Rome, the Eternal City, is a year-round destination that dazzles with its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture.
However, visiting Rome in the summer offers a unique charm. The long, sunny days and warm evenings make it the perfect time to explore its outdoor attractions, enjoy local festivals, and savor delicious Italian cuisine al fresco.
Here’s a detailed guide to the best things to do in Rome during the summer.
Explore Ancient Ruins
Colosseum The iconic Colosseum is a must-visit. In summer, consider booking a night tour to avoid the daytime heat and crowds. The illuminated ruins under the night sky are truly magical.
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Adjacent to the Colosseum, these ancient sites offer a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s past. Stroll through the ruins where emperors once walked and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Palatine Hill.
Visit the Vatican City
St. Peter’s Basilica Marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà and climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of Rome.
Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Beat the heat by exploring the vast collections of art and history. Don’t miss the stunning ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
Enjoy Rome’s Beautiful Piazzas
Piazza Navona This lively square is perfect for a summer evening. Enjoy the street performers, sip on an espresso at a café, and admire the beautiful Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps Relax on the Spanish Steps and enjoy the view of the bustling piazza below. The steps are particularly beautiful at sunset.
Discover Hidden Gems
Trastevere Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Trastevere. This neighborhood is known for its bohemian atmosphere, quaint shops, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely dinner.
Aventine Hill and the Keyhole Visit the serene gardens of the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and peek through the famous keyhole of the Knights of Malta gate for a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Cool Off in Rome’s Fountains and Gardens
Trevi Fountain Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome. Visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds.
Villa Borghese Gardens Escape the summer heat by renting a bike or a paddleboat in these lush gardens. Don’t miss the Borghese Gallery, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio and Bernini.
Indulge in Italian Cuisine
Gelato Beat the heat with some authentic Italian gelato. Popular spots include Giolitti and Gelateria del Teatro.
Outdoor Dining Enjoy a leisurely meal at a trattoria with outdoor seating. Savor classic Roman dishes like Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and Saltimbocca alla Romana.
Experience Summer Festivals
Estate Romana This summer festival features concerts, film screenings, and cultural events throughout the city.
Lungo il Tevere Along the banks of the Tiber River, this festival offers food stalls, bars, and live music, making it a great place to enjoy a summer evening.
Take a Day Trip
Ostia Antica Just a short train ride from Rome, these ancient ruins are a quieter alternative to Pompeii.
Castelli Romani Escape the city heat and visit the hill towns of Castelli Romani. Enjoy local wine and stunning views of Lake Albano.
Explore Rome’s Museums
Capitoline Museums Located on Capitoline Hill, these museums house a vast collection of art and artifacts from ancient Rome. Don’t miss the statue of the Dying Gaul and the bronze she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus.
Galleria Doria Pamphilj This lesser-known museum, housed in a beautiful palace, features works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Titian. The lavish rooms themselves are worth the visit.
Wander Through Historic Districts
Monti This trendy neighborhood is filled with vintage shops, hip cafes, and artisan boutiques. It’s a great place to explore in the late afternoon and enjoy an aperitivo.
Campo de’ Fiori By day, this historic square hosts a bustling market. By night, it transforms into a lively gathering spot with bars and restaurants.
Attend an Open-Air Opera or Concert
Terme di Caracalla During the summer, the ancient Baths of Caracalla host opera performances and concerts. Enjoy world-class music in a stunning historical setting.
Auditorium Parco della Musica Check out the summer concert series at this modern venue designed by Renzo Piano. It offers a variety of performances, from classical music to contemporary artists.
Visit Iconic Churches
Pantheon Marvel at the grandeur of the Pantheon, one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient buildings. The oculus in the dome creates a stunning effect as sunlight streams in.
Santa Maria Maggiore This basilica is one of Rome’s four major churches and boasts impressive mosaics and a beautifully decorated interior.
Experience Rome’s Nightlife
Testaccio Known for its clubs and bars, Testaccio is the place to be for nightlife enthusiasts. Enjoy a night out dancing or simply savoring cocktails at a local bar.
Rooftop Bars Take in panoramic views of Rome’s skyline from a rooftop bar. Popular spots include the terrace at Hotel Raphael and the rooftop bar at Eitch Borromini.
