12 Cool Destinations in Europe To Escape the August Heat
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As much as we all look forward to summer, August can get sweltering hot and severely uncomfortable. Luckily, while much of Europe sizzles under the summer sun, some destinations still benefit from mild temperatures.
From fjords in Norway to tranquil lakes in Finland, cool cityscapes, and snow-capped mountains across the continent, Europe offers a variety of destinations perfect for beating the August heat.
If you are looking for destinations that let you enjoy beautiful scenery amidst cool weather even when the rest of Europe is battling heat waves, we have got you covered in this article. We have chosen these destinations based on temperatures lower than 73°F (23°C). Choose one or several of these destinations for an opportunity to beat the August heat.
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Zermatt, Switzerland
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a picturesque village perfect for escaping the summer heat. Ditch the idea that you must visit Zermatt in winter – a summer escape to Zermatt is just what you may need. The natural scenery will amaze you, and the slower pace of life will be a welcome respite from the chaotic urban life. At 5,315 feet above sea level, the average high temperature in August is only 66°F (19°C).
If you are into active exploration, this picturesque village’s hiking trails are waiting for you to discover. You can also challenge yourself with mountain climbing, rock climbing, biking, or summer skiing – Zermatt offers a thrilling array of activities to make your summer memorable.
After an active day, refuel at one of the traditional Swiss restaurants. Fondue, raclette, and rosti are all must-tries, best enjoyed on an outdoor patio with stunning views of the Matterhorn.
Read also: Summer Destinations in Europe To Visit in August
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s blend of culture, natural beauty, and perfect summer temperatures make it an ideal cool destination to escape scorching summer temperatures. In August, the average highs in this city are in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius), which is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Start your exploration at Edinburgh Castle. The history-filled castle sits atop an extinct volcano and offers panoramic city views. Below, Princes Street Gardens in the city center provide a shady respite. When the sun’s out, the gardens get filled with buskers and sunbathers.
Moreover, Edinburgh’s historic streets and medieval architecture are great ways of going back in time. Explore the Royal Mile, which runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the King in Scotland. The street is filled with cozy pubs and charming shops you can pop into during your exploration.
Read also: Cool European Destinations in June
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, offers a vibrant city vibe with its world-class restaurants, museums, amusement parks, and picturesque canals. Even in August, Copenhagen remains cool, making it a desirable escape from the summer heat.
In August, the average high is only around 66 °F (19°C), perfect for strolling around the city. Spend some time at Nyhavn, a 17th-century canal and entertainment district, admiring colorful houses and cafes. Then, visit the National Museum of Denmark for a little immersion into Denmark’s history and culture.
Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, is incredibly charming at night when thousands of lights illuminate the gardens; make sure to visit both day and night.
Read also: Summer Destinations in Europe in June
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki offers a mildly cool climate with a gentle breeze in August, a perfect escape from the summer heat. Located on the coast of southern Finland, August temperatures range between 53.6°F and 73.4°F (12°C and 23°C). With such a favorable climate, you can wander the city’s parks, such as Esplanade and Kaivopuisto. In addition, the Helsinki archipelago, off the coast, provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and swimming in the Baltic Sea.
Helsinki also has a vibrant cultural scene with many indoor activities. For instance, you can visit contemporary art museums like the Amos Anderson Art Museum or Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. You could also try Finnish food in the Market Square, take a sauna cruise, or go on a sightseeing canal trip.
Read also: Refreshing Destinations in Europe in July
Oslo, Norway
A trip to Oslo in August is perfect for beating the heat while enjoying natural scenery, culture, food, and outdoor activities. In August, this city experiences mild temperatures, averaging between 57°F (14°C) and 72°F (22°C). This is significantly cooler compared to many other destinations during the summer. The crisp air and low humidity make it perfect for being outside.
Explore Oslo’s natural surroundings, like the Marka wilderness, known for its hiking and biking trails. The Vigeland Sculpture Park is also a must-see, with over 200 granite and iron sculptures spread over 80 acres of lawns and paths.
Moreover, spare some time to visit the National Museum, which houses over 400,000 exhibits, including paintings and sculptures.
Read also: Pedestrian-Friendly European Cities
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin boasts a temperate maritime climate, ensuring mild temperatures even during the peak of summer. Average temperatures in August hover around a comfortable 59-68°F (15-20°C). This refreshing weather starkly contrasts the sweltering heat experienced in many other European cities.
