Europe Destinations in July to Avoid the Summer Heat

Is Anywhere in Europe Not Hot in July?

If you’re looking for a cooler summer getaway, the good news is that not all of Europe is hot in July.

July is peak summer in Europe, and many popular destinations experience high temperatures, heat waves, and crowded tourist hotspots. While Southern Spain, the Greek Islands, and much of mainland Europe see temperatures in the high 90s, there are still plenty of places where you can enjoy pleasant temperatures, fresh air, and fewer summer crowds.

This guide covers the best places in Europe to escape the extreme heat, from northern regions with milder climates to higher-altitude destinations where the air stays cool. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, outdoor adventure, or city break, these locations offer a great time to visit without overheating.

What Parts of Europe Have Cooler Temperatures in July?

Europe’s summer climate varies dramatically depending on latitude, altitude, and proximity to the coast. While Southern Europe and the Mediterranean experience hot summers, parts of Northern and Central Europe stay mild even in peak season. If you want to avoid extreme heat, focus on destinations that offer:

Higher elevation: The Swiss Alps, French Alps, and Austria’s mountain regions have cooler temperatures due to altitude. Even in July, daily highs can stay in the low 20s°C (70s°F).
Northern Europe & Arctic regions: Countries like Iceland, Norway, and Sweden experience long daylight hours but stay cool, with average maximum temperatures in the mid-60s°F (high teens °C).
Coastal destinations with cool breezes: Some areas along the North Atlantic and west coast of Europe (like Portugal’s north coast and Brittany, France) stay significantly cooler than inland mainland Europe.

Scotland: Mild Temperatures and Coastal Breezes

Scotland is one of the coolest places in Europe in July, making it a great choice for travelers looking to avoid extreme heat. Thanks to its northern latitude and coastal winds, temperatures remain pleasant even in peak summer.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 15 to 22°C (59 to 72°F)
Average low: 10 to 14°C (50 to 57°F)
Hours of daylight: Up to 18 hours in northern Scotland
Weather conditions: Mostly mild with frequent cloudy days and occasional rain

While southern Europe faces heat waves and high 90s, Scotland stays cool. Packing a light jacket and waterproof layers is a good idea since rain showers are common.

Best Places to Visit in Scotland for Cool Weather

Scotland has a mix of coastal cities, rugged highlands, and historic sites that stay comfortable in summer.

Edinburgh: A great place for a city break with its historic sites, stunning viewpoints, and mild summer temperatures.
Scottish Highlands: One of the best places in Europe for a summer holiday with fresh mountain air, scenic road trips, and wide-open landscapes.
Isle of Skye: Known for its natural wonders like the Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr, this island offers outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
North Coast 500: A famous road trip route that winds through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery with cooler temperatures and few tourists.

Things to Do in Scotland Without Overheating

Take a boat trip on Loch Ness and enjoy the views of Scotland’s most famous lake.
Hike Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, where cooler air makes for a refreshing climb.
Explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile early in the day to enjoy its history without peak-season crowds.
Visit the Orkney Islands, where summer days are long, and the temperatures stay in the low 60s°F.

Scotland’s mix of cooler temperatures, historic sites, and outdoor adventures makes it an ideal destination for travelers who want to enjoy Europe in July without the intense heat.

Norway: Fjords, Mountains, and Crisp Summer Days

Norway is one of the best places in Europe to visit in July if you want to avoid extreme heat. With its high latitude and rugged landscapes, the country stays cool even in peak summer months. The long days bring plenty of sunshine, but temperatures remain mild, making it a great choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 16 to 22°C (61 to 72°F)
Average low: 10 to 14°C (50 to 57°F)
Hours of daylight: Up to 20 hours in northern Norway
Weather conditions: Mostly mild with some rain and cool nights

Northern Norway, especially areas above the Arctic Circle, stays even cooler. The farther north you go, the more you can experience the midnight sun, where the sun never fully sets during this time of year.

