12 Cool Destinations in the World To Beat the Heat in August

In August, temperatures in many places worldwide continue to please travelers with intense heat, wall-to-wall sunshine, and clear skies. Take Athens, for example. In August, Athens averages daily temperatures of 81°F (27°C). While these temperatures are perfect for a late summer vacation, they aren’t so good for travelers who don’t like the heat.

Luckily, the heat can be avoided, as many destinations don’t experience intense heat in August. To learn more, we’ve compiled a list of 12 cool destinations where you can escape the heat. We picked these entries based on destinations that experience temperatures below 72°F (22°C) and little to no rain in August.

Table of Contents

Reykjavik, Iceland

We’ll kickstart our list with what many people consider the ultimate cool destination in August. Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is a famous coastal city known for its fascinating architecture, vibrant nightlife scene, and yearly festivals. However, the city is most loved for its easy access to Iceland’s Ring Road.

Also referred to as Route 1, the Ring Road is a national road that circles the entire country, connecting most towns and major tourist attractions. You’ll find impressive attractions along the 821-mile (1,322-kilometer) road, such as Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Meanwhile, you’ll find popular locations in Reykjavik like Hallgrimskirkja, Rainbow Street, and the Sun Voyager. In August, the average temperature in the city is 50°F (10°C).

Copenhagen, Denmark

In August, Copenhagen is a cooler destination in every sense. First, temperatures in the Danish capital rarely surpass 63°F (17°C), so you can expect a pleasant temperature perfect for exploring. Second, the city is a beautiful destination jam-packed with vibrant architecture, stunning scenery, and delicious cuisine. What more could we ask for?

There’s something for everyone in the city, whether you want to explore lush gardens and ride theme park rides or discover historic sites and sample authentic cuisine. However, there are some places you can’t afford to miss, including Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Palaces, the Little Mermaid Statue, the Old Stock Exchange, and the iconic Nyhavn.

Dorset, United Kingdom

In Dorset, travelers can enjoy a classic British seaside escape, hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coast, hike in the lush countryside, and tuck into traditional pub grub in one of thousands of British pubs. If that sounds like an adventure-packed vacation you’d enjoy, get those flights booked.

Dorset is a county in southwest England. It features a long stretch on the English Channel and is recognizable for its unique rock formations, such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cave. When you’re not hunting for fossils on the beaches between Charmouth and Lyme Regis, take life slowly by enjoying the scenery and expansive beach in West Bay. Temperatures in Dorset in August range between 59°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C).

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the Argentine capital, is a fantastic city offering travelers many things to see and do. However, the city is arguably best known for its fascinating architecture, lively nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and traditional cuisine. In August, you can expect lows of 50°F (10°C) and highs of 63°F (17°C).

In Buenos Aires, spend most of your time discovering iconic sights. Notable attractions include Plaza de Mayo, Palacio Barolo, and Cementerio de la Recoleta. After a busy day of exploring the city, enjoy a traditional dish at the Buenos Aires Market to fuel yourself ahead of a night of partying. The Palermo Hollywood District is a popular party hub.

Cusco, Peru

Cusco, Peru, is another excellent South American destination in August if you want a cooler summer vacation. Temperatures throughout the month vary dramatically, with average lows and highs of 37°F (2°C) and 68°F (20°C). The former capital of the Incan Empire, this city is an iconic destination nestled 11,151 feet (3,399 meters) in the Peruvian Andes.

The city is best known for its breathtaking ancient architecture, Incan ruins that defy logic, and the lively central square (Plaza de Armas), where travelers can find Incan wall ruins, beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, and the highest Irish pub in the world, Paddy’s Irish Pub. Don’t miss Cusco Cathedral, Saqsaywaman, and Mercado Central de San Pedro.

Gijón, Spain

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If you want to enjoy a Spanish summer seaside retreat without the intense August heat in Southern Spain, look no further than Gijón in Northern Spain. Gijón is a large coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, hilltop park, and maritime heritage. In August, you can expect average daily highs of 64°F (18°C).

