Coolcation Guide: Top 10 Cooler Destinations to Visit

What is a Coolcation?

For most, summer vacations are a chance to soak up the sun on some of the world’s most popular beaches — from Spain and Greece to Thailand. However, with rising temperatures, increasingly intense heat waves, and the hassle of overtourism, a new summer travel trend is on the rise: “coolcations.” Travellers are skipping the usual hotspots (literally!) and heading to cooler destinations where they can enjoy the outdoors or explore the city without sweat and minus the crowds. Do you also prefer your vacations with a side of chill? Then this blog’s for you. 😉

Here at Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over four million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever. Today, we asked our local photographers to tell us about the best coolcation destinations across the world.

Grab your sunnies and that light jacket — here are our ideas for the coolest getaways around! 😎

TLDR

1. Discover shimmering blue lakes and rugged peaks in northern Italy
2. Celebrate the summer solstice with local folklore in Sweden
3. Explore towering mountains, lava fields, and steaming volcanoes in Iceland
4. Encounter wildlife, from moose to humpback whales, in Alaska
5. Immerse yourself in bold design and relax in an authentic Nordic sauna in Finland
6. Ride through colourful neighbourhoods and savour modern Scandi cuisine in Denmark
7. Soak up alpine culture and try summer skiing in Switzerland
8. Embrace the great outdoors and take surf lessons in Canada
9. Join the buzz of city parks and browse flea markets in Germany
10. Wander medieval streets and explore the Baltic islands of Estonia

Photo: Mattia in Lake Como for Flytographer. Angel and partner celebrate their engagement with a couples photoshoot at Lake Como.

1. Italy

Italy is a Southern Europe favourite for summer getaways, especially for Mediterranean destinations. Still, to escape the summer heat, you might want to explore a different side of the country: the north. Lake Como, for one, is a fantastic and elegant destination that offers warm but rarely oppressive summer temperatures. The lake itself has a cooling effect, and combined with the surrounding mountains, it creates the perfect backdrop to enjoy lavish villas and laid-back cobblestone streets. 😍

Also in northern Italy, the stunning Dolomites mountain range becomes a true outdoor playground during the golden months. With its rugged peaks, vibrant wildflowers, and lush valleys, the Dolomites are perfect for scenic hikes, biking trails, and exploring alpine lakes, all under clear skies. 🏔️ While you’re in the region, you can always hop on a train to Venice, which sits just a few hours from the Dolomites. Who can resist? Just know that it’ll be crowded and humid.

Photo: Nadia in the Dolomites for Flytographer. Jesse and partner celebrate their surprise proposal in the Dolomites with an engagement photoshoot.

2. Sweden

We’re surprised Sweden doesn’t appear more often on summer bucket lists; just think of the dreamy combo: lots of sunshine and gentle temperatures. Nordic summers bring long days, with Stockholm enjoying up to 18 to 20 hours of daylight. ☀️  ️Be it lingering in cozy cafes, picnicking in leafy parks, or island-hopping through the sparkling Stockholm Archipelago, you’re in for a memorable coolcation.

According to Condé Nast Traveler, Sweden is one of the best places to celebrate the summer solstice. The beloved Midsommar Festival is second only to Christmas in Swedish hearts, and it’s a lovely opportunity to gather outdoors, enjoy a fresh seasonal meal, dance around the maypole, and maybe even wear a flower crown. 💐

Fly Tip: While you’re in Northern Europe, don’t miss the magic of a Norwegian summer. Think deep fjords, quiet forests, and a coastline that seems to go on forever. The farther north you venture in Norway, the more you’ll find yourself basking under the sun that simply doesn’t set. 🇳🇴

Photo: Linda in Stockholm for Flytographer. Janet and partner capture memories at Gamla Stan in Sweden with a couples photoshoot.

