Summer in Italy: The Ultimate Guide

Essential Guide for a Summer in Italy

Taking a trip to Italy this year? Lucky you!

It’s one of the top travel destinations in the world. But if you’re traveling in summer, there are a few things you should know.

For instance... summer in Italy gets hot, occasionally really hot when the warm breezes blow over from Africa.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy every minute of your summer holiday. We’ve put together our top tips to beat the heat and make the most of your time in Italy wherever you go.

Italy Summer Weather: A Month-by-Month Guide

Italian summer weather tells its own delightful story throughout the season.

June in Italy welcomes visitors with warm, sunny days hovering around 75-85°F (24-29°C) - perfect weather for sipping your morning cappuccino at an outdoor café or wandering through ancient streets.

As July rolls in, temperatures start to climb, especially in the inland cities, but this is where you'll discover the joy of evening passeggiatas and gelato breaks.

August brings peak summer heat, but don't let that discourage you - this is when you'll learn to appreciate the Mediterranean lifestyle of early mornings and late evenings.

By September, the heat gentles into perfectly warm days that seem designed for exploring.

How Hot is Italy in the Summer: Regional Temperature Guide

The beauty of Italian summers lies in their regional variety. While Rome and Florence might be basking in 95°F (35°C) heat, you'll find relief in the breezy coastal towns or cool mountain retreats. Y

es, when the African sirocco winds sweep northward, city temperatures can climb above 100°F (38°C), but this is when you'll discover why Italians have perfected the art of summer living.

Mountain regions like the Dolomites offer refreshing escapes, while coastal areas enjoy nature's air conditioning in the form of Mediterranean breezes. Even in cities, you'll find clever ways to stay comfortable - from the cooling mist of baroque fountains to the natural air conditioning of ancient churches.

Summer in Italy: What to Know

Planning a trip to Italy during summer months? You're in for a treat, but there are some local rhythms you'll want to know about.

From June through early September, Italian life takes on its own unique summer pace. While tourists flock to the cities, you'll find locals heading to the coast or mountains during August - their traditional vacation month. This creates an interesting dynamic where major cities might feel quieter in some ways, yet buzzing with international visitors. Cultural sites and museums often extend their hours into the evening, making night visits both cooler and less crowded.

The best part? You can adapt to this rhythm by embracing long, leisurely dinners under the stars and afternoon breaks during the hottest hours.

Summer Heat in Italy: Can You Expect Air Conditioning in Italy?

First, the bad news: Many top attractions, such as the Vatican and the Uffizi, for example, aren’t air-conditioned.

Same goes for many local restaurants, businesses, and shops. It can get uncomfortable if you’re in a crowded environment.

The good news is that most hotels, however, do have air conditioning, so you’ll be comfortable when you’re hanging out in your room.

That said, however, Italians are very energy conscious so the air conditioning might not be quite what you’re used to at home. Still, some AC is better than no AC when you’re traveling in Rome or Florence in the summer.

For an unforgettable way to explore Rome while avoiding the heat, consider a morning walking tour of Rome that takes you through shaded streets and includes stops at magnificent churches.

Smart Tips for Surviving Hot Italian Summers: Skip the Lines

Summer heat is only mildly unpleasant when you’re walking about the city enjoying a passing breeze.

It’s downright awful when you’re standing in line in the afternoon sun. Buy tickets in advance for the museums and attractions you know you want to see so you can skip the line and get out of the heat.

If you forgot to get your tickets in advance, or your preferred date is sold out, all is not lost. Italy is packed with incredible smaller museums and galleries.

Why not visit a hidden gem in Italy and skip the crowds entirely? Another tip is to discover Venice's hidden treasures in the calm morning hours with our Venice in a Day Tour - the perfect way to experience the city before the midday heat.

Summer in Italy: Cool Places to Visit When Temperature Rises

Churches are a two-for-one destination in an Italian summer—not only do you get to see incredible art in Italy, architecture, and religious icons, you get to enjoy the “natural” air conditioning of a cool, dark building.

Do remember to dress appropriately if you’re visiting any churches, basilicas, or cathedrals. For women, that means no bared backs or midriffs, covered shoulders, and skirts or shorts that hit just above the knee. Men should wear trousers or long shorts with a short- or long-sleeved shirt.

Rome’s Christian Catacombs are another naturally air-conditioned attraction worthy of a visit. If you’re looking for a great way to spend a couple of hours out of the Italian sun, you’ll love a tour of the Catacombs and the Capuchin Crypt in Rome.

Italian Summer Customs: Understanding Riposo Hours

Chiusa means “closed” in Italian—and you can expect most restaurants, shops, and businesses to lock their doors and settle down for a rest after lunch. Riposo, that two- to four-hour afternoon break, is a time-honored tradition in Italy.

Our advice? Don’t fight it—embrace it! Retreat to your air-conditioned room during the hottest afternoon hours and use the time to nap, read a book, or journal about your travels in Italy. You’ll be fresh and well-rested for an evening of dining in Italy, exploring the city, or enjoying the nightlife.

Staying Cool in Italy: Find the Fountains

Rome is famous for its beautiful fountains—as are most cities in Italy.

The public water systems date back to the earliest days of the Roman Republic; at one point, ancient Rome even appointed a guardian of the water to ensure a steady supply of clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing. You’ll love the cool mist from the Trevi or the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi.

Feeling thirsty or want to splash your face with cool water? Look for the nasoni, or public water fountains. The water is clean and perfectly fine for drinking—save some money and refill your water bottle.

Looking for an efficient way to explore Rome's highlights while beating the summer crowds and heat? Our Rome in a Day Tour makes it easy.

Italian Summer Treats: Why Locals Choose Granita to Beat the Heat

Everyone knows italian gelato, but when it’s really hot, there’s nothing like an icy granita to help you cool down.

Granita, or Italian ice, is simply shaved ice with flavoring poured over it. It’s fat-free, so you can enjoy it as often as you like.

Our favorite tip for beating the summer heat? Skip your morning espresso and have a coffee-flavored granita instead! You’ll be refreshed and ready for the day (and you’ll still get your morning jolt of caffeine). What could be more perfect?