Why Cooler Getaways are the Top Travel Trend for Summer 2025

Summer vacation. For many, it brings to mind sunny beaches and warm weather. But for summer 2025, a different kind of trip is gaining popularity: the “cool-cation.” This trend sees more and more people choosing destinations with milder temperatures to escape the summer heat. Think Iceland, Norway, Canada, Scotland, and Ireland. These places are becoming the new go-to spots as travelers look for a break from rising global temperatures.

Why the Shift to Cooler Climates?

The main reason for this change in travel plans is the increasing heat in many parts of the world. As summers get hotter, people are looking for more comfortable places to spend their holidays. This is clearly seen in online searches. Data from Google Trends shows a huge jump – 300% in just one year – for searches related to “cooler holidays.” A survey of travelers in the UK also found that over 20% were thinking of changing their vacation plans because of very hot weather.

Extreme weather isn’t just changing where people want to go; it’s also affecting whether they can travel at all. Reports show that almost a third of all travelers have had to delay trips due to bad weather like wildfires, extreme heat, or floods. This number is even higher for younger travelers. These real-life events, like the heat and wildfires in Greece that forced thousands to leave, or the tourists in Rome who cut their trips short because of heatwaves, show why people are looking for more predictable and enjoyable vacations in cooler places. Beyond the immediate discomfort, there’s also a growing awareness of climate change, which might be influencing people to choose destinations seen as less affected by severe weather.

The Hot Destinations for Staying Cool

So, which places are seeing the biggest increase in interest? Iceland, Norway, Canada, Scotland, and Ireland are leading the way. Travel insurance data from Squaremouth shows significant growth in popularity for these countries. Iceland is at the top with over 30% more interest compared to last year. Norway follows with over 27%, Canada with over 25%, Scotland with over 21%, and Ireland with over 17%. Ireland has even moved into the top 10 most popular destinations for their customers.

Luxury travel experts at Virtuoso have also noticed this trend. They report a massive 263% increase in bookings for Scandinavia, which includes Iceland and Norway, for summer 2025. This shows that the desire for cooler destinations is appealing to all kinds of travelers.

There are specific reasons why these places are so popular. Iceland has become easier to reach with more affordable flights from the U.S. Norway’s “right to roam” law, which allows people to freely explore its nature, is a big draw for those who love adventure. And the summer weather in Iceland, averaging between 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F), offers a welcome break from hotter climates.

While data from other sources like Skyscanner and VisitScotland confirms general travel interest, the clear numbers from Squaremouth and Virtuoso strongly support the rise of these “cool-cation” hotspots. Even though Tourism Ireland saw a slower start to the year, they expect more flights to become available for the summer, which could boost their numbers in line with the trend. Iceland is even expecting a record number of tourists in 2025, beating its previous high.

Beyond the Usual Suspects: Other Cool Options

While the five countries mentioned above are leading the charge, there are other places gaining popularity for cooler summer trips in 2025. These offer a variety of experiences.

For a truly icy escape, polar safaris to Antarctica, South Georgia, and parts of Canada are becoming more attractive. These trips offer unique chances to see wildlife and support conservation. The Baltic countries (Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia) and Scandinavia are also popular. One travel company is even offering new walking tours in Northern Ireland, Donegal, and the Faroe Islands for those who want active vacations in milder weather. You could even consider a trip to Japan for the Sapporo Snow Festival, offering a different experience during a cooler time of year.

Even ski resorts in the Alps are becoming summer destinations for relaxation. Places like Chamonix in France and Cortina in Italy offer beautiful scenery and wellness activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, and spa treatments. These resorts are becoming year-round getaways.

Several cities with pleasant summer weather are also gaining attention. Edinburgh in Scotland and Zurich in Switzerland offer culture and comfortable temperatures. If you’re looking for a winter escape during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, Santiago in Chile provides a cool option. Sweden and Latvia are also highlighted for their natural beauty and outdoor activities in moderate summer temperatures.

Travel experts also point to Banff in Canada, Lapland in Sweden and Finland, Alaska in the USA, and Eastern European cities like Vilnius and Krakow as top “cool-cation” spots. These places offer everything from stunning mountains and the Northern Lights to history and culture. Weather websites even provide temperature guides for places like Scandinavia, the Baltics, the UK, parts of Canada, and the USA to help travelers plan their cool getaways.

