Where to Go in August That Is Not Too Hot

London in August averages a high of 23°C (73°F). This is comfortable for walking, though sudden heatwaves can push temperatures up to 30°C (86°F). The underground trains can feel sticky and hot during these peaks. The Shard is a 95 storey pyramid shaped building designed by Renzo Piano. At 309.6 metres tall, it is the tallest building in the United Kingdom. The viewing platform offers a clear view across the city. Air conditioning makes the indoor viewing galleries a good escape if the city streets get too warm. August brings heavy crowds, so expect queues at the elevators.

Salisbury Plain averages 21°C (70°F) in August. The open landscape means there is no shade from the sun, but constant breezes prevent it from feeling too hot. Rain is common, so bring a light jacket. This prehistoric monument consists of giant sarsen stones topped by horizontal lintels. The site is aligned with the summer and winter solstices. It sits in a wide grassy field two miles west of Amesbury. August is peak tourist season in England. You will share the pathway with large tour groups, which can make the site feel crowded.

Edinburgh is mild in August, with average highs of 19°C (66°F). This is not hot, but it is perfect for walking up the steep volcanic hills. You will need a sweater for the evenings when temperatures drop to 11°C (52°F). The city hosts the massive Fringe festival throughout August. This event fills the streets with performers and visitors. The atmosphere is busy, but accommodation prices double during this month. Expect frequent light rain showers. It is a beautiful stone city, but the heavy August crowds can make simple walks feel slow.

Svalbard is not warm. August highs average just 6°C (43°F), meaning you will need full winter gear. If you are searching for actual summer warmth, this destination is too cold. This Norwegian archipelago sits midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. August is the end of the polar summer, offering constant daylight. It is a landscape of glaciers and quiet fjords. The main settlement of Longyearbyen is small and quiet. You must travel with an armed guide if you leave the safe zone because of polar bears.

August is the warmest month in the Faroe Islands, but the average high is only 13°C (55°F). This is not warm by traditional summer standards. It is often wet, windy, and covered in fog. The archipelago belongs to Denmark and sits between Scotland and Iceland. The rugged terrain features steep cliffs and green fjords. The weather changes rapidly, often cycling through rain and sun in a single hour. Trees are rare here, and the wind can make hiking feel difficult. Roads and tunnels connect most islands, making driving straightforward.

Gullfoss is located in southwest Iceland, where August temperatures average 13°C (55°F). You will experience cool breezes and mist from the waterfall. It is comfortable for sightseeing but far from warm. The water tumbles down a deep canyon on the Hvita river. It is a major stop on the popular Golden Circle route. The spray from the falls is heavy, so waterproof clothing is necessary. Because August is the peak travel month in Iceland, the viewing platforms are always crowded. Tour buses arrive constantly throughout the day.

The Dolomites in northeastern Italy offer a great balance of warmth and comfort. Valley temperatures reach a pleasant 24°C (75°F) in August. Higher mountain trails are cooler, averaging 15°C (59°F). This mountain range features massive limestone peaks and green meadows. It is ideal for summer hiking and climbing. The weather is generally sunny, but afternoon thunderstorms are common. August is the peak holiday month for Italians. Trails near the main cable cars are busy, and mountain huts require early reservations.

The Azores offer the warmest comfortable option on this list. August highs average 25°C (77°F) with high humidity. The ocean breezes keep the islands from feeling scorching hot. This Portuguese archipelago sits in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are volcanic, featuring green crater lakes and hot springs. August is the best month for swimming and whale watching. While it is the sunniest month, rain showers still happen regularly. The islands are spread out, so you must fly or take ferries to travel between them.

Zermatt, the village at the base of the Matterhorn, averages 20°C (68°F) in August. This is a comfortable temperature for walking through the valley. Up on the glacier trails, temperatures are close to freezing. This pyramid shaped mountain sits on the border of Switzerland and Italy. It is one of the highest peaks in Europe. The region offers extensive summer hiking trails with clear mountain views. Zermatt is a car free village, which makes it quiet but expensive to reach. You must park your car miles away and take a shuttle train.

Lofoten sits above the Arctic Circle but has a mild climate. August highs average 15°C (59°F). It feels warm when the sun is out, but you will still need layers for the windy evenings. This Norwegian archipelago has sharp mountain peaks and sandy beaches. It is popular for hiking, fishing, and camping under the midnight sun. The water is beautiful but remains extremely cold for swimming. Over one million tourists visit Lofoten each year. The narrow roads get congested with camper vans during August, making driving slow.