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Rome in August 2025

August in Rome means sun-soaked days, lively piazzas, and a city that feels both vibrant and relaxed as locals head to the coast for Ferragosto on August 15. With average highs around 31°C (88°F) and 13 hours of daylight, you’ll experience Rome’s iconic landmarks with fewer crowds, extended museum hours, and a unique summer rhythm. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins at dawn or cooling off with gelato in the evening, this guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable August adventure in the Eternal City.

Your Rome in August guide

​Rome in August at a glance

​Rome in summer: How August compares

​Rome in August: Popular things to do

​Plan ahead: Must-book Rome experiences for August

​August highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

​Festivals and events in Rome this August

​Rome in August: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

​Pro tips for exploring Rome during the summer

​Frequently asked questions

Rome in August at a glance

🌧️ Weather

Expect hot, sunny days with average highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows around 19°C (66°F). Occasional heatwaves are common, so stay hydrated.

☀️ Daylight

Around 13 hours of daylight, with sunset typically after 8 pm—perfect for evening strolls and late dinners

🎉 Key events

Ferragosto (August 15) brings citywide closures, fireworks, and concerts; some museums offer extended evening hours.

📷 Tourist season

Moderate crowds as many locals leave for holidays; top attractions are less busy, but some shops and restaurants close.

🧳 Packing essentials

Light, breathable clothing, sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle for Rome’s public fountains.

🍽️ Seasonal treats

Refresh with gelato, summer tomatoes, zucchini flowers, and peaches; enjoy aperitivo on outdoor terraces.

How August compares

CategoryJulyAugustSeptember

Weather

19–31°C (66–88°F), hot & humid

19–31°C (66–88°F), peak heat, dry

16–27°C (61–81°F), milder, pleasant

Crowds & Atmoshphere

High, busy with tourists & locals

Medium, locals on holiday, quieter

High, tourists return, lively

Key Events

Noantri Festival, summer sales

Ferragosto (Aug 15), evening events

Harvest festivals, cultural openings

Public Holidays

None major

Ferragosto (Aug 15)

Festa della Madonna della Cives

Budget

High, peak season rates

Moderate, some deals, closures

High, prices rebound

Best For

Nightlife, festivals, river bars

Beach trips, early sightseeing

Wine lovers, cultural explorers

Book Early?

Air-con hotels, opera at Caracalla

Seaside trains, Vatican Scavi tour

Vatican & Colosseum tours

Transport Tips

Metro busy, buses crowded

Some routes reduced, plan ahead

Transit resumes full schedule

Popular things to do in Rome in August

Ferragosto Festivities & Fireworks

  • Dates: August 15  
  • Best time: Evening, after 7pm  
  • Booking: 1–2 weeks ahead for special dinners or events  
  • Crowd level: Moderate  

Ferragosto marks Italy’s mid-August holiday, with Rome hosting concerts, fireworks, and open-air celebrations. Many locals leave the city, so crowds are lighter at main attractions, but riverside and piazza events draw festive visitors. Some museums and restaurants close, but special events light up the night.

  • Special events: Ferragosto fireworks, outdoor concerts  
  • Insider tip: Reserve a table at a rooftop bar for panoramic views of the fireworks.

Evening Tours of the Colosseum

  • Best time: After 7pm, when temperatures drop  
  • Booking: 2–3 weeks ahead  
  • Crowd level: Moderate  

Beat the August heat with a night tour of the Colosseum. Illuminated arches and fewer crowds make for an atmospheric, cooler visit. Evening slots often sell out quickly, especially during summer. Combine with a stroll through the Roman Forum for a magical experience.

  • Special events: Extended summer opening hours  
  • Book: Colosseum Evening Guided Tour with Arena Access
  • Insider tip: Bring a refillable water bottle—Rome’s nasoni fountains are open late.  

