This summer, if you want to escape the soaring temperatures, you'll need to head north. From majestic fjords and vast forests to wide-open landscapes, Europe is full of destinations where you can stay cool.
As heatwaves become increasingly common across Europe, many travellers are swapping sun-scorched beaches and bustling cities for cooler destinations. In response to this growing trend, Polarsteps has unveiled its Summer Heat Escape Index, a ranking of the best European countries for avoiding the summer heat.
The best European countries to escape the heat this summer
With a score of 83.81 out of 100, Iceland takes the top spot as Europe's best destination for staying cool this summer. The Land of Fire and Ice enjoys particularly mild temperatures, averaging 10.7°C during the day and 8.1°C at night. With its dramatic volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, crystal-clear waters and vast wilderness, Iceland offers the perfect escape from both the heat and the crowds.
In second place is Finland, with a score of 77.02. Often referred to as the kingdom of forests, Finland boasts the highest level of forest cover in the ranking, with 73.7% of its land covered by trees. Between its countless lakes, waterside cabins and hiking trails through unspoilt countryside, Finland is an ideal destination for a peaceful summer getaway.
Norway completes the podium with 76.06 points, thanks to its cool climate, spectacular fjords and some of the coldest swimming waters in the ranking. Sweden, in fourth place, also offers an excellent balance of nature, wide-open spaces and pleasantly mild weather.
Another surprise in the ranking is the strong showing from the Baltic States. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania occupy fifth, sixth and seventh places respectively. Still relatively undiscovered by summer holidaymakers, these countries appeal with daytime temperatures of around 18°C, extensive forests and low population density.
Closer to Western Europe, Switzerland (8th) is an excellent alternative, thanks to its Alpine lakes and moderate summer temperatures. Towns such as Interlaken offer the chance to enjoy refreshing swims in the glacial waters of Lake Thun or Lake Brienz.
Rounding off the top ten are Ireland and the United Kingdom. Often associated with rainy weather, both countries become ideal summer retreats thanks to their mild temperatures, lush green landscapes and excellent opportunities for hiking and wild swimming.
Top 10 destinations to stay cool in Europe
To compile the index, Polarsteps analysed several factors, including average daytime and night-time temperatures, water temperatures for swimming, forest cover for shaded walks, population density to help avoid crowds, and access to wild camping. Unsurprisingly, the Nordic and Baltic countries dominate the ranking.
- Iceland
- Finland
- Norway
- Sweden
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Switzerland
- Ireland
- United Kingdom
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