As the hot summer months in Qatar begin, we searched for places where you can enjoy cool weather, ancient architecture, cultural festivals, authentic cuisine, and spectacular walking routes. From tea plantations in Malaysia and whale watching in South Africa to ancient temples in Myanmar and colorful music festivals in France, these destinations are perfect for escaping the heat.

Italy has plenty of scenic views, but Lake Como is probably one of the most impressive. If you're looking for the best time to visit in summer, choose the end of June, when Como hosts the Festa di San Giovanni with its spectacular 45-minute fireworks and a regatta featuring traditional boats. You can also visit heritage sites such as the Sacro Monte di Ossuccio — a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its baroque chapels and panoramic hiking paths. Tasting the Lombard cuisine — with its rich risottos, creamy polenta, and local cheeses — is almost obligatory. 

Flights from Doha: Fly to Milan — return fares are currently approximately QAR 4,000.

Visas: Visa requirements vary by nationality. 

Italy is part of the Schengen Area, so an Italian Schengen visa can also be used to visit other Schengen countries during your stay.

Clisson, a small town in the Loire-Atlantique department, still retains its medieval charm but stands out for an unexpected architectural twist: much of it was rebuilt in the 19th century in a Tuscan style. The result is a striking blend of eras — 11th- and 17th-century towers stand alongside the ruins of a former fortress and the 14th-century covered market, Les Halles. June is the busiest time here, when up to 180,000 music fans descend on the town for the heavy metal festival Hellfest. 

Flights from Doha: Fly into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in Paris. Return fares are currently around QAR 3,550. A direct TGV train from Paris to Le Mans takes around 1.5 hours.

Visas: Visa requirements vary — our France visa article explains everything about required documents, fees, and how to apply.

France is part of the Schengen Area, meaning a Schengen visa may also allow travel to other Schengen countries on the same trip.

A tiny village lost in the Albanian Alps is somewhat overlooked but definitely worth a visit if you're looking for fresh hiking routes, excellent views, and traditional Albanian architecture, including tower houses. Make sure to visit Valbona Valley National Park, where most of its natural beauty remains untouched.

Flights from Doha: Fly to Tirana from Doha — Return fares are currently around QAR 4,500.

Visas: Qatari citizens can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days. Residents need to apply for an e-visa.

Less well-known than its neighbors Navarre and Galicia, Cantabria in northern Spain has plenty to offer: cool summer temperatures, dramatic mountain scenery, sweeping views of the Bay of Biscay, and prehistoric cave art — most famously in Altamira. Its cuisine is another highlight, especially the fresh seafood and hearty mountain dishes. Summer is also festival season here. 

Flights from Qatar: Fly to Asturias airport — return fares are currently around QAR 5,300.

Visas: Qatari nationals planning to visit Spain must apply for a Spanish visa. Third-country residents may also need a visa. If you plan to work remotely while living in Spain, you may also be eligible for Spain's digital nomad visa.

Spain is part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa can also allow stays in other Schengen countries.

Sitting not far from Nicosia and Limassol, Kalopanayiotis is a small village with a rich display of old architecture, which you can explore while walking along cobbled streets. From ancient hot springs and Byzantine monasteries to the Kykkos watermill and the Venetian bridge — it's like peeling the history layer by layer. Don't forget to treat yourself to local variations of halloumi cheese and sweets with soumada syrup.

Flights from Qatar: You can fly to Lefkosia — return fares are currently around QAR 4,000.

Visas: Qatari nationals and residents can apply for a visa at the Cyprus Visa Application Center in Qatar.

The Arrifana Sunset Festival, held in late July, is the main event of the summer season in this coastal village in the Algarve region. Arrifana is also known for the Rota Vicentina trails, popular among European hikers, and Praia da Arrifana beach, next to the ruins of a local Moorish fortress. Indulge in traditional dishes like grilled fish with sweet potatoes.

Flights from Qatar: You can fly to Lisbon — return fares are currently around QAR 4,000.

Visas: Qatari citizens need a visa to Portugal. Citizens of Schengen countries and several visa-exempt countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, can stay up to 90 days without a visa for non-work travel. If you plan to live in Portugal while working remotely, you may also be eligible for Portugal's digital nomad visa.

Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, meaning a Portuguese visa can also allow short stays in other Schengen countries during your trip.

Because of its winds and waves, this small fishing village attracted the unexpected interest of surfers and kitesurfers — they even called it "Cold Hawaii". Klitmøller is also bordered by Thy National Park, where you can explore dune and heath landscapes of Northwest Jutland. Enjoy the quiet time here and taste local fish and seafood.

Flights from Doha: Return fares from Denmark are currently QAR 4,000.

Visas: Travelers from Qatar require a standard Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days.

Coffee aficionados, you're welcome: Filandia is where some of the finest Colombian coffee beans are produced. To have an ultimate local experience, fetch yourself a good cup, take a walk across the colorful streets, then ascend to the main viewpoint in Filandia — Mirador Colina Iluminada, a watchtower from which you can observe all the rich greenery rolling under your feet.

Flights from Doha: Return fares are currently around QAR 10,000 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari passport holders do not need a visa to enter Colombia. They can stay for short-term tourist or business visits for up to 90 days. Rules for residents of Qatar vary by nationality. 

A Bolivian city on the shores of Lake Titicaca is renowned for the 17th-century shrine, the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, and a local blend of indigenous and Spanish traditions. From here, you can also take a boat to the Isla del Sol to see the ruins of Chinkana, an ancient Inca labyrinth. Copacabana is a highland town (it sits just below 4 km), so expect rather cool weather. But be prepared that this altitude will require adaptation due to the lower oxygen levels in the air.

Flights from Doha: Return fares from Santa Cruz are currently QAR 10,000 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari passport holders need a visa to enter Bolivia. Rules for residents of Qatar vary by nationality.

The second-largest Peruvian city breathes with history. Known as the "White City" for its walls made of volcanic stone, Arequipa boasts around 500 examples of 19th-century architecture. But it’s not all in the rocks — local Arequipeño tradition and style shape everything from museums and monasteries to markets, festivals, music, and cuisine. Some restaurants even serve a special main course for each day of the week — think rocoto relleno (spicy stuffed pepper), vegetable soup, lentil stew, or a hearty white fish chowder with potatoes, cheese, and corn.

Flights from Doha: Return fares are currently around QAR 14,500  (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari passport holders can enter Peru visa-free. Rules for residents of Qatar vary by nationality.

This is for those looking for a slightly isolated island with strong local vibes: although flights to Chiloé Island only began in 2012, most visitors still arrive by ferry. The end of June is an ideal time to visit, when local fishermen celebrate their main annual event — the Fiesta de San Pedro. But the island's unique traditions are on display year-round, especially in its rustic markets and cuisine. Don't miss curanto, a communal dish of seafood, meat, and potatoes cooked over hot stones in an earth oven and covered with leaves.

Flights from Doha: Doha to Santiago are currently around QAR 12,000 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari citizens need a travel visa to enter Chile. Rules for residents of Qatar vary by nationality.

Self‑proclaimed "End of the World," Ushuaia is the planet's southernmost city. If you're after crisp midsummer air and snow‑rimmed vistas, this Patagonian outpost won't disappoint. Hike through Tierra del Fuego National Park, linger by the glass‑still waters of Lapataia Bay, or hop a bus—or boat—to historic Estancia Harberton, where seals and penguins laze on the rocky shore. Between excursions, dive into Fuegian flavors: try halal-friendly seafood (king‑grilled fish stew) or line‑caught black hake, all prized locally alongside exceptionally tender beef.

Flights from Doha: Return flights are currently QAR 8,400 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari passport holders can travel to Argentina visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days. If you are a Qatar resident, visa requirements will depend on the passport you hold.

Though geysers are usually associated with Iceland, it's not the only place on Earth known for geothermal activities. Bubbling mud baths and hot water pools put Rotorua on the map: you can find them in the area around Fenton Street, aptly called "Rotovegas". Skyline would give you the best view of the town (you may also try zip-lining here if you're up for an adrenaline rush). To get familiar with Māori culture, book a trip to Whakarewarewa village.

Flights from Doha: Return flights are currently QAR 8,600 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari passport holders need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The same applies to many nationalities, so Qatar residents are advised to check the necessary steps with the official authorities.

