Coolcation 2026: Cool Destinations in Europe for Summer
Summers are getting hotter - but your vacation does not have to be. Discover the best cool destinations in Europe for a refreshing summer vacation 2026.
What is a Coolcation?
The term combines "cool" and "vacation". It describes the trend of choosing cool travel destinations with pleasant 15-22 degrees Celsius during hot summer months instead of classic beach destinations with 35+ degrees.
Heat waves are increasing - and so is the coolcation trend:More and more travelers are looking for cool alternatives to the classic Mediterranean destinations in summer. Scandinavia, the British Isles and the Alpine region offer exactly that: pleasant temperatures, breathtaking nature and less crowded beaches.
Top 10 Coolcation Destinations in Europe 2026
1. Norway - Fjords & Midnight Sun
Average Temperature: 15-20 degrees C
Highlights: Geirangerfjord, Lofoten, Bergen
Best Time: June - August
Budget: From 150 EUR/day
2. Ireland - Green Island & Wild Coasts
Average Temperature: 14-18 degrees C
Highlights: Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Dublin
Best Time: May - September
Budget: From 100 EUR/day
3. Scotland - Highlands & Whisky
Average Temperature: 13-19 degrees C
Highlights: Isle of Skye, Edinburgh, Loch Ness
Best Time: May - September
Budget: From 120 EUR/day
4. Iceland - Geysers & Northern Lights
Average Temperature: 10-15 degrees C
Highlights: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik
Best Time: June - August
Budget: From 180 EUR/day
5. Sweden - Stockholm & Archipelago
Average Temperature: 17-22 degrees C
Highlights: Stockholm, Gotland, Abisko
Best Time: June - August
Budget: From 130 EUR/day
More Coolcation Hidden Gems
6. Finland
- Temperature: 15-20 degrees C
- Top Destination: Lake District, Helsinki
- Highlight: White Nights
7. Denmark
- Temperature: 16-21 degrees C
- Top Destination: Copenhagen, Bornholm
- Highlight: Hygge Culture
8. Swiss Alps
- Temperature: 12-18 degrees C (altitude)
- Top Destination: Zermatt, Interlaken
- Highlight: Mountain Hiking
9. Brittany, France
- Temperature: 16-22 degrees C
- Top Destination: Saint-Malo, Quimper
- Highlight: Celtic Culture
10. Northern Portugal
- Temperature: 18-24 degrees C
- Top Destination: Porto, Douro Valley
- Highlight: Atlantic Breeze
Benefits of a Coolcation
Less heat stress, better for cardiovascular system
Hiking, cycling without overheating
More relaxed travel away from hotspots
Midnight sun, Northern Lights, fjords
Conclusion: Stay Cool in Hot Summers
Coolcation is more than a trend - it is a smart travel strategy.While Europe suffers from heat waves, Scandinavia, the British Isles and the Alpine region offer perfect conditions for a relaxing summer vacation.
Our Recommendation:
Book early - Coolcation destinations are becoming increasingly popular. Compare package deals to find the best offer.
Plan Your Coolcation Now
Compare package tours to the coolest destinations in Europe. Find the best deal for your refreshing summer vacation 2026.