12 Top Summer Destinations in Europe To Visit in August

Planning for your August escape? Remember that August is the peak season in many destinations, so your choice can make or break your summer. However, you have nothing to worry about, as we have handpicked destinations that will make your August vacation unforgettable.

Whether you are a city, island, or beach person, we have covered you in this article. From stunning Greek beaches to bustling cities, you will not miss a unique and charming summer destination on this list.

Table of Contents

Corfu, Greece

European Towns That Are Like Stepping into a Fairytale Corfu Town, Greece — © Aleh Varanishcha / Adobe Stock

Corfu, one of the most charming Greek islands, offers stunning beaches and a Mediterranean aura in August. With its lush green landscape and historic sites, it’s no wonder Corfu attracts so many visitors all year round. An August escape here is one you’ll never forget.

Corfu Town’s Old Fortress and pastel-colored Venetian architecture are an impressive sight. That aside, this island is home to some of the best beaches in Greece, including Beach Paleokastritsa and Agios Gordios. Most of them are well-organized and ideal for families. Beyond the beaches, Corfu offers hiking, cycling, sailing, and many more active exploration opportunities.

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is a dreamy Mediterranean island off the west coast of Italy. It is a charming August destination, especially when the summer heat becomes unbearable. Its turquoise waters and white sand beaches are a perfect escape from the summer heat.

Some of Sardinia’s most picturesque towns are on its coastline, like Alghero, which is known for its cobblestone streets and Catalan-style architecture. Or Cala Gonone, a quiet fishing village with stunning beaches between dramatic limestone cliffs. Head to Porto Cervo for nightlife, where yachts dock, and people gather at cafes along the harbor.

After a day in the sun, refuel with Sardinian specialties like malloreddus pasta and pecorino romano cheese.

Hvar, Croatia

With an average of 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, you’re almost guaranteed beach-friendly weather in Hvar. The turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea invite you for a swim at one of the many coves and bays along Hvar’s coastline. When it comes to beach hopping, Hvar has no shortage. Some top options to consider include Mlini Beach Mekicevica Beach, Pokonji Dol Beach, Plaza Sveta Nedelja, Zavala Beach and Robinson Beach.

Once you’ve had your fill of sunbathing and swimming, explore Hvar Town, known for its marble streets and historic architecture like St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For panoramic views of the Pakleni islands, hike up to the 16th-century Fortica Fortress. Beyond the glitz, venture into Hvar’s serene lavender fields and vineyards in the island’s interior.

Naxos, Greece

Spending your August holiday in Naxos will leave you feeling recharged and nostalgic for the Mediterranean seascape. Spend lazy days sunbathing and swimming at the famous Agios Georgios beach, known for its turquoise waters and soft sand. If you want a variety, other Naxos beaches you will love include Plaka, Aliko, and Agios Prokopios.

The main town of Naxos, also called Chora, is a perfect place to wander the cobblestone streets, shop for local handicrafts, and sample traditional Greek cuisine at open-air tavernas.

A must-see is the Portara, an ancient marble gate that stands as the entrance to an unfinished temple. You can walk up the stone path for panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands. Hike through the lush trails of Mount Zas, Naxos’ highest peak for outdoor adventures.

Madeira, Portugal

Madeira is a Portuguese Atlantic Ocean archipelago filled with charming cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and lush landscapes.

In August, the summer season is in full swing in Madeira. You can expect warm weather, with average highs of 77°F (25°C) and minimal chance of rain. It’s a perfect time to explore the island’s natural wonders, like the massive rocky cliffs of Cabo Girao, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.

Madeira is also a haven for adventurous activities. You can go hiking along the island’s levadas, which are narrow irrigation channels that wind through the mountains. You could also explore some of its breathtaking beaches, like Praia do Porto do Seixal, Porto Santo Beach, Praia do Vigário, Machico Bay Beach, and Calheta Beach.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia’s southernmost city, Dubrovnik, makes for a charming summer escape. Walking the old city’s limestone walls overlooking the Adriatic Sea is a must-do activity when visiting this Mediterranean gem. The historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with architecture, monasteries, and churches dating back to the 1300s.