Recommended experiences:

  • Colosseum Underground & Arena Floor Guided Tour
  • Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Access
Explore all Colosseum Tickets

Estate Romana Open-Air Events

  • Dates: All August  
  • Best time: Evenings, after 8pm  
  • Booking: 1–2 weeks ahead for headline concerts  
  • Crowd level: Moderate  

Estate Romana transforms Rome’s parks, piazzas, and riverbanks into open-air stages with concerts, film screenings, and art shows. Enjoy live music along the Tiber or catch a movie under the stars on Isola Tiberina. Many events are free or low-cost, perfect for summer nights.

  • Special events: Outdoor cinema, concerts, art installations  
  • Insider tip: Arrive early for the best seats at popular riverside venues.  

Day Trips to Ostia Beach

  • Best time: Early morning or late afternoon  
  • Booking: 1–2 days ahead for train tickets or beach club reservations  
  • Crowd level: Moderate  

With Rome’s August heat, locals and visitors flock to Ostia’s beaches—just 30 minutes by train. Rent a sunbed at a lido or enjoy free stretches of sand. Trains fill up fast on weekends, so plan ahead.

  • Special events: Ferragosto beach parties  
  • Insider tip: Pack snacks and water; many beach kiosks close for siesta.  

Recommended experiences:

  • From Rome: Ostia Antica Half-Day Trip by Train

Secret Vatican Necropolis (Scavi) Tour

  • Best time: Morning slots (limited daily)  
  • Booking: 1–2 months ahead (mandatory)  
  • Crowd level: Low (strictly limited entry)  

Descend beneath St Peter’s Basilica on the exclusive Scavi tour to explore ancient tombs and the reputed burial site of St Peter. Only a handful of visitors are allowed each day—this is Rome’s most elusive ticket.

  • Special events: None   
  • Insider tip: Dress code is strictly enforced—cover shoulders and knees.  

Recommended experiences:

  • Catacombs of St. Callixtus Tickets with Guided Tour
  • Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour

Nightlife in Trastevere

  • Best time: After 8pm  
  • Booking: Same day for most bars; 1–2 days ahead for popular restaurants  
  • Crowd level: Moderate  

August evenings in Trastevere buzz with life. Cobblestone alleys fill with locals and travelers enjoying aperitivo, street performers, and late-night gelato. Many spots offer outdoor seating, perfect for warm nights.

  • Special events: Street music, pop-up food stalls  
  • Insider tip: For quieter vibes, cross the Tiber to the Gianicolo hill for city views.  

Villa Borghese Park & Galleria Borghese

  • Best time: Early morning or late afternoon  
  • Booking: 1–2 weeks ahead for museum entry  
  • Crowd level: Moderate  

Escape the heat in Rome’s largest park—rent a bike, rowboat, or simply relax under shady trees. The Galleria Borghese, with its Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings, offers a cool indoor retreat. Timed tickets are required and sell out quickly in summer.

  • Special events: Outdoor theatre, children’s activities  
  • Book: Borghese Gallery Tickets   
  • Insider tip: Bring a picnic—park cafés can be pricey and crowded.  

Recommended experiences:

  • Borghese Gallery Small-Group Guided Tour
  • Borghese Gallery Small-Group Guided Tour
Explore all Borghese Gallery Tickets

Appian Way & Catacombs by Bike

  • Best time: Morning, before midday heat  
  • Booking: 2–3 days ahead for bike rentals or guided tours  
  • Crowd level: Low  

Cycle along the ancient Appian Way, closed to traffic on Sundays, and explore Rome’s catacombs for a cool underground adventure. The shaded route and breeze make it one of the few active outings comfortable in August.

  • Special events: Sunday car-free day  
  • Book: Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart Tour - 3 hr  
  • Insider tip: Wear a hat and sunscreen—shade is patchy along the route.  

Recommended experiences:

  • Roman Catacombs Guided Tour with Transfers
  • Catacombs of St. Callixtus Tickets with Guided Tour
Explore all Roman Catacombs Tours and Tickets

Offbeat experiences in August

Secret Vatican Necropolis (Scavi Tour)

Description: Descend beneath St Peter’s Basilica to explore the ancient necropolis and the believed tomb of St Peter. Only a handful of visitors are allowed each day, making this a truly exclusive glimpse into Rome’s layered past.

