The European tourist season of 2024 is under threat due to an abnormal heat wave. However, don't despair, we have selected the best cities for you to escape the heat even during the peak season. Find out more about the coolest European destinations for summer 2024

Cool lovers can breathe a sigh of relief: vacation trends are changing, and summer travel is no longer limited to sunbathing and relaxing on the beach. Due to climate change, travelers are shifting their travel destinations to European shores with a temperate climate. They choose places where they don't have to hide under air conditioning in hotels and avoid midday UV.

The shift to temperate climates is no surprise. Mediterranean resorts such as Rhodes and Gran Canaria faced wildfires during the peak tourist season of 2023, and temperature records continue to rise every year. Now it's time to swap hot Andalusia in Spain for the cool Canary Islands, Portugal's Algarve for Poland's Baltic coast, and the Greek islands for Germany.

Ostend, Belgium

Average maximum temperature in August: 21С

Average minimum temperature in August: 15C

Belgium is known for its chocolate, beer and Brussels as the center of democracy in Europe, but it has another equally attractive face - its beach resorts. The largest resort in Flanders, Ostend, impresses with its golden sands this summer. Here you can enjoy kitesurfing in the morning and taste fresh oysters on the Albert I waterfront in the afternoon. In Ostend, you can spend an unforgettable day on the beach without having to hide from the heat.

Oslo, Norway

Average maximum temperature in August: 21С

Average minimum temperature in August: 13C

The Norwegian capital is a harmonious combination of fashionable neighborhoods and nature. The bustling Grunerlokka district attracts boutiques and outdoor restaurants, while the dense Marka Forest is nearby, ideal for outdoor activities: zip-lining and mountain biking await enthusiasts. 

Fine museums, such as the Munch Museum, are located on the Oslo Pass. For relaxation and rejuvenation, swimming in saltwater pools and relaxing in Scandinavian saunas are ideal, creating the perfect balance between activity and relaxation during your summer vacation.

La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain

Average maximum temperature in August: 28C

Average minimum temperature in August: 21C

While mainland Spain is burning with heat, the Canary Islands enjoy a pleasant Atlantic breeze. La Gomera enjoys a mild climate all year round with temperatures around 20 degrees. Vacationers enjoy hiking, swimming on black sandy beaches, and gastronomic delights such as melon lobster and marmalade rabbit. 

Even in August, the heat is comfortable and there are about nine hours of sunshine daily, providing plenty of vitamin D. La Gomera offers the perfect combination of a relaxing vacation and gastronomic experience under the warm sun of the Canary Islands.

Tartu, Estonia

Average maximum temperature in August: 21С

Average minimum temperature in August: 11C

Comfort is a crucial factor when traveling in a city, especially when it comes to climbing peaks, queuing at eateries and thousands of steps every day. Tartu, the 2024 European Capital of Culture, has the perfect climate for exploring Estonia. The elegant Town Hall Square is impressive and ready to receive lovers for mass kisses. 

The Estonian National Museum enchants with its elegance, and the timber barges on the Emajõgi River offer a unique sailor's view of the tranquil landscape. Tartu harmoniously combines history, culture and natural beauty, creating the perfect setting for exploring the city.