How to beat the heat in Europe this summer

On 2 July 2024, the temperature in Athens was 34°C, 33°C in Rome and Istanbul, and 32°C in Lisbon. 

News of relentless European heatwaves has been flooding in since the start of the season, with some regions experiencing temperatures above 40 degrees in June with more extreme heat awaiting throughout July – a cause for concern for many travellers preparing for their European summer holidays. 

“Europe’s heatwaves have been intense this year. Greek authorities were even forced to shut down some of the country’s most popular tourist sites a few weeks ago, including the Acropolis, due to a temperature spike of 43 degrees. Travellers must take extra care, especially older travellers and anyone travelling with babies or young children,” comments Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. 

While we Saffers are fairly used to higher temperatures (in fact, a hot summer’s day instantly triggers us to reach for the braai tongs with a massive smile on our faces), it’s important to remember European heat differs from South African heat, and you’ll likely be spending more time outdoors sightseeing instead of lounging by the pool like you probably would back home. 

Courtesy of Flight Centre’s Travel Experts, here are some tips for keeping your cool throughout your holiday without missing out on the highlights:

• While the heat may be familiar, the humidity in some parts of Europe can be higher than what you’re used to. Be prepared for this and take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated.
• Never underestimate the European sun! Pack a wide-brimmed hat (preferably with a neck flap), sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn. Remember, a higher SPF isn’t necessarily better (and may make you think you’re more protected than you actually are, causing you to stay in the sun longer). Most experts recommend SPF 50 with UVA and UVB protection.
• Take advantage of air-conditioned spaces like museums, restaurants, or shops to cool down during the hottest part of the day. Or, better yet, embrace various European countries’ local tradition of the siesta – a midday rest.
• Use public transportation instead of walking long distances when it’s very hot outside.
• Choose refreshing food and drinks for lunch, like chilled gazpacho, a Spanish tomato-based soup, or grab some gelato on the go. 
• Always walk on the shaded side of the street and take breaks in parks or other shaded areas. European cities often have plenty of tree-lined avenues and green spaces. 
• Look for accommodations with air conditioning or those that offer fans, and whenever possible, choose traditional European buildings, like stone houses, which naturally stay cooler. If you don’t have air conditioning, open windows on opposite sides of your accommodation to create a cross breeze. 
• Spend time near lakes, rivers, or public fountains, which can provide a cooling effect. 

In short, plan ahead, listen to your body, and stay out of the sun as much as possible, and you’ll be cool for the summer! Enjoy.