Head South: sun, beach, and pure relaxation (the “Heat Team”)
For you, August means sun and beach and the sound of cicadas. You want guaranteed sunshine.
- The vibe: It’s the perfect time to party in Le Grau-du-Roi or soak up the glamour of the French Riviera.
- Our tip: In August, traffic is heavy. Choose our “walk-everywhere” residences or car-free options to reach the beach stress-free.
Go for cooler air: where to go in August to avoid crowds and heatwaves?
Are you part of the team searching for where to go in August so it’s not too hot? If you dread 35°C in the shade and packed beaches, the Mediterranean coast is probably not the destination you’re looking for.
- The solution: The mountains (the Alps) or the English Channel coast (Normandy). That’s where you’ll find breathable air, cool nights for restful sleep, and places with fewer tourists.
Our favorite destinations by region
The French Riviera and Provence: must-have glamour
This is the South of France at its finest.
- Port Grimaud & Saint-Tropez: For those who love to see—and be seen—who enjoy strolling around the harbor and soaking up the Gulf’s unique atmosphere.
- Saint-Raphaël & L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: Between the red rocks of the Estérel and the refreshing canals of Provence, it’s the ideal place to mix doing nothing and walks.
The ocean and Normandy: breathe in sea air
- Trouville-sur-Mer: The top pick for those who want Norman elegance, in cooler weather. Just 2 hours from Paris: enjoy the boardwalk and seafood without suffering from the heat.
- Soustons Plage: The Landes vibe of surf and pine trees. Space, waves, and nature as far as the eye can see—perfect for outdoor activities.
The Alps: the “budget-friendly” and “no tourists” smart choice
Looking for where to go in August on a budget and in peace? The answer is: the mountains.
- Mont Blanc & Isola 2000: In summer, prices drop compared with winter. It’s a paradise for hiking, high-altitude lakes, and mountain biking. You’ll be peaceful, far from crowded beaches.
Who are you traveling with?
Where to go in August with a baby?
Traveling in August with a baby (whether it’s a 6-month-old, an 18-month-old, or a 3-year-old) requires extra caution—heatwaves are often part of the deal.
- Our recommendation: Avoid the far south if there’s no A/C. Choose Trouville or gentler mountain destinations.
- The SOWELL advantage: Our apartments with kitchenettes let you prepare bottles and baby meals at your own pace—just like at home.
With teenagers or friends: it has to be lively!
If you’re traveling with a teenager or with friends, you need plenty to do. Le Grau-du-Roi or Soustons Plage are perfect: surfing, funfairs, nights out… no chance of getting bored.
As a couple: where to find peace in August?
For a honeymoon or a romantic August getaway, aim for quieter spots. A suite with a view of Mont Blanc or a charming hotel in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue will guarantee romance and tranquility, far from noisy family beaches.
The budget challenge: where to go in August on a budget?
August is the most expensive month of the year. Finding a small budget option is a challenge.
The mountains: the trick for a smaller budget in August
It’s simple math: demand is lower in the mountains than by the sea. As a result, you can often find a week in Isola 2000 or at the foot of Mont Blanc for half the price of the French Riviera. It’s THE smart tip for traveling as a family on a budget.
Last minute and All Inclusive: how to keep the bill under control
Looking for where to go in August at the last minute? Be careful: choices will be limited. To avoid your budget rising sharply on site (restaurant prices are often higher in summer), the So’Inclusive package is your safety net. You pay everything before you leave. Once you’re there, it’s total relaxation—no need to pull out your bank card.
FAQ: your questions about traveling in August
Where to go in August to avoid the crowds in France?
Our favorites: the Alps (Savoie, Southern Alps). While the coast is saturated, the mountains offer huge open spaces with fewer people. Inland areas (the deeper Ardèche) are also a good option.
Where to go in August so it’s not too hot?
Aim north of the Loire (Normandy, Trouville) or go higher (above 1,000 meters). You’ll find pleasant temperatures (20–25°C) during the day and cooler nights.
Where to go in August for sunshine on a budget?
In France in August, it’s not easy. The trick is to stay a bit away from the immediate coastline (the Var or Provençal hinterland), or choose All Inclusive packages to avoid surprise expenses once you’re there.
Not sure where to go? Discover our offers for holidays in July, holidays in September and holidays in October.
