Rome in July is absolutely buzzing with life, packed with incredible cultural events and… seriously intense heat. To truly enjoy it, you need a strategic approach: knowing when to venture out, where to escape the blazing sun, and what’s actually worth experiencing during those magical summer evenings. This guide will show you how to plan your days intelligently, dodge the tourist hordes, choose the right tours for the weather, and truly feel the rhythm of Roman summer – with gelato in hand and sunsets painting the ancient domes golden.
The amazing upside is that July in Rome delivers gloriously sunny weather day after day. This is the time of year when you can finally wear those gorgeous summer dresses you packed, devour endless amounts of world-class gelato guilt-free, and spend those lazy, warm evenings outdoors taking full advantage of the incredible array of outdoor events, concerts, and festivals the city offers throughout the month.
On the flip side, Roman summers get brutally hot – we’re talking temperatures that can hit 35°C (95°F) or higher – and tourist numbers absolutely explode, creating conditions that can make sightseeing in Italy’s capital genuinely unpleasant and exhausting if you’re not prepared.
Overall, if you have flexibility in your travel dates, I honestly wouldn’t recommend visiting Rome in July as your first choice, but if it’s the only time you can make it happen, don’t worry at all – with the right strategies, you can still have an absolutely incredible experience!
Are There Huge Crowds in Rome During July?
Rome in July is absolutely packed with visitors from around the world. To successfully avoid the worst crowds if you’re visiting Rome in July 2026, I recommend:
1. Book your accommodation as early as humanly possible – we’re talking months in advance for the best locations and rates.
2. Reserve tickets for the Colosseum and Vatican immediately – these sell out weeks in advance during peak summer (see detailed booking strategies below)
3. Plan to explore Rome’s lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems. You’ll not only escape the tourist masses but return home with a much deeper, more authentic understanding of what makes this city truly special!
If your budget allows, absolutely choose a hotel with a swimming pool. July in Rome can be brutally hot – often hitting 35°C (95°F) or higher – and having a hotel pool becomes your secret weapon for beating the heat. You can spend the scorching afternoon hours cooling off poolside, then emerge refreshed and energized for evening adventures while everyone else is wilting from heat exhaustion!
>>>> Here you can find my curated list of the best hotels in Rome with detailed reviews <<<
What’s the Weather Like in Rome During July?
June in Rome marks the beginning of the hot season, but temperatures reach their absolute peak during July, transforming the city into a proper Mediterranean furnace that requires serious planning to navigate comfortably.
The average temperature in Rome during July hovers around 26°C (79°F), with typical daily ranges between 19°C (66°F) at night and 32°C (90°F) during the day. However, in recent years climate change has pushed temperatures much higher, often reaching scorching highs of 37-38°C (99-100°F) that can make midday sightseeing genuinely dangerous without proper preparation.
If you’re used to very hot weather, you might look at these numbers and think they’re not that extreme – and you’d be right in most places – but don’t underestimate the brutal reality of Roman heat!
Rome is incredibly humid, so while 32°C (90°F) might actually feel pleasant in dry climates (I know it does for me in other destinations), in Rome that same temperature becomes absolutely oppressive and energy-draining due to the moisture in the air that prevents your sweat from evaporating properly.
As a general survival rule, avoid being in direct sunlight during the central hours of the day (roughly 11 AM to 4 PM), choose hotels with powerful air conditioning (not just fans), and make staying hydrated your absolute top priority – we’re talking water every 15-20 minutes, not just when you feel thirsty.
>>> Here you can find my best survival strategies for conquering Rome during the summer heat <<<
What to Pack for Rome in July
July in Rome demands a carefully curated summer wardrobe that balances staying cool with respecting Italian dress codes for religious sites. Summer dresses, short-sleeved tops, comfortable sandals, and sun hats should form the backbone of your packing list, while for moments when you need more coverage (when visiting churches, the Vatican, or upscale restaurants), you can rely on lightweight linen pants and flowing midi skirts that breathe in the heat.