3. Iceland

Sitting just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is nothing short of spectacular year-round. While winter brings the famous Northern Lights, summer offers the opposite magic: never-ending daylight with the midnight sun. This epic island invites you to explore dramatic, untouched landscapes of towering mountains, vast lava fields, and steaming volcanoes — pretty much all day and night. 🌋

In the capital, Reykjavik, beyond strolling past colourful buildings, visiting striking architectural landmarks, and uncovering the city’s thriving design scene, you can cool off at Nauthólsvík, a geothermal beach where brave souls dip their toes into the chilly sea. In case the summer breeze feels a bit too crisp (it does sometimes!), the nearby hot tubs are ready to warm you right back up. 🇮🇸

Photo: Luis in Reykjavik for Flytographer. Grace and partner celebrate their engagement with a surprise proposal photoshoot at Skógafoss in Iceland.

4. Alaska

Alaska also enjoys extended daylight from May to September, and its gentle warmth makes it one of the top destinations for nature lovers and seekers of cooler climates. 👌

Summer is perfect for taking in views of rushing rivers, spotting wildlife, and exploring dazzling national parks like the legendary Kenai Fjords National Park. This must-visit natural wonder is a true mild-summer playground, where you can embark on boat tours to see majestic mountains and fjords up close, kayak in calm waters, fish, camp, hike, and encounter wildlife. Speaking of which, from June to August, you’ll also have the best chance to spot humpback whales. 🐋

For a blend of urban landscape and nature, Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, serves up colourful murals, wildflower-filled gardens, water adventures at Eklutna Lake, and the Moose Loop, a scenic bike loop where spotting a moose is more than just a maybe. 🚲

Photo: Emmie in Anchorage for Flytographer. Keri and family capture memories together at Eklutna Lake in Alaska with a family photoshoot.

5. Finland

From bustling Helsinki to the magic of nightless skies in stunning national parks, Finland truly comes alive between June and August, offering gentle days that Scandinavia-bound coolcationers won’t soon forget. 🇫🇮

The capital, Helsinki, bursts into life with festivals celebrating music, local talent, and joyful crowds. For an unforgettable taste of Finnish culture, time your visit around Midsummer Night at Seurasaari, an open-air museum where you’ll enjoy dancing, singing, bonfires, and traditional folklore performances. Cool summer days are also ideal for exploring Helsinki’s colourful Art Nouveau architecture, especially in the Ullanlinna district, which is a bit of an Instagrammer’s dream. 📸

Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience? Try a Finnish sauna, which lies at the origin of the Scandinavian sauna culture. 🧖‍♀️ It might sound like a winter indulgence, but it’s a fantastic warm season ritual too, pairing perfectly with a cold plunge in a lake of fjord. A visit to the local sauna can also help regulate your body temperature, which is especially helpful when those long daylight hours start to mess with your sleep. 😴

Photo: Gerda in Helsinki for Flytographer. Jenny and family capture memories at Helsinki Cathedral in the snow in Finland with a family photoshoot.

6. Denmark

For the full scoop of a Scandinavian coolcation, it’s a great idea to add Denmark to your bucket list. It’s true that between June and August, Copenhagen sees more visitors than in winter, but it’s still far from the overcrowding of other popular European summer spots. With moderate temperatures and bright nights, coolcationers can make the most of the city’s lush parks and gardens. 🌳 Renting a bike is practically a rite of passage and possibly the best way to find lovely canals, visit the iconic Nyhavn Harbour, and explore colourful neighbourhoods. Just be sure to make plenty of stops for alfresco dining with a taste of modern Scandinavian cuisine. 😋

Looking for that ultimate Scandi summer moment? Join the locals at one of the city’s many harbour baths, night swims included. 🏊‍♂️

Photo: Flytographer in Copenhagen. Carla and family capture memories at Nyhaven with a family photoshoot.

7. Switzerland

The breathtaking alpine charm of Switzerland gains a special kind of magic in summer. One of the best ways to enjoy a Swiss coolcation? Take a road trip to discover alpine lakes and mountain scenery at your own pace or hop aboard one of the country’s iconic scenic trains, which wind through dramatic valleys, wildflower meadows, and snow-dusted peaks. 🚞 And guess what? In Zermatt, you can even ski in summer! Can you think of a better idea for a coolcation?