Tip: Book at least 1–2 months ahead via the official Vatican Scavi office—spots fill fast in summer.

Janiculum Hill Noon Cannon & Hidden Views

Description: Watch the traditional firing of the noon cannon, a quirky Roman ritual since 1847, and enjoy panoramic city views from lesser-known vantage points near Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.

Tip: Arrive by 11:45am for the best spot and combine with a stroll through the tranquil Orto Botanico nearby.

Open-Air Cinema on Isola Tiberina (Isola del Cinema)

Description: Catch international and Italian films under the stars on Rome’s river island, away from the city’s bustle. The festival atmosphere includes food stalls and riverside bars.

Tip: Buy tickets online for popular screenings and bring a light jacket—breezes off the Tiber can be cool after sunset.

Centrale Montemartini: Art Meets Industry

Description: Marvel at ancient Roman sculptures dramatically displayed among vintage turbines and engines in this converted power plant—Rome’s most surprising museum mashup.

Tip: Visit late afternoon for fewer crowds and combine with street art spotting in the Ostiense district.

Quartiere Coppedè’s Whimsical Architecture

Description: Wander through Rome’s surreal Art Nouveau enclave, a fantasyland of turrets, mosaics and the famed Frog Fountain—far from the usual tourist trail.

Tip: Best explored in the early morning or late afternoon for photos without crowds; nearby cafés offer shaded outdoor seating.

Testaccio’s Monte dei Cocci at Sunset

Description: Climb Rome’s ancient pottery mound for sunset views over the Aventine and Tiber. This archaeological site is usually closed to the public, but summer tours reveal its secrets.

Tip: Book a guided visit via local cooperatives; wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain.

Garbatella Street Food & Murals Walk

Description: Discover the garden suburb of Garbatella with its community gardens, vibrant murals and authentic Roman street food on a local-led walking tour.

Tip: Join a food tour for insider access to family-run bakeries and mural hotspots—spaces are limited in August.

Festivals & Events in Rome – August 2025

TitleDatesEvent TypeStart YearLocationAttendanceDescription

Ferragosto

August 15, 2025

Public Holiday

Ancient

Citywide: Trastevere etc

Moderate (locals away)

Catholic Feast of the Assumption and Italy’s summer holiday peak. Many Romans head to the coast, but expect concerts, fireworks, and festive gatherings in central piazzas.

Estate Romana

All August 2025

Cultural Festival

1977

Villa Borghese, Trastevere

Thousands nightly

Rome’s signature summer festival, filling August evenings with open-air concerts, film screenings, theatre, and art installations along the Tiber, in parks, and historic courtyards.

Extended Museum Nights

Select August dates (TBC)

Museum / Cultural

2010s (TBC)

Vatican Museums

Hundreds per night

Museums host special late-night openings, letting you explore masterpieces in cooler, quieter hours. Vatican Museums and city galleries often extend hours in August.

Day Trips to Beaches

All August 2025

Local Tradition

Centuries

Ostia,

Thousands daily

With August heat and Ferragosto closures, locals escape to the coast. Easy train rides from Termini bring you to sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and lively beach clubs.

Outdoor Cinema Nights

All August 2025

Film / Cultural

1995 (TBC)

Isola Tiberina,

Hundreds per screening

Watch Italian and international films under the stars at Isola del Cinema or community screenings in Trastevere and Villa Borghese—perfect summer night activity.

Planning Your August Visit

Lead TimeWhat to BookWhy?Key DatesSeasonal Price Change

2–4 months ahead

Flights & hotels

Many locals leave the city, but tourist demand is steady; best rates sell out early.

Ferragosto (Aug 15)

+20–35%

4–6 weeks ahead

Train tickets to seas

Day trips to beaches are very popular; trains fill up quickly.