Also, spend an afternoon strolling the stone-paved Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. As evening falls, find a spot along the walls or at a cliffside bar to watch the sunset paint the sky in oranges and pinks over the sea.

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To cool off the summer heat, explore some of Dubrovnik’s most loved beaches, like Banje Beach, Sveti Jakov Beach, Beach Kupari, Lapad Beach, Sunj Beach, Copacabana Beach, and Bellevue Beach.

Barcelona, Spain

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Barcelona is one of the top summer destinations in Europe, thanks to its Mediterranean coastline, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. The summer heat is in full effect in August, but the city’s energy is electric. You can always beat the heat by swimming on the city’s beaches. Barceloneta Beach is the most popular public beach with lifeguards and rental chairs.

Another must-visit destination is Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi’s iconic church. Its gothic spires rise high into the sky, while the interior is awash with colors from the massive stained-glass windows.

That aside, Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous walkway, features trendy shops, restaurants, and street performers. It is a great spot to explore rich Catalan culture.

Svalbard, Norway

If you’re looking for a truly unique summer destination, head to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. Located in the Arctic Ocean, Svalbard’s landscape is breathtaking, with massive glaciers, fjords, and beaches. Given its location so far north, from April to August, Svalbard experiences 24 hours of daylight, so you have plenty of time to explore the scenic natural surroundings.

Some of the summer highlights in Svalbard include whale watching, where you can spot enormous whales like humpbacks and belugas in their natural habitat. You can also go hiking through the midnight sun, dog sledding on wheels instead of snow, or take a boat tour to spot walruses, arctic foxes, and seabirds.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of Europe’s most charming cities and a perfect August destination.

One of the top things to do here is explore Prague Castle. The castle complex, the largest in the world, covering over 7 hectares, offers insights into the city’s rich history. You can also stroll across the Charles Bridge, a medieval stone arch bridge that provides stunning views of the river and city.

That aside, this city has a lively food scene, from traditional Czech cuisine to international fare. When visiting, enjoy a cold Pilsner Urquell beer and sample dishes like sviekova (braised beef), knedliky (dumplings), or trdelnik (a sweet pastry).

At night, catch an evening concert or show at the State Opera or National Theatre.

Salzburg, Austria

With its combination of urban delights and alpine adventures, Salzburg is an idyllic summer escape. As the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of The Sound of Music, Salzburg has no shortage of cultural attractions. You can tour Mozart’s Geburtshaus, the house where the musical genius was born.

Stroll across the Salzach River on the Makartsteg bridge, and you’ll be rewarded with postcard-perfect views of the Old Town’s domes and spires. The cafes along the river are ideal for melange coffee and Sachertorte.

Even with its historical charms, Salzburg has a youthful energy in summer. As a university town, Salzburg sees an influx of students during the warmer months, which adds more energy to the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a picturesque town with a Mediterranean vibe. In August, the summer sun shines brightly, perfect for exploring Kotor’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lose yourself strolling its narrow cobblestone streets and alleyways, lined with cafes, shops, and stone buildings dating back to the 12th century.

If you are feeling adventurous, hike the 1350 steps up to San Giovanni, a medieval castle overlooking the Bay of Kotor. You’ll be rewarded at the top with panoramic vistas of the coastline. That aside, you can take a boat tour, discover small villages, and try local food during your August getaway in this town.

You can also spend your day lounging on beaches like Dobrec Beach, Bajova Kula Beach, Trsteno Beach, Ploce Beach, and Kotor Beach.

Stockholm, Sweden

With its picturesque archipelago, short summer nights, and natural beauty, Stockholm is an alluring place to visit in August. The summer weather is pleasant, with average highs of 72°F (22°C), perfect for exploring the city’s attractions.

Head to Sodermalm, a hip district filled with independent stores selling clothing, art, and home decor by local designers. Or visit NK, Stockholm’s premier department store, featuring the latest Nordic fashion and interior design.

No trip to Stockholm is complete without seeing its natural beauty. Visit Royal Djurgården, a vast nature preserve right in the city that’s home to hiking and biking trails.