Southern Europe is now suffering an unprecedented heat wave, with temperatures exceeding 44°C in parts of Italy, Greece, and Spain. The extreme heat is creating not just discomfort, but also major travel delays, as planes are delayed, tourist attractions close early, and passengers face increased health risks.
Heatwaves are growing more common and intense as a result of climate change, making their influence on travel more difficult to ignore. From reduced visiting hours at world-famous destinations to delayed flights and even evacuation orders due to wildfires, current conditions are driving passengers, airlines, and tourism officials to react in real time. Many people wonder if peak summer travel is still worth the risk.
Travel Plans Heat Up Literally
From Athens to Rome, hundreds of tourists have had to reconsider their summer plans. Due to excessive temperatures, Italian authorities have issued red alerts in towns such as Florence, Palermo, and Bologna, urging residents and visitors to stay indoors during peak hours.
In Greece, officials have reduced the hours of operation for popular attractions such as the Acropolis, closing it during the noon heat to prevent heatstroke and weariness among visitors and employees. Meanwhile, Spain is sending emergency staff to important travel hubs, anticipating increased demand on public services and transportation.
Airlines and Airports Are Feeling the Heat
The heatwave is affecting airports throughout southern Europe. Wildfires sparked by high temperatures interrupted airport operations in Rhodes, forcing emergency evacuations and causing havoc for arriving and departing travellers.
Airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair have begun issuing advisories, advising passengers to check their flight status often and plan for unexpected cancellations or delays. Overheated runways and heat-exhausted ground crews have also resulted in postponed flights at airports such as Rome Fiumicino and Madrid-Barajas.
Read more on: Luton Runway Buckled by Extreme Heat
Reconsidering Summer Travel
With peak-season temperatures getting increasingly harsh, tourists are reconsidering the timing and location of their travels. As southern cities become more difficult to navigate safely throughout the summer months, an increasing number of visitors are choosing for spring and fall getaways.
This trend encourages airlines and travel agents to market off-season discounts as alternatives to packed, sweltering locations. Scandinavia, the UK coast, and Eastern Europe are witnessing an increase in reservations as travellers seek milder climates and more peaceful experiences.
As temperatures continue high, officials advise travellers to take the following precautions:
- Avoid outdoor sightseeing between 12 and 5 p.m
- Stay hydrated and bring refillable water bottles
- Use high-SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothes
- Check the airline changes and travel insurance coverage
- Download local emergency applications, where accessible
Sunny vacations aren’t going away, but the next luxury may just be a cool breeze and a quiet beach. Have your travel plans been affected by Europe’s heatwave? Share your experience with us in the comments or join the conversation on our socials
