Planning a summer trip? Some European countries might be too hot, but there are alternatives with milder weather, stunning scenery, and rich cultural experiences.
Here’s a list of 10 countries to potentially avoid in the summer heat and wonderful alternatives to consider.
Also, check out| A list of countries accessible with a Schengen visa and their must-see attractions.
10. Skip Serbia, Pick Norway
Exchange Serbia’s summer heat for Norway’s refreshing coolness and stunning natural beauty. Oslo combines modern architecture with cultural treasures such as the Viking Ship Museum and picturesque waterfronts.
In Bergen, the Bryggen district showcases vibrant wooden houses and serves as a gateway to fjord adventures. UNESCO-recognized sites like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord offer breathtaking vistas of waterfalls, cliffs, and serene waters, perfect for a peaceful summer getaway.
9. Skip Bulgaria, Pick Slovakia
Exchange Bulgaria’s summer heat for Slovakia’s serene coolness. Bratislava delights with its charming old town, historic buildings, and the magnificent Bratislava Castle overlooking the Danube.
The High Tatras offer enticing hiking trails and skiing opportunities amidst breathtaking landscapes. Explore the UNESCO-listed site of Banská Štiavnica to discover its rich mining heritage and architectural treasures.
8. Skip Hungary, Pick Austria
Avoid Hungary’s humid heat by opting for Austria’s cooler, scenic landscapes. Vienna brims with imperial history, featuring landmarks such as Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Salzburg, the hometown of Mozart, showcases magnificent baroque architecture and the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress. The Austrian Alps beckon with hiking trails, bike paths, and scenic train rides through valleys and over mountain passes.
7. Skip Malta, Pick Latvia
Forego Malta’s heat for Latvia’s mild summers. Riga, the capital, captivates with its Art Nouveau architecture and medieval UNESCO-listed old town.
Wander through the Central Market housed in historic Zeppelin hangars and visit Riga Castle. In Jurmala, relax on sandy beaches and explore the unique bogs and trails of Kemeri National Park.
6. Skip Cyprus, Pick Estonia
Escape Cyprus’s summer heat by visiting Estonia, where cooler weather and medieval charm await. Tallinn’s old town boasts cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Explore the elegant Kadriorg Palace and its gardens, or take a ferry to Saaremaa to see Kuressaare Castle. Lahemaa National Park offers pristine forests, bogs, and coastlines for nature lovers.
5. Skip Turkey, Pick Georgia
Seeking relief from Turkey’s summer heat? Georgia offers a cooler climate and rich cultural experiences. Tbilisi enchants with its historic baths, modern architecture, and the ancient Narikala Fortress.
Discover the vineyards and picturesque countryside of Kakheti. For adventure, Svaneti’s ancient towers and stunning vistas provide excellent hiking opportunities.
4. Skip France, Pick Switzerland
Swap France’s summer heat for Switzerland’s alpine freshness. Zurich offers a blend of modern city life and historic charm with Altstadt and the Swiss National Museum.
Geneva, situated by its lake, features the iconic Jet d’Eau and the UN headquarters. In the Bernese Oberland, head to the “Top of Europe” at Jungfraujoch, where hiking and skiing opportunities abound amidst stunning Alpine scenery.
3. Skip Greece, Pick Croatia
To avoid Greece’s scorching summer, consider Croatia’s scenic Dalmatian coast. Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and city wall views.
Split features the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, while the islands of Hvar and Brac offer pristine waters and sandy beaches.
For a cooler retreat, Plitvice Lakes National Park showcases tiered lakes and lush greenery.
2. Skip Italy, Pick Slovenia
Escape Italy’s summer warmth by visiting Slovenia, where milder weather and stunning vistas await. Don’t miss the serene Lake Bled with its iconic island church.
Ljubljana, the capital, brims with culture, featuring a charming old town and a historic castle. The vast Postojna Cave system invites exploration, and the coastal gem of Piran impresses with its Venetian-style buildings and seaside allure.
1. Skip Spain, Pick Portugal
As Spain heats up in summer, Portugal’s coast offers a refreshing escape. In Lisbon, explore the quaint streets of Alfama and the historic sites of Belém.
Porto delights with its scenic riverside and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, while the Algarve promises serene beaches and cliffs perfect for both leisure and adventure.
Sintra enchants with its storybook palaces, including the vibrant Pena Palace and the ancient Moorish Castle, showcasing Portugal’s historical splendor.