Cool Summer Destinations in Europe

Whether you’re in search of scenic canal strolls or lazy afternoons in leafy parks, there’s nothing like taking in the sights and sounds of Europe when the temperature is refreshingly mild. If you want to combine your travels with a budget-friendly approach, Swaphouse—a free home swapping platform—lets you stay in someone else’s home while they stay in yours, cutting out accommodation costs altogether. It’s a clever way to settle into a neighborhood, get to know local cafés, and make your summer escape feel less like a vacation and more like everyday life in a new city. Grab your sense of curiosity and a light jacket, and get ready to dive into some cool summer destinations in Europe that promise just the right balance of sun and shade.

Berlin often draws visitors for its incredible street art and buzzing nightlife, but its moderate summer weather hovering around 17 to 19°C is just as appealing. Even though temperatures can sometimes climb higher or dip lower, wandering along the Spree River or picnicking at Tempelhofer Feld stays comfortable most days. The city is dotted with hidden beer gardens where locals sip refreshing drinks in the early evening, so remember to pack a sweater for when the breeze picks up. If you’re looking to extend your stay, a home swap through Swaphouse can mean more days exploring Berlin’s culture without breaking the bank.

Amsterdam charms travelers with its picturesque canals and cozy brown cafés, and summer afternoons rarely soar above 17°C on average. You might catch a few warmer afternoons or an occasional brisk day, so layering up is your best bet. There’s no shortage of unique local experiences here, from perusing open-air markets to biking around quiet residential streets that tourists seldom see. For remote workers looking to blend exploration with productivity, many Swaphouse listings offer all the essentials for a temporary home office, so you can hop on video calls before heading out to sip coffee by the canal.

Copenhagen, with summer temperatures usually around 14 to 16°C, offers a perfect mix of cool breezes and long daylight hours. Indulge in Danish pastries at a local bakery or stroll through historic Nyhavn under the soft northern sun. If you’re adventurous, make time for a dip at the harbor baths, but don’t forget some sunscreen and a light waterproof jacket—weather can swing quickly here. When you’re staying in the city for a longer stretch, you’ll have plenty of time to discover lesser-known pockets like the trendy Vesterbro district, where local designers and craft brewers thrive.

For an enchanting atmosphere, Prague serves up cobblestone streets and gothic architecture alongside summer averages of about 17 to 19°C. Temperatures can shift throughout the day, so a mix of short sleeves and a warm layer is a good idea. In between visits to towering cathedrals and hidden beer halls, duck into a tiny courtyard café to enjoy a slice of traditional cake. If you’re curious about other cool summer destinations in Europe, remember that some places in the Southern Hemisphere have their coldest months when it’s summer here, so plan accordingly if you decide to head there another time. For now, enjoy the milder side of Europe’s summer months, and find even more destinations listed below to inspire your next adventure.