When the thermometer climbs past 35°C, working from home quickly turns into an ordeal: the flat becomes an oven, the fan just pushes warm air around, and your laptop heats up as much as you do. The good news: there are plenty of places built for working where you can finally breathe. We've gathered our anti-heat reflexes and our favourite kinds of spots to keep a cool head, and your productivity with it.
The places that save your day
Not all spots are equal when it's 38°C. Here are the ones to count on:
- An air-conditioned coworking space: the safe bet, AC all day, solid Wi-Fi and power outlets.
- A media library or public library: often air-conditioned, free and quiet.
- A café with cool volumes: high-ceilinged ground floors, vaulted cellars or shaded courtyards.
- A hotel lobby or a shopping centre: air-conditioned, perfect to get by for an hour or two.
On the flip side, beware of glass roofs that are gorgeous in winter but stifling in summer, and full-sun terraces that fry your screen and the back of your neck.
Your anti-heat reflexes
A few habits change everything. Start early: between 8am and 11am, most places are still cool and quiet, and you get the bulk of your day done before the heat peaks. Check for AC before settling in, a quick look at recent Google reviews is often enough. Bring a water bottle, pick a seat away from the windows, and keep a light jumper in your bag: some coworking spaces crank the AC right up, and you can go from oven to fridge fast.
Our cool spots, city by city
For the details, we have full selections city by city, with air-conditioned coworking spaces by the day and, where confirmed, the free media-library refuges.
In short
When it's too hot to think, the winning combo is an air-conditioned coworking space or café, an early start, and a seat in the shade away from the windows. You keep your rhythm without melting, and your laptop will thank you.
Frequently asked questions
Are all cafés air-conditioned?
Far from it. Many small cafés have no AC. In a full heatwave, coworking spaces and stone or basement venues are safer bets. Check recent reviews before heading out.
How much does a day at a coworking space cost?
Often between 15 and 30 euros for a day pass, Wi-Fi and coffee included. Many also offer a half-day if you only stay the morning.
What about libraries?
Media libraries and university libraries are often air-conditioned and free, but they require total silence and don't always welcome calls. For video calls or phone calls, a coworking space is more comfortable.
*Cover photo: place de la Comédie in Montpellier, by Jorge Franganillo (CC BY 2.0).*