10 Cool Summer Destinations in Europe to Escape the Heat

Europe’s popular southern destinations might be sweltering in 35–40°C heatwaves in summer 🥵, but there are plenty of cooler places where you can escape the heat. Head north or to higher altitudes and you’ll find fresh air, fewer crowds, and landscapes that are perfect for outdoor adventures.

In this guide, we feature 10 cool (pun intended 😉) summer destinations in Europe where temperatures in July and August usually stay well under 25°C (77°F), and where there’s plenty to do, see, and explore.

If you’re looking for travel inspiration beyond the usual hotspots, this list will help you escape the heat, avoid the crowds, and discover some of the most unique and rewarding places to visit in Europe during summer. Check it out!

Here are some of the coolest summer destinations in Europe:

1. Iceland

Typical summer temperatures: 10–15°C (50–59°F).

If you’re looking for dramatic nature and don’t mind packing a jacket in July, Iceland is one of the best cold-weather summer destinations in Europe. The days are long, with almost 24-hour daylight in early summer, and the weather is usually mild, though it can change quickly.

Top things to do include road-tripping around the Ring Road, exploring the black sand beaches and waterfalls of the South Coast, soaking in geothermal hot springs, hiking on glaciers, and spotting puffins along the cliffs. Summer is also the best time for whale watching and exploring the Highlands, which are inaccessible in other seasons.

PRO TIP: Book accommodation and rental cars early – Iceland in summer gets busy, especially in July and August.

LEARN MORE: Top Places to See in Iceland

2. Lofoten Islands & Northern Norway

Typical summer temperatures: 12–20°C (54–68°F).

Northern Norway lies above the Arctic Circle but is surprisingly mild in summer. You’ll enjoy long daylight hours, including the midnight sun, and fewer crowds compared to southern Norway, which sees many cruise ships during the season.

The region is home to charming villages, stunning fjords, and breathtaking views at every turn.

The Lofoten Islands are known for their white-sand beaches, steep fjords, and colorful rorbuer cabins. You can hike, fish, kayak, cycle, or simply enjoy the coastal scenery and traditional local food. Further north, Vesterålen and Senja offer even more remote landscapes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Don’t miss Tromsø, often called the Arctic Capital. This lively town is a great base for tours like midnight sun cruises, kayaking, whale watching, and reindeer encounters.

Good to know: The water may look tropical, but it’s cold, usually much too cold for swimming. Still, be sure to pack some summer clothes too, because temperatures can sometimes reach 25°C (77°F) or higher.

LEARN MORE: Northern Norway Itinerary

3. The Alps (Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France)

Typical summer temperatures: 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the valleys, 5–15°C (41–59°F) at higher altitudes.

The European Alps are a great option if you want fresh mountain air and cooler weather. Even when it’s hot in the lowlands, you can head up to alpine villages or mountain trails for comfortable hiking conditions and beautiful views.

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, mountain lakes, and scenic mountain excursions. You can visit ice tunnels and walk inside glaciers, and in some places, you’ll find snow even in the summer. Many regions offer summer cards with free or discounted access to lifts and local transport.

Good base areas include the Dolomites in Italy, Tyrol in Austria (super family-friendly), Chamonix in France, and pretty much any mountain resort in Switzerland.

Good to know: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains, so plan your hikes in the morning and always check the weather before heading out.

READ ALSO: Switzerland Itinerary

4. Scotland

Typical summer temperatures: 14-20°C (57–68°F).

Scotland is one of the best cool summer destinations in Europe if you’re looking for a mix of culture, nature, and mild weather. Even in July and August, temperatures usually stay below 20°C (68°F), and it almost never feels too hot to explore.

You can expect a mix of sun, clouds, and the occasional passing shower, but the cooler weather makes it ideal for road trips, hiking, and sightseeing without the crowds or the heat.

