While a significant part of Europe suffers from abnormal heat, travel experts recommend paying attention to destinations where you can comfortably relax even in the height of summer without the scorching sun and extremely high temperatures. As noted by **Daily Mail**, such trips have been becoming increasingly popular in recent years. According to meteorologists, the current heat wave has been unusual, as abnormally high temperatures have affected even the northern regions of Europe. However, specialists expect that in the future, the weather will return to a more familiar scenario: the south of the continent will remain under the influence of heat, while the northern regions will be noticeably cooler. In many countries in Europe, daytime temperatures have already reached around +38 °C, which is nearly 20 degrees above the climatic norm for June. Climate change is gradually influencing tourist habits as well. According to data from Booking.com, 54% of travelers prefer to avoid trips to excessively hot countries, while nearly one in four specifically chooses what is called a *coolcation* — a vacation in places with a cooler climate. Experts have named several European destinations that are perfect for a summer vacation in July and August. ## Norway: Fjords, Coastline, and Fresh Air One of the best options, experts say, is a trip along the western coast of Norway. The route is recommended to start in Bergen, where you should spend a few days, and then drive to Trondheim — a city that was the capital of the Vikings during the early Middle Ages. On the way, you can visit picturesque Ålesund, Kristiansund, and the historic district of Bryggen. Travelers will be greeted by majestic fjords, rocky coastlines, dense forests, secluded beaches, and numerous bridges connecting small islands. In summer, the air temperature here usually does not exceed +18 °C, making walks comfortable even during the day. ## Denmark: Comfortable Weather and Plenty of Attractions Another great option for those who struggle with heat is Denmark. You can start your journey in Copenhagen. Here, tourists are advised to visit the famous Tivoli amusement park — one of the oldest in the world, the free district of Christiania, as well as the National Museum of Denmark with its rich collection of Viking-era exhibits. After getting to know the capital, it's worth heading along the country's coastline, which stretches for more than seven thousand kilometers. Among the popular attractions are LEGOLAND park and the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense. In summer, daytime temperatures usually warm up to around +21 °C, while at night, temperatures can drop to +12 °C. ## Estonia: Cool Baltic Sea and Untouched Nature Estonia will be a wonderful choice for those looking to escape the summer heat. In Tallinn alone, you can spend an entire week wandering through the medieval streets of the Old Town, visiting museums, art galleries, ancient churches, and gastronomic and flea markets. One of the most unusual attractions is Iglupark — a complex of saunas on the shores of the Baltic Sea. After the sauna, visitors can immediately plunge into the cool sea water. Outside the capital, tourists are recommended to visit Lahemaa National Park with its swamps, lakes, and dense forests, where brown bears roam. Active leisure enthusiasts should head to Soomaa National Park, which has earned the nickname "land of swamps" due to its wetlands. Kayaking is particularly popular here. The numerous islands of Estonia also deserve special attention. In addition to Saaremaa, travelers are advised to visit Ruhnu, Aegna, Naissaar, Vormsi, and Kihnu. In summer, temperatures here rarely exceed +24 °C. ## Galicia: Cool Spain For those dreaming of a vacation in Spain but not wanting to suffer from the heat, experts recommend focusing on Galicia — the northwestern region of the country. In summer, it is usually about ten degrees cooler here than in popular Mediterranean resorts. The main attraction of the region is Santiago de Compostela — one of the most important centers of Christian pilgrimage. Every year, thousands of people come here along the famous Camino de Santiago route to visit the cathedral housing the relics of Saint James. Nearby is La Coruña, where the ancient Roman lighthouse — the Tower of Hercules — has been preserved, as well as the famous buildings with glass facades. Beach lovers are advised to head to Praia de Rodas in the national park of the Cíes Islands. With its white sand and picturesque cliffs, it is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The average summer temperature here is around +24 °C. ## Brittany: Comfortable Summer in Northern France Despite the current heat wave, northern France