Summer in Rome is not just a season; it’s a vibrant experience that transforms the eternal city into a picturesque canvas, pulsing with life, color, and endless possibilities. As a local, I’ve had the privilege to experience its summer offerings first-hand.
From enjoying the summer treats like grattachecca and gelato to dancing at music festivals and walking by the Tiber at twilight, I’ve immersed myself in all the activities I recommend in this post.
Let me guide you through the best things to do in Rome during summer, as only a true local can.
I’ll include helpful tips for visiting the city at the time of the year when its weather is most challenging (aka I’ll reveal how to survive July and August in the Eternal City).
Get ready to find out where to take a refreshing swim in the city or just outside and which parks to seek some shade.
Best Things to Do in Rome in Summer (From a Local)
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1. Have a Summer Breakfast
As the Roman sun climbs, locals swap their usual cappuccinos for cooler versions. A popular choice is the “caffè shakerato,” a delightful blend of espresso shaken vigorously with sugar and ice, then finely strained to produce a frothy, refreshing drink.
While traditionalists may stick to croissants throughout the year, I opt for lighter fare such as fruit salads, which we call macedonia and fruit juices.
Classic Roman cafes “bar” mainly offer industrial fruit juices. If you’re seeking a fresh fruit juice visit one of these venues instead:
- Fratelli De Luca Salad & Juice Bar in the Prati neighborhood
- Escosazio near to Piazza Navona
- Acai Sisters near Piazza Venezia.
These cafes are also perfect for a light, nutritious lunch, offering an array of fresh salads that are both satisfying and cooling.
2. Enjoy the Summer Festivals
Rome transforms into a festive hub in the summer, with its evenings filled with the buzz of craft markets and the sounds of live music under the stars. Key festivals include:
- Roma Summer Fest – The prestigious Auditorium Parco della Musica, located in the Flaminio district of northern Rome, hosts a summer-long series of concerts spanning genres from classical to rock in its magnificent outdoor amphitheater, the Cavea. From mid-June to the end of September, you can catch performances by acclaimed Italian and international artists like Ludovico Einaudi, Cat Stevens, and Beth Hart.
- Rome Reading Festival “Summer Readings” – This cultural celebration has been a staple of the Roman summer for almost four decades. Held in the picturesque Mole Adriana Park, by the historic Castel Sant’Angelo, it offers a rich program starting end of June. Admission is free, and you can enjoy an array of book stands, bistros, and thematic workshops suitable for all ages, along with live music and artisan crafts.
- Villa Ada Music Festival – Known as “Villa Ada meets the World,” this festival runs from mid-June to mid-August in Villa Ada, one of Rome’s largest public parks. My favorite activity to do in Rome in the summer is just that, going to Villa Ada to listen to a concert. This particular festival focuses on world music, promoting cultural exchange and understanding through a diverse lineup of international acts. Arrive early to avoid queues and enjoy the various food stands and craft booths set up around the small lake.
- Aniene River Summer Festival – For a truly local experience, the colorful summer festival along the Aniene River in Nomentano Park offers a non-touristy glimpse into Roman festivities. From mid-June to mid-September, enjoy authentic local food, sustainable crafts, and vibrant dance floors hosting DJ sets and dance classes.
- Summer Jazz Music at Villa Celimontana – Hosted in the enchanting Villa Celimontana Park, this festival runs nightly from June through September. It features a lineup of talented Italian and international jazz artists, with most concerts free of charge. The highlight is the Classic Jazz Festival from July 30 to August 4.
3. Visit Rome’s Underground
It is possible to enjoy the evidence of the rich Roman history without baking in the sun.
- Domus Aurea: Explore the remains of the opulent palace of Emperor Nero, with its stunning ancient frescoes that inspired Renaissance art.
- Stadium of Domitian: Beneath the bustling Piazza Navona lie the remains of this ancient stadium, where you can learn about its fascinating history through interactive exhibits.
- Catacombs: The catacombs, such as those of Priscilla, San Callisto, and St. Sebastian, offer a solemn glimpse into the early Christian era beneath Rome’s streets.
