Where to Travel in August: Top 10 Destinations

August is the peak of summer, offering the best weather in many parts of Europe and beyond. Whether you’re after a week-long all-inclusive or a quick weekend escape, we’ve rounded up ten top destinations to consider this August. For each one, you’ll find average prices per person, a breakdown of what to expect, the best things to do, and local rules on vaping and smoking.

1. Portugal (Algarve)

All-Inclusive Week: £750 per person
Weekend Break: £300 per person

Portugal’s Algarve region is a summer favourite thanks to its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming towns. In August, the weather is hot but not unbearable, with temperatures around 28°C. The region offers a great mix of relaxation and activities, from beach days to hiking and boat tours.

Faro, Albufeira, and Lagos are popular spots. Albufeira is great for nightlife, while Lagos offers a more historic feel. The food scene is strong—fresh seafood, grilled sardines, and pastel de nata are must-tries.

If you’re looking for variety, the Algarve ticks all boxes—natural beauty, cultural towns, and lively resorts.

Highlights:

• Benagil Cave boat tour

• Ponta da Piedade rock formations

• Old town of Lagos

• Zoomarine Algarve theme park

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is banned in indoor public places and public transport. Vaping is allowed but often treated like smoking.

2. Greece (Crete)

All-Inclusive Week: £820 per person
Weekend Break: £340 per person

Crete is Greece’s largest island and ideal in August when it’s full of life and sunshine. Expect highs of around 30°C with long, dry days. Crete balances ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and relaxed beaches.

Explore the ruins of Knossos, swim in the pink sands of Elafonissi, or hike the rugged Samaria Gorge. Heraklion offers a bustling city vibe, while Chania brings Venetian charm.

Food is a highlight too—fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local olive oil are staples. Greek hospitality is warm, and there's something for every type of traveller.

Highlights:

• Elafonissi Beach

• Samaria Gorge hike

• Palace of Knossos

• Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is banned in enclosed public areas. Vaping follows similar rules—allowed outdoors but restricted indoors.

3. Croatia (Dubrovnik)

All-Inclusive Week: £890 per person
Weekend Break: £360 per person

Dubrovnik offers a mix of history, coastline, and sunshine. The walled Old Town is a UNESCO site filled with marble streets and baroque buildings. In August, expect temperatures around 30°C and clear, warm waters.

The Adriatic Sea is ideal for kayaking and island-hopping. Lokrum Island is a peaceful escape just 15 minutes away by boat. For fans of Game of Thrones, many filming locations are right in the heart of the city.

It’s not the cheapest destination, but its atmosphere, history, and views make it worth the cost.

Highlights:

• Walk the city walls

• Lokrum Island boat trip

• Cable car to Mount Srđ

• Rector’s Palace and museums

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces. Vaping is permitted but can be restricted indoors.

4. Italy (Sicily)

All-Inclusive Week: £850 per person
Weekend Break: £330 per person

Sicily is a feast for the senses—aromas of fresh citrus, dramatic coastlines, and ancient ruins all come together. August is hot, often reaching 34°C inland, but the coastal breeze helps in places like Taormina or Cefalù.

Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, is a standout. You can hike or take a guided jeep tour up its slopes. Meanwhile, Greek and Roman theatres, Norman castles, and colourful markets fill the island with cultural depth.

Seafood, cannoli, arancini, and granita are local culinary highlights worth seeking out.

Highlights:

• Mount Etna tours

• Valley of the Temples

• Taormina's Greek Theatre

• Palermo’s street food markets

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is banned in most indoor public spaces. Vaping is legal but treated similarly—avoid indoors unless stated otherwise.

5. Spain (Costa Brava)

All-Inclusive Week: £780 per person
Weekend Break: £310 per person

North of Barcelona, the Costa Brava stretches along rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and sleepy villages. In August, you can expect highs of 29°C and sea temperatures perfect for swimming.

The region offers a slower pace than the southern Costas, with a mix of beaches, small fishing towns, and cultural day trips. Salvador Dalí's home in Cadaqués and museum in Figueres draw many art fans.

It’s great for couples or families who want sun without the full-on resort buzz.

