American travelers continue to flock to Europe this summer despite record-breaking heat, higher airfares, a weaker US dollar and crowded tourist destinations.

Nearly 11 million Americans traveled to Europe during the first half of the year, up 2.2 percent from the same period in 2025, according to the US International Trade Administration.

Travel advisers say tourists are increasingly looking beyond traditional hotspots such as Rome and Santorini, opting instead for destinations like Slovenia, northern Croatia, the Baltics and Scandinavia, where crowds are smaller and temperatures are cooler.

For those visiting popular attractions, experts recommend traveling during the shoulder season or booking early morning and late afternoon tours to avoid long lines and extreme heat.