Europe’s summer is officially on fire — and not in the good way. Across the continent, record-breaking heatwaves are shuttering attractions, triggering health alerts, and forcing travelers to rethink their itineraries. In Paris, the Eiffel Tower closed for two days after France issued a red heat warning, its highest alert level. Temperatures soared above 100°F (37.7°C) in multiple cities, leading to evacuations across southern France and Portugal due to wildfires.
Spain recorded alarming highs as well: the town of El Granado reached 114.8°F (46°C) on June 30, marking a new national heat record for that month. Reports from Spain’s meteorological agency indicate that June 2025 was the hottest June ever recorded. Tragically, in Majorca, a tourist lost their life due to the extreme heat. Similarly, Portugal’s Mora registered an even more severe temperature of 115.9°F (46.6°C), a result of an ongoing Mediterranean marine heatwave combined with a central European heat dome.
Authorities in Germany, Austria, the UK, Sweden, and Norway have issued travel advisories, urging travelers to take precautions, particularly vulnerable populations like seniors, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Safety over sightseeing
In numerous locations, infrastructure is inadequate for such intense heat. If your accommodation lacks air conditioning, it is critical to employ cooling strategies like cold towels, frequent hydration, and seeking shade. Indicators of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, clammy skin, dizziness, and fainting. If symptoms escalate to confusion or if body temperature rises dangerously, this may indicate heat stroke, a medical emergency.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres referred to this crisis as a crucial wake-up call, stating: “Extreme heat is no longer a rare event — it has become the new normal… No country is immune. We need more ambitious #ClimateAction now.” Consequently, travelers are advised to check alerts before visiting high-temperature areas and remain adaptable with their outdoor schedules. In contemporary Europe, navigating the heat may necessitate forgoing famous sights while redefining what a refreshing summer getaway entails.
