Looking to escape the summer heat? Musement shares five Northern European destinations where you can find some respite from the blazing summer sun.
We love summer! Sunshine, the beach, vacation…it doesn’t get much better than that. However, the heat isn’t for everyone and sometimes, a cool down is in order. Here are five destinations in Northern Europe where you can temporarily escape the heat.
1) St. Petersburg, Russia
With an average July temperature of 18 ° C (64 ° F), summer is perfect for discovering the historical and cultural treasures found on every corner of St. Petersburg. Built in 1883, the stunning Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood marks the spot where Emperor Alexander II had perished two years earlier. The world’s most mosaiced church, thousands of square meters of ornately patterned tiles cover its walls and ceilings. From 28 to 30 July, St. Petersburg will host the Present Perfect Festival of City Music and Arts, during which locals and visitors alike can admire the expressive street art, watch Russian musicians perform and sample some local flavors at Peterburgian market.
Church of the Savior on spilled blood at night
2) Tallinn, Estonia
Located on the Gulf of Finland, Tallinn averages a temperature of 18 ° C (64 ° F) in July thanks to an inland blowing breeze from the Baltic Sea. Its tremendously rich history boasts traces of the various variety European empires of the past centuries, evident in both the fascinating architecture and enriching culture. A brilliant feature of the distinct local landscape is Estonia’s Lahemaa National Park, one of the world’s most important conservation areas and home to a variety of wildlife such as foxes, brown bears, lynxes and moose. Take a day trip from Tallinn and enjoy the ruggedly gorgeous national park, or stay in the city and explore its medieval past.
Tallinn, Estonia at night
3) Stockholm, Sweden
Another city with an average summer temperature of 18 ° C (64 ° F), Stockholm is also perfect for escaping the blistering summer heat. Its tranquil vibe and contemporary comforts make for a relaxing, yet entertaining, destination. Stockholm is home to stellar museums, art exhibitions, tasty food variations, lively nightlife, historical architecture, adventurous outdoor activities and top live music venues. It’s a city worth revisiting, especially when the days are shorter to search for the Northern Lights.
Stockholm, Sweden
4) Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, a one-time fishing village, is a spectacular port city and gastronomic destination separated connected to Sweden by an impressively long bridge over the strait of Oresund. With a similar summer climate to Stockholm, Copenhagen is every bit as alluring as the Swedish capital. The Danes are known for their eco-friendly mentality, (attempting to be carbon neutral by 2025) and their love of biking, so it’s only natural to take a refreshing bike ride around this splendid city of canals when in town. Don’t forget the enchanting royal castles, interesting museums, trendy art galleries and the lively jazz scene.
Copenhagen, Denmark, Photo credit: john.anes via Visual Hunt / CC BY-SA
5) Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki, the Daughter of the Baltic, is regarded as a city of the sea and its summer temperatures ressemble its aforementioned Northern European counterparts. Due to its nautical nature, the city offers a serene escape from the typical urban hustle and bustle, and can be easily explored on foot or by public transport. Don’t miss The National Library of Finland with its vast heritage collection and breathtaking architecture all in a captivating atmosphere. Helsinki offers picturesque landscapes and a relaxing, harmonious seaside lifestyle sans the sweltering heat.
Helsinki, Finland
Waterfall, Northwestern Iceland, Cover Photo credit: Theo Crazzolara via VisualHunt / CC BY