There’s plenty to see across the country. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are packed with history, culture, and summer events, including the world-famous Edinburgh Festival. If you’re heading into the Highlands, the Isle of Skye is a top place to be for waterfalls, coastal walks, and easy-to-access hiking trails. You can also visit castles, explore small villages, or take a scenic whisky tour through Speyside or Islay.

Good to know: Rain is always a possibility, even in summer. Pack layers – from shorts to sweaters – and a lightweight waterproof jacket. If you’re heading to the Highlands, bring midge repellent too.

PRO TIP: If you’re renting a car, book early and go for a compact model – many rural roads are single-track and narrow. Also, reserve your accommodation in advance, especially in popular areas. The best-value places often fill up first, and Scotland is not cheap.

READ ALSO: Isle of Skye Itinerary

5. Faroe Islands

Typical summer temperatures: 10–13°C (50–55°F).

The Faroe Islands (a Danish island archipelago between Scotland and Iceland) are one of the best cool-weather destinations in Europe for summer. Even in July and August, it rarely gets warmer than 13°C (55°F), but that’s part of the appeal. If you’re looking to escape the heat and don’t mind a bit of rain, you’ll love visiting the Faroe Islands in the summer.

The weather is famously unpredictable. Sun, fog, and rain can all appear (and disappear) in the same hour, but the landscapes are always worth it.

You’ll find a mix of peaceful villages, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most scenic coastal hiking trails in Europe. There are more sheep than people, so you don’t have to worry about the crowds.

Top things to do include stunning hikes to Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy, walking the trail to the “floating lake” at Sørvágsvatn, visiting the sea stacks at Drangarnir, and taking a boat trip to the puffin-covered island of Mykines. It’s one of the best places in Europe to see puffins up close in their natural habitat.

Good to know: Accommodations outside of the capital are scarce, so plan well ahead. That said, the city serves as a good base for day trips and excursions, so you can see a lot by simply staying in Torshavn.

PRO TIP: Bring rain gear and sturdy waterproof hiking boots – not just for hiking, but for everyday exploring. Many trails are grassy, uneven, and muddy, even during the driest months.

LEARN MORE: Faroe Islands Itinerary

6. The Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)

Typical summer temperatures: 18–24°C (64–75°F).

The Baltic States – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – are one of the most underrated cool summer destinations in Europe. They’re easy to explore, generally uncrowded, and much more affordable than most of Northern and Western Europe.

Each country offers a great mix of historic cities and peaceful nature. Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius all have charming old towns, vibrant summer events, and lots of green space. If you want to slow down, head to the coast or countryside. Places like the Curonian Spit in Lithuania, Gauja National Park in Latvia, and Lahemaa National Park or the island of Saaremaa in Estonia are all excellent options for nature lovers.

The weather in summer is warm, but rarely too hot – ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The region is perfect for a relaxed summer road trip, and it’s easy to combine all three countries in one itinerary. Public transport is reliable and budget-friendly too, if you’d rather not drive.

Good to know: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and getting around is straightforward, even if it’s your first time visiting. You can rent a car in one country and return it in another, making cross-border travel easy.

LEARN MORE: Baltics Trip Itinerary

7. Greenland

Typical summer temperatures: 5–12°C (41–54°F).

Greenland is remote and cold, even in summer, but if you’re looking for one of the most unique cool-weather destinations in Europe, this is it. The landscapes are unlike anywhere else, and July–August is the best time to visit. Conditions are more stable, and many remote areas are accessible by boat.

The most visited region is Ilulissat, home to enormous icebergs, a UNESCO-listed icefjord, and scenic coastal hiking trails. You can also take cruises, kayaking trips, and guided excursions to explore the edge of the ice sheet. Another highlight is Qeqertarsuaq on Disko Island, a less-visited but equally spectacular spot with volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and great hiking.

Good to know: Greenland is huge and sparsely populated, with no roads between towns. Travel is only possible by air or sea, and infrastructure is limited, so it’s essential to plan everything well in advance.