If you’re traveling to Rome in July, it’s essential to pack:
1. Comfortable walking sandals with good arch support (your feet will swell in the heat)
2. Lightweight linen pants that cover your legs for church visits and sun protection
3. Knee-length skirts/shorts – essential for entering any religious sites in Rome
4. Breathable short-sleeved tops in light colors that reflect heat
5. Swimwear for your hotel pool or potential day trips to the stunning Italian coast
6. High-SPF sunscreen (50+ recommended) and a wide-brimmed sun hat – absolutely non-negotiable
Important to know: air conditioning in Rome and Italy generally runs much weaker than what you might expect from, say, the United States or other countries. While you’ll definitely find relief in air-conditioned spaces throughout Rome, you’ll still find yourself in a generally warm environment rather than the arctic blast you might be used to – so don’t pack sweaters or scarves thinking you’ll need them indoors.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Rome in July?
The best activities in Rome during July are a carefully curated mix of strategic sightseeing opportunities and smart heat-avoidance tactics that let you experience the city’s incredible offerings without melting into a puddle on the ancient cobblestones.
Here are my top picks for things to do in Rome during July:
1. Take a tour of the Colosseum’s underground tunnels
In 2021, an exciting new section of the Colosseum opened to the public: the underground chambers, also known as the hypogeum – the area where gladiators, wild animals, and elaborate stage props were housed and prepared for the deadly spectacles above.
We were fortunate to be among the first visitors to experience this incredible new access, and I cannot recommend it highly enough – it’s absolutely mind-blowing to walk through spaces that haven’t been accessible for nearly 2,000 years.
The most budget-friendly way to visit the Colosseum in July is to purchase tickets directly from the official Colosseum website, Coopculture. You can choose between a self-guided tour or an “educational tour” that costs 10 euros more and includes a qualified guide – the guided option is absolutely worth the extra cost for the historical context and insider details.
>>> The best tickets for visiting the Colosseum are available here <<<.
The Colosseum is an absolute must-see attraction in Rome and I definitely recommend visiting, but fair warning: it gets brutally hot inside! I strongly recommend avoiding the central hours of the day (11 AM – 4 PM) for your visit and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing plus a wide-brimmed sun hat for protection.
>>> You can find my complete survival guide for visiting the Colosseum here <<<
2. Visit the Colosseum at night. Another fantastic way to experience the Colosseum during July’s intense heat is by joining a nighttime tour. These magical tours were resumed in 2022 and take place on selected evenings throughout the summer season, offering a completely different perspective on this ancient wonder.
>>> You can find our complete review of the Colosseum night tour and detailed ticket information here <<<
3. Explore Palatine Hill. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill represent what remains of ancient Rome’s political and imperial heart, making them absolutely essential visits for history enthusiasts. However, the Roman Forum can be genuinely challenging to visit during July’s scorching heat.
The Forum is an open archaeological park situated in a valley between two of Rome’s seven ancient hills, which means temperatures get trapped and rise dramatically during the day – it’s essentially a heat bowl with minimal shade and ancient stones that radiate stored heat.
Palatine Hill, while not dramatically higher in elevation, benefits from much better air circulation and more scattered shade from pine trees, making it significantly more comfortable for summer exploration.
For this reason, while I absolutely recommend visiting the Roman Forum (it’s incredible), I also urge you to approach it with serious heat precautions and strategic timing – early morning or late afternoon are your only viable options.
>>> You can read my complete survival guide for the Roman Forum here <<<
If you find the sun too intense for traditional Forum exploration, that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on experiencing Ancient Rome in all its glory!
During the hot season, my absolute favorite way to appreciate these ruins is from above. In the evening, climb to the back terrace of the Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio) and look down – the view of the illuminated Roman Forum at night is absolutely breathtaking and provides a completely different perspective on these ancient wonders. This is honestly one of the most stunning views in all of Rome, and it’s a sight you’ll carry with you forever!
4. See the Viaggio Nei Fori light show – Journey Through the Forums. During July, the Forum of Augustus and Forum of Caesar host spectacular evening events that are absolutely perfect for history buffs while also being incredibly entertaining for children thanks to the mesmerizing light projections!
These immersive light shows are accompanied by expert narration that brings to life the dramatic events that unfolded in these very locations, recounting the lives and achievements of Julius Caesar and Emperor Augustus. It’s absolutely mind-blowing to see how these now-crumbling ruins originally appeared in their full ancient glory, with virtual reconstructions projected onto the actual stones. You can find tickets and detailed show information here.
