‌

Explore Florence in Summer | Weather, Things to do, Packing Checklist, Travel tips & More

Florence’s present glory is its long past. Once home to cultural giants like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Dante, Machiavelli, and Galileo, today, it is home to renaissance-era architecture and 370,000 people. The architecture of the city appears to be in constant flux, with ancient Roman architecture, Medieval Renaissance architecture, and elements of modernist architecture from the 1950s. The city is a visual treat for art lovers and a must-visit if you’re in Italy.

Florence in Summer: At a Glance

Mid-June to Mid-September

  • Average Temperature: 22℃ to 25℃ (72℉ to 77℉)
  • Average Rainfall: Low or no rainfall during the summers
  • Sunshine Hours: 13 to 15 hours

Why visit Florence in Summer?

1. Good weather

The typical Mediterranean summer in Florence offers rainfree days, ideal to move around the city. However, from mid July to mid August, the heat can become unbearable. It is therefore advisable to visit Florence in early summer or late summer. Nevertheless, summers are the best bet because, during winter, rains often pose a hindrance to exploration, open air dining and other attractions.

2. Great Summer Outdoors

Open air bars at the Lake of Swans, the deck chairs and live music in the banks of the Arno river, and the numerous street food corners, are best experienced in summers. The summers in the city are different from the rest of the seasons. The local Florentines are on vacation and the vibe of the city shifts away from the regular routine.

3. Rich Culture

The dry Mediterranean summer is ideal for exploring the city’s renaissance era architecture and appreciating the numerous outdoor eateries, art galleries, gardens, museums and monuments. Apart from this, cultural shows in the historical Estate Fiesolana happen only in summer. The long sunshine hours and rainfree weather gives you a good time to thoroughly explore the rich, long history of Florence.

4. Meet new people

Summer is the prime tourist season in Florence. The large number of people means a lot of interactions. If you’re traveling solo and looking for some much needed interaction, head to the local bar, cafe or even a museum to find a good match. The person across the room is just as likely looking for human interaction.

What to Look Out For in Florence in Summer?

1. Scorching heat

The temperature in summer can increase to 35℃ (95℉) on hot days. Its location, encircled by hills, makes it humid and unpleasant. The low wind speeds add to the heat. However, during late summers or late spring, the temperature is pleasant for outdoor activities.

2. Can get Crowded

The months of June to August are summer breaks in much of the northern hemisphere. This attracts a lot of crowds in and around Florence. Exploring the prime attractions and appreciating the art of Florence gets hard due to the crowd.

3. Can be Pricey

The increase in demand increases the costs. With the high flow of tourists, everything from hotels to airplane tickets get expensive. To beat the price, it's recommended that you try to book everything in advance.

What to Wear in Florence in Summer?

In Florence, you can dress casually and put on your comfortable cotton outfits. You can explore the city in a midi skirt or cotton trousers, paired with cotton tops or shirts. Spring dresses and Bohemian style tops are also ideal.

What to Pack for Florence in Summer?

  • For your skin, carry some good quality sunscreen. Hats, umbrellas and sunglasses can also come handy.
  • Carry some light cotton clothes to keep you cool during the dry summer months. 
  • If you’re worried about those holiday tan lines, make sure to carry a few long sleeves. 
  • Light pants and maxi shirts can help you beat the Florentine weather.

What to Wear in Florence in Summer?

  • When you’re out to explore the art museums and monuments, wear light cotton tops/ shirts, paired with comfortable trousers or skirts. 
  • A pair of d’Orsay flats goes well with any summer outfit.
  • A pair of sunglasses and hats will help you beat the scorching heat of the sun.

Top things to do in Florence in Summer

1. Visit the Florence Duomo

UNESCO Site | Tourist Hotspot

The Florence Duomo (Dome) or the Florence Cathedral which defines the skyline of the city is worth a visit. The 13th century monument is an embodiment of Gothic and renaissance sensibilities. Back in its time, with a capacity for 30,000 worshippers, it was the largest church in the world. The exterior and the dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi is intricate and unmissable.