Dublin has numerous parks and gardens perfect for strolls and picnics. Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital, features expansive green spaces, serene lakes, and the Dublin Zoo. St. Stephen’s Green, in the city’s heart, is a lush Victorian park ideal for relaxing and enjoying the cool summer weather.
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This city is also a haven for shoppers with varied options, from high-end boutiques to traditional craft stores.
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Read also: Must-Visit European Capitals
Hallstatt, Austria
A stay in this storybook destination will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Hallstatt sits nearly 1,000 feet above sea level. This high altitude is behind its mild summers, with August temperatures hovering around mid to upper 60s Fahrenheit (around 16 Celsius). Besides the towering mountains, Lake Hallstatt provides an additional cooling effect, with cool breezes blowing offshore every now and then.
Make time for the Hallstatt Salt Mine, a site of an ancient salt mining operation dating back over 7,000 years. Take a tour to learn about Hallstatt’s history of “white gold.”
You can go hiking, rock climbing, paragliding in the mountains, or swimming in designated areas of Hallstatt Lake.
Read also: Stunning Small Towns in Europe
Bergen, Norway
Visit Bergen, and you’ll return home refreshed and recharged, with memories of scenic fjords. The city experiences average highs of only 65°F (18 °C) in August, perfect for day-long exploration. You can enjoy fantastic sea breezes while strolling the historic Bryggen Wharf or hiking in the mountains.
The city has a charming historic center with picturesque wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant food scene focused on local seafood. For panoramic views of Bergen and the fjords beyond, take the Floibanen funicular up to Mount Floyen. At the top, hiking trails lead to secluded lakes, hidden waterfalls, and scenic lookouts.
The long summer days mean you’ll have plenty of daylight left to keep exploring this cozy Norwegian town late into the night.
Read also: Incredible Neighborhoods in Europe
Berchtesgaden, Germany
Whether you prefer active adventures or a more relaxed pace surrounded by natural scenery, Berchtesgaden offers an ideal summer escape in the Bavarian Alps. The refreshing temperatures, crisp mountain air, and lack of crowds make August an appealing time to visit this German gem. Temperatures rarely top 70°F (21°C) during the month.
You can hike in the Bavarian Alps, with trails for all skill levels. If hiking is not your thing, walk the paved promenade along Königssee Lake or ride the electric boats to St. Bartholomew’s Church for panoramic views.
You can also visit The Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s former mountain retreat, which is now open for tours. The drive up the winding road through dense forests offers lookouts with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Read also: Surreal Places in Europe
Vilnius, Lithuania
Located in the southeastern part of Lithuania, Vilnius experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. August temperatures in Vilnius are often in the mid to upper 70s Fahrenheit (around 21°C), much cooler than most of Europe.
Vilnius is a very walkable city, with most attractions in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some top things to do include exploring the narrow cobblestone streets, visiting Vilnius Cathedral and Gediminas’ Tower, strolling through Vilnia River Park, and seeing the Gate of Dawn.
That aside, you can’t go wrong with traditional Lithuanian cuisine, such as potato pancakes, beetroot soup, or stuffed cabbage rolls.
Read also: Safest Cities in Europe
Pori, Finland
Located on Finland’s west coast along the Baltic Sea, the small city of Pori provides relief from the August heat. With its riverside location and proximity to the Gulf of Bothnia, you’ll enjoy refreshing breezes and chillier temperatures in August. Daytime temperatures hover around 68°F (20°C), while nights can drop to about 53.6°F (12°C).
Spend time at the charming old harbor, where historic wooden ships and boats dock. The harbor area has shops, cafes, and restaurants with outdoor patios where you can sip a cold drink. You can also drop by the 19th-century Central Pori Church to admire its Gothic architecture.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe
Haarlem, Netherlands
Haarlem has a rich history stretching back to the Middle Ages, with architectural wonders like the Grote Markt main square and St. Bavo’s Church. But beyond its historical attractions, Haarlem’s location and climate make it ideal for beating the extreme August heat.
Like much of the Netherlands, Haarlem is crisscrossed by picturesque canals that provide natural cooling in the summer. On a hot day, the temperature around the canals can be up to 41°F (5°C) cooler than in the city center.
With its proximity to beaches, cooling canals, and indoor attractions, Haarlem is a great place to beat the summer heat.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
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