Overwhelmingly, we associate vacationing with summertime.
First, students are let off for the summer break, meaning it’s easier for most families to schedule trips from May to August. Second, in the past, it was much riskier to travel during the winter months due to potential inclement weather.
But thanks to the wonders of technology and the steady rise of global temperatures, this approach to vacation is shifting.
As a resident of Barcelona, I can tell you that summer is a hellscape thanks to soaring temperatures, crowds of tourists, and bathwater-level humidity. In other words, I go on vacation in summer to beat the heat and the crowds.
And I’m not alone. ‘Cool-cationing’ is on the rise around the world. And Europe, in particular, has a handful of highly luxurious and unspoiled summer cool-cation spots.
Want to beat the heat this summer? Keep these cool-cation hotspots in mind when you’re planning your next getaway.
Reykjavik, Iceland
You’ll get more out of summer in Iceland. I mean that literally—because this country is closer to the Arctic Circle, daylight lasts up to twenty hours around the solstice.
Vacationers can choose to hang around Reykjavik, soaking up local architecture, munching on its wide range of weird specialties, and drinking some very tasty brews.
Or you can throw yourself into the great unknown. While you probably won’t see the Northern Lights during a trip in summer, you’ll be able to explore glaciers and lagoons, amongst many other natural wonders. All without breaking a sweat.
Find a place to stay in Reykjavik.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Everyone should spend time in Edinburgh—and a great time to do that is during the height of summer.
First and foremost, the temperatures will hover around the mid-60s. That’s a fantastic compromise compared to the mid-90s common in the US. On top of that, Edinburgh hosts a handful of excellent summer festivals, from music to culture to modern art.
If you prefer to avoid the great outdoors and want to avoid language barriers, then Edinburgh should be at the top of your list of cool-cation spots.
Find a place to stay in Edinburgh.
Bergen, Norway
In August 2023, my brother and I took our dad on a cool-cation for his 70th birthday. We started the trip out in Bergen, then road-tripped down the coast.
Not only did we avoid high temperatures, but we also missed the sun thanks to rain. Personally, it didn’t get in the way of us enjoying the absolutely stunning fjords and parks throughout the country.
In fact, the cloudy skies turned the landscape into an Ireland-level shade of bright green. I’m about that lushness, so it was a perfect cool-cation for me.
But if you do want a lot of sunlight with your cool breeze, then maybe look elsewhere.
Find a place to stay in Bergen.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
I know—selling someone on a trip to St. Moritz in summertime is probably a little odd.
This area is renowned for being one of Europe’s most exclusive and lovely skiing and winter destinations. But given its location high in the Swiss Alps, it’s also a great choice for those wanting to beat the heat this summer.
Personally, I’d go here for the natural wonders. The Swiss Alps are particularly stunning during the height of the summer—again, without that oppressive heat.
For hikers and outdoor adventurers, there’s no place more idyllic. Those ultra-lux amenities don’t hurt, either.
Find a place to stay in St. Moritz.
Hobart, Australia
Let’s not forget the southern hemisphere.
Summers in Australia and Southeast Asia are particularly brutal. Those looking to flee the heat have traditionally flocked to Tasmania, a province of Australia located on its southern border.
Just like in Edinburgh, temperatures hover around the mid-60s throughout summer.
But what is there to do?
Similar to Iceland, you can road trip around the island after arriving in the capital of Hobart. You’ll get to explore some seriously beautiful hiking trails and even animal sanctuaries.
But there are other hidden wonders you might not expect. For example, did you know that Tasmania is home to delicious wineries and tasting centers?