Traveling to Europe? The heat might be closing the attractions you are planning to visit
As Europe braces for another brutal heat wave, tourists may have to change their plans because of heat-related closures.
These European attractions may close due to heat
Headed to Europe this summer for an epic vacation? Hot weather may cause more of an issue than just sweating and sunburns.
As Europe braces for another brutal heat wave this weekend, tourists may have to change their plans last-minute because of heat-related closures. And with it being only the beginning of astronomical summer in Earth's fastest-warming continent, this certainly won't be the last European heat wave of 2026.
A women ties her hair as a men holds an umbrella above her at the Trocadero's Human Rights square facing the Eiffel Tower in Paris where temperature rose above 30 degres celsuis as a record-breaking early heatwave scorches a swathe of western Europe on May 27, 2026.
(Ludovic MARIN/AFP via Getty Images)
During a scorching heat wave at beginning of July last year, temperatures reached 104 degrees in Paris, causing perilous conditions at one of the world's most popular tourist attractions, the Eiffel Tower. For days, the tower's hours were reduced, the summit was closed to all and visitors who hadn't bought their tickets in advance were turned away, as reported by USA Today.
(MORE: Same heat, different danger: Heat Americans barely notice can be deadly in Europe)
Just a week later, another heat wave caused another enormously popular European attraction t0 partially shut down. The Acropolis is routinely closed during hot afternoons to protect workers and tourists, as reported by the Associated Press. Sat atop a hill without shade, the ancient site of world renown is known for its unrelenting heat in summer.
Across many Mediterranean countries, including Greece, Italy and Spain, local governments often implement extreme heat protocols that shut down or highly restrict outdoor work: this includes outdoor tours and visits to unshaded historical sites. The restrictions are there for good reason, too: On a 97-degree day near Milan last July, a 44-year-old roadworker collapsed while working during the hottest part of the day. He later died at a nearby hospital, the AP reported.
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So, when you hop across the pond, it's important to plan ahead for extreme heat:
- Make outdoor plans for early morning or after 5 p.m.
- Check the landmark’s website before you go
- Plan indoor, air-conditioned activities for the afternoon
- Stay hydrated
- Wear light clothing
- Protect your skin from the sun
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