Let me say this upfront: I’ve always loved summer. As a child and later as a teenager, the arrival of June was pure happiness: no school, endless days spent outdoors, that intoxicating sense of freedom. And the heat? It never scared me. In fact, I used to say: “I like the heat!”.
But this heat… no.
Rome’s summer humidity in recent years has become relentless. It doesn’t even let up at night. I remember when the Azores High would bring us mild summers, with that surprise cool breeze that let you breathe again. Now that feels like a distant memory. Climate change is real, and Rome feels it.
But… Rome is still beautiful in summer. You just have to know how to experience it at the right times and in the right places.
Rome is actually one of the greenest cities in Europe. And that’s not just a tourist slogan: it’s a fact. The City of Rome holds the European record for urban green space, with about 85,000 hectares of parks and historic villas—roughly 67% of the municipal territory.
This extraordinary heritage exists thanks to popes and noble families who, over the centuries, built country estates, monumental gardens, and villas to hunt, stroll, and escape the heat. Think of Villa Doria Pamphilj (Rome’s largest park), Villa Ada, Villa Borghese, Villa Torlonia: places that began as exclusive refuges and are now a gift to everyone.
If you’ve chosen Rome for your summer vacation, don’t worry. Below you’ll find my practical, heartfelt tips for coping with Rome’s heat (and maybe even enjoying it a little).
5 Real Tips for Experiencing Rome in Summer
Seek “noble” shade
Not just any portico: go find the centuries-old trees in Rome’s grand villas. Villa Borghese is a paradise of shade, paths, and ponds. Villa Pamphilj feels like a forest. Villa Ada offers huge lawns where you can stretch out and forget the scorching asphalt. Perfect for a picnic or a refreshing stroll, even in August.
Wake up early or go out late
I know, you want to sleep in on vacation—but it’s worth it to rise at dawn and visit the Colosseum when it’s almost empty, or wander the Imperial Forums in the gentle morning light. And in the evening? Rome transforms with warm lights, illuminated monuments, cooler air, and an unforgettable vibe.
Stay hydrated and refill at the “nasoni”
Rome’s historic drinking fountains—the famous “nasoni”—are lifesavers. Fresh, safe, free water available all over the city. Essential in summer to beat the intense July and August heat.
Dress light, but stylish
Don’t underestimate the Roman sun. Bring a hat, sunglasses, loose, light-colored clothes. And here’s a tip: always carry a scarf or lightweight shirt to cover your shoulders and head during the hottest moments.
Plan tasty, refreshing breaks
High-quality artisanal gelato shops, historic cafes with air conditioning (maybe with a chilled coffee topped with whipped cream!), or breezy terraces with stunning views: Rome is full of spots where you can beat the heat in style.
And if you’re a gelato lover like me, keep an eye on the blog: my next article will reveal the very best artisanal gelaterias in Rome—the real deal, where every flavor is an experience.
And in the Evening? Rome Becomes One Big Festival
One of the best things about a Roman summer is that it doesn’t end at sunset—in fact, it comes alive.
Every year, the city bursts with events and activities thanks to the packed program of Estate Romana 2025: concerts, open-air cinema, theater performances, readings, cultural events, street food festivals, and more.
Many of these take place in iconic or green settings: along the Tiber River, in historic piazzas, monumental villas, or the courtyards of ancient palaces. It’s a fantastic way to experience Rome at night, when the heat eases and the Eternal City reveals an even more magical side.
In Short?
Don’t let the summer heat scare you away from Rome. Plan well, respect your own pace, take advantage of the parks and historic villas, choose smart times of day, and enjoy the city’s incredible cultural offerings.
Because Rome, even in the height of summer, can give you unforgettable moments.