Best Places to Visit in Norway for Cool Weather

Oslo: The capital city offers a mix of culture, history, and nature with comfortable summer temperatures
Bergen: A great place to explore Norway’s west coast with stunning fjord views and cooler weather
Lofoten Islands: A nature lover’s paradise with dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, and endless daylight
Geirangerfjord: One of Norway’s most beautiful fjords, perfect for a scenic boat trip or hiking along the cliffs

Things to Do in Norway Without Overheating

Hike in Jotunheimen National Park, home to Norway’s highest mountain and some of the country’s best trails
Take a boat trip through the fjords, where the cool breeze keeps temperatures comfortable
Visit Tromsø, a great place to experience the Arctic Circle without the extreme winter cold
Go mountain biking in the Norwegian countryside, where summer heat is never a problem

Norway is a perfect destination for a summer getaway if you want long sunny days without the overwhelming heat found in other parts of Europe.

Sweden: Pleasant Temperatures and Long Summer Days

Sweden is a great place to visit in July if you want to enjoy long summer days without extreme heat. The country’s northern location keeps temperatures mild, even in peak summer months. Whether you want to explore major cities, national parks, or coastal islands, Sweden offers a mix of outdoor adventures and historic sites with cooler temperatures compared to southern Europe.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 18 to 25°C (64 to 77°F)
Average low: 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F)
Hours of daylight: Up to 18 hours in Stockholm, 20+ hours in northern Sweden
Weather conditions: Warm but not hot, with occasional rain and cool evenings

The farther north you go, the cooler it gets. In areas near the Arctic Circle, like Abisko, temperatures stay lower, and you can experience the midnight sun, where the sun never fully sets.

Best Places to Visit in Sweden for Cool Weather

Stockholm: A great choice for a summer city break, with waterfront views, historic sites, and mild temperatures
Gothenburg: A west coast city with a cooler maritime climate and access to Sweden’s beautiful archipelago
Abisko National Park: A remote destination with breathtaking nature, hiking trails, and some of Sweden’s coldest summer temperatures
Gotland: An island in the Baltic Sea with pleasant temperatures, medieval towns, and sandy beaches

Things to Do in Sweden Without Overheating

Take a boat trip through the Stockholm Archipelago, where the cool sea breeze keeps temperatures comfortable
Go hiking in Abisko National Park, one of the best places for nature lovers looking for scenic landscapes
Explore Stockholm’s old town, a historic district filled with cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and cultural sites
Visit the west coast islands, where you can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, nature reserves, and quiet beaches

Sweden’s mix of scenic landscapes, mild temperatures, and long daylight hours makes it a great place for a summer getaway without the intense heat found in other parts of Europe.

Iceland: The Ultimate Escape from the Summer Heat

Iceland is one of the coldest places in Europe in July, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to avoid high temperatures. Thanks to its northern latitude and strong ocean winds, Iceland stays cool even during peak summer months. While the rest of Europe experiences heat waves, Iceland offers fresh air, mild temperatures, and long daylight hours.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 12 to 16°C (54 to 61°F)
Average low: 7 to 10°C (45 to 50°F)
Hours of daylight: Up to 21 hours, with the midnight sun in the north
Weather conditions: Cool and breezy with frequent cloudy days and light rain

Even in summer, Iceland’s weather is unpredictable. A light jacket is essential, especially in the evenings when temperatures drop.

Best Places to Visit in Iceland for Cool Weather

Reykjavík: The capital city is a great place to start, offering cultural sites, coastal views, and a lively food scene
Golden Circle: A popular road trip route with some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, including Geysir and Gullfoss
South Coast: Home to black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs
Westfjords: One of the most remote regions in Iceland, perfect for travelers looking to escape summer crowds

Things to Do in Iceland Without Overheating

Take a road trip along the Ring Road to see Iceland’s stunning landscapes without the summer heat
Hike in Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between two tectonic plates
Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a breathtaking place to see floating icebergs up close
Relax in a geothermal pool, such as the Blue Lagoon or one of Iceland’s lesser-known hot springs

Iceland is one of the best places in Europe for a summer holiday if you want to experience cooler temperatures, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures without extreme heat.