traditionally remains one of the most comfortable regions for summer vacations. Brittany attracts travelers with its picturesque ocean coastline, wide sandy beaches, and rich historical heritage. During the trip, it's worth visiting the famous Mont Saint-Michel, the picturesque town of Pont-Aven, renowned for the artist Paul Gauguin, as well as the ancient port of Saint-Malo with its fortress walls and atmospheric narrow streets. Nantes and Rennes are equally interesting, where tourists can find ancient castles, art museums, cozy squares, and local markets. The average daytime temperature in summer here is around +22 °C. ## Lithuania: Baltic Relaxation Without Exhausting Heat Lithuania is becoming increasingly popular among tourists who prefer to avoid the scorching Mediterranean resorts. Just last year, the country welcomed a record 1.5 million travelers. Most tourists start their acquaintance with Vilnius. The capital attracts with its cozy Old Town, medieval castles, and numerous cafes and bars. It is also worth visiting the Museum of Occupations and the Struggle for Freedom, dedicated to the Soviet period of the country's history. The Užupis district creates a special atmosphere — an artistic quarter with galleries and modern cafes. In 1998, the residents of the district jokingly declared independence and even adopted their own constitution. Kaunas is also interesting, where you can see a medieval castle, art museums, and a popular city beach. For seaside relaxation, experts recommend the Curonian Spit with its wide sandy beaches and impressive dunes. In summer, the air temperature usually hovers around +21 °C. ## Switzerland: Alpine Coolness For those who want to completely forget about the heat, experts recommend heading to the Swiss Alps. One of the most popular routes goes through Meiringen, Wengen, Mürren, Kandersteg, Leukerbad, and ends in Zermatt. The total length of the route is about 150 kilometers, and the journey usually takes two weeks. Along the way, tourists can see the famous peaks of Eiger and Matterhorn, glaciers, alpine meadows, and picturesque mountain villages. After completing the hike, you can spend a few days in Zurich or Geneva, relaxing by the lakeside. During the day, temperatures in the Alps usually hover around +18 °C, while at night they can drop to +10 °C. ## Italian Dolomites: Mountains Instead of Beaches Another excellent destination for a cool summer vacation is the Dolomite Alps. For the trip, experts recommend choosing the resort of Madonna di Campiglio, which welcomes winter sports enthusiasts and becomes a center for hiking in the summer. There are dozens of routes of varying difficulty that pass through lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and picturesque mountain peaks. Tourists can choose between self-guided walks and excursions with professional guides. In the summer season, cable cars operate, allowing easy access to high-altitude areas. The average daytime temperature is around +17 °C. ## Austria: Relaxation Among the Alps A wonderful alternative is the small Austrian village of Alpbach, often referred to as one of the most beautiful in the country. Tourists are greeted by traditional wooden houses, cozy hotels, a picturesque church with a tall steeple, and magnificent views of the Alps. In summer, you can go hiking, take a cable car up the mountains, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the small Tyrolean village. After walks, guests can enjoy restaurants serving traditional Austrian cuisine. The average summer temperature is around +24 °C. ## Finland: The Land of White Nights Finland, which has been recognized as the happiest country in the world by the UN for the ninth consecutive year, is also an excellent choice for a summer trip. The main feature of Finnish summer is the white nights. Even after sunset, the horizon remains bright, allowing walks and relaxation to continue almost around the clock. The journey should start in Helsinki, where tourists can enjoy museums, art galleries, concert venues, local markets, and walks through the islands of the archipelago. After getting to know the capital, you can rent a car, take a ferry to the Åland Islands, visit Mariehamn, and then continue your journey through the archipelago, ending in Turku. In summer, daytime temperatures usually do not exceed +21 °C, while at night they drop to around +11 °C. Abnormal heat is gradually changing familiar tourist routes. While in the past most vacationers sought Mediterranean beaches, today more and more travelers are choosing the cooler regions of Europe. Northern countries, the Alps, and the Atlantic coast allow for a rich excursion program, nature walks, and comfortable temperatures even in the height of summer.