The trend toward “coolcations” continues to gain momentum as summers get hotter and hotter. A recent analysis shows which cooler travel destinations are particularly popular among German vacationers this summer - and the trend is clearly heading north.
Summers in Europe are getting hotter, and that's changing travel habits. Following the first heat waves of the year, more and more vacationers are deliberately seeking out destinations with moderate temperatures. The trend toward so-called “coolcations” is gaining significant momentum in 2026. This is evident from recent booking data from the travel platform Evaneos.
While Scandinavia remains among the top destinations, less obvious destinations are also increasingly coming into focus. England is currently in the lead, with a 333 percent increase in bookings. Cornwall, the Lake District, and the temperate coastal regions, in particular, attract visitors with their fresh sea air and abundant nature.
Next on the list are Denmark (up 275 percent), which stands out for its islands, bike paths, and laid-back lifestyle, and Lapland ( up 200 percent), where the midnight sun, national parks, and crystal-clear rivers promise an extraordinary summer.
1. England (+333%)
The top-ranked team. The British Isles are being rediscovered as a summer destination; coastal trails in Cornwall and national parks, such as the Lake District, offer mild alternatives to the extreme heat.
2. Denmark (+275%)
Whether you’re island-hopping in the Danish South Sea, exploring the rugged North Sea coast, or relaxing in a “hygge” atmosphere, the country offers the perfect infrastructure for families and active travelers.
3. Lapland (+200%)
During the summer months, Lapland transforms into a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Canoe trips on crystal-clear rivers, hikes through pristine national parks, and the phenomenon of the “White Night” make a vacation here an unforgettable experience.
4. Estonia (+175%)
With Tallinn's historic Old Town and vast expanses of moors and forests, Estonia offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. National parks like Lahemaa, in particular, invite you to take a deep breath.
5. Sweden (+149%)
Thanks to its lakes, forests, and deep-rooted outdoor tradition, Sweden remains the epitome of a “coolcation.” With “Allemansrätten” (everyone’s right), Sweden offers a unique sense of freedom for travelers who want to explore nature independently.
6. Lithuania (+143%)
The unspoiled natural beauty of Lithuania's Baltic Sea coast, especially the Curonian Spit with its imposing dunes, is attracting more and more people seeking peace and quiet. Lithuania also boasts a high concentration of national parks and a lake district that remains largely undiscovered.
7. Bulgaria (+100.00%)
Mountain regions in particular, such as the Rila and Pirin Mountains, are gaining prominence as "coolcation" destinations. They offer cool mountain lakes and dense forests as a refreshing alternative to a traditional beach vacation on the Black Sea.
8. Scotland (+52.59%)
The Scottish Highlands and the rugged west coast offer dramatic landscapes and pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for hiking and exploring away from the summer heat.