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Playa de San Lorenzo is the main beach in the city. It features soft golden sand, emerald waters, and beachfront amenities, including shops and restaurants. Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, visit the city’s main attractions. Noteworthy places in Gijón include the Old Fisherman’s Quarter of Cimadevilla, Santa Catalina Hill, and the 18th-century Revillagigedo Palace.

Riga, Latvia

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The next cool destination on our list is Riga, Latvia’s Capital. Located on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of the River Daugava, this city is an incredible place for a late summer city break. Temperatures typically hover around 66°F (19°C). The city is a cultural center home to many museums, historic architecture, and famous concert halls.

You’ll likely spend most of your time in the city visiting local landmarks, exploring the medieval Old Town, and trying authentic Latvian cuisine in a traditional restaurant. The pedestrian-only Old Town is where most of the action is found. Local shops, restaurants, and popular attractions like Livu Square are here. Famous attractions in the city include the House of the Black Heads, the Freedom Monument, and Riga Central Market.

Tallinn, Estonia

Just a four-hour drive from Riga is the Estonian capital, Tallinn. In August, the city experiences average temperatures of 63°F (17°C), with highs occasionally reaching 70°F (21°C). Tallinn is a beautiful city, loved most for its cobblestone Old Town, tall historic walls, and fascinating history.

History buffs enjoy visiting Tallinn to discover the city’s impressive architecture and historic landmarks. Popular locations include the Tallinn Town Hall, Kiek in de Kök defense tower, and St. Olaf’s Church—no, not the snowman from Frozen, although he was an absolute hero. Other Tallinn attractions you shouldn’t miss include Kadriorg Park, Balti Jaama Turg Market, and Tallinn Main Square.

Johannesburg, South Africa

While most people visiting South Africa fly into Cape Town, Johannesburg is a better choice in August because Cape Town and the Western Cape experience a lot of rainfall. In August, South Africa’s biggest city and the Gauteng Province capital experiences dry and mild weather, with temperatures averaging 66°F (19°C).

Once home to Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela, this sprawling city is now home to many significant attractions, including the Mandela House Museum, the Apartheid Museum, and Constitution Hill. Once you’ve learned more about the city, visit Gold Reef City Theme Park, Johannesburg Zoo, and the botanical gardens. Going on an African game reserve safari from Johannesburg is also possible.

Sydney, Australia

Next, we have Sydney, one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. During Australia’s summer (December to February), Sydney’s temperatures regularly hit highs of 81°F (27°C). Meanwhile, in August, temperatures sit at a pleasant 64°F (18°C), making Sydney an excellent place to visit if you want to explore the city without the intense heat on your back.

However, this also means you have no excuse but to see and do as much as possible during your visit. Spend your days discovering Sydney’s most famous attractions. Take photos outside the Sydney Opera House, explore the vast Darling Harbour, and have plenty of beach fun at Bondi Beach.

Seattle, United States

The penultimate destination on our list is Seattle, a large city located on the Puget Sound in the Pacific Northwest. In August, Seattle’s average temperature is just 64°F (18°C), so you can comfortably explore the city. Regarding what the city has to offer, the opportunities are endless.

The city has countless attractions, a picturesque cityscape with tall skyrise buildings, and many cafes, bars, and restaurants. Must-see attractions include the iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Museum of Pop Culture, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Outside the city, you’ll have access to thousands of acres of parklands, evergreen forests, mountains, and waterways, so pack your hiking boots ready to explore the great outdoors.

Vancouver, Canada

The final place on our list is Vancouver, Canada. August is the hottest month in Vancouver, but temperatures still only average 64°F (18°C), with daily highs of 72°F (22°C). With a dry climate to match, August is a great time to explore this beautiful city. Vancouver is best known for its stunning natural surroundings, friendly people, rich cultures, and scenic views.

You’ll find an incredibly diverse range of things to do in the city. Spend your time admiring the city skyline from Prospect Point, watching the Steam Clock in Gastown, and exploring the North Shore Mountains on a hiking adventure. Other points of interest include the Museum of Anthropology, VanDusen Botanical Garden, and Science World.