Nomad's Travel Picks: Where to Go in August 2023
6 places to travel this August
· 7 min read
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Get ready to turn the page on your everyday routine and embark on exhilarating adventures that will color your summer with unforgettable memories. Whether you yearn for the soothing embrace of azure seas, the untamed allure of rugged landscapes, or the pulsating energy of vibrant cities, we have the perfect recommendations for you. Get your passports ready, because the journey of a lifetime awaits! Here are our top picks for your August odyssey.
Athens, Greece
Steeped in history and bathed in radiant sunshine, Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is a must-visit destination for August. While summer is indeed hot in this part of the Mediterranean, early mornings and late evenings offer the perfect temperature to discover the city's ancient treasures and lively neighborhoods.
A visit to the iconic Acropolis, with its crowning glory, the Parthenon, is an absolute must. Set your sights on this architectural marvel bathed in the golden light of sunrise, and you'll truly understand why Athens has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. Don't forget to explore other historically significant sites like the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Theatre of Dionysus.
The Plaka, the oldest district of Athens, set in the shadows of the Acropolis, offers a labyrinth of narrow streets, vibrant restaurants, and charming shops selling traditional Greek handicrafts. Explore the area and soak up its unique ambiance as you sample local delicacies like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava.
Make sure to leave some time for Athens' stunning coastline, often overlooked by tourists. The Athenian Riviera, as it's known, boasts a string of beautiful beaches and marinas just a short drive from the city center. You can relax on the sandy beaches, indulge in fresh seafood by the sea, or take a cruise along the coast to fully appreciate the views. And no visit to Athens would be complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife. The city comes alive after sunset with a mix of traditional tavernas, sophisticated rooftop bars, and pulsating nightclubs.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver's mild summer, along with its breathtaking landscapes, make it a top choice for a summer getaway. Start your adventure by strolling through Stanley Park, an urban oasis covering 400-hectares of natural West Coast rainforest. Cycle or walk around the seawall for stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Don't miss the collection of totem poles, a visual feast that showcases the craftsmanship and history of the First Nations people.
Vancouver is often touted as one of the world's top cities for foodies. Taste your way through the city's diverse culinary scene, from the finest farm-to-table eateries to lively food trucks. Granville Island Public Market is a must-visit, offering a plethora of local produce, artisanal goods, and mouthwatering snacks.
For those interested in art and culture, the Museum of Anthropology houses one of the world's finest displays of Northwest Coast First Nations art. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Art Gallery showcases both historical and contemporary exhibitions that will delight art aficionados.
Take advantage of the mild summer weather by exploring Vancouver's surrounding natural beauty. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and navigate the calm waters of English Bay. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, hike the Grouse Grind, known as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster," for a panoramic view of the city. Cap off your Vancouver visit with a trip to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you can walk among the treetops on a series of suspension bridges. And don't forget to venture out on a whale-watching tour where you may spot orcas playing in the wild.
Auckland, New Zealand
Located in the southern hemisphere, Auckland offers a unique twist for your August travels as it welcomes the late winter season. This time of the year sees the city less crowded with tourists, allowing you to experience Auckland's attractions at a leisurely pace. With temperatures ranging from 8 to 15°C (46-59°F), it's an ideal setting for exploring the outdoors without the sweltering summer heat.
Begin your Auckland adventure with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere. From its observation decks, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the city and its harbors. If you're a thrill-seeker, the SkyWalk or SkyJump from the tower are exhilarating options to consider.
Immerse yourself in nature at one of Auckland's many parks and gardens. The Auckland Domain, the city's oldest park, is a great place for a stroll, and it's also home to the enchanting Wintergardens. You can explore the native bush, gullies, and streams at the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, or enjoy a ferry ride to Rangitoto Island, where you can hike up a dormant volcano and enjoy remarkable views of the Auckland cityscape and the Hauraki Gulf.
And for runners, why not enjoy the scenic views while taking part in one of New Zealand's most scenic marathons, the North Shore Marathon? The marathon, in its 10th iteration this year, will take place on the 27th of August.
Denver, United States
With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Denver's weather is often splendid during this month, providing the perfect backdrop for a wide variety of activities, whether in the city or the surrounding outdoors.
Begin your exploration downtown at the 16th Street Mall, a mile-long pedestrian-friendly mall, home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Nearby, you'll find Larimer Square, Denver's most historic block, filled with charming boutiques, innovative restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. And for those keen on culture, Denver boasts a wide array of museums and art galleries, including the Denver Art Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, and the Clyfford Still Museum.
Denver's thriving food and craft beer scene is worth exploring. Sample locally produced cheeses, chocolates, and baked goods at the source, or embark on a tour of the city's many microbreweries. And if you will be visiting this August, be sure to check out the Beer Fest that will be taking place at Sloan's Lake on 19th August.
The MLB season is also ongoing in August, and with the beautiful August weather, you really shouldn't miss the opportunity to catch a Colorado Rockies baseball game at the iconic Coors Field. The sunset views over the Rocky Mountains from the ballpark are a highlight not to be missed.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Rocky Mountains offer a playground for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Be sure to also check out the upcoming shows at the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a geological wonder that hosts concerts in a natural, acoustically perfect setting.
Sa Pa, Vietnam
Nestled in the highlands of northern Vietnam, Sa Pa is a tranquil mountain town renowned for its terraced rice fields, which are at their greenest in August. A trek through these picturesque landscapes is an unforgettable experience. The fields, layered like a green stairway scaling up the mountains, create a surreal, patchwork beauty that is unique to this region. Guided tours often lead visitors through this scenic countryside, offering a closer look at the local farming practices.
Sa Pa is also home to several ethnic minority groups, each with its unique customs, traditions, and colorful clothing. Visit local villages like Cat Cat and Ta Phin, where you can learn about the unique way of life of the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people. The Sapa Market is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, including embroidered fabrics and silver jewelry.
The Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina, is another highlight of Sa Pa. With the introduction of the Fansipan Legend cable car, reaching the peak is accessible to everyone. The ride offers awe-inspiring views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the valleys below. At the summit, a complex of Buddhist temples offers a spiritual sanctuary that perfectly complements the breathtaking natural beauty.
Near the town center, don't miss Sa Pa Lake, a serene spot perfect for leisurely walks, especially in the late afternoon when the sun paints a mesmerizing hue over the water's surface.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', is a destination that effortlessly combines the allure of historic charm with the appeal of a coastal haven. During August, this Croatian gem welcomes visitors with abundant sunshine, crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, and an array of captivating events.
A must-visit is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, an architectural masterpiece with well-preserved medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. A walk along the ancient city walls, spanning nearly two kilometers, offers unparalleled views of the city and the sparkling sea. And for a stunning panoramic view of the city, take the cable car up to Mount Srđ. The vista of the red-roofed Old Town jutting out into the azure sea is unforgettable.
While in the Old Town, don't miss landmarks like the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and Dubrovnik Cathedral. Be sure to also visit the lively morning market in Gundulić Square, where you can sample local products and try local delicacies like the famous Dubrovnik rozata (a caramel dessert pudding) and the traditional sugared-almond sweets known as kotonjata.
The highlight of August in Dubrovnik is the Summer Festival, an annual event that transforms the Old Town into a stage for a variety of performances, including theater, ballet, classical music, and film. This year, the Summer Festival runs from 10 July to 25 August.
Being a coastal city, Dubrovnik offers numerous beautiful beaches where you can swim in the Adriatic's clear blue waters. Banje Beach, located near the Old Town, is a popular choice, while Lokrum Island, a short ferry ride from the city, offers beautiful rocky beaches and a botanical garden.