5. Experience outdoor opera performances. Rome has a magnificent tradition of hosting world-class opera performances in stunning outdoor venues throughout the summer months, creating truly magical evenings that combine high culture with ancient history.
The traditional and most spectacular summer setting for Rome’s opera season is the Baths of Caracalla, one of the most breathtaking and well-preserved archaeological sites in the entire city. You can find the complete summer program and purchase tickets here.
I know opera isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but you absolutely don’t need to be an opera aficionado to have an unforgettable evening here – the ancient Roman baths ruins are so imposing and dramatically beautiful that the setting alone guarantees a magical night under the stars!
6. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo. Perhaps my absolute favorite activity in Rome during July is visiting Castel Sant’Angelo in the evening hours when the heat has subsided and the castle takes on an almost ethereal quality.
Often overlooked by tourists who focus solely on the major attractions, Castel Sant’Angelo is absolutely stunning and becomes a true summer gem when the crowds thin out. The castle itself is architecturally magnificent when illuminated against the evening sky, and the panoramic views from its rooftop terrace are simply extraordinary.
Try to time your entry just before sunset so you can witness from the castle’s top terrace the breathtaking sight of Rome bathed in golden light as the sun sets behind the ancient domes and modern cityscape. This is genuinely one of the most romantic and memorable things you can do in Rome during the evening hours.
7. Visit the Vatican Museums. The Vatican Museums are perpetually packed with visitors from around the world, making advance ticket reservations absolutely essential – especially during July’s peak tourist season.
A smart way to avoid the crushing crowds is to book tickets for special experiences like Vatican breakfast tours, exclusive evening tours, or Vatican Gardens tours that include areas most visitors never see.
Since these premium experiences cost more, they typically have much better availability and significantly smaller group sizes. The extra investment is absolutely worth it during summer when the regular crowds can be genuinely overwhelming – we’re talking shoulder-to-shoulder masses that can completely ruin your day and make it impossible to actually appreciate the incredible art you came to see!
>>> My complete guide to visiting the Vatican and how to strategically plan your entire day can be found here <<<
All the essential information and ticket purchases can be made through the official Vatican Museums website.
8. Visit the Domus Aurea. The Domus Aurea was Emperor Nero’s extravagant palace complex and represents one of the most fascinating and unique archaeological sites in all of Rome – offering a completely different perspective on ancient Roman imperial life.
This imperial palace dates from the 1st century AD, and historians describe it as the largest and most luxurious building ever constructed in the ancient world, covering an area that would encompass much of central Rome today.
The Domus is absolutely mind-blowing, but don’t picture a traditional castle or opulent above-ground palace!
Immediately after Nero’s death, his palace was deliberately destroyed and buried, and now ongoing archaeological excavations take place entirely underground, creating an almost otherworldly experience.
When you enter today, you find yourself in a series of tunnels and chambers that were once filled with natural light streaming through elaborate courtyards, still preserving the grandeur of their creator’s vision along with some of the original frescoes and decorative elements that have survived nearly 2,000 years.
This is a fantastic attraction to visit during the cooler afternoon hours when the underground setting provides natural relief from July’s intense heat.
>>> My complete description of the visit and strategic tips for planning your Domus Aurea experience can be found here <<<
9. Explore Rome’s most famous piazzas. July is actually a wonderful time to experience Rome’s legendary squares, despite the heat – you just need to time it right for maximum enjoyment.
I always tell visitors that the most beautiful thing you can do in Rome is allow yourself to get completely lost wandering through the historic center, and this is especially magical during summer evenings when the warm sun creates that perfect golden light that photographers dream about.
However, if aimless wandering isn’t your style, there are specific piazzas I highly recommend seeking out for their unique character, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere – each one tells a different story of Rome’s layered history.
>>> Here you can find my curated list of the most breathtaking piazzas in Rome with insider tips for each <<<
10. Take evening strolls through Trastevere. Trastevere is hands-down one of Rome’s most beloved neighborhoods for leisurely evening exploration, offering an authentic slice of Roman life away from the tourist masses.
