5 Best Cities to Visit in August

In the Northern Hemisphere, August means the sun comes out and the temperature goes through the roof. Landscapes are drenched in golden sunshine while coastlines sparkle under its rays. Ice cream becomes the most coveted commodity and the sun doesn’t set until late at night. August is a month of warmth and happiness, and it is the perfect time to go on vacation.

However, not all destinations are equally appealing in August. Some are great to visit, while others are truly spectacular. Make sure you choose carefully when planning your vacation to get the best out of your time away.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Everything heats up in Edinburgh during the month of August. This capital city is by no means quiet during the rest of the year, but August takes it to a whole new level thanks to the fringe festival. For the whole month, the city is taken over by performers from all over the world. Bars, cafés and even the streets become venues for comedians, dancers, actors, circus acts and more. Around every corner you will find something to watch. In August, Edinburgh is a hub of creativity and entertainment and the festival should be on every traveller’s to do list.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

This quaint city might be the capital of Slovenia, but it is a far cry from the likes of Paris and London. Its narrow streets are flanked by traditional architecture and quirky cafés. While it has quite the pumping nightlife scene, by day it is a picture of serenity. The city itself is a delight to explore, but the real beauty of Ljubljana lies just outside the city centre, at Lake Bled. Here, a glorious church sits atop a little island in the middle of the glistening lake, accessible only by boat or by swimming.

Seattle, USA

A melting pot of culture and Washington State’s largest city, Seattle is the perfect getaway in August. Although the city has a proclivity for rain, in August the drizzle abates enough to allow you to get out and see the city without the need for an emergency umbrella. The city has developed a thriving food scene so be sure to leave your hotel with an empty stomach. The Pike Place Market is a good place to start. Attractions in Seattle include the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass.

Medellin, Colombia

Nicknamed the city of eternal spring, the weather is always good in Medellin. But, in August the sun shines a little brighter and the temperature goes from average to pleasant. Spend your days in Medellin strolling through Plaza Botero and the nearby Botero Museum, or sipping on a cocktail in El Poblado. If you want to escape the bustle of the city, hop in the cable car and head up to Parque Arví, a national park, which simply begs you to hike through it.

Nice, France

The French Riviera is possibly the most beautiful place on earth in the month of August. The sea glows an impossible turquoise colour and the sand looks like gold in the sunshine. Everywhere you turn, people are eating and drinking al fresco, enjoying the warmth and the scenery simultaneously. Nice is all about luxury and pampering but if you need a bit of adventure, there are some coastal walking routes that are in equal parts challenging and stunning. Otherwise, just kick back on the beach and get your tan on.