Interestingly, while London and Reykjavik are expected to see slightly fewer American visitors in summer 2025, Helsinki and Copenhagen are predicted to attract more. This suggests a shift in preferences even within cooler regions. Data also shows a big jump in demand for Iceland and Finland because of their cooler temperatures, while Greece, a traditionally hot destination, saw fewer summer tourists.

A Change in Summer Travel Habits

The summer travel plans for 2025 show a clear change from past years, especially when it comes to the popularity of traditionally hot places in Europe. The rise of “cool-cations” indicates that many travelers are choosing cooler climates over the intense heat often found in Southern Europe.

Travel insurance data suggests that the increasing popularity of “cool-cations” is drawing people away from popular European spots like Italy, France, and Spain. While Europe is still a major summer destination, there’s a noticeable move towards exploring regions beyond the usual crowded and hot cities. Places like the UK countryside and the Algarve in Portugal have seen more interest, suggesting a preference for less crowded and potentially cooler environments. The significant increase in bookings for cooler European destinations like Scandinavia and Iceland further supports this shift.

However, some data suggests that popular European cities like Dublin, Barcelona, and Rome are still attractive for travelers looking for good deals. This means that while some people prioritize cooler temperatures, traditional hotspots still appeal to those focused on affordability or specific cultural interests.

Looking at US travel to Europe, some cooler cities like Helsinki and Copenhagen are expected to see more visitors, while London and Reykjavik might see slightly fewer. This indicates a more complex change in popular European destinations rather than a complete move away from the continent’s traditional attractions.

More evidence of a shift from hot destinations comes from reports of a decrease in summer tourists for Greece, a place known for its heat, while cooler options like Iceland and Finland saw increases. This direct comparison shows how temperature is influencing travel choices. Also, reports indicate that Southern and Mediterranean destinations in Europe saw slower performance in late 2024, possibly due to the very hot summer they experienced. This suggests that hot summers might have a lasting impact on the appeal of these areas.

The Appeal of Chilly Adventures

The attraction of “cool-cations” goes beyond just escaping the heat. These destinations offer unique experiences and activities that are especially appealing for a refreshing summer trip. One major draw is the chance for outdoor activities in more comfortable temperatures. Cooler climates are often better for hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring nature without the discomfort of extreme heat.

For example, polar safaris offer the chance to see amazing wildlife like penguins in Antarctica and polar bears in Canada. These trips often focus on conservation, which appeals to travelers who care about the environment. Walking tours in places like Northern Ireland and the Faroe Islands combine beautiful hikes with cultural experiences like whiskey tasting and sheepdog demonstrations. The Sapporo Snow Festival in Japan provides a unique cultural event in a cooler setting.

Many “cool-cation” spots, especially in the Alps, are focusing on wellness and relaxation. Activities like swimming in natural waters, fishing, hiking in stunning landscapes, paddleboarding, guided food tours, cheese tasting, outdoor yoga, and spa treatments are all highlighted as attractions. These appeal to travelers looking to relax and connect with nature in a peaceful environment.

In Sweden and Latvia, the appeal lies in exploring beautiful coastlines and archipelagos, along with opportunities for swimming, hiking, and fishing, as well as enjoying the city life in places like Stockholm and Riga. Other popular activities in “cool-cation” destinations include trying to see the Northern Lights in Lapland, exploring national parks in Alaska, and experiencing the history and culture of Eastern European cities. Travel companies promote “cool-cations” by highlighting experiences like seeing the midnight sun in Sweden, exploring clear lakes in Canada, relaxing in geothermal spas in Iceland, going on Arctic adventures, and experiencing the sauna culture in Finland. These examples show the wide range of activities that attract people to “cool-cation” destinations, catering to different interests beyond just escaping high temperatures.

