Cool European Summer Destinations for 2025: Where to Beat the Heat

9 Best European Summer Destinations to Beat the Heat in 2025

As Europe experiences rising summer temperatures, from heat waves in Greece to record-breaking sea temperatures in Croatia, many travelers are shifting their summer plans north. Welcome to the era of the coolcation — a rising trend favoring moderate-climate escapes over sweltering beach destinations.

Whether you’re looking to hike in alpine meadows, sip wine along a breezy canal, or enjoy 24-hour daylight above the Arctic Circle, these nine European destinations offer refreshing alternatives to the southern sun — all with average July temperatures below 75°F (24°C).

1. Lapland, Finland

Average July High: 71°F (Rovaniemi)

Though famed for its winter wonderland reputation, Lapland is equally magical in summer. Endless daylight hours mean you can hike, bike, or fish around the clock in the serene Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: The Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Rovaniemi offers stilted cabin-style rooms with panoramic views. Rates from $267 or 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

2. Iceland

Average July High: 58°F (Reykjavik)

With volcanic landscapes, black-sand beaches, and geothermal springs, Iceland is the ideal escape from the heat. Skip the crowds in Reykjavik and drive the Ring Road to discover secluded hot springs and coastal towns.

Where to stay: The Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll offers a remote retreat in Iceland’s central highlands. Rates from $578 per night.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

Average July High: 66°F

Edinburgh pairs history and natural beauty with cool summer temps. Explore Edinburgh Castle, stroll the Royal Botanic Garden, or escape to the countryside and coastal towns like North Berwick.

Where to stay: For a unique experience, book a night aboard the Fingal Hotel, a docked luxury ship in Leith. Rates start at $484. Or use points at The Caledonian Edinburgh (from $471 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points).

4. Svalbard, Norway

Average July High: 49°F (Longyearbyen)

One of the world’s northernmost inhabited places, Svalbard is ideal for polar bear spotting, glacier hikes, and Arctic solitude. Just remember: no northern lights in summer due to continuous daylight.

Where to stay: Check into the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel in Longyearbyen. Rates from $322 per night.

5. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Average July High: 72°F

Enjoy bike rides, canal strolls, and outdoor concerts in Amsterdam’s mild summer. The city celebrates its 750th anniversary this year with major events, including Sail Amsterdam and a solstice street party.

Where to stay: Book the brand-new Rosewood Amsterdam (from $1,037/night) via Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts for perks like free breakfast and a $100 property credit.

6. The French Alps

Average July High: 70°F

Trade ski lifts for hiking boots in the French Alps. Explore wildflower meadows, glacial lakes, and rustic villages like Chamonix in ideal summer weather.

Where to stay: Relax post-hike at the Four Seasons Hotel Megève. Summer rates from $687/night with Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Average July High: 71°F

Denmark defines cool summer charm. Cycle through Copenhagen’s colorful streets, take a swim in the city’s clean harbor, and unwind at waterfront saunas or Tivoli Gardens.

Where to stay: Book Villa Copenhagen, a luxury hotel housed in a 1912 post office building, for $418 or 20,000 Choice Privileges points per night.

8. Faroe Islands

Average July High: 55°F (Torshavn)

Remote and rugged, the Faroe Islands offer dramatic cliffs, puffin-filled skies, and hikes to hidden villages and floating lakes. Expect misty days and cool temps — perfect for adventure-seekers.

Where to stay: Use Hilton Honors points at Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands (from $263 or 50,000 points). Or book Hotel Føroyar via Choice Privileges (from $188 or 15,000 points) and unwind at its new spa.

9. Gota Canal Trail, Sweden

Average July High: 71°F (Töreboda)

This 137-mile bike trail through Swedish countryside is a summer dream. Cycle past quaint villages, stay in historic inns, and enjoy near 18-hour days along this 200-year-old canal route.

How to go: Join a 5-day guided tour with Dutch operator Naar het Noorden. Includes bike rental, lodging, and luggage transport. From $1,231 per person.

Coolcation Travel Tip

If you’re using travel points, many of these destinations are bookable through major loyalty programs such as Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy, and Choice Privileges. Booking via programs like Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts can also unlock elite perks like complimentary breakfast, late checkout, and on-site credits.

As temperatures rise across southern Europe, northern gems like Lapland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands are redefining what a summer getaway can look like — cool, calm, and comfortably scenic.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more expertly curated travel inspiration around the globe.