Throughout August

+10–20%

3–4 weeks ahead

Major attractions (Colosseum, Vatican)ide resorts

Avoid midday heat and long lines; some museums extend evening hours.

Select museums: extended hours

+10–15%

2–3 weeks ahead

Air-conditioned restaurants

Many restaurants close for holidays; top spots book out in advance.

Ferragosto week

Stable

1–2 weeks ahead

Guided tours & day trips

Limited slots; fewer guides available in August.

Ferragosto (Aug 15)

Stable

1 week ahead

Beach club reservations

Prime seaside spots fill up fast, especially around mid-month.

Ferragosto (Aug 15)

+10–20%

Highlights for different traveller types

Families with kids

  • Must-experience: Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum —kids love imagining gladiator battles and ancient life. Book skip-the-line tickets to avoid long waits in the August heat.  
  • Better in August: Villa Borghese Park offers shaded playgrounds, rowboats, and the Bioparco zoo—perfect for escaping midday sun. Plan early mornings or late afternoons for outdoor fun.

Couples

  • Must-experience: Sunset strolls in Trastevere’s cobbled alleys, followed by a candlelit dinner at a traditional trattoria. Reserve a rooftop bar for panoramic city views—August evenings are quieter with locals away.  
  • Better in August: Evening visits to the Trevi Fountain or Spanish Steps are more intimate, with fewer crowds and magical night lighting. Book a private Vatican tour for a memorable date.

Solo wanderers

  • Must-experience: Join a guided walking tour—history, food, or street art—great for meeting fellow explorers. Stay in social hostels in Monti or Testaccio for community vibes.  
  • Better in August: Rome is safe and less crowded, making solo sightseeing relaxed. Early mornings at iconic sites mean cooler temps and easy photo ops. Book group cooking classes for fun connections.

Art and culture lovers

  • Must-experience: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel—Michelangelo’s frescoes are a must. Book timed-entry tickets, as August slots fill fast.  
  • Better in August: Estate Romana brings open-air concerts and cinema to piazzas and riverbanks. Some museums offer extended evening hours—perfect for art lovers seeking cooler, crowd-free visits.

Shopping enthusiasts

  • Must-experience: Hunt for bargains at summer sales on Via del Corso and Via Cola di Rienzo—designer finds at reduced prices.  
  • Better in August: With locals on holiday, shops are less crowded but check for Ferragosto closures (15 Aug). Porta Portese flea market runs Sundays for vintage treasures—arrive early for the best picks.

Friends groups

  • Must-experience: Nightlife in Testaccio—street food at Mercato Testaccio, then dance at local clubs. Book group tickets for football matches at Stadio Olimpico if in season.
  • Better in August: Enjoy open-air bars along the Tiber and group Vespa or bike tours on the Appian Way. Plan day trips to Ostia’s beaches—train tickets sell out fast on weekends.

Foodies

  • Must-experience: Sample Roman classics—carbonara, supplì, and gelato—in Testaccio or Trastevere. Join a street food or pasta-making tour for insider tastes.  
  • Better in August: Visit morning markets like Campo de’ Fiori for seasonal produce. Many trattorias close mid-month for Ferragosto, so book ahead at popular spots. Try Lazio wines at enotecas.

Adventure seekers

  • Must-experience: Cycle or rent a Vespa along the Appian Way—ancient roads, catacombs, and aqueducts await.  
  • Better in August: Escape the city heat with day trips to Ostia’s beaches or kayaking on Lake Albano. Book outdoor activities early, as spots fill quickly during the holiday exodus.

Your perfect 3-day Rome in August itinerary

woman enjoying coffee with a view in Rome.

Morning:  

  • Colosseum & Roman Forum: Beat the August heat with an early visit to Rome’s most iconic ruins. Book a timed-entry ticket to explore the Colosseum , then stroll through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (10 min walk between sites).  
  • Breakfast: Grab a cappuccino and cornetto at Caffè Propaganda, just steps from the Colosseum.  
  • Big-ticket attraction: Climb the Palatine Hill for sweeping city views and ancient legends.