Blessed with enchanting narrow cobblestone streets, countless outdoor dining options, and a genuinely bohemian atmosphere, it’s a fantastic area to visit any time for sightseeing, but it absolutely comes alive and becomes irresistibly charming during those balmy summer nights when locals emerge to socialize and dine al fresco.
>>> You can read my detailed recommendations for what to see and do in Trastevere here <<<
11. Spend time in Rome’s parks. Rome boasts numerous beautiful parks and green spaces, and during the summer months they become essential refuges where you can escape the relentless heat and find blessed shade under ancient pine trees while still experiencing the city’s natural beauty.
Start with Villa Borghese (home to the world-renowned Borghese Gallery with its incredible Bernini sculptures, plus a charming small zoo, peaceful lake for rowboating, and excellent playgrounds for families) and then explore Rome’s stunning botanical gardens in Trastevere, which are absolutely breathtaking during this season with lush summer blooms.
During July, the magnificent municipal rose garden on Aventine Hill is typically open and offers a gorgeous spot for a leisurely stroll – plus it provides some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the ancient imperial palaces spread across the city below.
12. Join a Rome food tour with tastings. A well-curated food tour can be an absolutely brilliant way to combine sightseeing with culinary discovery, especially during summer when you can experience outdoor markets, gelaterias, and al fresco dining at their peak.
These are the food tours that are genuinely worth your time and money:
- Rome Street Food Tour with Local Guide and Authentic Tastings – perfect for discovering hidden local gems and hole-in-the-wall favorites
- Evening Trastevere Food Tour with Tastings – experience this charming neighborhood as it comes alive for dinner
- Rome Espresso, Gelato and Tiramisu Tasting Tour – absolutely perfect for the hot season! Learn the secrets behind Rome’s best gelato while staying cool
During July, the Roman foods I most highly recommend trying are:
- Insalatone (massive salad bowls) – hugely popular with locals and absolutely perfect for this scorching season
- Straccetti (tender beef strips) with fresh arugula and sweet pachino tomato salad – light yet satisfying
- Seasonal vegetables like perfectly grilled eggplant, vine-ripened tomatoes, and bitter chicory
- Seasonal fruits, especially incredibly sweet melons and refreshing coconut
- Supplì – crispy fried rice balls with that amazing molten mozzarella center that stretches when you bite into them
- Gelato at every opportunity – find my favorite spots here
- Cold coffee granita – discover my top recommendation for this refreshing treat here
- This is also the perfect time of year for outdoor aperitivo sessions!
13. Visit an exhibition. Rome hosts fascinating exhibitions year-round, and July is actually an ideal time for museum visits since they provide blessed air-conditioned relief from the heat. Here you can find the current calendar of events happening in Rome during July.
14. Visit the stunning Borghese Gallery. The Borghese Gallery is one of the most beautiful art galleries in the world and makes for a fantastic July visit that combines world-class art with climate-controlled comfort.
Beyond the exceptional sculpture collection featuring some of Rome’s most famous statues by Bernini and Canova, the gallery houses masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Botticelli, plus it’s situated in the middle of the gorgeous Borghese Gardens – creating a true oasis from July’s intense heat!
>>> You can read my complete guide to the Borghese Gallery in Rome here <<<
15. Discover Rome’s churches. Rome’s churches are so architecturally stunning and rich with Renaissance and Baroque art that visiting them is like getting free admission to multiple world-class museums. Plus, they provide wonderfully cool refuges during summer since they’re typically much cooler inside than the blazing streets outside.
>>> Here you can find my curated list of some of the most breathtaking churches in Rome <<<
16. See Rome’s mosaics. Rome is home to absolutely spectacular ancient and medieval mosaics, and they’re perfect for summer visits since they’re either located in pleasant shaded outdoor settings or within the cool interiors of churches and archaeological sites.
>>> You can find my guide to the best places for viewing mosaics in Rome here <<<
17. Enjoy Rome’s rooftop terraces and courtyards. July is absolutely the ideal time to experience Rome’s breathtaking rooftop venues, where you can sip cocktails while taking in panoramic views of ancient monuments bathed in golden evening light.
