As temperatures continue to soar across parts of Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, it’s no surprise that many travellers are beginning to ask the same question:
“Will it simply be too hot?”
While destinations such as Greece, Spain, Italy and Turkey remain incredibly popular, the intense summer heat can sometimes make sightseeing, walking and even relaxing by the pool less enjoyable, particularly for families with young children who prefer a more comfortable climate.
The good news is that Europe offers plenty of wonderful alternatives where you can still enjoy beautiful scenery, fantastic food and unforgettable experiences without the extreme temperatures.
If you’re looking for a summer holiday with a cooler climate, here are a few destinations well worth considering.
Norway – Spectacular Fjords and Fresh Mountain Air
If breathtaking scenery tops your holiday wish list, Norway is hard to beat.
Cruise through magnificent fjords, discover colourful waterfront towns, take scenic railway journeys and enjoy some of Europe’s cleanest, freshest air.
Summer temperatures are typically much more comfortable than Southern Europe, making it ideal for sightseeing, hiking and outdoor adventures.
Iceland – Nature at Its Most Dramatic
Few destinations offer landscapes quite like Iceland.
Waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches and geothermal lagoons create an unforgettable holiday experience unlike anywhere else in Europe.
With long daylight hours during summer and pleasantly cool temperatures, it’s a fantastic destination for those looking for something truly different.
South Tyrol, Italy – Alpine Luxury
If you still love the idea of Italy but would prefer to escape the Mediterranean heat, South Tyrol offers the perfect compromise.
Nestled in the Italian Alps, this beautiful region combines spectacular mountain scenery with charming towns, luxury wellness hotels and outstanding cuisine.
Summer days are warm enough to enjoy walking, cycling and outdoor dining, while the mountain air keeps temperatures refreshingly comfortable.
Having recently visited South Tyrol myself, I can understand why so many travellers return year after year. It offers a wonderfully relaxing alternative to Italy’s busier coastal resorts.
The Azores – Portugal’s Atlantic Paradise
Often described as Europe’s hidden island gem, the Azores enjoy a mild Atlantic climate throughout the summer.
Volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, whale watching, walking trails and natural hot springs make these islands perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
They’re an excellent choice if you’re looking for somewhere peaceful, scenic and refreshingly different.
Latvia – A Stylish City Break with a Seaside Escape
For those considering a short getaway, Riga is one of Europe’s most underrated capitals.
Its beautiful Old Town, impressive architecture, vibrant cafés and fascinating history make it a wonderful destination for a few days of exploration. With generally milder summer temperatures than Southern Europe, it’s perfect for sightseeing at a relaxed pace.
Just a 30-minute drive from Riga lies the elegant seaside resort of Jūrmala, famous for its long stretches of golden sandy beach, peaceful pine forests and charming wooden villas. It’s the perfect place to combine a cultural city break with a day or two by the Baltic Sea, enjoying fresh sea air and a much cooler summer climate.
Slovenia – One of Europe’s Best-Kept Secrets
Slovenia continues to surprise first-time visitors.
Lake Bled, the Julian Alps, picturesque villages and vibrant Ljubljana offer an incredible mix of scenery and culture.
Whether you enjoy walking, cycling or simply relaxing beside crystal-clear lakes, Slovenia provides an unforgettable holiday experience without the intense summer heat found further south.
Cooler Doesn’t Mean Compromising
Choosing a cooler destination doesn’t mean missing out on a memorable holiday.
In fact, many find that more comfortable temperatures allow them to make the most of every day, whether that’s exploring historic cities, walking through beautiful countryside or enjoying outdoor dining without constantly seeking shade.
These destinations also tend to offer a different pace of life, allowing you to slow down, reconnect with nature and discover parts of Europe that are often overlooked.
Looking for Something Different This Summer?
One of the things I enjoy most as a Personal Travel Consultant is helping clients discover destinations they may never have previously considered.
Whether you’re looking for spectacular scenery, luxury wellness hotels, outdoor adventures or simply somewhere a little cooler this summer, there are plenty of wonderful options waiting to be explored.
As a Surrey-based Personal Travel Consultant, I’d be delighted to help you find a destination that perfectly suits your travel style, interests and preferred climate.
If you’re still deciding where to go this summer, why not get in touch? Together we can find a holiday that’s memorable for all the right reasons.
As a Personal Travel Consultant, I am able to organise fantastic holidays all over the world that are completely ABTA and ATOL protected. Also being part of the Hays Travel Group, I have the backing and resource of the largest independent travel group in the UK – meaning great service and prices!