Explore the Appian Way and Catacombs
Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) Rent a bike and explore this ancient Roman road, lined with ruins and historical landmarks. It’s a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Catacombs Visit the catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano to explore the underground burial sites of early Christians. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into their history.
Discover Contemporary Art
MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts Designed by Zaha Hadid, this museum features contemporary art and architecture. It’s a great contrast to Rome’s ancient attractions.
MACRO – Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome This museum showcases modern art in a former brewery. Its rotating exhibitions highlight works by Italian and international artists.
Shop at Local Markets and Boutiques
Porta Portese Market This famous flea market, held on Sundays, is a treasure trove of vintage items, antiques, and unique finds. It’s a great place to hunt for souvenirs.
Via del Corso and Via Condotti For a more upscale shopping experience, explore these shopping streets. Via del Corso offers a mix of high-street brands, while Via Condotti is home to luxury boutiques.
Relax at the Beach
Lido di Ostia Just a short train ride from Rome, Lido di Ostia is a popular beach destination. Spend a day lounging by the sea, enjoying fresh seafood, and taking a refreshing swim.
Take a Food Tour
Roman Cuisine Walking Tour Join a guided food tour to sample Rome’s culinary delights. Taste traditional dishes like supplì (fried rice balls), pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), and artisanal gelato.
Wine Tasting in Frascati Head to the nearby town of Frascati for a wine tasting experience. Enjoy local wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
Visit Artisanal Workshops
Jewelry Making in the Jewish Ghetto Explore the Jewish Ghetto and visit local artisans who craft beautiful jewelry. Many workshops offer personalized pieces and custom designs.
Leather Goods in Via Margutta Browse the leather shops on Via Margutta, known for their high-quality products. You can find handcrafted bags, belts, and other leather accessories.
Capture Rome’s Beauty
Photography Tours Join a photography tour to capture Rome’s stunning landmarks and hidden corners. Experienced guides will help you find the best angles and lighting for your shots.
Sunset Over the Tiber Find a spot along the Tiber River to watch the sunset. The changing colors of the sky reflecting on the water create a picturesque scene perfect for photos.
Rome in summer is an unforgettable experience, filled with history, culture, and culinary delights.
We at Best Trip Gallery know for sure, no matter what you going to do, exploring ancient ruins, enjoying the vibrant street life, or simply relaxing with a gelato in hand, the Eternal City offers endless opportunities for a memorable summer vacation.
FAQs
1. What are the benefits of taking a night tour of the Colosseum in the summer?
Taking a night tour of the Colosseum in the summer allows you to avoid the daytime heat and crowds. The illuminated ruins under the night sky provide a magical and unique experience, making the ancient architecture even more impressive.
2. How can I best explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel during the summer?
To beat the summer heat while exploring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, plan your visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights and avoid the busiest times.
3. What are some hidden gems in Rome that are perfect for summer evenings?
Trastevere is an excellent neighborhood to explore in the evening, known for its bohemian atmosphere, quaint shops, and vibrant nightlife. Another hidden gem is Aventine Hill, where you can visit the serene Orange Garden and enjoy a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica through the keyhole of the Knights of Malta gate.
4. What are the best outdoor dining experiences in Rome during the summer?
Enjoying outdoor dining at a trattoria is a quintessential summer experience in Rome. Popular dishes to try include Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and Saltimbocca alla Romana. Many restaurants offer alfresco seating, allowing you to savor delicious Italian cuisine in a charming setting.
5. Are there any special summer festivals in Rome that tourists should not miss?
Estate Romana is a notable summer festival in Rome, featuring concerts, film screenings, and cultural events throughout the city. Another great option is Lungo il Tevere, a festival along the Tiber River with food stalls, bars, and live music, perfect for a summer evening outing.
6. What are the best ways to cool off in Rome during the hot summer months?
To cool off in Rome during the summer, visit the Trevi Fountain early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Alternatively, you can escape the heat by exploring the lush Villa Borghese Gardens, where you can rent a bike or paddleboat and relax in the shade.
7. What is the best strategy for visiting popular tourist sites in Rome during peak summer season?
During peak summer season, it’s best to visit popular tourist sites early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and large crowds. Booking tickets in advance and considering guided tours can also help streamline your visit and enhance your overall experience.