If you’re lucky enough to visit Rome in summer, prepare for some amazing weather! The average high temperatures hover in the high-80s to mid-90s, (30-35°C) with occasional spikes into the 100s (40+°C). But don’t let the heat scare you away from enjoying all the Eternal City offers.
Here are a few tips for making the most of your summer in Rome, even when it’s scorching outside.
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Surviving Rome in summer
1. Stay hydrated!
It may seem common sense, but drinking lots of water in a hot climate is essential. Rome can be pretty humid, so you’ll want to ensure you’re staying hydrated.
If you’re not a water fan, there are plenty of other options. Try fruit juices, iced tea, or even gelato (Italian ice cream). Just make sure you’re getting enough fluids.
You should try to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you. However, coffee in Italy is amazing, so if you want to indulge, ensure you also drink plenty of water alongside it.
2. Dress appropriately
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t dress for the weather. You’ll want to wear light, airy clothing when it’s hot outside.
Cotton is a great fabric to choose, as it’s both lightweight and breathable. You’ll also want to avoid dark colors, as they absorb heat.
Covering your skin is essential, as the sun can be quite intense. However, you don’t want to wear too much clothing, as you’ll feel hot and sticky.
A hat or sunglasses can help protect you from the sun, and a light scarf can be a cover-up if needed.
3. Seek out shade
When it’s hot, the last thing you want to do is be in direct sunlight. So if you can, try to spend time in the shade.
This may mean sitting under an umbrella at a cafe or taking a stroll in one of Rome’s many parks.
If you must be in the sun, put on sunscreen and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.
You might also consider carrying an umbrella to create your own shade. Don’t worry about looking odd – parasols are quite common in Rome!
4. Visit some of Rome’s cooler attractions
There are plenty of great things to see and do in Rome, and not all of them involve being outdoors in the heat.
If you’re looking for a respite from the heat, why not visit some of Rome’s museums or art galleries? Or take a tour of the Colosseum, where it’s nice and cool inside.
There are also plenty of churches and other religious sites to explore. Many of them are quite ornate and fascinating, and you’ll enjoy the cool, air-conditioned air inside.
Seek out air-conditioned places if you’re looking for a break from the heat.
Tour ideas
5. Take a dip
There’s nothing like a refreshing swim to cool off on a hot day. If you’re looking to take a dip, there are plenty of options in Rome.The city has several public pools that are open during the summer months.
However, don’t be tempted to take a dip in a fountain. The fountains in Rome are considered some of the city’s most beautiful and important works of art, and as such, are strictly off-limits to bathing. Soaking your feet or swimming in one of these fountains will get you in trouble with the authorities and land you a big fine, so stick to the public pools.
6. Enjoy some refreshing treats
When it’s hot outside, there’s nothing like a cold treat to help you cool down. Rome has no shortage of delicious options.
Gelato is, of course, a must-have. But there are plenty of other options to choose from as well. Try a granita, a shaved ice dessert that comes in lots of delicious flavors.
Or enjoy a refreshing glass of lemonade or a cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. If you want something a little stronger, try an Aperol spritz, a popular Italian cocktail. But, remember to refer back to point 1 if you do! Whatever you choose, you’re sure to enjoy it!
7. Take a break in the afternoon
If you’ve ever been to Italy, you may have noticed that things tend to shut down for a couple of hours in the afternoon, especially in the south. This is because Italians take a break in the middle of the day for a little nap, called a pennichella. The word comes from Latin ‘pendiculare’, which is the shape many who ‘nod off’ seem to form as they slump forwards in their favorite chair.
While it may sound like a lazy way to spend the afternoon, there are actually some benefits to taking a pennichella.
Studies have shown that napping can improve cognitive function and mood, and can even help to reduce stress levels. This will also help you avoid the hottest hours of the day, and you’ll be able to enjoy the cooler evening temperatures.
You might feel like you’re missing out on some activities by taking a break in the afternoon. But trust us, you’ll be glad you did when the temperature drops!
8. Make the most of the evening
Rome is a city that comes alive at night, and there’s plenty to do once the sun goes down.
Many restaurants and cafes have outdoor seating, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while enjoying the cooler evening air.
There are also plenty of bars and clubs to choose from if you’re looking for a night out on the town. Or, you can take a stroll through Rome’s beautiful streets – they’re even more magical at night.
Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time!
9. Don’t lug your luggage around
Tourists’ biggest mistake is lugging their luggage with them all over Rome. If you’re looking for an alternative to carrying your stuff everywhere, there are plenty of places to store luggage in Rome, leaving you free to explore unhindered.
Carrying too much while you’re sweating is a terrible way to spend your vacation. Store your things and enjoy your time in Rome!
10. Don’t overschedule to the point that you’re strained
Everyone wants to get in as much sightseeing as possible, but there’s a point where you’re just cramming too much in and not enjoying your time.
Rome is a big city, and there’s no way you can see everything in just a few days. So our advice is to take it slow and enjoy your time instead of rushing through everything.
Pushing yourself to do too much in the heat is a recipe for disaster. Take it easy, and enjoy your vacation! If you suffer from heat exhaustion, you’ll be sidelined and miss out on even more.
Don’t allow Rome’s heat to get the best of you
Yes, Rome can be extremely hot during the summer months. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time!
Listen to your body, take breaks when necessary, and enjoy the cooler evening hours. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!
Rome is a beautiful city, and there’s plenty to see and do – even when it’s hot outside. So don’t let the heat stop you from enjoying everything this amazing city has to offer!