PRO TIP: Pack carefully – weather can change quickly, and gear options are limited once you arrive. (You can find our Greenland packing list here.) Also, be sure to book tours and accommodation before you go!

LEARN MORE: Greenland Travel Tips & Itinerary

8. Ireland

Typical summer temperatures: 15–20°C (59–68°F).

Ireland is a great choice for a cool summer escape. Mild weather, lush green landscapes, and scenic drives make it ideal for a relaxed road trip. Even in peak season, temperatures are usually very comfortable.

The weather can be unpredictable, with sunshine one minute and showers the next, but that’s part of the experience. Bring a rain jacket, but don’t let the forecast stop you. You’ll still see plenty of locals out walking, surfing, and even swimming.

The west coast of Ireland is one of the best areas to explore in summer, especially along the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll find dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches, and charming small towns. And yes, the Cliffs of Moher are really worth the stop! In the south, Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry are not to be missed.

If you’re looking for even cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, head to the Inishowen Peninsula in the County of Donegal in the far northwest. This area is wilder and less developed, with windswept beaches, sea cliffs, and some of the most untouched landscapes along the Irish coast. It’s a bit out of the way – perfect for a quieter experience without the crowds.

PRO TIP: In rural areas, many attractions, cafés, and restaurants close earlier than you might expect. Plan your sightseeing and meals accordingly, especially if you’re staying in smaller towns.

9. Lapland (Finland, Sweden, Norway)

Typical summer temperatures: 12–20°C (53–68°F).

Lapland is one of the best cool-weather summer destinations in Europe if you want to get off the beaten path. Summer days are long, the landscapes are peaceful, and you really don’t have to worry about the heat or the crowds.

Rovaniemi (Finland), Kiruna (Sweden), and Alta (Norway) are convenient starting points, especially if you’re flying in. Best known as winter destinations, they also offer plenty to do in summer, from nature trails to local museums and family-friendly attractions. That said, the real highlights are further away from the towns, where you’ll find national parks, wildlife, remote cabins, and hiking routes with hardly anyone around.

You can hike through endless forests, paddle on still lakes, and stay in cozy cabins under the midnight sun. It’s an ideal destination if you’re looking to unplug, slow down, and spend time outdoors.

If you’re traveling with kids, reindeer farms and husky visits are open in summer too, and many offer hands-on experiences without the winter crowds. And yes, you can meet Santa Claus and visit his village in Rovaniemi in the summer as well.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget mosquito repellent. It’s also a good idea to wear long sleeves in the evenings.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Rovaniemi

10. Svalbard

Typical summer temperatures: 3–7°C (37–45°F).

If you’re really trying to escape the heat, Svalbard is probably the coolest place in Europe, both in temperature and experience. This Arctic archipelago sits between mainland Norway and the North Pole and offers a truly unique travel experience. It’s wild, remote, and totally different from anything else!

Summer is the best time to explore by boat and hike across the tundra. You’ll experience 24-hour daylight, and with a bit of luck (and a guide), you might spot polar bears, walruses, or Arctic foxes. The main base for visitors is Longyearbyen, which is surprisingly easy to reach by flight from Oslo or Tromsø.

Good to know: For safety reasons, you can’t travel outside the town limits without a licensed guide. The risk of polar bear encounters is real. For this reason, all tours and excursions are guided, so it’s essential to plan and book ahead.

LEARN MORE: Svalbard Travel Guide

So, this is our guide to cooler summer destinations in Europe that offer refreshing weather, fewer crowds, and plenty to explore. Skip the heatwaves and discover a different side of Europe – your next great adventure could be closer than you think!

TIP: Looking for more travel ideas for cooler destinations beyond Europe? Check out our Alaska travel guides! Alaska offers stunning landscapes, crisp temperatures, and truly unique experiences – perfect for anyone wanting to beat the heat and explore somewhere extraordinary.

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