Far from Australia's crowded cities, Tasmania feels like a world of its own. This island blends Aboriginal roots with old colonial towns, dramatic nature, and some of the country's best seafood. Think freshly shucked grilled fish, grilled fish, and buttery rock grilled fish, often served right by the shore. Add to that lush forests, quiet bays, and wild national parks where you might spot wombats or wallabies — and you've got a place that's both laid-back and full of surprises.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Melbourne or Sydney — return flights are currently QAR 8,700. 

Visas: Qatari passport holders need a visa to enter Australia. Residents of other nationalities should check with official authorities the visa requirements.

Tucked away in Tokushima Prefecture, Iya Valley is one of Japan's best-kept secrets — a place of misty mountains, deep gorges, and peaceful green slopes. Time seems to move more slowly here: you'll still find vine suspension bridges and centuries-old thatched farmhouses dotting the landscape. Try the local "stone tofu," a dense and hearty version of the dish unique to the region. Traditional Shinto shrines are scattered throughout the valley, many of them hosting vibrant annual festivals with drumming and costumed processions. The biggest celebrations usually take place in August.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Osaka — return flights are currently QAR 6,600.

Visas: Requirements apply by nationality. Qatari citizens can enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days, but they should register their passports in advance with the Embassy of Japan in Doha.

Raiatea is regarded as one of the centers of ancient Polynesian culture. If you come here in the first half of July, you can attend seasonal festivals featuring music and dance performances, traditional sports competitions (canoe races, stone lifting, javelin throwing), and Tahitian arts and crafts showcases.

Flights from Doha: There are no direct routes from Doha. There are typically two layovers required, and costs range from QAR 3,640 to QAR 10,000, depending on the season and the airline.

Visas: You need a visa for French Polynesia if you have a Qatari passport. Many European nationalities can enter visa-free — always check visa requirements in advance, as they vary.

Vast eucalyptus forests and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites are just two of many good reasons to visit the Blue Mountains in New South Wales (not far from Sydney). There are also many walking tracks, offering breathtaking views of cliffs and passes. Make sure to book a ticket on the Katoomba Scenic Railway — built in the 19th century for mining, it now offers a great tourist ride.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Melbourne or Sydney— return flights are currently QAR 8,700.

Visas: Qatari passport holders need a visa to enter Australia. Residents of other nationalities should check with official authorities the visa requirements.

If you're looking for nice trekking routes, you should definitely consider Sapa in the Northwest of Vietnam. The town sits just beyond the country's highest peak, Mount Fansipan (3147m), so you can explore a variety of trails. Or just take a cable car and ride right to the top. Reserve a Sunday morning for a trip to Bac Ha market, where locals trade handmade crafts and fresh produce.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Ho Chi Minh — return flights are currently around QAR 4,700. 

Visas: You need a visa for Vietnam if you have a Qatari passport. The same applies for many nationalities, so residents of Qatar are advised to check requirements in advance.

Not without reason, Luang Prabang, the capital of the eponymous province in Laos, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site: it is a cultural crossroads where Buddhist temples, European colonial architecture, and traditional Lao buildings meet. Summer might be the best time to visit this place because of the Boun Khao Phansa festival, which marks the beginning of the Buddhist Lent with candlelit processions and traditional ceremonies.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Luang Prabang Airport — return fares are currently QAR 5,500 (non-direct flights). 

Visas: You need a visa for Laos if you have a Qatari passport. The same applies for many nationalities, so residents of Qatar are advised to check requirements in advance.

Rising above the sea level up to 1,600m, Cameron Highlands hosts a fantastic variety of fauna and flora (including more than 700 species of plants). So if you look for real biodiversity and a relatively cool climate, you'll find them there. You might add a visit to tea plantations and strawberry farms, and a trip to the Tanah Rata night market, which runs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Kuala Lumpur — return fares are currently QAR 4,700.

Visas: Qatari passport holders can enter Malaysia visa-free for stays of up to 90 days — they should have a passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of onward or return travel, and evidence of sufficient funds for their stay. Requirements for Qatar residents vary by nationality. Depending on the passport you hold, you may need to obtain a Malaysia eVisa before traveling.

