The ‘cool’ European destinations to visit in summer 2024

People who like to tan can be happy because the trends for holiday travel are shifting away from spending too much time in the sun on a sunbed during summer vacations.

Due to the current climate crisis, British individuals who typically enjoy traveling to warmer destinations are now choosing to explore European destinations where they won’t be confined to a hotel room with air conditioning or suffer from the intense midday sun.

It is not surprising that there has been a shift to milder climates. Popular Mediterranean vacation destinations such as Rhodes and Gran Canaria experienced intense wildfires during the peak travel season of 2023, and temperatures have consistently reached new record highs each year.

It is currently the opportune moment to exchange the hot Andalusia region in mainland Spain for the more temperate Canaries, switch Portugal’s Algarve for Poland’s Baltic coast, and substitute popular Greek islands for German alternatives.

As the pursuit of the blazing sun takes a backseat, these locations offer a refreshing respite for summer vacations, from gusty islands to the picturesque coastlines of northern Europe.

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Belgium is often associated with chocolate, beer, and being the headquarters of the EU in Brussels. However, it would be unwise to overlook the country’s beach resorts. The largest one in Flanders, Ostend, offers a perfect summer getaway with its beautiful golden sands. You can spend your mornings kitesurfing and your afternoons indulging in fresh oysters on the Albert I Promenade without having to escape the summer heat.

During the hot summer months in mainland Spain, the Canary Islands experience a cool ocean breeze, creating pleasant temperatures for visitors to La Gomera. This allows tourists to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, relaxing on the black-sand beaches, and indulging in delicious local dishes like melon lobster and marmalade rabbit. Despite the warm climate, there is still plenty of sunshine with approximately nine hours of sunlight per day in August.

Inevitably laden with sweaty vista climbs, winding refreshment queues and daily step tallies in the thousands, comfort is key on a city break, and the 2024 Capital of Culture, Tartu has just the climate for exploring Estonia. There is an elegant Town Hall Square primed for mass kissing events (yes, really), the sleek Estonian National Museum, and timber barges on the Emajõgi River for a sailor’s view of the peaceful landscape.

Sopot, located along the coastline in the Tricity area known as the “Baltic Riviera”, offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking a seaside destination. In August, the temperature is at its warmest, making it an attractive alternative to more popular destinations further south. Just a quick train ride away from the rich history of Gdansk, Sopot boasts 4km of alluring beaches, Europe’s longest wooden pier, and elegant health spas. The charming architecture adds to the fairy tale atmosphere, and locals praise Sopot for its bustling beachfront nightlife and delicious waffles.

Known as a hotspot for wealthy Germans, the North Frisian Islands boast a pleasant microclimate, iconic hooded wicker seats big enough for two people, and untouched pale beaches that naturally draw in tourists to Sylt’s western coast. With a highly rated gastronomy scene recognized by Michelin, traditional thatched cottages, and scattered lighthouses on its peninsulas, this hidden gem of a beach getaway is definitely worth adding to your travel itinerary.

Slovenia’s most famous attraction sparkles under the summer sun and Lake Bled’s inviting turquoise glacial waters will help you keep your cool on climbs up to the medieval Bled Castle and romantic rows around the fantasy island. Where the legendary lakes of Garda and Como sweat with crowds in Italy, Bled’s slice of the Julian Alps, though inevitably busy, offers forest trails suited for secluded alpine hikes.

Escape the hot climate of Algarve and opt for a cooler option on Portugal’s Madeira islands. Located between mountains, the eastern town of Machico boasts an artificial beach with imported sand from Africa, beautiful gardens, and a picturesque view of terracotta roofs scattered throughout the area.

Pori, located on the western coast of Finland, is known for its lively jazz music scene, delicious Finnish street food (such as the popular porilainen sausage sandwich), and the stunning Yyteri Beach. This 6km stretch of white sand is a hub for windsurfing, bird watching, beach volleyball, and BBQs. Along with the Kokemäenjoki River and Bothnian Sea National Park, Pori offers a diverse range of activities, making it the perfect destination for enjoying the summer weather that stays below 30 degrees Celsius.

Visit Haarlem for a taste of Dutch culture without the crowds of Amsterdam. This charming city offers a variety of attractions, including tulip fields, vintage record shops, and quaint courtyards known as “hofjes”. With its rich history dating back to the 14th century, Haarlem is also a hub for shopping and brewing. For those looking for outdoor activities, the nearby Zuid-Kennemerland National Park offers plenty of opportunities to stay active.

In the northeastern peninsula of Denmark, the town of Skagen boasts art museums and excellent dining options that can rival the trendy capital of Copenhagen. The sky is often sprinkled with clouds and the untamed wilderness guards the pale sand of Grenen sandbar, which lies between the Baltic and North Sea. What’s more, the weather in August, with its t-shirt and light layer attire, is perfect for discovering the Rabjerg Mile, a moving sand dune along the coast.

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Source: independent.co.uk