- Basilica of San Clemente Underground: If you only have time for one of these activities, visit this basilica, which impressed me greatly. A short walk from the Colosseum, this site reveals layers of history, from a Mithraic temple to intricate medieval mosaics and the foundations of an older Christian basilica.
4. Have Gelato
Gelato is a staple in Roman cuisine. I enjoy it year-round but especially in summer. Distinguish between fruit-based “frutte” and creamier “creme” varieties, exploring artisanal gelaterias like Gelateria La Romana and Neve di Latte near the Vatican.
For a unique twist, try the raw-vegan offerings at Grezzo in the Monti neighborhood.
All these shops compete to create the most exquisite flavors using high-quality, often organic, ingredients.
5. Take Refuge in the Parks
Rome’s numerous parks and green spaces provide a lush retreat from the urban hustle and heat.
The iconic Villa Borghese Park, located just outside the historic center and accessible from Piazzale Flaminio, offers vast areas for picnicking or simply relaxing under the shade of majestic trees.
The public parks are ideal for a leisurely afternoon, whether you’re enjoying a sandwich amidst the greenery or sunbathing on a lazy day.
6. Have Grattachecca: the Secret Local Drink
Experience a quintessential Roman summer refreshment with grattachecca, a shaved ice treat topped with fruit syrups and fresh fruit. The most renowned spot to enjoy this delicacy is at La Sora Maria on Via Trionfale, where the tradition of this unique Roman dessert continues to thrive.
7. Do an Evening Tour
As the city cools in the evening, it’s the perfect time to explore. Join a night tour of the Vatican Museums to avoid the crowds and see the Sistine Chapel in a more intimate setting.
Or, wander through Trastevere on a food tour, sampling up to 20 local specialties, a gastronomic journey that combines culinary delights with historical insights.
I prefer the second option, so then I can continue to hang out a bit in Trastevere, one of Rome’s neighborhoods with a vibrant night scene.
8. Swim in Rome’s Outdoor Pools
Embrace the local way of life by cooling off in one of Rome’s outdoor pools, such as the scenic rooftop pool at Hotel Aleph, the family-friendly CSI Rome Flaminio Sporting Club, or Club Piscina della Rose, known for its spacious facilities in the Eur district.
9. Visit a Water Park
For a day of fun, especially with children, venture to water parks like MagicSplash, near the designer Outlet Valmontone, or the well-loved Hydromania, featuring thrilling slides and a relaxing wave pool. To reach them you’d better rent a car or take a cab.
10. Do a Beach Day Trip
Enjoy the sandy shores of Ostia Lido, a short train ride from Rome’s Ostiense station, or discover the less frequented beaches of Fregene (my favorite), known for its relaxed vibe and scenic beauty. Both offer a perfect escape with sunbathing, swimming, and seafood dining options.
You can reach them by train. Even though Ostia is easier to reach, I still recommend Fregene because it is far from the tourist routes and its vegetation is outstanding, making you want to rent a bike and discover every corner.
Lake Bracciano
Lake Bracciano is where we spend our summers and beyond. It is a perfect place to relax with the whole family. The waters of the lake are very clean, you can do water sports, and motor boats are prohibited, so swimming here is even safer.
The beach in the charming village of Trevignano Romano, which overlooks the north shore of the lake, has also received Blue Flag Beach recognition.
Terme di Orte
For a soothing experience, the thermal baths near Rome provide a luxurious retreat. The Terme di Orte, located in the surroundings of the medieval town of Orte, offers mineral-rich waters at the ideal temperature for refreshing during the warmer months.
Wrap-up
As the Roman summer sun sets, casting golden hues over the ancient cobblestones, we wrap up our journey through the Eternal City’s seasonal delights.
From sipping freshly made caffè shakerato to uncovering the cool depths of Rome’s catacombs, each experience offers a unique way to enjoy this vibrant city. Whether you’re dancing under the stars at a lively summer festival, relishing a creamy gelato in the shade of a lush park, or exploring the serene waters of Lake Bracciano, Rome in summer is a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered.
So pack your sunhat, bring your curiosity, and prepare to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Roman life. Despite the heat, I believe that summer is the best season to visit the city as it empties of locals and traffic.