More of an urbanite? The understated cities of Bern and Zurich are perfect for a summer escape. Bern is known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, full of medieval charm and vibrant energy, while Zurich charms with scenic lake cruises and dreamy open-air cinema screenings. With extended opening hours, you’ll also have more flexibility to explore Zurich’s cultural gems at a relaxed pace. 😌

Photo: Flytographer in Zurich. Cameron and partner celebrate their engagement in Switzerland with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

8. Canada

In North America, Canada’s wide-open spaces, crisp alpine breezes, and countless lakes make it ideal for anyone looking to escape the heat — and the crowds — during their summer holiday. 🇨🇦 In the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers daytime temperatures that are just right, and exploring Banff National Park under summer’s clear skies is a genuine delight. The prime time for hiking? July through mid-September, when conditions are perfect for hitting the trails that wind through alpine meadows, valleys, and past stunning turquoise lakes. 

If it’s a bit of coastal calm you’re after, head west to British Columbia’s Vancouver Island. Seaside towns like Tofino offer a mild summer escape where you can beat the heat and still hit the beach. Surfing in Canada? You bet. 🏄 A lesson on Cox Bay is the perfect way to experience local surf culture and take in epic Pacific views. Plus, you can go whale watching, take day trips to waterfalls, and hop on a sea kayak. Who says Canada’s charm is only for winter?

Fly Tip: Vancouver in the summer is truly delightful! From outdoor adventures to lively festivals, you’ll be spoiled for things to do. It’s well worth spending at least a weekend in town while visiting British Columbia. 👍

Photo: Darine in Banff for Flytographer. Brooke and partner capture memories in Canada with a couples photoshoot.

Photo: Kait in Tofino for Flytographer. Brad and Garrett capture memories on Vancouver Island with a couples photoshoot.

9. Germany

Germany makes for a pretty high-spirited coolcation, and what better place to start than Berlin? While the city is often known for its legendary techno and nightlife scene, during the summer months, the vibe shifts outdoors: you’ll find plenty of city parks and fantastic beer gardens. 🍺 History is all around, even in the parks! Sunny days are great for visiting Tempelhofer Feld, a historic airport turned sprawling urban park where locals flock on sunny days for everything from rollerblading, skating, and biking to flying kites. Just don’t underestimate the summer sun; while Berlin isn’t overwhelmingly hot, temperatures can easily reach 30°C (86°F) on warmer days. 🌡️

Munich is another fantastic German destination. The city comes to life with vast green spaces that become a playground for locals, who lounge on meadows, explore shaded trails, and unwind in beer gardens. You can even watch surfers take on the famous Eisbachwelle — an artificial wave on the Eisbach River. If you’re into a bit of shopping, Munich’s popular flea markets are full of unique local finds, and they’re at their best during summer. 🛍️

Photo: Irene in Berlin for Flytographer. Katherine and partner capture memories in Berlin with a couples photoshoot.

10. Estonia

Last but not least, Estonia ticks all the boxes for an ideal coolcation destination. At the heart of it all, the capital Tallinn shines with seasonal charm. 🇪🇪 The Old Town is at its most vibrant, with open-air cafes, medieval architecture, and rooftop views of the Baltic Sea. The climate is just right for relaxing in peaceful green spaces or strolling the seaside promenade — ice cream in hand, of course. 🍦

Coolcationers can also enjoy quick escapes to nearby islands or bog hikes in the countryside. For a dose of coastal charm, Prangli Island is where you’ll find pine forests, quiet beaches, and traditional fishing villages, all just a ferry ride from the mainland. Another great escape, just an hour from the city, is Naissaar Island, known for its wild nature and Soviet-era military ruins. 😮

Photo: Uri in Tallinn for Flytographer. Lesley captures memories in Estonia with a solo adventure photoshoot.

Capturing memories in cooler destinations

Have you picked a favourite from our list above? No matter where you decide to cool off this summer, our local Flytographers are ready to make your trip even more memorable. Let them capture your best coolcation moments with stunning photos you’ll cherish forever. 💙