Brits forced to sleep in kitchens to cope with hot weather in ‘heat trap’ homes

Temperatures across Italy have reached dangerous levels, prompting the Ministry of Health to issue a red alert for all 27 major cities, including Milan, Naples, Venice, and Rome. As Europe’s summer holidays continue, the BBC has spoken to experts offering advice on how to safely enjoy Italy during this intense heatwave. While some residents describe the current conditions as part of a broader trend linked to climate change, others, particularly from southern regions, have expressed surprise at the extreme weather in northern areas. Experts advise planning trips carefully to avoid the peak heat. Simone Quilici, director of the Archaeological Park of the Colosseum, emphasizes that visiting outdoor sites during the hottest parts of the day, typically after lunch, is a “big mistake.” The Colosseum itself does not enforce specific visiting times but directs visitors to follow guidelines from local authorities. To help manage the heat, the ministries of tourism and culture have extended operating hours for several key attractions. For example, the Colosseum in Rome remains open from 19:45 to 23:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, while the Pantheon is accessible from 19:00 to 23:00 daily, excluding Thursdays. Sforza Castle in Milan operates from 17:30 to 19:30. Cooling measures have also been introduced at these sites. Fans with mist systems have been installed at entrances, and the number of medical stations has been increased to handle potential emergencies. Quilici acknowledges that while Rome has adapted to such conditions, this is part of a global shift due to climate change. He is currently working with archaeologists to plant more shade-providing vegetation within the park. In addition, Mateo Medina, director of operations at Vivicos International Travel, reports that night tours have gained popularity, with some running from 22:00 to midnight. He notes a rise in demand for early morning tours starting at 08:00. Sheltering indoors is strongly recommended, especially in air-conditioned spaces. Museums, churches, and other indoor venues offer relief from the heat. Cooking classes and wine tastings, often held in cooled environments, have become increasingly popular alternatives to traditional walking tours. Medina suggests exploring Rome’s parks, such as Villa Borghese, Villa Adriana, and the Parco di Acquedotti, for shaded areas. He also recommends visiting the underground Catacombs of San Sebastian and San Callisto as a cool retreat. Tour guides in Naples, such as Marco Carrino, warn against visiting open-air archaeological sites during the height of the day. Many of his guided excursions focus on Pompeii, and he advises travelers to arrive early or consider postponing visits to avoid the worst of the heat. Carrino highlights the National Archaeological Museum of Naples as a must-visit destination, noting its extensive collections of Roman, Egyptian, and Greek artifacts. Italian travel expert and writer Alessia Armenise adds that supermarkets are an overlooked yet valuable resource. She recommends visiting deli sections for freshly prepared sandwiches, which she finds more satisfying than the repetitive selection of focaccia found in many bakeries. For those seeking unique experiences, Armenise suggests taking advantage of natural water features. If located near a lake, river, or other water body, planning activities around these locations can provide both comfort and scenic beauty. She encourages using boats to explore areas otherwise inaccessible on foot, offering a different perspective on the landscape. These recommendations aim to help travelers navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing heatwave while still enjoying the cultural and natural wonders of Italy.