Europe heatwave: the brutal reality check facing Aussie tourists - and how to survive it

Australians heading to Europe for a summer escape are facing a brutal reality check as record-breaking heatwaves sweep the continent.

Historic heatwaves have been driving temperatures to unprecedented levels across the UK and Europe this summer.

Despite the soaring mercury, travel operators state the weather shouldn't deter travellers.

With many companies actively adapting itineraries to keep guests safe, here is what you need to know to navigate a European cruise, tour or independent holiday this northern summer.

G Adventures VP Global Operations, Ben Wehir, said traveller wellbeing is the organisation's top priority.

While heatwaves generally cause "minimal disruption" to the organisation's touring schedule, most tours will operate as planned and staff can adapt day-to-day operations where necessary, he said.

"Our guides continuously monitor local conditions and, where possible, adjust the timing of activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day," Wehir told Explore.

"We also encourage regular hydration and rest breaks, and all [guides] are trained in CPR and First Aid, enabling them to recognise and respond to signs of heat-related illness."

Many of the transport and accommodation provided on tours includes air conditioning "where available".

"During periods of extreme heat, simple measures such as carrying a reusable water bottle, wearing sun protection and choosing lightweight, breathable clothing can make a significant difference to comfort and safety," Wehir said.

He recommended holidaymakers plan sightseeing for the early morning or evening where possible, and take advantage of indoor attractions, museums and shaded public spaces during the hottest part of the day.

"Don't forget often-overlooked areas such as ears and back of the neck when applying sunscreen," he said.

"[Be] careful about wearing open sandals, and if you do be sure to apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet!"

Just You marketing director, Charlotte Field, said most of their tours run in the shoulder season to avoid travelling at the hottest parts of the year.

But if a heatwave does occur during a tour, guides will ensure groups stay well-hydrated throughout the day, take regular breaks and seek shade, and provide advice about suitable clothing for the conditions.

"Our [guides] also have the flexibility to make any necessary adjustments to timings or activities to ensure everyone remains comfortable and safe," Field told Explore.

When a heatwave hits, standard advice like "drink water" and "wear sunscreen" is a given.

Here are some other practical tips you might not have thought of to help you outsmart a European heatwave.

The "first off, first back" strategy: Book the very first excursion of the day to beat the midday peak temperatures and return to the ship just as the sun gets brutal. Then you can hit the air-conditioned areas or go for a swim.

Track the "ship side" sun: When booking your cabin or choosing where to lounge on sea days, pay attention to the ship's itinerary direction. For example, if you are sailing south down the Australian coast, a starboard (right) cabin will get hit with intense afternoon sun, potentially turning your cabin into an oven if the curtains are left open. Choose the shaded side of the vessel for cooler conditions.

Leverage the ship's microclimate: Large cruise ships have specific areas that stay freezing cold even in a heatwave. The casino, the theater and indoor promenade cafes are always heavily air-conditioned. Conversely, open deck areas with hot food stations and top-deck solariums will feel like saunas.

Audit the vehicle's AC: UK coaches and trains are historically notorious for struggling with extreme heat, as many older models weren't built for 35 degrees-plus weather. Ask your tour director before departure if the coach's air-conditioning is fully operational. And choose your seat wisely: the very back row can be hot as it's right above the engine. Any front or outer seat without a curtain can also be sweaty. Choose an aisle seat in the middle rows where possible.

Think twice about indoor museums: You might think ducking into a historic UK manor, castle or museum is a great way to escape the heat. But many of the UK's older, historic properties do not have air conditioning due to strict building preservation laws. Stone walls can trap heat, making the interiors stifling. Opt for shaded botanical gardens, boat tours or modern galleries with climate control instead.

Choose gelato during free time: When your tour guide gives you "two hours of free time" in a city centre, don't spend it marching from monument to monument. Make a quick dash to see your chosen landmark, then spend the rest of your time in a cafe with outdoor misting fans, an air-conditioned pub or a shaded park eating gelato.

Go beyond a hat and sunglasses: In addition, pack an insulated flask in your daypack and fill it up with ice at the hotel breakfast buffet before you leave.

Pack hydrogel cooling patches: These stick to the back of your neck or forehead and provide hours of cooling relief while walking around.

Pack a lightweight umbrella: Use this as a sun parasol during long walking tours where there is zero street shade.