Chilly Summer Destinations

Not a fan of blazing hot summers and endless heatwaves? You’re not alone. While many travelers chase the sun, some prefer a cooler, fresher escape where summer temperatures stay between 0 and 15 °C. Whether you love the idea of misty coastlines, crisp mountain air, or sweater-weather cities, these destinations offer a refreshing alternative to traditional summer getaways. And with Swaphouse, you can swap homes with another traveler and stay in these chilly spots for free. Below, we’ve highlighted a few cool-weather gems, but be sure to scroll down for even more options. Pack a cozy jacket and get ready to enjoy a summer trip without the heat.

San Francisco is the perfect city escape for those who want cool summer days. With temperatures hovering around 14–15 °C, you’ll experience foggy mornings, breezy afternoons, and plenty of cozy spots to explore. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge in a light sweater, sip hot coffee in a charming café in North Beach, or take a ferry to Alcatraz under moody skies. A home swap here means you can stay in a local’s neighborhood, giving you easy access to hidden gems beyond the usual tourist spots.

For those seeking a dramatic, otherworldly landscape, Reykjavik offers summer temperatures between 9–11 °C and breathtaking natural beauty. This is the season of the Midnight Sun, meaning endless daylight for hiking volcanic trails, exploring geysers, or soaking in the Blue Lagoon. The air is crisp but invigorating, perfect for adventurers who prefer cool over sweltering heat. With Swaphouse, you can swap homes and stay in a cozy Reykjavik apartment, waking up to the sight of snow-capped mountains in the middle of summer.

If you want a mix of city culture and cool ocean breezes, Cape Town offers 13–14 °C summers that feel like an endless spring. Take in the views from Table Mountain, walk along the rugged coastline at Cape Point, or sip South African wine in Stellenbosch’s vineyards. Thanks to home swapping, you can stay in a stylish Cape Town flat, making it easier to experience both the city and the surrounding nature without spending on expensive hotels.

Further south, Melbourne embraces its chilly summer weather with a mix of art, culture, and stunning natural scenery. With temperatures around 10–11 °C, it’s a great time to explore hidden laneways, visit museums, or take a road trip along the Great Ocean Road. The city’s café culture thrives in cooler months, so expect plenty of warm lattes and cozy brunch spots. A home swap here lets you experience Melbourne like a true local, perhaps even staying in a trendy Fitzroy townhouse.

For those who love coastal escapes with a chill in the air, Bergen, Norway, offers misty fjords, dramatic landscapes, and temperatures around 13–15 °C. The city’s colorful wooden houses, scenic hiking trails, and fresh seafood markets make it a dreamy escape for those who prefer a cool breeze to a heatwave. Swapping homes here allows you to wake up to fjord views, enjoying the best of Norway’s magical summer climate.

These are just a few of the many chilly summer destinations where you can skip the heat, enjoy fresh air, and experience something different. Scroll down for even more places where summer feels refreshingly cool, and don’t forget—Swaphouse makes it easy to swap homes and stay in these dreamy spots for free.