How Hot Does Europe Get in Summer? What Temperatures to Expect and How to Cope
Yes, Europe can get pretty hot in summer, especially in the south. In Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece, July and August temperatures usually sit between 30 and 40 °C, and in areas like Andalusia they can climb past 42 °C at the peak of a heat wave. In the north (the UK, Germany, the Netherlands) summer is milder, between 20 and 26 °C.
So the short answer is: it depends a lot on which part of Europe you’re visiting. And 2026 is shaping up to be a hot one: after the heat waves of May and June, forecasts point to more episodes of extreme heat over the summer. Here’s the breakdown so you can pack right and not get caught off guard.
How hot is Europe in July and August?
| Region | Typical temperature (Jul–Aug) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| South | 30–40 °C (peaks of 42 °C) | Seville, Rome, Athens, Lisbon |
| Central | 25–33 °C | Paris, Vienna, Prague |
| North | 19–26 °C | London, Amsterdam, Berlin |
Will 2026 be a summer of heat waves?
Odds are high that it will. Europe already went through extreme heat waves in late May and the second half of June 2026, and weather models don’t rule out new episodes in July and August. The official advice in these cases is the usual: drink plenty of water, avoid the midday sun (from 12 to 5 pm) and take refuge somewhere shady or air-conditioned.
What to pack for Europe in summer
- Light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) in pale colors.
- High-SPF sunscreen, a cap or hat and sunglasses.
- A light jacket or sweater: the air conditioning on trains, in museums and shopping centers tends to be arctic.
- Genuinely comfortable shoes: you walk a LOT in summer.
- A reusable bottle: many European cities have free drinking-water fountains.
Last updated: June 30, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hottest month in Europe?
Usually July and August, with August the most stifling in the south (Spain, Italy, Greece). If extreme heat isn’t your thing, June and September are far more bearable and less crowded.
Where can I escape the summer heat in Europe?
Head north and to the Atlantic coasts: the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany or the Norwegian fjords. Islands like Madeira also work, with August temperatures around 19–24 °C.
What should I wear in Europe in summer?
Light, pale-colored clothing, high-SPF sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses. Add a thin jacket for the air conditioning on trains and in museums, and very comfortable shoes because you’ll walk a lot.
Do I need internet to deal with the heat while traveling?
It helps more than you’d think: you can check the weather in real time, find places with air conditioning and take the shortest route instead of trekking in the sun. An eSIM gets you connected from the moment you land.