From €22

2. Boboli Gardens

UNESCO site | Open air Museum

Established by the Medici family, the Boboli is an Italian styled garden, which later on inspired many European courts. The entire garden is dotted with renaissance era statues, caverns and large fountains like the fountain of Neptune. The Garden is a mix of ancient, renaissance style and 18th century architecture. The 11 acre garden is situated close to other attractions like Palazzo Pitti, Piazza de Pitti and Piazza del Duomo.

From €20.

3. Palazzo Pitti

Monument | Architecture

Built by Florentine industrialist Lucca Pitti, the palace was home to the Medici family, the house of Habsburg- Lorraine and the Kings of Italy from the House of Savoy. Today it has been developed into 4 museums- The treasury of the Grand Dukes on the ground floor, the Palatine gallery and the imperial and royal apartments on the first floor, the gallery of modern art and museum of costume and fashion on the second floor. The building itself maintains an old worldly charm and retains the atmosphere of a royal palace.

Starts from €15.

4. Visit Museo del Bargello

Museum | Architecture

The Museo del Bargello or the Bargello Museum is located in an historic fortress- Palazzo del Bargello. While the building itself is noteworthy, the museum was the first museum in unified Italy. The building was built in the 13th-14th centuries, with medieval sculptures like the 14th century sculpture by Nicola Pisano in the courtyard. The hall also houses important works by Michelangelo, Giambologna, Cellini, Ammannati and Sansovino.

5. Admire The Sculptures And Art At Accademia Gallery

Art gallery | Museum

Famous for its renaissance era art and sculptures, the gallery is home to works of great Italian artists like Sandro Botticelli, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Pontormo, Andrea del Sarto, Allessandro Allori and Orcagna. Most of these paintings were commissioned by the Medici family. The gallery was founded by Grand Duke Leopold in 1748. It is a must visit, while in Italy to appreciate the art history of the place.

From €20.

6. Uffizi Gallery

Art Gallery | Tourist hotspot

The gallery is housed in a large building designed in the 16th century by Giorgio Vasari. It is known for its 14th century sculptures and paintings. It houses works by Giotto, Simone, Martini, Piero della Francesca, Beato Angelico, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. The building was formerly a home of the Medici family. The art curated by the family over the years, eventually gave birth to the gallery.

From €30.

7. Palazzo vecchio

Townhall | tower

Apart from the famous Florence Duomo, one other thing that defines the Florentine skyline is the tower at Palazzo Vecchio. Built in the 14th century, it was a government building of the Florentine republic. It is today a museum and the city’s town hall. On the terrace, the building has many sculptures- Donatello’s “Judith and Holofernes” and Michelangelo’s “David”.

From €18.50.

8. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

International wonder | Historical monument

The Leaning tower at Pisa is only an hour and half away by train or car- a perfect opportunity for a one day trip. With a reputation of being one of the 7 wonders of the world, the tower was initially designed as a bell tower in the 13th century. It is today known for its four degree lean, despite its height. The construction of this tower went on for several centuries, with each engineer trying to find a solution to the “leaning problem”.

From €24.

9. Wine tasting at Chianti

Culinary experience | Culture

The Chianti region of Italy is known for its wine. The wine is synonymous with Tuscany cuisine, served alongside sliced prosciutto or pasta al Pomodoro. Made from Sangiovese grapes is a type of red wine authentic to this region of Italy. Only an hour away, Chianti is a quick ride from Florence.

From €64.

Events & Festivals in Florence in Summer

Patron Saint Feast Day

Date: June 24 every year

Following fireworks and parade from the Piazza Santa Maria Novella to Piazza Santa Croce, witness the Calcio Storico- a football match. The game played between the 4 neighborhoods of Florence symbolizes a similar match played by a soldier trapped in the city in 1560.

