Stay cool this summer in these specially selected destinations

Edinburgh is one of the most attractive cities in the UK to visit, with many vantage points available from which you can take in all its glory. Walk the Royal Mile from beautiful Holyrood Palace all the way to mighty Edinburgh Castle looming large over the city. Alternatively, for those searching for a more active pursuit, there is the option to hike Arthur's Seat to get an astonishing panorama. August is dominated by the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe, when the world's leading comedians, performers and artists arrive to the Scottish capital to bring laughs and frivolity for the month's duration.

Once the gateway to Northern Europe, Hamburg stands today as a thriving, multicultural centre for trade and tourism. Two architectural marvels are the highlights of the port and Altstadt: the Speicherstadt comprising a vast network of bridges and warehouses, and the Kontorhaus District's impressive Expressionist façades. A noted venue for opera, theatre and musicals, people travel from far and wide to experience Hamburg's nightlife and for those wishing for more irreverence, the bars and clubs of the Reeperbahn in nearby St. Pauli are always open.

Copenhagen may be best known for giving the world Hans Christian Anderson - his Little Mermaid is memorialised with a statue in the harbour - but the Danish capital has a lot more to offer. The 21st century has transformed the city into a cosmopolitan feast of chic style and modern art. Restaurants in the city hold a combined 15 Michelin stars and include the world-renowned Noma which has reinvented Nordic cuisine. In fact, with so many gastonomic treats to enjoy, you'll need to walk them off in Tivoli Gardens, one of the most visited amusement parks in Europe.

Discover the city of Rennes in Brittany, Northwestern France and a part of French life you may never have known existed. Get to know Breton culture at Les Champs Libres museums and galleries, and taste cuisine unlike any other in France; kouign-amann, galettes, Breton far and Cancale oysters are unique must-tries for any visitors. The walkable city is perfect for a stroll through the stalls of the Marché des Lices, or for relaxing in the shade in the Parc du Thabor where festivities are often held in the summer.

Tallinn is the beating heart of Estonia's culture and with its temperate Baltic climate, it makes for a perfect destination all year round. Explore the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its winding, cobbled streets paved with history. To the east of the city, music lovers should head to the Tallinn Song Festival Ground, an awe-inspiring outdoor concert venue which has hosted most if not all of the world's biggest performers and regularly showcases the best of Estonia's musical heritage including the Õllesummer festival in July and August.