The coolest destinations in Europe for a summer holiday

After 9 months of grey rain and wind, all of the UK longs for 35 degrees and a sun lounger on a coconut-scented beach.

But with rising temperatures and heatwaves in Europe, we have actually become more tempted to escape the heat. And this can also be seen in the latest travel trend of “coolcation” – going on holiday to destinations where the temperature is lower during the summer months.

That's why we've found out which summer holiday destinations are the best for a coolcation. The places where it doesn't get too hot, and where the experiences and surroundings are top-notch. Below you'll find a list of the places, as well as inspiration for a holiday in cooler temperatures.

Lofoten, Norway

A “cool” destination in Norway is of course Lofoten, and in summer it gets to 20 degrees at most. A holiday in Lofoten is a unique experience – the archipelago in Nordland offers an almost magical nature with a mixture of mountains, fjords, white sandy beaches and vast seas. Go on a whale safari and see sperm whales, or take the chance to experience the midnight sun, which you can do from the end of May to mid-July.

Where to stay in Lofoten

All our holiday homes in Lofoten offer the true Norwegian cabin atmosphere, surrounded by the sea and mountains. In this charming cabin in Lofoten, located right on the water's edge, you can really kick back and enjoy the surroundings.

Baltic Sea, Poland

The Polish Baltic Sea coast is about 500 km long and offers charming coastal towns, hidden bays, impressive cliffs and wide sandy beaches. The climate is pleasant, and between June and August the temperature is around 20-25 degrees. Poland is also a budget-friendly holiday alternative.

The Baltic coast offers a wealth of outdoor activities and water sports, but if you want to take it at a slower pace, you can instead enjoy refreshing walks along the beach and admire the most stunning sunsets and sunrises.

Where to stay on the Baltic Sea in Poland

Our holiday homes are like pearls on a string along the Polish Riviera, from Miedzyzdroje via Pobierowo and all the way to Ustka. Enjoy the white sandy beaches from this holiday home for 7 people in Rewal.

Blekinge Archipelago, Sweden

Blekinge is one of Sweden's smallest landscapes and is truly a hidden gem. Blekinge's varied nature consists of forests and rocky coastlines, but not many people know that Blekinge offers a very beautiful archipelago.

The Blekinge archipelago consists of large and small islands with cosy bathing areas, and in the evening you can enjoy fantastic sunsets. Some of our favorite places are the cities of Karlskrona and Karlshamn , but also the island of Hasslö – also called Little Hawaii due to its almost exotic nature. And the summer weather is usually around a lovely 20-25 degrees in the high season.

Where to stay in Blekinge

Thanks to Blekinge's fantastic nature, our cabins are located close to nature by sparkling lakes and green forests, but still close to the cosy towns. What do you think of this archipelago idyll right by the water?

Cold Hawaii, Denmark

The coastline between Agger and Hanstholm on the North Sea has become known far beyond Denmark's borders as Cold Hawaii. But unlike Hawaii, the temperature in July is between 15 and 18 degrees, and here you will find no less than 31 places with perfect wind and wave conditions for surfing. Klitmøller is an obvious choice if you dream of combining relaxation and a beach holiday with water sports and outdoor activities.

Where to stay in Cold Hawaii

In one of our summer houses in Klitmøller you can enjoy a cooling holiday in one of the most unique and charming destinations along the North Sea. This Cold Hawaii summer house is perfect for a large group.

Hardangerfjord, Norway

In the southwestern part of Norway not far from Bergen you'll find Hardanger and its fjord. It is one of those places in the world that you just have to experience for yourself. It is the longest fjord in Hordaland at 179 km, stretching from the sea all the way to the Hardangervidda plateau at Eidfjord.

If you are a hardcore hiker, you should definitely take the trip up to Trolltunga. It is not only the fjord that is cooling, with its emerald green water, but also the temperature there in the summer, which is usually around 15 degrees. And if you really need to cool down, you can visit Fonna summer ski resort! So bring your hiking boots and have a once in a lifetime experience in the fresh Norwegian nature.

Where to stay at the Hardangerfjord

In the orchard of Norway, you live close to the mirror-like fjords, impressive glaciers, snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. In this cabin in Eidfjord, you live in the middle of nature and close to the Vøringsfossen waterfall, which is also a must-see.

Plan your adventure to the coolest places in Europe

We hope this list has inspired you for your coolcation this summer and shown there is plenty to experience in places away from the heat. From dips in cool waters to boat trips and surfing – there is so much to choose from, whatever the weather!

If we haven't completely convinced you, and a trip in the cooler months sounds more appealing, be sure to check out our available summer homes for the 2026 holiday!

About NOVASOL holiday homes

NOVASOL is one of Europe’s leading providers of holiday accommodation, offering thousands of individual holiday homes and apartments in the most beautiful destinations across the continent.

Since 1968, we’ve been making unforgettable holidays possible, with great deals and a home away from home for every guest.