Avoid heatwave with 'best' city that's less than 20C in July and 2 hours from UK

For many, the summer holidays are a chance to get away and make the most of the sunshine by a beach, or at the very least a pool. However, as temperatures continue to soar across much of Europe, heading to a cooler destination and getting a break from the heat might sound more appealing. Temperatures in the UK are forecast to rise above 30C again this week.

Travel company Kayak have found an increase in searches to ‘cooler’ destinations this July as many Brits look for an alternative to beat the heat, with searches for flights to cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen doubling since March. But if you’re looking for a last minute break, one city proves slightly cheaper than the rest for a chilled out getaway this summer.

Data from Kayak has found searches for flights to Krakow in Poland have increased by 74% this month compared to March, and return flights from either London or Manchester are currently £122.

The former capital of Poland, Krakow is a popular destination with travellers year round, but it’s not exactly the place you might think of heading to for a summer break, especially as July is known to be one of the city's rainiest months.

Speaking of the weather, the official VisitKrakow website said: “Krakow’s climate is often described as oceanic, which is typical of the west coasts at the middle latitudes of most continents, and generally features warm, but not hot, summers.”

While there’s plenty to do indoors if it rains, whether it’s visiting historical churches or the former royal residence at the Wawel Royal Castle, there’s also no shortage of options for enjoying the cooler weather outside.

From boat tours over the Vistula River, stopping for a drink in Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest medieval square, there’s even the annual Summer Jazz Festival that takes place from June all the way through until September.

Reached in just over two hours by plane from the UK, it makes for an ideal destination if you find that you’ve got a long weekend to spare, but make sure you pack an umbrella and a waterproof jacket in case it rains.