In August, Florence swelters under the Tuscan sun, but there's a unique upside: locals flee for coastal retreats, leaving quieter museums and shorter queues. Yes, it’s hot—31 °C / 88 °F isn't rare—but smart scheduling (early mornings, long siestas) and an ice-cold spritz make it manageable. Use the emptier city vibe to linger at art spots or take shady garden walks. Mid-month closures are real, so double-check hours before heading out.
1. Visit major sites before 10 am or after 5 pm—the sun and lines are brutal midday.
2. Some family-run restaurants close mid-August. Always check hours or book.
3. Drink from the free city fountains (nasoni). Water is cold and clean—bring a refillable bottle.
4. Avoid the ZTL fines—don’t drive in the city center unless your hotel registers your plate.
5. Siena’s Palio draws huge crowds. Book train and museum tickets early if visiting mid-August.
6. Public trams run normally on Ferragosto, but many bus routes cut frequency—check ATAF schedules.
7. Bring a travel fan. Many interiors lack strong AC, including churches and small shops.
8. Dress codes apply at churches: no bare shoulders or short shorts—carry a wrap or wear light layers.
9. Florence WiFi gives 2 hrs/day free access. Register once, then log in automatically each time.
10. Rooftop bars get busy post-7 pm. Reserve ahead or show up early for the view.
It can be, mid-day. Plan indoor activities for afternoons, start early, and take breaks in the shade or air-conditioned spots.
Big museums stay open, but many small shops and family-run restaurants close for the holiday week.
Yes. The water is safe and clean. Refill your bottle at public fountains (nasoni) around the city.
For the Uffizi and Accademia, yes. Walk-ups can mean long lines, even in August.
Yes. Florence is very walkable and safe, even late. Stick to lit areas and keep an eye on belongings.
Take a train (~1.5 hours) or direct bus. Book early—August 16 is high-demand.
Many do, especially in tourism zones. Basic Italian greetings are appreciated, though.
Cards are widely accepted, but carry some euros for markets, small cafés, and gelato shops.
No bare shoulders or short shorts. Pack a light shawl or wear sleeved tops and longer hemlines.
Yes, especially near the river at dusk. Bring repellent and keep windows screened.
A chilled bread-tomato soup, August-perfect when tomatoes peak.
Where to eat: Trattoria Sergio Gozzi, Piazza San Lorenzo
Late-summer figs turn into luscious seasonal scoops.
Where to eat: Gelateria dei Neri, Via dei Neri
Tuscany’s bread salad with cucumbers, onion, basil—served cold. Refreshing and easy to find in August.
Where to eat: Trattoria da Rocco, Sant’Ambrogio Market
Classic liver pate on toast—a rich starter best shared.
Where to eat: Trattoria Cammillo, Borgo San Jacopo
