Every year, this question comes up. You’ve got the time off. You’re ready to book. But now you’re stuck: Is it better to take your holiday in July or in August? It’s a simple question, but there is not a single and correct solution. The “better” month ultimately comes down to a few key factors – where you’re going, how you get there, and what kind of experience you want. So here’s a quick rundown of what to consider, with some destination examples to guide your planning.
- Prices and crowds
In much of Europe, August is the holiday season. Schools are closed, offices are empty, and the continent in general goes to the seaside. That means that prices are higher, sometimes even significantly. On a budget or in pursuit of better value, July tends to be more budget-friendly and less crowded.
That said, if you really need an August break, there are still a couple of options for making it work (see below). But if you can be flexible, choosing July could let you have a bit more room to breathe.
- The weather
July and August are hot. But depending on your destination, the weather will differ. In southern Europe, July usually brings dry, hot days and cooler nights. August tends to be more humid, especially in cities, and sometimes comes with unexpected summer rain, especially in central and eastern Europe. If you’re heading to northern Europe, for example Scandinavia, the UK, or the Alps, August might actually be better, with more stable weather and longer daylight hours. But when it comes to tropical destinations — timing is everything there. Consider Zanzibar: European summer means dry season there, a great time to go. More information on timing can be accessed on this page, especially if you’re considering somewhere beyond the classic Mediterranean destination radar.
- The atmosphere
This one comes down to vibe. August feels alive. Beaches are buzzing, town squares are full, and events, from music festivals to village parties, are everywhere. If you’re looking for lively energy and late nights, August is your month.
But there’s a flip side. The crowds, the queues, the heat — it can get overwhelming. Cities like Rome, Paris, and Lisbon can feel abandoned by locals and overrun with visitors.
In contrast, July is the sweet spot for travelers who want good weather, a little buzz, but not the full August intensity. You’ll still find events and open restaurants, but with fewer people and less heat stress.
- Local life
It’s easy to forget that beach cities and towns exist for more than just visitors. And in August, many locals are on holiday too. Bakeries and small shops close in cities like Paris or Milan for weeks. The public services are quite languid. If you’re looking for a local, authentic experience, you might be surprised to find that it’s just you and other tourists.
On the other hand, for small towns, especially coastal ones, it’s party time in August. There are festivals, outdoor movies, and parties that spill out onto the streets. August, for instance, is the high season in rural Italy for sagre, regional food festivals celebrating quite everything, from the saints to local fruit and vegetables.
If you want urban reality, July might be a better option. But if you enjoy beach party time and are going for the party atmosphere, August wins.
- Locations that work well in July
Below are some of the locations that actually work well in July:
– Southern Italy
In Puglia, Calabria and Basilicata there are fewer tourists than in August, but the same fantastic weather and beach opportunities.
– The Dolomites and Italian Alps
Blue skies and cooler evenings make July ideal for walking and outdoor respite.
– Portugal’s countryside
A great and a very culturally enriching destination. Once again sunny, but less sweltering in July than in late-August afternoons.
– The Balearic Islands
Menorca and Ibiza are a bit less crowded before the giant August invasion, but with better prices and still plenty going on.
- Places that are better in August
And then there are a few places where August is actually the better choice:
– Northern Europe
In Scotland, Sweden and Norway it’s warmer and sunnier in August, with more daylight, so it’s great for driving holidays or nature walks.
Always hot, but in August it is windy and parched — great for surfing or just baking in the sun.
– Cape Verde or Zanzibar
Both are safe bets with minimal rain and lots of sun and far fewer tourists than in winter.
So — July or August? It all comes down to the kind of summer you envision. Either way, the key is to plan around your preferences. The best month is the one that suits your style, your pace, and your idea of a great trip. So choose your favorite destination, pack your bags and get ready to have the time of your life!