Top Destinations in Europe for August

Summer in Europe is enchanting, but it’s also one of the peak tourist months, meaning you’ll be sharing the experience with many fellow travelers.

Fortunately, we’ve gathered some suggestions from our book Where to Go When Europe that will guide you to tranquil spots away from the crowds. Here are six fantastic places to visit in Europe this August.

Albanian Riviera

Why visit now? Bask on the sands of lesser-known Ionian Sea beaches.

Though it may not be the undiscovered paradise it once was at the start of the 2000s, when empty beaches and rock-bottom prices were the norm, Albania’s stunning southern coast still offers a delightful escape for those yearning for sun, sand, and seafood. Saranda has transformed into a vibrant party destination, with its promenade bustling with bars. For a more tranquil experience, head north to Himara, which boasts a collection of lovely beaches (don’t miss Potami, just south). In August, you can expect warm sun, pleasant waters, and temperatures approaching 30°C (86°F); loungers and beach umbrellas are in high demand, but you can still find serene stretches of sand at spots like Palasa, Borsh, the pebbly Bunec, and the islands off Ksamil. Alternatively, take a scenic drive through the magnificent Llogara Pass to Vlora Bay, where more resorts and boat excursions to secluded beaches await at the Karaburuni Peninsula's edge. For a change of pace from lounging, visit the archaeological site of Butrint, where Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins, some over 2500 years old, are nestled on a rugged headland.

Pelion Peninsula, Greece

Why visit now? Refresh in warm waters or explore traditional hillside villages.

While lounging on crowded beaches of a Greek island may be tempting, consider escaping to the cool embrace of Pelion in sizzling August. This rugged peninsula juts into the Aegean, offering a variety of coastal resorts that are generally more tranquil than those found elsewhere. Check out Horto or Milina on the serene west coast, or the livelier Horefto, Agios Ioannis, and charming Damouhari near the stunning Fakistra beach on the east coast. The mountainous interior is rich with natural beauty and cultural significance—legend has it that mythical centaurs roamed these lands. Ancient cobbled pathways connect traditional villages where you can admire frescoed churches, enjoy a glass of rakı-like tsipouro under the shade of ancient plane trees, and indulge in local delicacies such as spetsofaï (pork and sausage stew), fasoladha (butter bean soup), and lamb with lemon. Here, the air is noticeably cooler than by the sea, and during summer, you can hop on the quaint narrow-gauge train that travels from Ano Lechonia to Milies, running daily in July and August.

Minho, Portugal

Why visit now? Immerse yourself in the delectable green heart of historic Portugal.

Where do the Portuguese vacation domestically? In-the-know travelers enjoy staycations in the Minho region, the birthplace of the kingdom, characterized by lush hills, rich traditions, and delightful flavors. Known for its vinho verde—or 'green wine,' which is released just months after harvest—the Minho also boasts a culinary scene that earned it the title of European Region of Gastronomy in 2016. Local specialties abound; in Ponte de Lima, Portugal’s oldest town, dine at a restaurant with views of the Roman bridge and try arroz de sarrabulho—rice prepared with pig’s blood and various pork cuts (trust us, it’s tastier than it sounds)—along with caldo verde, a hearty kale soup. Seafood lovers will enjoy monkfish, sea bass, and bream, plus bacalhau—salt cod, a beloved staple throughout the country. Stroll through historic towns like Braga, Guimarães, and Viana do Castelo, where stunningly diverse architecture reflects the wealth amassed by adventurous merchants during the Age of Discovery and the colonial era.

Central Austria

Why visit now? Treat yourself to wellness amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.

If you're seeking wellness in Austria, just remember to look for the Bad in everything—especially in place names. Any town that starts with 'Bad' is a spa destination. A rich array of saunas, treatment centers, and thermal waters spans a broad area of central Austria, east and south of Salzburg, all set against a stunning backdrop of Alpine peaks, meadows, and valleys. The wellness focus varies slightly from one place to another. In Bad Aussee, you’ll find a healthy diet paired with outdoor activities, in line with Kneipp therapy principles. Bad Ischl has been celebrating the benefits of brine since it earned imperial recognition in the mid-19th century. Bad Gastein thrives on natural hot springs, while neighboring Bad Hofgastein adds forest bathing and barefoot walking to its offerings, hosting one of Europe’s largest thermal spa complexes. However, don’t miss out on the long, sunny days of August: explore the scenic paths around the Salzkammergut’s shimmering lakes, tackle mountain biking trails above Bad Gastein, or enjoy a refreshing swim in an alpine tarn.

Coastal Belgium

Why visit now? Experience the world’s longest tram route and savor delicious seafood.

While Belgium may not be your first thought for a beach getaway, its stunning 70km (44 mile) stretch of white sand along the North Sea might change your mind. This coastal region once attracted the elite holidaymakers of the early 20th century. Today, the Belgian coastline is dotted with attractions like aquariums, theme parks, and watersports, all easily accessed via the Kusttram (Coastal Tram). This historic tram line, which has been in operation since 1885, is the longest in the world, running 67km (42 miles) from De Panne in the west to Knokke-Heist in the east. August, the warmest month, is perfect for hopping on board, featuring events such as a fireworks festival in Knokke-Heist and a prawn celebration in De Haan, where these tasty crustaceans are a local specialty. On summer weekends, you can even catch a vintage tram from the De Panne depot.

Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden

Why visit now? Explore the coastal capital while enjoying the long summer days.

More a lush archipelago than a traditional city, Sweden's capital, Stockholm, is incredibly picturesque, especially in sunny August when the sunlight dances on the water and the parks invite relaxation. The city is rich in cultural offerings, from the charming cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town) to outstanding contemporary galleries and museums, including the open-air Skansen. The modern shopping district of Nordmalm features numerous cozy cafés and restaurants perfect for enjoying a traditional fika (coffee and cake break). You can easily explore the 14 main islands by foot, bike, or metro, but don't miss the chance to venture into the tens of thousands of smaller islets and rocks in the archipelago, best accessed by ferry, boat cruise, or kayak. Keep an eye out for ospreys, beavers, and grey seals at various scenic spots throughout the area.