Rome in summer: Your top 10 things to do and how to keep cool

Fa caldo! You’ll quickly pick up this Italian phrase on your summer vacay in Rome. Don’t worry about feeling out of place as you frantically wipe the sweat off your brow. Rome’s relentless temperatures, which can climb up to 88 degrees in July, will cause even the most sunkissed locals to exclaim, “It’s hot!”

Despite the sweltering heat, Rome in summer is absolutely worth it. The cobalt blue skies will ensure all your amateur smartphone photos are travel magazine-worthy. Enjoy balmy evenings sipping a glass of spritz in a piazza or a rooftop terrace. Plus, the dog days of July and August make the perfect excuse to treat yourself to an extra scoop of gelato.

Rome’s weather is largely predictable—so pack light, but remember to include outfits appropriate for visiting the Eternal City’s many churches. A shawl or wrap will also be handy, whether you’re looking to cover up your shoulders or shield your head from the sun. To explore Rome as the Romans do, check out our handy list of what to do in Rome in summer.

As summer hits its stride, the Fiume Tevere transforms into a season-long party venue. The Lungo il Tevere (Along the Tiber) festival runs every year from June to September. From live music to improv shows, the Tiber River is a free cultural wonderland open to the public. Visit a craft stall for locally handcrafted jewelry, play a game of foosball, or just settle down at one of the riverside bars for an icy drink.

Standing in the middle of the ancient Colosseum feels like you’ve tumbled back in time. Close your eyes and you can almost hear the roar of wild beasts being hunted down and the clinking of gladiator battle gear. Constructed in AD 80, the Colosseum remains an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome, and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. While earthquakes and other natural disasters have damaged part of the Colosseum, a sizable portion of the amphitheater still stands proudly.

Outside, you’ll get some stunning shots with the cloudless blue skies serving as the backdrop to the iconic façade. If the throngs of people standing in line under the hot sun scare you, we suggest getting a ticket that will let you skip the line. An underground tour will also help you beat the heat while getting up close to the maze of subterranean chambers and most importantly, the arena.

If you’re planning to visit the Trevi Fountain during the day, there’s no hitting the snooze button. Crowds begin gathering around the popular Baroque fountain by 7 a.m., so you’ll have to reach even earlier to ensure you can get close enough to the fountain to toss a coin.

Another option to avoid the intense summer crowds would be to arrive later in the evening. You’ll dodge packed tour groups, and the lack of chatter will allow you to enjoy the sweet music of water piping from the fountain. Stick around to see the famous landmark light up and glow in the night.

Every summer, the Auditorium Parco della Musica is taken over by some of the world’s greatest musicians and their legions of fans. Listen to live music in a stunning theater designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, who also brought The Shard in London to life. The Roma Summer Fest guarantees stellar acoustics and an unforgettable experience. Former headlining acts include Elton John, Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, and more.

Or scream your heart out at Rock in Roma, which features a series of concerts held at the Capannelle Racecourse. You’ll be impressed by the lineup—this Italian rock festival has seen performances from international bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Duran Duran, and Radiohead.

You can’t go to Italy, the birthplace of opera, without watching a live performance. The historic Teatro dell’Opera di Roma takes its summer season outdoors to the spacious Circus Maximus. As you enjoy classics like Madama Butterfly and Swan Lake, you’ll be surrounded by the luminous night sky, verdant foliage, and ancient Roman ruins. The Circus Maximus used to hold chariot races, gladiatorial games, and even public executions. The dramatic atmosphere is bound to increase your viewing pleasure.

Rejuvenate yourself in a green oasis at Villa Borghese, one of Rome’s largest parks. Tucked in its serene gardens is the elegant Galleria Borghese. Whet your artistic appetite at this museum, which preserves sculptures, mosaics, and paintings from the 15th to the 18th century. Walk its gilded halls to gaze at masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Botticelli. The gallery also features an extensive collection of Bernini’s remarkably lifelike marble statues, including the famous Apollo and Daphne.

Go off the beaten path and discover hidden gems at Prati. This upscale neighborhood is a local hotspot that’s home to some of the best traditional Italian restaurants. With so much to see and eat, we recommend joining a food tour that will allow you to sample a wide range of Roman specialties. From fresh buffalo mozzarella to gooey pizzas by the slice, you’ll get to appreciate Italian food at its finest.

Step right into the past by exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii, perfectly preserved after the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The once-buried city offers a glimpse of life during the Ancient Roman Empire, with abandoned temples, shops, and villas still intact. As you wander around, you’ll encounter plaster casts of the victims frozen in time, poignant reminders of the tragedy that happened thousands of years ago.

Summertime also grants the rare opportunity to hike all the way up Mount Vesuvius. This is the safest time to make the trek, and you’ll get clear visibility of the crater. Experience the duality of nature as you peer down at Mount Vesuvius’ steaming epicenter before admiring the sun-drenched Bay of Naples. While the volcano is a distance away from Pompeii, this guided tour will take you on a short coach ride to the foot.

If you catch your children’s eyes glazing over on yet another museum trip, we’ve got the perfect solution for you. The Explora Children’s Museum aims to introduce kids to science, history, and culture in a fun and age-appropriate way. You won’t have to yell “no touching” here—Explora’s exhibits are specifically designed to be interactive. Let your little explorers run wild and keep themselves entertained with the endless exhibits and workshops available.

Come to Rome for the sights, but stay for the gelato. Italian artisanal gelato is denser and richer than other types of ice cream and is the perfect dessert on a hot summer day. The city is filled with contenders for “Italy’s best gelato,” so why not put your taste buds to the test?

For friendly service, generous portions, and a phenomenal range of flavors, drop by Gelateria Valentino while you’re near the Trevi Fountain. This popular gelateria also offers vegan and dairy-free options. Another hotspot is Gelateria Come il Latte, famous for its caramelo del sale (salted caramel) gelato and wallet-friendly prices. And you’ll find that La Gelateria Frigidarium’s long lines are worth the wait once you try its decadent gelato dipped in white or dark chocolate sauce.

Spoilt for choice? Get an extra scoop or two. You deserve it.