Highlights:

• Tossa de Mar's medieval old town

• Salvador Dalí Museum

• Cap de Creus Natural Park

• Snorkelling in Cala Pola

Smoking & Vaping: Spain recently banned smoking on many beaches. Smoking indoors is not allowed. Vaping is legal but restricted in enclosed public places.

6. Turkey (Antalya)

All-Inclusive Week: £700 per person
Weekend Break: £290 per person

Turkey blends Mediterranean relaxation with rich culture. Antalya, on the Turkish Riviera, offers sunny beaches, ancient ruins, and luxury resorts. August is hot—expect 35°C+—so pack accordingly.

The city itself mixes old and new, with the Roman-era harbour and Hadrian’s Gate near modern bars and shops. All-inclusive hotels here tend to be top-notch and good value.

Beyond the city, explore ruins like Perge or take boat trips to hidden coves.

Highlights:

• Düden Waterfalls

• Hadrian’s Gate

• Day trip to Perge

• Mediterranean boat cruises

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces and on public transport. Vaping is legal but less commonly used—subject to similar restrictions.

7. Montenegro (Budva)

All-Inclusive Week: £780 per person
Weekend Break: £300 per person

Montenegro is often overlooked, but Budva in August is a great choice. The Adriatic coastline is beautiful, less crowded than Croatia, and just as scenic. Expect temperatures around 30°C.

Budva has a mix of old town charm and lively beach clubs. It’s also well-placed for day trips to Kotor Bay or Lovćen National Park. Prices are slightly lower than nearby destinations, making it a good option for value.

You’ll find traditional Balkan food alongside Italian influences—grilled meats, fresh fish, and strong coffee dominate the menus.

Highlights:

• Old Town Budva

• Sveti Stefan island view

• Boat trip to Kotor Bay

• Mogren Beach

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is common and allowed in many outdoor spaces. Indoors, bans are in place. Vaping is less regulated but should follow similar etiquette.

8. France (Nice)

All-Inclusive Week: £940 per person
Weekend Break: £380 per person

The French Riviera glows in August, and Nice is its sparkling centrepiece. Mediterranean beaches, elegant promenades, and hilltop views combine for a classic European summer experience.

Wander through the old town’s colourful markets or take a day trip to Monaco or Cannes. The sea breeze helps keep things comfortable even during the heat, which averages around 29°C.

Nice is stylish but doesn’t feel exclusive—you can enjoy it without breaking the bank if you plan well.

Highlights:

• Promenade des Anglais

• Day trip to Monaco

• Old Town market (Cours Saleya)

• Matisse Museum

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces. Vaping is legal but treated like smoking in most places.

9. Slovenia (Lake Bled)

All-Inclusive Week: £770 per person
Weekend Break: £320 per person

Lake Bled is Slovenia’s postcard-perfect escape. In August, it offers warm weather (around 27°C), calm waters, and lush green surroundings.

You can rent a boat to the tiny church-topped island or hike to Bled Castle for panoramic views. The town is relaxed but not dull—plenty of cafés, lakeside restaurants, and outdoor activities.

It’s ideal for couples or anyone looking for a peaceful but adventurous break.

Highlights:

• Rowboat to Bled Island

• Bled Castle

• Vintgar Gorge hike

• Lake swimming and paddleboarding

Smoking & Vaping: Smoking is banned indoors and in public institutions. Vaping is allowed but may be restricted in public buildings.

10. Iceland

All-Inclusive Week: £1,300 per person
Weekend Break: £550 per person

Iceland in August offers something different—cooler weather (15–18°C), 24-hour daylight, and jaw-dropping nature. You can explore geysers, waterfalls, and volcanoes all within easy reach of Reykjavík.

It’s pricier than other destinations, but the scenery and uniqueness make up for it. Self-driving the Golden Circle is a top choice, and August is one of the best months for whale watching.

You won’t get a beach tan, but you’ll come back with wild stories and epic photos.

Highlights:

• Golden Circle tour

• Blue Lagoon

• Skógafoss and Gullfoss waterfalls

• Whale watching tours

Smoking & Vaping: Strict no-smoking rules in public places. Vaping is legal but restricted indoors and on transport.