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

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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.

Sopot, Poland

Average maximum temperature in August: 22C

Average minimum temperature in August: 12C

Located on the Baltic Sea coast in the Tricity region, Sopot is an affordable alternative to the popular southern resorts. This place is known for its warmest August, just a short train ride from historic Gdansk. 

There are 4 km of attractive beaches, the longest wooden pier in Europe, and stylish wellness spas housed in fabulous buildings. Sopot is highly regarded by locals for its vibrant nightlife on the coast and, of course, for its decadent waffles. 

Sylt, Germany

Average maximum temperature in August: 20C

Average minimum temperature in August: 16C

The North Frisian Islands attract travelers with their mild microclimate, striped strandcars (wicker hooded seats for two), and pristine sandy beaches. The west coast of the Sylt has become a magnet for the German elite. Here you can enjoy Michelin-starred gastronomic establishments, admire thatched cottages and lighthouse peninsulas. 

This relaxing yet luxurious beach vacation deserves a place on your travel bucket list. Experience the harmony of nature and sophisticated comfort on this cozy island where every day turns into a small holiday.

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Lake Bled, Slovenia

Average maximum temperature in August: 28°C

Average minimum temperature in August: 16C

Slovenia's most famous attraction sparkles in the summer sun, and the turquoise glacial waters of Lake Bled provide a cool refreshment as you hike up to the medieval Bled Castle. This place is ideal for romantic walks around the charming island. 

Unlike the tourist-crowded Lakes Garda and Como in Italy, the Bled corner of the Julian Alps, although popular, offers forest trails for secluded alpine hikes. 

Machico, Madeira, Portugal

Average maximum temperature in August: 26C

Average minimum temperature in August: 21C

Leave the scorching Algarve for a temperate Atlantic alternative in the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira. Cozy Machico, located between the mountains in the east of the island, has an artificial beach with golden sand imported from Africa. The city attracts with its well-kept gardens and terracotta roofs scattered throughout the landscape. 

The mild climate and picturesque views create ideal conditions for a relaxing vacation. Machiku offers a unique atmosphere where natural beauty and comfort are combined, making it a great place for those looking for an alternative to hotter resorts.

Pori, Finland

Average maximum temperature in August: 21С

Average minimum temperature in August: 12C

On the west coast of Finland, the city of Pori is famous for its jazz music, Finnish street food, including porilainen (sausage sandwich), and the famous Jouteri beach. This beach, with its 6 km of white sand, is ideal for windsurfing, bird watching, beach volleyball and barbecues. 

Thanks to the Kokemäenjoki River and the Botnia Sea National Park, Pori offers a variety of opportunities for summer vacations with temperatures below 30°C. 

Haarlem, Netherlands

Average high in August: 19C

Average minimum temperature in August: 15C

Head to Haarlem to enjoy tulips, vinyl records, cozy hofje courtyards, and numerous canals. This less crowded neighbor of Amsterdam offers an authentic Dutch atmosphere without the crowds of tourists. Harlem has popular shopping and a brewing culture that dates back to the 14th century. For outdoor activities, visit the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park.

Skagen, Denmark

Average maximum in August: 19C

Average minimum temperature in August: 13C

On Denmark's northeastern peninsula, the port city of Skagen is known for its art museums and fine dining options that rival those of the country's capital, Copenhagen. Clouds dot the sky and wildlife patrols the pale sandbanks of Grenaa, where the Baltic and North Seas meet. The August weather with warm T-shirts and light layers of clothing is perfect for exploring the Rabjerg Mile, a migratory coastal sand dune. 

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