Switzerland: Alpine Retreats and Fresh Mountain Air

Switzerland is one of the best places in Central Europe to escape the summer heat. With its high-altitude landscapes and cool mountain breezes, this is a perfect destination for travelers looking for pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities without the intense summer heat found in lower-altitude regions.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 20 to 26°C (68 to 79°F) in cities, cooler in the mountains
Average low: 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F)
Hours of daylight: Around 15 hours
Weather conditions: Mild in the valleys, cooler at higher elevations with occasional rain

Temperatures vary depending on location. While major cities like Zurich and Geneva can feel warm on sunny days, the Swiss Alps and higher-altitude towns stay cool throughout the summer.

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland for Cool Weather

Zermatt: A great place to experience stunning mountain scenery, with views of the Matterhorn and refreshing summer air
Jungfrau Region: One of the best places in Europe for mountain lovers, with hiking trails and breathtaking alpine villages
Lucerne: A popular place for a summer getaway, offering lake views, historic sites, and access to cooler mountainous regions
Mont Blanc Massif: The highest mountain in Western Europe, offering cooler temperatures and incredible hiking opportunities

Things to Do in Switzerland Without Overheating

Take a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express or Bernina Express, both offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps
Go mountain biking in the Jungfrau Region, where higher elevations keep temperatures comfortable
Explore the lakes, such as Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne, which provide a refreshing breeze on warmer days
Visit a national park, like the Swiss National Park, where nature lovers can enjoy wildlife spotting and hiking without extreme heat

Switzerland’s mix of high-altitude retreats, outdoor adventures, and cooler summer temperatures makes it a perfect time to visit for those looking to enjoy Europe without dealing with heat waves.

Austria: Alpine Villages and Mountain Hikes

Austria is a great place to visit in July for travelers looking to escape the summer heat. Thanks to its high-altitude regions, alpine lakes, and cooler temperatures, it offers a refreshing alternative to the extreme heat found in much of mainland Europe.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F) in cities, cooler in the mountains
Average low: 10 to 16°C (50 to 61°F)
Hours of daylight: Around 15 hours
Weather conditions: Warm in the valleys, but mild temperatures and fresh air in higher-altitude areas

The Austrian Alps stay significantly cooler than lower-altitude regions, making them a great destination for outdoor activities without extreme heat.

Best Places to Visit in Austria for Cool Weather

Salzburg: A great choice for a summer getaway with scenic landscapes, historic sites, and pleasant temperatures
Hallstatt: A lakeside village known for its breathtaking views and cooler weather due to its location by the water
Zell am See: A perfect destination for nature lovers, offering alpine lakes, hiking trails, and refreshing mountain air
Tyrol: One of the best places in Austria for hiking, with stunning mountain scenery and mild summer temperatures

Things to Do in Austria Without Overheating

Take a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express or Bernina Express, both offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps
Go mountain biking in the Jungfrau Region, where higher elevations keep temperatures comfortable
Explore the lakes, such as Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne, which provide a refreshing breeze on warmer days
Visit a national park, like the Swiss National Park, where nature lovers can enjoy wildlife spotting and hiking without extreme heat

Austria’s combination of alpine landscapes, cool lakes, and historic towns makes it an excellent destination for a summer holiday without the extreme heat found elsewhere in Europe.

Portugal’s Northern Coast: Atlantic Breezes and Mild Weather

While much of Portugal experiences hot summers, the northern coast stays significantly cooler thanks to the Atlantic Ocean’s cooling effect. Cities like Porto and Viana do Castelo offer pleasant temperatures, refreshing sea breezes, and fewer summer crowds compared to the southern Algarve region.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 22 to 27°C (72 to 81°F)
Average low: 14 to 18°C (57 to 64°F)
Hours of daylight: Around 14 hours
Weather conditions: Warm but comfortable, with a strong ocean breeze keeping temperatures lower than inland Portugal

The north coast of Portugal stays much cooler than cities like Lisbon and Faro, where temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F) in peak summer months.

