Where to Go on Vacation in August 2026: The Best European Destinations for a Summer Holiday

August remains one of the most popular months for traveling in Europe, but not all tourists are eager to vacation at the crowded resorts of Spain, Italy, or France. Experts at Lonely Planet have highlighted some less obvious destinations where you can enjoy good weather, interesting sights, beach vacations, and reasonable prices. Learn more about the best places to vacation in Europe in August 2026

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August is traditionally considered the peak of the tourist season in Europe. During this period, millions of travelers head to seaside resorts, historic cities, and national parks, which is why popular destinations often face overcrowded beaches, high prices, and a shortage of accommodations.

However, even at the height of the season, there are regions in Europe where you can enjoy a vacation without excessive crowds of tourists. Experts from the travel publication Lonely Planet recommend checking out some less obvious but very interesting locations: from the Albanian coast and Greek resorts to the Swedish islands and Belgian beaches.

In this article, we’ll tell you which destinations made the list of the best places to vacation in Europe in August and what makes them appealing to tourists.

In our previous article, we wrote about 5 European countries that tourists are hardly visiting in 2026.

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The Albanian Riviera: turquoise waters and beaches without Italy’s high prices

Albania has been on the lists of Europe’s most promising tourist destinations for several years in a row. The Ionian Sea coast, known as the Albanian Riviera, has become particularly popular. Here, tourists can enjoy crystal-clear water, picturesque coves, and prices that remain significantly lower than in neighboring Greece or Italy.

The region’s most famous resorts are Ksamil, Himara, Derm, and Borsh. Ksamil is often compared to the Maldives because of its white sand and small islands just off the coast. For those who want to avoid the crowds, it’s better to consider Himara or Borsh, where the atmosphere is more relaxed even in the height of summer.

In addition to beach vacations, the region offers many interesting places to explore. Tourists should visit:

- Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

- Ali Pasha’s Fortress near Porto Palermo

- Llogara Pass with panoramic views of the coast

- The old town of Gjirokastër, known for its Ottoman architecture

In August, temperatures along the coast typically range from +30 to +34°C, while the sea warms up to +25 to +27°C. That’s why experts recommend planning active excursions for the morning or evening and spending the daytime relaxing on the beach.

In our previous article, we discussed the best places to go on vacation in July without the tourist crowds.

Pelion Peninsula, Greece: the sea, mountains, and traditional villages all in one trip

Most tourists planning a summer vacation in Greece choose Crete, Rhodes, or Santorini. However, Lonely Planet experts recommend taking a closer look at the Pelion Peninsula—a region that combines Aegean beaches, mountain scenery, and an authentic Greek atmosphere.

Pelion is located between Athens and Thessaloniki and remains less crowded than the popular islands. Here, you can spend a few days on the coast and then head to traditional stone villages nestled on the mountainsides. The most famous of these are Makrinitsa, Tsagarada, and Portaria.

The local beaches deserve special attention. Among the most beautiful are:

- Milopotamos, with its white cliffs and turquoise waters

- Fakistra, tucked away between towering cliffs

- Agios Ioannis, popular with families with children

- Damouchari, where some scenes from the movie *Mamma Mia!* were filmed

August here is warm, but thanks to the proximity of the mountains, the heat is more bearable than on many Mediterranean islands. Air temperatures typically range from +29 to +32°C, and the water warms up to a comfortable +25°C.

Another highlight of Pelion is the local cuisine. The region is known for its seafood, traditional Greek meze, homemade cheeses, and apples grown in the mountainous areas. Many taverns are located in small villages with panoramic views of the sea, making dinner a special part of the travel experience.

Learn more about the TOP 10 budget-friendly alternatives to the Maldives that will surprise even seasoned travelersby following the link.

Minho, Portugal: a green region, historic cities, and the Atlantic coast

When it comes to vacationing in Portugal, most tourists immediately think of Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve. At the same time, Lonely Planet experts recommend taking a closer look at Minho—the country’s northernmost region, often cited as one of Portugal’s most picturesque corners.

Unlike the arid south, Minho is known for its green landscapes, vineyards, historic towns, and a relatively mild climate even in August. The region rarely experiences sweltering heat, making it an excellent choice for active travel and excursions.

Places worth including on your itinerary:

- Braga – one of Portugal’s oldest cities, with numerous churches and the famous Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary

- Guimarães – a city considered the cradle of Portuguese statehood and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

- Viana do Castelo – a coastal city with wide beaches and a historic center

- Penedá-Gerês National Park – Portugal’s only national park, known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks

The region also attracts lovers of culinary tourism. This is where the famous Vinho Verde wine is produced, which is especially popular during the summer season thanks to its light and refreshing taste.