Afternoon:  

  • Capitoline Museums: Escape the midday sun in these world-class galleries filled with Roman art and sculpture.  
  • Lunch: Enjoy classic pasta at Trattoria Luzzi, a local favorite near the Colosseum (10 min walk).

Evening:  

  • Trevi Fountain: Visit at dusk for magical lighting and fewer crowds—don’t forget to toss a coin!  
  • Night stroll: Wander to the Spanish Steps and Via Condotti for window shopping and people-watching.  
  • Dinner: Savor Roman specialties at Ristorante Alla Rampa, just off Piazza di Spagna.
Via Appia Antica in Rome with mausoleum, pine trees, and a bicycle on the path.

Morning:  

  • Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Book a skip-the-line ticket for an early tour of Michelangelo’s masterpieces.  
  • Breakfast: Start with espresso and pastry at Sciascia Caffè 1919 in Prati (10 min walk to Vatican entrance).  
  • Big-ticket attraction: Climb St Peter’s Basilica dome for panoramic city views.

Afternoon:  

  • Castel Sant’Angelo: Walk along the Tiber to this fortress-museum ; enjoy breezy river views from the terrace.  
  • Lunch: Try Roman-style pizza at Pizzeria L’Archetto in Prati (15 min walk from Vatican).  

Evening:  

  • Trastevere: Cross the river to this lively neighborhood for cobblestone alleys and vibrant piazzas.  
  • Bar or night view: Aperitivo at Freni e Frizioni, a trendy bar with a generous buffet.  
  • Dinner: Feast on cacio e pepe at Da Enzo al 29, a beloved trattoria (book ahead).
Piazza Navona in Rome with Fountain of the Four Rivers and surrounding architecture.

Morning:  

  • Villa Borghese: Stroll or rent a bike in Rome’s lushest park; visit Galleria Borghese (advance reservation required) for Bernini and Caravaggio.  
  • Breakfast: Enjoy pastries at Caffè Doria inside the park.  
  • Big-ticket attraction: Row a boat on the park’s lake or visit the Bioparco zoo if traveling with kids.

Afternoon:  

  • Testaccio Market: Sample street food like trapizzino and supplì at this authentic Roman market (20 min by bus from Villa Borghese).  
  • Lunch: Eat at the market or try Flavio al Velavevodetto for classic Roman fare.

Evening:  

  • Gianicolo Hill: Head up for a sunset panorama over Rome’s rooftops—don’t miss the daily cannon firing at noon if you’re early.  
  • Bar or night view: Sip wine at Antico Arco nearby, or return to Trastevere for more nightlife.  
  • Dinner: End your trip with a traditional meal at Osteria Fernanda in Testaccio, known for creative Roman cuisine.

Best day trips from Rome in August

Tivoli (Villa d’Este & Hadrian’s Villa)

🚆 Travel time: ~1 hr by train or bus

Escape Rome’s August heat in Tivoli’s lush Renaissance gardens at Villa d’Este and the ancient ruins of Hadrian’s Villa. Both sites offer shade and fountains—perfect for summer. Trains run frequently from Termini; book tickets in advance for popular time slots.

Ostia Antica

🚆 Travel time: 30 min by train (Roma-Lido line)

Step back in time at this ancient port city, less crowded than Pompeii and ideal for a half-day adventure. The archaeological park has plenty of open space and some shaded areas, but bring water and sun protection. Trains depart every 15–30 min from Porta San Paolo.

Santa Marinella Beach

🚆 Travel time: 1 hr by regional train

Cool off like the locals at Santa Marinella, a sandy beach with clear water and easy train access from Rome. August weekends can be busy—arrive early for a good spot. Beach clubs offer loungers and umbrellas for rent; trains run hourly from Termini.