Marketing the Mild: Getting Ready for More Visitors

Tourism boards and travel companies in “cool-cation” destinations are actively planning how to market their regions and prepare for the expected increase in visitors for summer 2025. For instance, Business Iceland has outlined its marketing plans for the year, which include attending major international travel shows and launching a new campaign called “Tourism for the Future.” This aims to strengthen Iceland’s image as a sustainable and attractive destination, highlighting its natural beauty, safety, well-being, and adventure opportunities. To handle the anticipated increase in arrivals, Keflavík International Airport in Iceland is also adding a new section with more boarding gates.

A local marketing calendar for Norway in the second part of 2025 highlights important dates, cultural events, and customs that can be used to attract tourists. This suggests that Norway will likely promote its cultural heritage and unique seasonal events. One travel company specializing in Norway is promoting summer vacations with a focus on coastal voyages, fjord tours, and self-drive trips, emphasizing the chance to see Norway’s beautiful scenery away from the summer crowds.

While Canada’s tourism strategy for 2024-2025 focuses on long-term development, this will ultimately help make Canada more appealing as a destination, including for “cool-cations.” Scotland’s 2025 marketing plan is centered around the theme “Good for the soul,” encouraging visitors to slow down and connect with nature. Key themes include “Refreshing spring breaks,” “Foodie delights,” and “Island escapes,” which align with the interests of many “cool-cation” travelers.

Tourism Ireland has launched ambitious marketing plans for 2025 to increase the value of tourism. Their strategy includes targeting travelers who seek deep and engaging experiences, using new flight routes, and building partnerships. A major focus is on sustainability, with the introduction of “Slow Tourism Month” to promote sustainable travel options. Their existing “Fill Your Heart with Ireland” campaign will also continue to attract visitors. These detailed marketing efforts show that “cool-cation” destinations are taking a proactive approach to take advantage of the growing trend and ensure they are ready for more visitors.

The Future of Frosty Getaways: Expert Opinions

Experts in the travel industry and observations about climate trends suggest that the popularity of “cool-cations” is not just a short-term trend but something that will likely continue for a long time. Travel + Leisure Asia predicts that “cool-cations” will keep growing in popularity.

One expert points out the direct link between climate change and the increasing appeal of “cool-cations,” stating that as global warming continues, these types of vacations are expected to become even more popular. Another expert believes that the growing interest in Scandinavian summers is not just a passing fad, suggesting a long-term shift in travel preferences towards these cooler climates. One travel company even calls “cool-cations” the “hottest new travel trend” for 2025, further emphasizing the idea of a significant and ongoing change in how people travel.

A global travel report suggests that climate and environmental challenges could lead to a decline in some traditional tourism in countries experiencing worsening conditions. This broader industry view indirectly supports the long-term growth of “cool-cations” as travelers look for more stable and comfortable climates for their vacations. While understanding the history of climate science and the impact of rising temperatures on things like glaciers is important for context, the direct opinions of experts in the travel industry point towards a continued and increasing demand for “cool-cation” experiences in the years to come.

In Conclusion

The evidence from recent travel industry reports and news clearly shows that “cool-cations” are becoming very popular for summer 2025. This trend is mainly driven by rising global temperatures and a greater awareness of climate change, which is motivating travelers to seek out destinations with cooler climates. Iceland, Norway, Canada, Scotland, and Ireland are leading this movement, with significant increases in travel interest and bookings. However, the appeal of cooler escapes extends beyond these main destinations to places like the Baltic countries, the Alps, parts of North America, and even specific events in Asia.

The data suggests a change in traditional summer travel patterns, with some travelers choosing cooler climates over the intense heat often associated with traditional European hotspots. While Europe remains a popular destination overall, there is a clear move towards exploring less crowded and more temperate regions both within Europe and beyond. The types of experiences that attract travelers to “cool-cations” are diverse, ranging from outdoor adventures and nature-based tourism to wellness retreats and cultural immersion, all enjoyed in more comfortable temperatures. Tourism boards in these destinations are actively promoting their unique offerings and preparing for the expected increase in visitors.

Experts in the travel industry agree that the “cool-cations” trend is not temporary but rather a long-term response to a changing climate. As global temperatures continue to rise, the desire for cooler and more predictable summer vacation destinations is likely to continue and grow. This changing travel scene presents both opportunities and challenges for the tourism industry, requiring those involved to adapt to these shifting preferences and potentially invest in and promote destinations that offer a break from the heat.