Know more

Festa de San Lorenzo

Dates: August 10th

Savor the rich taste of free lasagna and indulge yourself in live music at Piazza san Lorenzo. The event is held on 10th of August every year at 7pm. Food is served here at 9pm.

Know more

Festival of Paper Lanterns

Dates: September 7th

Feel like a local by getting yourself a paper lantern. Light up the candle within and walk around the city with others. The tradition dates back to the renaissance period when pilgrims holding lanterns would gather in front of the Santissima Annunziata. The festival is held on the eve of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary every year.

Know more

Firenze Jazz Festival

Dates: 6th to 10th of September; 14th to 18th of September

The festival involves the leading Jazz artists from around the world. It is played in villas, renaissance era buildings, cloisters, clubs and halls. Both Jazz enthusiasts and newcomers can come and enjoy the festivities.

Know more

Florence Dance Festival

Dates: June 22nd to July 24th

The festival is attended by world renowned artists. It first began with a mission to promote the art of dancing, and contribute to the revival of public venues that host these events.

Know more

Cirk Fantastik

This is an international festival of contemporary circus held in the month of September. This 10 day festival was aimed at bringing Florence to the forefront of circus art. It hosts dance performances, live music and theater.

Know more

Tips and Hacks to Visit Florence in Summer

  • Summers can become hot and unbearable. Make sure to carry adequate light cotton or rayon clothes to remain comfortable.
  • Carry a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your eyes and skin.
  • To beat the price, book your airline and hotel tickets in advance. 
  • Appreciate the rich art and culture of the place. The city is home to renaissance era art.
  • Make sure to feed yourself with some exotic Tuscany/ Florentine delicacies.

Know Before you Visit Florence in Summer

Getting Around Florence in Summer

Guess what! Florence is a small city and you can go around most parts of the city on foot. You can also try out Vespas, trams, and buses.

  • Walk: At this pace, you'd be able to appreciate the architectural marvel dating back to the 12th century. This cost-effective mode of transport will also give you the much-needed leg workout during your vacations. 
  • Vespa and Bicycles: While there are no dedicated bike lanes, most streets are friendly for 2-wheelers. You’d see the local Florentines dashing past in their Vespas. To experience the local way of life, Vespas or bicycles is a starter. Alternatively, you can book e- bikes or shared bikes.
  • Bus: If you need a break from the long walks, you can hop on to an electric mini-bus that goes around the city. Keep in mind that the middle door is reserved for getting off, and the front and back doors are for getting on the bus
  • Trams: Florence has 2 tram lines. One runs north-south and another connects the Florence airport to Piazza Della Unità, near the Santa Maria Novella train station. Trams stop just footsteps away from the main attractions.

Taxi: If you have too much luggage, book a cab. The minimum fee for the cab is €5 on weekdays, €8.30 at night, and €7 on Sundays and holidays.

Where to Stay in Florence in Summer

What to Eat in Florence in Summer?

The long history of Tuscany and Florence shapes the rich tastes of the region and Italy as a whole.

  • Bistecca Alla Fiorentina: The fire-grilled steak, pink on the inside qualifies as Florence’s most famous dish. The enormous size of the steak is a meal for 2. The steaks are therefore priced per kilo. The server first brings the uncooked beef for you to have a good look at it and approve it.
  • Lampredotto: The Lampredotto is a common sandwich in the streets of Tuscany. Made with boiled, sliced tripe, it goes well with spicy red sauce or a green sauce. 
  • Pappardelle al cinghiale: Pappardelle are very thick flat pasta. Cinghiale is made from free-range/ wild boar, hare, geese, or rabbits. 
  • Gelato: Florence is said to have the best Gelato in Italy- the Italian version of the ice cream. Try getting gelato in small batches and avoid artificially flavored bright-colored gelato.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Florence in Summer

Yes, summer is ideal because of rain-free days and numerous outdoor activities in the city. However, summers can get crowded. Late summer or late spring is a good idea to escape the heat and the crowd.