Whether you’re into craft cocktails, gourmet dining, or just refreshing iced tea with spectacular views, Rome delivers it all. Some of my absolute favorite rooftop spots include the terrace atop Rinascente department store (with incredible 360-degree city views), the Divinity terrace at the iconic Hotel Pantheon (literally overlooking the Pantheon itself), and the charming café near the romantic little lake in Villa Borghese.
>>> You can find my complete list of favorite rooftop bars in Rome here <<<
18. Bike or walk along Via Appia. July offers perfect weather for outdoor adventures in Rome, and one of the most scenic and historically rich experiences is cycling along the ancient Via Appia and through Parco degli Acquedotti.
This expansive archaeological area on Rome’s outskirts features incredible Roman aqueducts stretching across open countryside – it’s absolutely breathtaking and offers a completely different perspective on ancient Rome than the crowded city center.
This is a fantastic activity for good weather but be extremely smart about the Italian sun: bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water, and do this early morning – absolutely avoid the hottest hours of the day at all costs!
19. Visit the Baths of Diocletian. The Baths of Diocletian represent the largest ancient thermal complex in Rome and make for a fantastic archaeological site to visit during July’s heat.
The site consists of a museum, underground chambers (blissfully cool and shaded during summer!), plus the beautiful church of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri designed by Michelangelo.
This is an excellent site that can be visited any time of year, and provides a perfect place to escape from the heat while exploring incredible Roman history.
>>> My complete guide to the Baths of Diocletian can be found here <<<
20. Take a day trip near Rome. July is perfect weather for exploring the Lazio region around Rome, with comfortable temperatures ideal for coastal or lakeside adventures.
Some of my favorite July destinations include the stunning crater lakes or the charming coastal towns immediately north and south of Rome like Santa Severa, Gaeta, and Sperlonga – all blessed with beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters perfect for cooling off.
Don’t miss the breathtaking archaeological park of Ostia Antica, which ranks among the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient sites in all of Italy.
21. Attend outdoor cinema screenings. During summer, many of Rome’s venues transform into magical open-air cinemas, offering perfect opportunities for romantic evenings or unique cultural experiences under the stars right in the heart of the city.
22. Listen to jazz at Villa Celimontana. If you love jazz, you’ll be thrilled to discover that Rome becomes a fantastic destination for this genre during summer months. One particularly enchanting spot is Villa Celimontana – a gorgeous park setting that hosts the annual Roman summer jazz festival.
23. Attend Estate Romana events. “Estate Romana” (literally “Roman Summer”) is the official name for the incredible series of cultural events held throughout Rome during summer, encompassing everything from concerts to outdoor film screenings, food festivals, and literary talks.
Live music, book and food stalls, and countless concerts fill Rome’s parks, the banks of the Tiber River, and the area near Castel Sant’Angelo with vibrant cultural programming.
24. Catch summer sunsets at one of Rome’s best sunset viewing spots. Rome at sunset is absolutely magical, and summer sunsets in Rome are particularly spectacular shows of orange and pink hues painting the ancient skyline. If you want to experience them in all their glory, head to one of the best sunset spots in Rome that I’ve curated for you!
25. Go to a swimming pool. I know, I know – you didn’t come to Rome to spend time at a pool, but trust me: during July, you’ll absolutely want to be near one for relief from the intense heat!
>>> Here you can find my selection of the best pools in Rome (both public and hotel pools) <<<
26. Try grattachecca. If you want to taste the authentic flavor of Roman summer, you absolutely must try grattachecca – the quintessential summer treat that locals have been enjoying for generations!
Grattachecca is a cup of finely shaved ice served with flavored syrups and sometimes fresh fruit – it’s basically Rome’s version of a snow cone, but infinitely more sophisticated and refreshing.
>>> You can read everything about grattachecca and where to find the best ones in Rome here <<<
July in Rome with Kids
July is honestly a challenging month for visiting Rome with children. The heat can be genuinely unpleasant for them and even dangerous if you’re not careful, so I typically focus on activities that keep them indoors, in shade, or near water for cooling off.
If possible, I recommend adapting your schedule while in Rome during summer and embracing local habits: take afternoon siestas and stay up later to explore the city during the cooler evening hours – you’ll discover that many locals do exactly this, and it’s a surprisingly pleasant way to enjoy Rome with children.
