You may have heard many people talking about summer in Rome. Unfortunately, one of the main things that is mentioned, is the fact that the city reaches sweltering temperatures, and is therefore best avoided during the months of July and August.
While there is a lot of truth in these claims of super high temperatures, summer in Rome is also a wonderful thing to experience in September and October.
Yes, summer days in the Eternal City can be stifling, as temperatures can sometimes reach 40°C or more.
But although the heat is definitely on, it seems like the whole city simply moves outside. The streets are filled with people enjoying a cool drink at a shady café, or a summer salad at an outdoor restaurant. Let’s not forget that the summer is also a perfect excuse to indulge in some delicious Italian gelato.
It’s one of the best (and tastiest!) ways to stay cool after all! In the high season, you may find that there are decidedly more tourists than actual Romans. And while there are many tourists, the city still seems emptier without the presence of the natives. This makes sightseeing a little less hectic. Plus, you can rest assured that it probably won’t rain and it’s highly likely that the skies are going to be a wonderful, cloudless blue, so this makes taking photos all the more special!
The city of Rome also puts on a fantastic summer programme called ‘Estate Romana’, which runs from June to October every year, and is packed with all sorts of fun, exciting and informative outdoor events such as theatre performances, dance shows, concerts and art exhibitions. This year, you can see King Lear at the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre, take your little ones to Baby Yoga or enjoy a guided tour on the eighteenth century Palazzo Braschi at the Museo di Roma. Enjoy classical concerts which run until the end of October at the Vatican Museums or head to the Teatro dell’Opera, which holds a summer season in the open air.
If you just want to relax, then visit one of the many shady parks and villas, such as Villa Borghese and Villa Celimontana, that are dotted all over Rome and in the surrounding area.
So make sure you take the opportunity to check out Rome in autumn. You may still want to avoid August, but September is a wonderful time to visit, as the summer is still going and the outdoor city is still very much alive. Gorgeous sunshine and beautiful balmy evenings? Yes please! If you do start to really feel the heat however, simply escape to an air conditioned museum during the hottest part of the day! Why not check out some of our Rome villas to find the perfect Roman accommodation for you.