For a beach vacation, head to the Atlantic coast. The water temperature here is lower than in the Mediterranean Sea, but the wide sandy beaches and fresh ocean air attract both tourists and surfers. August is considered one of the best months to visit Minho, as it combines comfortable weather, a rich cultural calendar, and a relatively moderate flow of tourists compared to the country’s most popular resorts.

In our previous article, we wrote about the TOP 5 uncrowded Mediterranean resorts where you can relax without lines or noise.

Central Austria: lakes, the Alps, and a comfortable vacation without the summer heat

For those who want to escape the sweltering heat of southern resorts, experts recommend Central Austria. In August, this region offers moderate temperatures, picturesque Alpine landscapes, and dozens of lakes suitable for swimming, water sports, and hiking.

The Salzkammergut region remains a particularly popular destination; it encompasses more than 70 lakes and is considered one of the most beautiful corners of the country. Here, you can combine active recreation with cultural experiences and culinary discoveries.

Places worth visiting include:

- Hallstatt—one of Austria’s most famous and photogenic villages

- Lake Wolfgangsee, with its numerous beaches and walking trails

- Bad Ischl—the former summer resort of the Austrian emperors

- Salzburg—the birthplace of Mozart and home to the world-famous Salzburg Festival

August is one of the best months for active tourism in the Alps. Air temperatures typically range from +22 to +28°C, which is much more comfortable for excursions and hikes than in many Mediterranean countries.

In addition to traditional walks, tourists can take cable cars, go on bike routes around the lakes, or visit scenic overlooks in the mountains. Many routes are even suitable for families with children, making Central Austria one of the most versatile destinations for an August vacation in Europe.

In our previous article, we discussed the cheapest and most expensive European cities for a vacation in 2026.

The Coast of Belgium: An Unexpected Alternative to the Crowded Beaches of Southern Europe

Although Belgium is rarely associated with summer beach vacations, its North Sea coast can be an interesting alternative for tourists who dislike the heat and crowded Mediterranean resorts. The weather here is pleasant in August, and the sea breeze makes even the warmest days easy to bear.

The Belgian coast stretches for about 67 kilometers and includes a number of popular resorts, each with its own unique character. Ostend remains the most famous—a city with wide beaches, a promenade, museums, and a lively nightlife. Those looking for a more peaceful getaway should consider De Haan or Knokke-Heist.

A unique feature of the region is the Kusttram coastal tram—the longest tram line in the world, connecting all the major coastal resorts. Thanks to this, tourists can easily travel between towns without a car and discover new beaches every day.

In addition to a seaside vacation, the region offers many other activities:

- Walks through the dunes and nature reserves

- Tasting fresh seafood in fishing villages

- Visiting the historic centers of Ostend and Bruges

- Cycling routes along the coast

Air temperatures in August typically range from +20 to +25°C, making this destination particularly appealing to travelers looking to escape the extreme summer heat that has been increasingly affecting Southern European countries in recent years.

Learn more about the 3 cheapest European resorts for a seaside vacation in 2026 by following the link.

The Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden: thousands of islands for a peaceful summer vacation

If the beaches of the Mediterranean seem too hot and crowded, experts recommend checking out the Stockholm Archipelago. It is one of Europe’s largest archipelagos, comprising about 30,000 islands, islets, and rocks scattered across the Baltic Sea.

The main advantage of this destination is its combination of natural beauty and accessibility. Most of the popular islands are located just an hour or two from the Swedish capital, and you can reach them by regular ferries. Thanks to this, tourists can combine exploring Stockholm with a getaway in nature.

Among the most interesting islands in the archipelago are:

- Vaxholm – a historic town with a fortress and a cozy waterfront

- Sandhamn – a popular destination for yachting and beach vacations

- Utö – one of the oldest inhabited islands in the archipelago

- Grinda – a well-known spot for hiking, swimming, and camping

In August, air temperatures typically range from +20 to +25°C, creating comfortable conditions for active recreation. Tourists come here for kayaking, cycling routes, fishing, boat trips, and the chance to spend a few days surrounded by Scandinavian nature.

Unlike many popular resorts in Southern Europe, the archipelago is not associated with mass tourism. That is precisely why it is an excellent choice for travelers seeking tranquility, beautiful scenery, and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life—even at the height of the summer season.

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We remind you! Popular tourist destinations can be a trap. We have already told you which 8 places in the world Fodor’s advises to avoid in 2026 due to overtourism, environmental risks and social tension – and what alternatives to choose instead.