There is a special thrill to visiting Europe during the summertime when the old city sidewalks are alive with street performers and the coasts are shining with the sun.
The sun is shining, and people are not in school, so what better time to hop across the pond and visit Europe this summer? High-season crowds and prices aside, there is a special thrill to visiting Europe during the summertime when the old city sidewalks are alive with street performers and the coasts are shining with the sun. But with sunshine comes intense heat. In popular Southern European countries like Italy, France, Spain, and Greece, temperatures could hover around 95 degrees. Add that to the lack of air conditioning in a lot of European countries, and you are facing a sweaty trip. So, how can you prepare yourself? Read on to learn more!
Take Advantage of Any Local Refreshing Treats
Get hip to any regional traditional thirst quenchers you’re able to treat yourself with as you hydrate. Consider refreshing insalata caprese, an ice-cold Spritz, a frosted lemon granite, or a gelato while in Italy. In Greece, do like the locals and cool off with a fresh watermelon and feta salad. Bring your temperature down in Spain with a chilled gazpacho. Make sure you hydrate frequently and purchase bottled water at supermarkets instead of the refreshment stands around tourist hubs, you will save yourself lots of money.
Dress for the Intense Heat
Staying cool, hydrated, and melanoma-free is always important, but even more so when you are underneath the hot sun all day. Pack a summer capsule wardrobe in breathable and cool fabrics. Think tees, tanks, button-downs, shorts, lightweight denim, and some slip dresses, so you can easily transition into breezier nighttime temperatures or cover up in any formal setting. Decide on light-to-neutral color palettes that will absorb less heat. Light sneakers and stylish walking sandals will help keep your feet comfortable and cool as you walk on the cobblestones. High-factor SPF is also essential, like a refreshing SPF spray.
Soak in Some Culture at an Air-Conditioned Museum
Europe’s museums should already be on the to-do list. You will have to be clever since not every museum in Europe has air conditioning, and the ones that do could be packed, so try getting there early. A brief shortlist of air-conditioned European museums includes the Louvre and Musee Picasso in Paris, Museo del Prado and the Museo Reina Sofia located in Madrid, as well as the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
Explore the World with AESU!
Are you ready to plan an adventure of a lifetime? AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal—designed just for people your own age. We are also able to design custom tours just for your group.
Experience an exhilarating adventure in 2023 on the Cosmopolitan, Great Escape, Greek Island Hopper tour, and more! 2024 tour dates are now available! If you have any questions or want help booking your next adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640, or fill out the contact form found on our website. Follow AESU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.