The Best Places to Travel in August 2024

The pretty old towns, market squares and epic cathedrals of Central Europe are resplendent under the bright glow of the August sunshine. This 10-day Rail Trip is an homage to the classic summer vacation spent hopping on and off trains across the continent, stopping in our case at five of the most beautiful capital cities in Europe. After a guided tour of the German capital we’ll head to Prague, perhaps the most stunning example of medieval Europe still standing. Next up is Vienna, a city of sophistication and high art, as well as tasty local delicacies like schnitzel and sachertorte. We’ll take a detour down the Danube with a day trip to the splendid Wachau Valley, where you’ll get to cycle alongside Europe’s most significant river and reward yourself with a lunchtime wine tasting. Back on the tracks, we’ll head to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia and home to one of the most pretty old towns around. Our final destination? Budapest, where grand old works of architecture stand tall either side of the Danube. The city’s iconic thermal baths and trendy ruins bars make it the perfect place to wind down and reflect on the ultimate European summer getaway. Will you hop onboard our 24 August departure?

Meet us far out on the fringes of Europe and Asia, where the ancient nation of Georgia stands prettily in the shadow of the Caucasus Mountains. As you can imagine, the highlands of this region can get pretty chilly during winter, so August is a great time to explore the Caucasus more comfortably. Our nine-day itinerary blends unique foodie experiences with epic outdoorsy activities. You’ll learn about the country’s ancient baking and winemaking techniques – the latter is the oldest known on the planet – as well as tucking into a number of tasty Georgian delicacies and taking a cooking masterclass at a local chef’s own home. You’ll trek the luscious forests of Lagodekhi National Park and visit the remote mountain village of Juta, but the highlight is without doubt our guided hike to the fairytale Gergeti Church, high in the Caucasus and stood in the shadow of Mount Kazbegi, Europe’s fifth tallest peak. Don’t worry, your hard work will be rewarded with a soak in the city’s sulphur baths, plus more wine, if you so desire. Sold on Georgia? This trip has a departure for 10 August on sale right now.

Back on the Med, let’s embrace la dolce vita with this glorious 10-day treat along the finest stretches of coast in Italy. The streets of Naples are as lively as ever in August, and our guided street food tour is a thrilling sensory experience. We’ll escape the hustle and bustle to wind along the Amalfi Coast – by road and by boat – stopping off in charming seaside towns and gorging on fresh seafood delights. Then it’s time to head from west to east, stopping off inland in the incredible hilltop town of Matera, the quirky streets of Alberobello and the rolling vineyards of the Itria Valley. We’ll finally hit the shores once more in Polignano a Mare, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. The trips ends with visits to several picturesque Puglian towns and cities, most notably Lecce, the Florence of the South. See you in Naples on 17 August 2024!