Frascati & Castelli Romani

🚆 Travel time: 30 min by train

Enjoy hilltop breezes, local white wine, and rustic trattorias in the Castelli Romani towns. Frascati is lively in August, with wine tastings and panoramic views. Trains run regularly from Termini; ideal for a relaxed afternoon away from the city’s heat.

Best dining options

Da Enzo al 29

Beloved Trastevere trattoria with classic Roman dishes and a lively vibe. Arrive early or book ahead—queues form nightly in August.

Address: Via dei Vascellari, 29

Trapizzino

Casual street food spot in Testaccio, ideal for a quick lunch or snack between sightseeing. Try seasonal fillings for a local twist.

Address: Via Giovanni Branca, 88

Terrazza Borromini

Sip cocktails with panoramic views of Piazza Navona and Baroque rooftops. Reserve a table for sunset—summer evenings are magical here.

Address: Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 30

Freni e Frizioni

Trastevere’s top aperitivo bar with a bohemian crowd and outdoor seating. Perfect for a relaxed summer evening with a buffet of snacks.

Address: Via del Politeama, 4

Armando al Pantheon

Historic trattoria steps from the Pantheon, serving timeless Roman cuisine. Book in advance for dinner with a view of ancient columns.

Address: Salita de' Crescenzi, 31

La Pergola

Rome’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, offering gourmet tasting menus and sweeping city views. Dress code enforced; reserve weeks ahead.

Address: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101

Go shopping in Rome in August

Walking along Corso Italia in Sorrento, Italy.

Rome’s main shopping street hosts end-of-season sales on Italian and international brands. Arrive early for the best deals; many shops close for Ferragosto

Campo de’ Fiori market stalls with fresh produce in Rome, ideal for family exploration.

This bustling open-air market offers fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs. August brings ripe tomatoes and peaches—perfect for picnics.

Family browsing plush toys at Edinburgh Zoo gift shop.

Rome’s largest flea market is a treasure trove of vintage finds, antiques, and curios. Go early to beat the heat and crowds.

A foodie’s paradise with street food stalls, local cheeses, and artisan products. Sample Roman snacks or pick up edible souvenirs.

Pro tips for visiting Rome in August

  1. Book major attractions and tours in advance: August sees moderate tourist crowds but reduced local services; secure skip-the-line tickets for the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Galleria Borghese to avoid long waits

  2. Plan for Ferragosto closures on August 15: Many shops and restaurants close for the holiday, so check opening hours and make reservations for dining or guided tours around this date.

  3. Beat the heat with early morning sightseeing: Daytime highs reach 31°C (88°F); visit outdoor sites like the Roman Forum and Trevi Fountain before 10am or after 6pm for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

  4. Use Rome’s free water fountains (nasoni): Carry a reusable bottle and refill at public fountains throughout the city to stay hydrated and save money during hot summer days.

  5. Escape the city for a beach or lake day trip: Join locals heading to Ostia, Santa Marinella, or Bracciano Lake—book train tickets in advance, especially around Ferragosto.

  6. Check for extended evening hours at museums: Some museums offer late-night openings in August; take advantage to explore indoors and avoid the midday sun.

  7. Dress for the season and respect dress codes: Wear light, breathable clothing, sunhat, and sunscreen, but bring a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches or the Vatican.

  8. Rely on public transport and avoid midday walks: Rome’s metro and buses are air-conditioned; use them to get around and limit walking during peak heat (noon–4pm).

  9. Watch for tourist scams and pickpockets: Busy sites like Termini station and the Trevi Fountain attract petty theft—keep valuables secure and be wary of unsolicited help or street vendors.

  10. Enjoy quieter evenings in local neighborhoods: With many Romans on holiday, Trastevere and Testaccio offer a more relaxed vibe—perfect for aperitivo or outdoor dining without the usual crowds.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Rome in August

August in Rome is hot and sunny, with average highs around 31°C (88°F) and lows near 19°C (66°F). Heatwaves are common, and humidity can make it feel even warmer. Expect long, bright days.