>>> You can find my comprehensive list of 70 amazing things to do in Rome with kids here <<<
Below are my favorite family-friendly activities for Rome in July:
1. Visit the Colosseum with kids. The Colosseum consistently tops the must-see list for children visiting Rome, and it truly delivers on the excitement factor – there’s something magical about standing where gladiators once fought.
There are several ways to experience it depending on your budget and your children’s ages and attention spans.
High budget option: If your budget allows, I highly recommend booking a guided tour with LivTours. They’re exceptional with children and their tours include access to the underground chambers and arena floor, plus they’re not overly long so there’s no risk of kids getting bored. You can find information and tickets here.
If that’s not within your budget, there are plenty of other excellent options – you can find my complete review of Colosseum ticket options for families here.
Regardless of which option you choose, please make sure to book either early morning or evening times to avoid the most brutal heat of the day.
2. Take a golf cart tour with LivTours
An incredibly enjoyable and extremely kid-friendly way to see Rome’s major attractions during July is joining a golf cart tour that covers significant ground while keeping everyone comfortable.
Unlike standard car or bus tours, golf cart tours can take you down smaller streets and into piazzas that are closed to larger vehicles, allowing you to enjoy Rome’s beautiful weather while traveling in a fun and safe vehicle that kids absolutely love.
The tours are guided and provide a fantastic way to see much of Rome without children getting exhausted from walking in the heat.
You can find my favorite family golf cart tour in Rome here – LivTours Golf Cart Tour for Families.
3. Visit the Explora children’s museum. Explora is Rome’s dedicated children’s museum and makes for a wonderful place to explore with kids while escaping the heat in their main exhibition space, plus you can enjoy a “secret” outdoor fun area in the museum’s courtyard that children absolutely love.
4. Spend time in parks. Rome in July can be perfect for outdoor time if you choose shaded areas, and the city’s numerous parks offer vast green spaces ideal for kids to run and play while parents can actually relax under the trees.
Among my children’s absolute favorites are Villa Borghese, Villa Torlonia, and Villa Doria Pamphili – each offering different amenities and experiences.
>>> Check out my list of the best parks and gardens in Rome here <<<
5. Visit Rome’s botanical gardens. Rome boasts several beautiful, child-friendly botanical gardens that are perfect for peaceful afternoon exploration while staying cool under the shade of mature trees.
Located in Trastevere, they’re gorgeously landscaped, completely safe for children to wander, and make for a perfect pre-dinner stop before enjoying an authentic meal in this charming neighborhood!
>>> You can find my complete guide to Rome’s botanical gardens with children here <<<
6. Visit Rome’s catacombs with children. Rome’s catacombs are ancient Christian underground burial sites and often prove thrilling for children to explore. The fact that they’re underground makes them feel incredibly adventurous, while the history of their construction is fascinating and engaging for both kids and adults.
Plus, their temperature is significantly cooler than street level, making them particularly appealing during summer heat!
However, catacombs aren’t suitable for all children – since they are burial sites, they can be frightening for some kids, so keep this in mind when planning your visit.
>>> Before visiting, I recommend reading our observations after visiting Rome’s catacombs with children here <<<
7. Go to a swimming pool. Even if your hotel doesn’t have a pool, it’s possible to give your children an unforgettable and refreshingly cool day splashing around at one of Rome’s public or private pools.
>>> Here you can find my list of outdoor pools in Rome <<<
8. Participate in art classes. We love art workshops, and one favorite is the mosaic-making class organized by Arte al Sole.
It’s wonderful for children who enjoy hands-on creativity and takes place right next to the city’s botanical gardens, which are gorgeous during this season (young children enter the gardens for free).
9. Learn to make pizza. To truly connect with authentic Roman culture, I recommend a pizza-making class designed for families. We did exactly this with our kids by attending a local family pizza workshop, and then of course enjoyed eating our own delicious creations!
I hope this article has inspired you and provided valuable insights for planning your July trip to Rome. While the heat can be challenging, with smart planning and the right strategies, you can have an absolutely incredible summer experience in the Eternal City!