Former capital of the Pagan kingdom, which declined in the 13th century, Bagan still retains much of its architectural magnificence. There are thousands and thousands of temples, pagodas, and monasteries. Whether you're into Asian archaeology or not, it's a stunning view — especially from a hot air balloon. Aside from the buildings, Bagan offers local markets, but expect it to be pretty crowded.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Yangon — return fares are currently QAR 4,600 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari passport holders must obtain a visa before arrival, as do many other nationalities. Always check visa requirements in advance.

Sri Lanka's ancient capital, Kandy, is famous not only for Sri Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, which houses a relic of the Buddha and hosts the annual Esala Perahera festival in the summertime, but also as a vibrant place where you can enjoy walks in the botanical gardens and shopping in the Kandy market.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Colombo — return fares are currently QAR 2,000.

Visas: Travelers from Qatar need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka.

While Chiang Mai is the second-largest city in Thailand, it is not nearly as crowded as Bangkok, so without much ado, you can get familiar with local ancient temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, and national parks, including Doi Inthanon, named after the highest mountain in Thailand. Thai cuisine needs no introduction, of course: don't leave without tasting local food specialties like nam phrik noom (roasted green chiles) or khao soi (curried noodle soup). 

Flights from Doha: Return fares are currently QAR 4,850 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Nationals of 93 countries, including Qatar, can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days.

This small town is a perfect starting point for a good summer hiking challenge: a 1,300-meter ascent to Mount Longido. Still, it is worth the time and energy invested: the view of even higher peaks of Kilimanjaro from there is truly stunning. Local guides can also introduce you to traditional Maasai village life—you might even take part in their ceremonies.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Dar es Salaam — return fares are currently QAR 4,000 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qataris and other nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania

Aside from a short break in late July, when Table Mountain closes for maintenance, June to August can be a great time to visit Cape Town. It's the cooler, often rainy season — a refreshing contrast to the summer heat — and the city is much less crowded. This is also the best time to spot humpback and southern right whales as they swim close to shore. Don't miss a walk through Bo-Kaap, with its colorful houses and cobbled streets — one of the best-preserved examples of mid-19th-century South African architecture.

Flights from Doha: Return fares are currently QAR 5,400.

Visas: Qatari passport holders do not need a visa for a tourism stay of up to 90 days. Residents should always check visa requirements in advance. 

The list of things to do in the Ethiopian capital is quite long, but let us get some highlights: Addis Ababa is renowned for one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, the National Museum (which has a skeleton of a person who lived in this area about 3.2 million years ago), colorful art, Ethiopian cuisine, and views of Entoto Mountain.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Addis Ababa — return fares are currently QAR 3,600 (non-direct flights).

Visas: Qatari citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival, whilst visa requirements for residents depend on their nationality.

Named "The Land of the Thousand Hills," Rwanda's capital lives up to its promises. Kigali offers high-altitude chill, colorful markets and galleries, shopping at the Caplaki Craft Village, and, last but not least, coffee shops featuring local Rwandan coffee brands famous far beyond the country's borders.

Flights from Doha: Return fares are currently QAR 6,400.

Visas: Qatari citizens are eligible for a free 90-day visa on arrival. Requirements for other nationalities vary.

Due to its height, from 3,825 to 5,199 meters above sea level, Mount Kenya's climate is relatively cool. That certainly helps those up for a long trek through the national park or rock climbing, which has become a popular sport in this area. Depending on which slope of the mountain you travel, you can meet the Kikuyu, Embu, Maasai, or Ameru people there.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Nairobi — Return fares are currently QAR 2,450.

Visas: Qatari passport holders must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Requirements for other nationalities vary.

Butha-Buthe's main attraction is a flat mountain bearing the same name. Aside from its various hiking trails, it is renowned for its rich and distinctive Sotho culture: from very memorable clothing to food specialties like likhobe (bean and berry stew) and motoho (fermented sorghum porridge), it could offer you an experience you are unlikely to get anywhere else.

Flights from Doha: You can fly to Maseru — Return fares are currently QAR 6,800.

Visas: Qataris and other nationalities must apply for a visa in advance.