Northern European Cities Lead Cool Vacation Trend Amid 2026 Heatwaves
As Europe faces unprecedented heatwaves in 2026, travelers are increasingly seeking cooler destinations, a trend dubbed "Coolcation." According to British online travel agency Opodo, searches for destinations with milder weather surged sharply following the latest heatwave. Instead of enduring scorching heat, crowded beaches, and sleepless hot nights, tourists now prefer refreshing climates, nature exploration, and comfortable temperatures.
At the top of the list is Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, where August temperatures average between 13 and 21 degrees Celsius. Gothenburg offers a blend of waterways, colorful wooden houses, and a relaxed atmosphere compared to Stockholm. Highlights include ferry rides among the southern archipelago islands and visits to the historic Haga district, known for its 19th-century wooden houses and famous Swedish cinnamon pastries. Interest in Gothenburg increased by 33% after the heatwave.
Stockholm ranks second, with a 22% rise in traveler searches. The Swedish capital spans 14 islands, providing easy access to water and a strong culture of swimming in lakes and the sea. Visitors enjoy strolling the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, the old town, and exploring the vast Stockholm archipelago comprising around 30,000 islands and islets.
Other popular cool destinations for summer 2026 include mountain and northern cities such as Zurich and Geneva in Switzerland, Oslo in Norway, and Innsbruck and Salzburg in Austria. These locations offer pleasant weather and lush green landscapes, appealing to those looking to escape the southern European heat.
The top cool summer 2026 destinations in Europe are: Gothenburg and Stockholm in Sweden; Zurich and Geneva in Switzerland; Oslo in Norway; and Innsbruck and Salzburg in Austria.
