, or the rainforest.
Quick Facts Peru
- Type of trip: Culture, nature, trekking
- Climate: 5 °C – 25 °C (depending on altitude)
- Price level: Expect approximately €40 to €80 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: Stefan Loose Travel Guide Peru*
Blog post and travel tips about Peru
10. Croatia – Coast & Islands
Croatia is hot and crowded in August – but if you head for smaller islands or lesser-known places like Šibenik, Vis, or the Kvarner Bay, things will be much more relaxed. Perfect for a beach holiday, Mediterranean flair, and crystal-clear water.
During the day, you can swim in hidden bays or explore charming old towns; in the evening, you can sit by the water with a glass of wine. Particularly enjoyable: an island-hopping trip by ferry or a sailing trip. Croatia is relatively easy to reach and for many it is a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Quick Facts Croatia
- Type of trip: Beach, island hopping, sightseeing
- Climate: 28 °C – 35 °C
- Price level: Expect around €70 to €100 pp per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: DuMont Croatia*
11. Japan – Hokkaido
While it gets really hot and humid in southern Japan in August, Hokkaido is much more pleasant. Japan’s northernmost island boasts nature, mountains, and a mild climate – ideal for a summer vacation off the beaten track in Japan.
You can hike through national parks like Daisetsuzan, relax at hot springs, or watch whales along the coast. Hokkaido is also exciting from a culinary perspective: fresh fish, ramen, and local specialties like melons and dairy products are all part of the experience. Perfect for anyone seeking nature, tranquility, and authentic Japan.
Quick Facts Japan (Hokkaido)
- Type of trip: Active holiday, nature, culture
- Climate: 20 °C – 27 °C
- Price level: Expect around €100 to €150 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: DuMont Japan*
Blog posts and travel tips for Japan
12. Portugal – Azores & Algarve
Mild, green, and wonderfully quiet: The Azores are ideal for anyone who loves nature and enjoys being active. Although August is peak season, it remains considerably more relaxed than on the Portuguese mainland or Madeira. On São Miguel, you can hike through crater lakes, try out hot springs, or watch whales and dolphins. Flores, Faial, and Pico are also absolutely worth seeing and can easily be combined by ferry.
If sun and sand are more your thing, the Algarve is just the thing. Golden cliffs, hidden coves, surfing beaches, and charming towns like Lagos or Tavira await you here. It can get hot in August, but with a sea breeze and a dip in the Atlantic water, it’s easily bearable. Azores or Algarve – Portugal offers both in August: peace and nature or beach life and relaxation. Plenty of sun.
Quick Facts Portugal (Azores)
- Type of trip: Nature, active, relaxing
- Climate: 20 °C – 28 °C
- Price level: Expect around €100 to €150 per person per day (mid-range)
- Travel guide: DuMont Portugal*
Blog posts and travel tips for Portugal
- The most beautiful sights in Porto
- Lisbon – The most beautiful sights and highlights
- The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve
- Algarve Sights – The most beautiful places & Highlights
- Algarve round trip – route for 10 days including highlights
More travel destinations in August
Long-haul destinations
Wellness
City trips
Europe
Destinations in August – Conclusion
August practically screams for a summer vacation. It’s warm, the days are long, and the choice of destinations is huge. In Europe, sunny classics like Greece, Croatia, Italy, or Spain await you – perfect if you’re looking for beaches, good food, and a Mediterranean lifestyle. If you prefer an active lifestyle, the Alps, Scandinavia, or the Azores are perfect for varied hikes, nature, and fresh air.
But long-distance trips are also worthwhile: In Indonesia, it’s the dry season, in Peru, you can explore Machu Picchu on clear days, and in South Africa, the best months for safaris begin. Whether you want to soak up the sun, discover something new, or just get away – in August, (almost) anything is possible.