Best Places to Visit in Northern Portugal for Cool Weather

Porto: A great place for a city break, with historic architecture, scenic river views, and mild summer temperatures
Viana do Castelo: A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and strong Atlantic breezes
Peneda-Gerês National Park: A great choice for nature lovers looking for hiking trails, waterfalls, and cooler mountain air
Aveiro: A charming town with a network of canals, colorful boats, and pleasant temperatures even in mid-summer

Things to Do in Northern Portugal Without Overheating

Walk along Porto’s riverfront: Explore the historic Ribeira district with scenic views and cool breezes
Take a boat trip through the Douro Valley: Enjoy vineyard landscapes while experiencing a milder climate than southern Portugal
Hike in Peneda-Gerês National Park: Escape the summer crowds and enjoy shaded trails, waterfalls, and wildlife
Relax on the beaches of Viana do Castelo: Strong ocean winds keep temperatures comfortable even in peak summer

Northern Portugal’s combination of coastal breezes, historic towns, and natural landscapes makes it an ideal summer getaway for travelers looking to escape the extreme heat.

Spain’s Basque Country: A Cool Summer Escape on the North Coast

While much of Spain experiences scorching temperatures in July, the Basque Country stays surprisingly mild thanks to its northern coastline and Atlantic winds. Cities like San Sebastián and Bilbao rarely experience extreme heat, making this region one of the best places in Spain for a summer getaway without the high temperatures of Southern Spain.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F)
Average low: 14 to 18°C (57 to 64°F)
Hours of daylight: Around 14 hours
Weather conditions: Mild and often cloudy, with a mix of sunny days and occasional light rain

Even in the hottest month of the year, the Basque Country avoids the extreme heat found in cities like Seville and Madrid, where temperatures frequently exceed 40°C (104°F).

Best Places to Visit in the Basque Country for Cool Weather

San Sebastián: A great place for a city break, with a mix of historic sites, coastal charm, and some of the best food in Spain
Bilbao: A cultural hub known for the Guggenheim Museum, riverside architecture, and a cooler climate than Spain’s interior
Zumaia: A coastal town famous for its dramatic flysch cliffs, hiking trails, and mild ocean breezes
Vitoria-Gasteiz: The capital of the Basque Country, offering green spaces, medieval streets, and pleasant temperatures even in mid-summer

Things to Do in the Basque Country Without Overheating

Stroll along La Concha Beach: San Sebastián’s crescent-shaped bay is perfect for a walk, with refreshing sea air keeping temperatures comfortable
Take a boat trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: This island, known for its winding stone staircase, offers stunning coastal views and a cooler breeze
Explore the pintxos bars in Bilbao’s old town: Basque tapas are a must-try, and shaded streets make for a comfortable food tour
Hike the coastal trails in Zumaia: The flysch cliffs and Atlantic views provide one of the most scenic walks in Northern Spain

The Basque Country’s mix of cooler temperatures, coastal scenery, and world-class food makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Spain without the intense summer heat.

Brittany, France: Cool Summer Weather and Fresh Seafood

Brittany is one of the coolest regions in France during summer, offering wild coastal landscapes, charming villages, and a climate far milder than the French Riviera. With its position along the Atlantic, Brittany enjoys steady winds, cool evenings, and far fewer tourists than southern France.

What Temperatures to Expect in July

Average high: 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F)
Average low: 12 to 16°C (54 to 61°F)
Hours of daylight: Around 15 hours
Weather conditions: Cool and breezy with frequent cloud cover and occasional light rain

Brittany’s north and west coasts stay significantly cooler than areas along the Mediterranean Sea, where temperatures often soar past 35°C (95°F) in summer.

Best Places to Visit in Brittany for Cool Weather

Saint-Malo: A walled city with stunning sea views, historic ramparts, and a mild summer climate
Quiberon Peninsula: A perfect spot for nature lovers, with sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and refreshing ocean breezes
Roscoff: A charming fishing town with a unique mix of maritime history, seafood restaurants, and cooler temperatures
Île-de-Bréhat: A small island off the coast, car-free and known for its wildflowers, rocky shores, and relaxed summer atmosphere

