Pompeii in peak summer — July and August especially — can reach temperatures well above 30°C and the ancient stone surface radiates heat upward. The site has limited shade in most areas. High-SPF sunscreen, a hat with a brim, and at least one litre of water per person are not optional. If you are travelling with children or anyone sensitive to heat, schedule your Pompeii visit for the morning and be back at a shaded café by early afternoon.
The Amalfi Coast road traps heat on sunny days and the towns — particularly Positano and Amalfi town — have limited shade during midday. Positano's beach steps and Amalfi's cathedral square are both exposed at peak sun. Plan your arrival at coastal towns for the morning or late afternoon if you have the flexibility.
Naples city has more shade than Pompeii — streets are narrow and churches are cool. Underground Naples is genuinely cool and makes an excellent retreat on a very hot day. The waterfront and Piazza del Plebiscito can be exposed but there are cafés and covered arcades nearby.
Carry water throughout the day regardless of destination. At Pompeii there are limited water refill points inside the site; at coastal towns, bars and restaurants are accessible but can be expensive in peak tourist areas. A personal water bottle filled before leaving the ship is always the right choice.
Highlights
- Pompeii: high SPF, hat and 1+ litre water per person are essential in summer
- Amalfi Coast towns: midday sun is intense — plan morning arrivals where possible
- Naples city: narrower streets provide more natural shade than Pompeii
- Underground Naples: genuinely cool — an excellent option on a very hot day
Tips
- Wear breathable, light-coloured clothing and closed shoes (especially for Pompeii)
- A UV-protection hat with a brim offers more protection than a baseball cap
- Fill a water bottle before leaving the ship — expensive to replace at tourist sites
- If anyone in your group is heat-sensitive, build in café and shade stops throughout the day