As Europe faces a relentless heat wave, both residents and summer travelers find themselves at the mercy of unusually high temperatures and insufficient air conditioning. With safety as the top priority, experts underscore the importance of hydration while exploring ways to escape the sweltering heat—especially in popular cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona.

For those seeking comfort, public swimming pools are an obvious go-to option. However, alternative escape routes provide unique cooling experiences. Venturing underground on city tours or stepping into the air-conditioned interiors of grand cathedrals can provide much-needed relief.

Museums also serve as an excellent sanctuary from the heat. Many of these cultural institutions maintain controlled temperature and humidity levels to conserve artwork and artifacts, making them ideal cool havens. In Paris, art lovers can visit the Musée Marmottan Monet or the Musée de Carnavalet, both celebrated for their cooler subterranean spaces. Meanwhile, in Spain, the Center of Contemporary Culture and the Museum of the History of Barcelona are included in the city's climate shelter program, designed to aid residents and tourists seeking refuge from extreme weather conditions.

As summer sizzles in Europe, these suggestions can help travelers navigate the heat while enjoying their adventurous escapades.