Florence in summer may seem such a nice idea: great food, warm weather, and a quiet time to visit the city!
But if you’re not prepared, you might also discover how Dante got his inspiration for his Inferno: it was probably from Florence’s streets. At noon. In August.
But fear not, fellow traveler! At Devour Tours, we have some insights on how to enjoy Florence in summer. Read on to discover our do’s and don’ts for visiting at this time of year.
The Ultimate Checklist to Surviving Florence in Summer
You’re probably asking: how bad can it be?
Well: pretty bad. During summer, the temperatures in Florence can easily reach 89 F (32° C). Even the news on TV will tell you to stay at home, drink a lot of water, and please try not to die.
And the worst part is not even the heat: it’s the humidity. The sensation that, with even the tiniest move, you’re bound to sweat like you’re running a marathon.
You may now be considering if it’s worth it. Well, it is—with the right tips. Check out if the vacation you’re planning follows these steps and enjoy your estate Fiorentina!
Is Summer the Right Time to Visit Florence?
We’re not just talking about the right time of the year—that depends on your tolerance for heat. We’re also talking about the right time of the day. Avoid wandering around the city during the warmest hours of the day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Even if July and August may both be really hot, it’s still manageable to visit Florence during these months—you just need to be strategic.
You can go sightseeing in the late afternoon or in the early morning before it gets too hot. Then, during the warmest hours, stay inside—rest at your hotel or visit a museum. Palazzo Pitti and Uffizi are probably a good choice, since they’re big enough to spend a good chunk of your day.
Are You Dressed Properly for Florence in Summer?
Don’t be shy—choose to dress as lightly as you can. Italians know how warm it is and nobody will judge you for your sundress, shorts or tank top.
Just remember to always carry something to cover you up if you’re planning to visit a church, such as a scarf or shawl. Some priests may be a little strict on the dress code, requiring visitors to show a little respect for the holy place.
Are You Drinking Enough and Eating Right?
Drinking loads of water and eating vegetables and fruit is the only way to survive in Florence in summer. Always carry a bottle of water with you, and don’t drink too much wine or stuff yourself with food.
Yes, we know: you’re in the city of Fiorentina steak and Bolgheri wine. Yes, the culinary tradition would require you to have a big meal with bread and cheese and meat. But when temperatures are this high, it’s best to avoid that for lunch, and reserve your feast for dinner instead.
Do You Have Sunscreen?
Can your complexion take the Italian sun? Probably not.
Don’t try to be a hero—it’s best to be liberal with the sunscreen in Florence in summer, covering every centimeter of your skin. Or else you’ll risk looking like a lobster in less than an hour.
How to Enjoy Florence in Summer
You’re ready to make the most of your trip!
If the answer to all the questions is “yes”, congratulations! You’re ready to enjoy your summer in Florence.
Florence fills up with events during summer. The Estate Fiorentina website will keep you up to date on the main events. If you’re more on the wild side, you may also enjoy the Firenze Rocks, a music festival that usually takes place in June.
But remember that during summer, many Florentines leave the city to spend some time on the Mediterranean coast. The 15th of August in particular is Ferragosto, a national holiday in Italy, when many shops and restaurants close.
As you can see, there are many options to enjoy summer in Florence. Just remember to stay hydrated!
Eliana Ferrari doesn’t like to stay put. She’s traveled all around Europe, excited by every encounter with people, food, and art. How did she end up in Florence? She fell in love: with the magnificence of every corner, with Bolgheri wine, and with the famous Florentine wit (one Florentine’s in particular!).
