My wife and our two daughters (ages 15 and 12) are considering a 14-17 day trip to Europe this August. We've been to Europe several times, so we are not interested in doing a lot of moving around. We would like to spend a block of our time in one beautiful location on the water, perhaps coupled with some time in a city. If possible, we would like to avoid crowds, but at the same time do not want to visit places that will be mostly shut down for August vacations. Among the trips we are considering are Spain (Barcelona and either the Costa Brava or Majorca), Italy (Rome and the Amalfi Coast or other seaside location), or the Greek Isles. Would love to get some suggestions from experienced European Fodorites.

Beach + Europe + August = crowds. I don't think there is any way to avoid it, it's the biggest vacation month! I would recommend Sardinia, which has the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. If you would like to spend a few days in a city, go to Cagliari. A little less city, but charming is Alghero. I was there last August, it will be crowded. There are definitely spots that aren't so built up though, and you MAY be able to find a somewhat quiet area. I have a trip report on this site, click on my name and you will find it.

We love Italy, but would never go there in August. Since you specifically note you don't wish to visit places that will be shut down, I would advise against Italy. In addition, August will be very hot and the Amalfi Coast jammed.

ttt

As I've come to understand, Spain is also the month most natives go on vacation, so many places are closed. Plus, southern Spain in August could be unbearably hot and crowded to boot! Perhaps northern Spain, such as Galicia? Not sure about beaches and such, and might take a bit of research for that time of year.

Neil, I would rethink any of those locations in August---too hot and too crowded with locals. I like the Alps and Ireland in August.

northern spain in august would be ideal. you have beaches, many nice historic properties, and never more than 2 hours to a large city.
galicia, cantabria, pais vasco. all areas to use in your google search.
you also have the biarritz area just across the border from pais vasco.(bilbao, santander, san sebastian).

p.s. forog to to mention; GREAT FOOD.

excuse the typos.. thanks!

We were in Barcelona in July and my BF went back in August. He was amazed at how many of the places we visted (including some great tapas bars!) were closed in August. Also, I would think that the Costa Brava would be quite crowded, it was in July.

Any other thoughts or suggestions?

Hello Neil, Italy in August IMHO is not the place to be unless one goes up to the mountains. Somewhere like Agordo.
But you want to be by water which I sure understand.

I would never consider any major Italian city or any seaside location in Italy during August.

From your daughters ages obviously they are students and so you are trying to work out a vacation around their school vacation. And no doubt you are also trying to work around your work schedule.

But is there anyway you can go to Europe the end of June or at least the beginning of July?