Things to Do in Brittany Without Overheating

Walk along the coastal trails in Cap Fréhel: This windswept peninsula offers breathtaking cliffs and panoramic ocean views
Take a boat trip to the Île-de-Bréhat: With no cars and endless walking paths, this island is one of the most peaceful summer escapes in France
Explore the medieval streets of Dinan: This historic town has shady alleys, half-timbered houses, and a hilltop castle with views of the Rance River
Relax on the beaches of the Quiberon Peninsula: The mix of sandy beaches and rocky shores makes it a great place to enjoy the coastline without the extreme heat of the south

Brittany’s cooler climate, dramatic scenery, and relaxed pace of life make it an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience France in summer without the heat waves and crowds. If you are looking for a travel planning resource, check out this excellent guide to Brittany, France!

Packing Tips for Cool-Weather European Destinations in July

Even though Europe is known for hot summers, many of the destinations on this list have mild temperatures, cool evenings, and unpredictable weather. Packing correctly ensures you stay comfortable, whether you’re exploring mountain trails, coastal cities, or national parks.

Essential Clothing for Cooler Summer Destinations

Light jacket: A must for chilly mornings, breezy coastlines, and sudden temperature drops
Waterproof layers: Many northern and high-altitude regions experience rain showers, so a light rain jacket or travel umbrella is useful
Breathable long sleeves: Perfect for moderate temperatures, providing coverage without overheating
Comfortable walking shoes: Many of these destinations, like Scotland and Norway, involve hiking trails or cobblestone streets
Versatile layers: Lightweight sweaters, t-shirts, and packable vests allow for easy adjustments to changing weather

Other Must-Haves for Cool-Weather Travel

Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even in cooler climates, long daylight hours and ocean reflections can lead to sun exposure
Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially if you’re hiking or spending long days outdoors
Day pack: Useful for carrying extra layers, snacks, and travel essentials while exploring
Power adapter: Many European countries use different plug types, so check the requirements for your destination
Small packable blanket or scarf: Handy for windy boat trips, long train rides, or unexpectedly cold evenings

Other Packing Considerations

Check the local forecast: Temperatures can fluctuate drastically depending on altitude, wind patterns, and time of year
Prepare for long daylight hours: In places like Norway and Iceland, the sun barely sets in July, so eye masks and blackout curtains can be helpful
Expect different weather patterns: Coastal destinations stay humid and breezy, while higher-altitude areas can feel crisp even in summer

Packing for a cool-weather European summer is all about versatility and layering, ensuring you stay comfortable whether you’re hiking in the Swiss Alps, walking the beaches of Northern Portugal, or exploring historic cities in Scotland.

Final Thoughts: Where to Go in Europe to Beat the Summer Heat

Not all of Europe experiences scorching temperatures in July. Whether you prefer coastal breezes, high-altitude retreats, or northern destinations with long daylight hours and cooler temperatures, there are plenty of places to escape the summer heat.

Best Picks for Different Types of Travelers

For city lovers: Porto, Edinburgh, and Stockholm offer a mix of culture, history, and mild summer weather
For nature enthusiasts: The Swiss Alps, Norway’s fjords, and Austria’s lake regions provide outdoor activities without extreme heat
For coastal escapes: Northern Portugal, Brittany, and the Basque Country have breezy seaside towns, scenic beaches, and refreshing ocean air
For off-the-beaten-path travelers: Iceland, the Scottish Highlands, and remote areas of Norway deliver cool weather, fewer tourists, and dramatic landscapes

Planning Your Cool-Weather Summer Trip

Book early: Many of these destinations are in high demand during peak season, so securing flights and accommodations in advance is a good idea
Check average temperatures: Climate varies even within regions, so researching specific cities and elevation levels helps with planning
Stay flexible: Weather can be unpredictable in cooler destinations, so having a mix of indoor and outdoor activities ensures a smooth trip

Europe has plenty of destinations where you can enjoy a summer getaway without battling heat waves and overcrowded tourist hotspots. By choosing the right location and preparing for varied weather, you can have an incredible July trip with comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and breathtaking landscapes.

If you are open to some not-so-cool destinations but are interested in affordable summer destinations in Europe, check out my guide to the cheapest places to travel in Europe in summer 2025!