Home » TRAVEL ALERT » Europe Summer Travel: Heatwaves, Wildfires, Earthquakes, and Tourist Taxes Disrupt Plans- What Travellers Should Know

Published on
August 9, 2025 |

Europe’s summer 2025 is turning out to be a turbulent period for travelers, with heatwaves, wildfires, seismic activity, and new regulations affecting prominent destinations. As climate change hastens, travelers are advised to be well-prepared for these upcoming challenges. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to navigate through Europe’s evolving summer travel landscape, and enjoy the trip by overcoming the challenges.

New Tourist Taxes and Visitor Caps Impact Travel Plans

As European cities and tourist sites struggle with overtourism, new taxes and visitor caps have been implemented across several popular destinations. In Greece, the islands of Santorini and Mykonos have introduced a €20 levy for cruise passengers during peak seasons, while Santorini enforces a daily cap of 8,000 cruise visitors. Athens has also followed suit, limiting visitors to the Acropolis to 20,000 per day, with mandatory timed entry tickets.

In Barcelona, the municipal tourist tax has increased to €6.75 per night for five-star hotel guests, adding a considerable surcharge to an already expensive stay. Other areas like Ibiza and Sardinia have introduced caps on the number of vehicles allowed, while Sardinia’s popular beaches require prior reservations to manage the daily influx.

Seismic Activity Disrupts Mediterranean Destinations

In addition to climate-related disruptions, Europe has seen a rise in seismic activity this summer, especially around Mediterranean destinations. Popular locations such as Crete, Santorini, Naples, and Sicily have experienced minor earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. While these events haven’t resulted in significant damage or casualties, they have led to temporary evacuations, and tourists have expressed growing concerns over safety in these areas.

The Greek island of Santorini has seen a sharp decline in visitor numbers, with tourism officials predicting a potential 25% drop in arrivals this year due to heightened fears of tremors.

Air Travel Disruptions from Strikes and Air Traffic Control Issues

Travelers should also brace for significant disruptions in air travel as strikes and air traffic control (ATC) issues intensify. In Spain, the General Union of Workers (UGT) has announced widespread strikes that will affect airports across the country. Ryanair’s subsidiary, Azul Handling, will see stoppages every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until the end of 2025, potentially leading to severe delays and cancellations.

Air traffic control strikes in France, Spain, and Italy have already caused substantial flight disruptions, and millions of passengers are expected to face delays during the peak travel season.

How to Prepare for Strikes and Air Travel Disruptions

Travelers should stay updated on strike information by consulting government websites and airline notifications. It’s recommended to check flight statuses before heading to the airport to avoid unnecessary delays. If changes cannot be made to travel dates, arriving early and avoiding peak hours will help minimize stress.

For those whose flights are canceled or delayed due to strikes or other disruptions, having comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip delays, accommodation, and additional expenses is crucial. Airlines are typically obligated to offer a rebooking option or a full refund, but they are generally not liable for compensation beyond the flight itself.

Heatwaves and Wildfires Disrupt Europe’s Popular Destinations

Extreme heatwaves and wildfires have been some of the most pressing challenges this summer in Europe. Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Türkiye have seen temperatures soaring over 40°C, with these conditions fueling numerous wildfires. Both locals and tourists have been evacuated from affected areas, including parts of France and Italy. Sardinia, for example, has been battling devastating fires that have affected both residents and tourists alike.

For travelers, heatwaves can pose significant health risks, particularly for older individuals or those with preexisting medical conditions. Additionally, the wildfires’ impact on air quality can make outdoor activities unsafe and disrupt travel plans due to evacuations.

How to Prepare for Extreme Weather and Natural Disasters

Travelers heading to destinations at risk of extreme weather or natural disasters should take proactive measures. Stay informed by checking local weather warnings and emergency alerts, which can often be received via mobile apps or government notifications.

If a heatwave is forecasted during your trip, make sure to carry extra drinking water, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and follow local advice. Travelers should also be aware of emergency procedures in case of wildfires or earthquakes and familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and shelter locations. Older travelers and those with underlying health conditions should take extra precautions to avoid health risks during extreme weather.

Preparing for Travel Disruptions with the Right Insurance

Given the increasing likelihood of natural disasters and disruptions, securing the right travel insurance is essential. Travelers should select a policy that covers trip cancellations, delays, and losses due to extreme weather or natural disasters. If a heatwave or wildfire disrupts travel plans, having insurance can help with refunds or reimbursements if bookings are canceled or delayed.

However, many insurance policies do not cover cancellations made due to personal preference or “disinclination to travel,” meaning if a traveler opts not to travel due to a natural disaster without an official government warning, they might not be eligible for compensation. Ensure that your insurance policy includes coverage for “loss of enjoyment” or trip disruption caused by extreme weather events or natural disasters.

Conclusion: Staying Prepared for an Unpredictable Summer

As Europe grapples with extreme weather conditions, seismic activity, and the increasing impact of over-tourism, travelers are advised to stay informed and prepared. The new tourist taxes, visitor caps, and flight disruptions should not deter travelers, but rather inspire them to chalk out their itineraries with greater precision, caution and flexibility at the same time. By securing the appropriate travel insurance, staying updated on local weather and emergency alerts, and adjusting travel plans as and when necessary, travelers can still look forward to their summer vacation with minimal stress despite the uncertainty ahead.

By adopting these precautionary measures, tourists can still ensure that their European travel plans remain feasible, and overall safe, enjoyable, and stress-free as possible.