Florence in Summer: The Ultimate Guide to June, July & August

Timeless Wanderers: Posted February 6, 2026

Florence in Summer: Weather, What to Do, Where to Stay & How to Travel Well

Florence in summer is not subtle.

It’s hot, busy, beautiful, and intense — a city shaped by heat, light, and long Italian evenings.

From June through August, Florence becomes a place of early mornings, shaded lunches, late dinners, and slow walks once the sun dips behind terracotta rooftops.

For many travellers, summer is the only time they can visit Italy.

The key to enjoying Florence in summer isn’t avoiding the season — it’s understanding it.

Knowing when to explore, where to stay, what to eat, and how to pace yourself makes all the difference between an exhausting trip and a memorable one.

This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Florence in summer: weather, crowds, what to do, where to stay, what to eat and wear, how to get around, FAQs, and what to realistically expect during peak season.

Table of Contents

We can help you plan your dream trip to Tuscany, with a personalised itinerary designed just for you.


After more than 20 years of travelling to Tuscany—and loving it so much we decided to make it our home—we now live here and explore the region at a relaxed, local pace.

Planning a trip to Tuscany is exciting, but choosing where to go, how long to stay, and how to get around can quickly become overwhelming.

That’s where we come in.

We offer a personalised planning service that helps you decide exactly how to explore Tuscany, based on your travel style, budget, and pace.

Plus, we can help you plan scenic drives, time in hilltop towns, food and wine experiences, and those small local moments that make a trip truly special—making your Tuscany holiday easier, smoother, and full of memories you’ll treasure long after you return home.

“Let us plan your perfect trip with a custom itinerary designed just for you.

 Fill out the form and let’s begin your dream.”

Florence Summer Weather: What It’s Really Like

Summer in Florence  officially runs from June to August, with July and August being the hottest months of the year.

Daytime temperatures regularly sit between 30–35°C (86–95°F), and during heatwaves can climb higher.

Unlike coastal destinations, Florence  has no sea breeze, and the historic centre’s narrow streets trap heat throughout the day.

June is warm but manageable, especially in the evenings.

July brings consistent heat, while August is the most intense — hotter, quieter locally, but still busy with visitors.

Rain is rare in summer, though short afternoon thunderstorms occasionally break the heat.

Nights remain warm, making Florence a late-night city in summer. Expect dinners after 8pm, lively piazzas well into the evening, and a slower daytime pace.

Key takeaway:

Florence in summer is hot, not unbearable — but it requires planning.

 You can read my full 

Comprehensive Guide on Florence here

What to Expect Visiting Florence in Summer

Florence in summer is busy.

This is peak tourist season, especially around iconic sights like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery , and Ponte Vecchio. Expect queues, booked-out museums, and higher accommodation prices.

August is unique. Many Florentines leave the city for Ferragosto (mid-August holidays), which means some local shops and family-run restaurants close.

At the same time, major attractions, museums, and tourist services remain fully open, and visitor numbers stay high.

The city shifts its pace.

Mornings are active, afternoons slow down, and evenings come alive.

If you embrace this pace — rather than fighting it — Florence feels far more enjoyable.

What to Do in Florence in Summer

Explore Iconic Sights Early

Early mornings are the best time to visit Florence’s most famous landmarks.

Visiting the Duomo complex,Uffizi Gallery , or Accademia Gallery before 10am avoids both crowds and heat.

Booking timed tickets in advance is essential during summer.

Enjoy Museums and Churches Midday

Florence’s museums and churches are naturally cooler and air-conditioned.

Midday is ideal for indoor cultural visits, long lunches, or a break back at your hotel.

Wander Quieter Neighbourhoods

Neighbourhoods like Oltrarno, San Niccolò, and Santo Spirito are quieter and more local than the historic core.

These areas offer artisan workshops, shaded streets, relaxed piazzas, and authentic dining.

Embrace Florence After Dark

Summer evenings are when Florence is at it’s best.

Enjoy aperitivo along the Arno, sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo, outdoor concerts, open-air cinemas, and late dinners under the stars.

Take a Day Trip

Summer is an ideal time to balance Florence with the Tuscan countryside.

Hill towns offer cooler nights, vineyards provide shade, and rural stays slow the pace.

Read this next

A Perfect day trip From Florence To Pisa And Lucca

Tours of Florence

Joining a tour can help save you time waiting in line, allow you to learn more about Florence from a knowledgeable guide, and introduce you to sights that you may not be able to do on your own.

Here are some of the best tours in Florence.

This small group tour is the perfect way to get the most out of your visit to the Uffizi Gallery.

Climb the dome, visit the Baptistery, and tour the Opera del Duomo Museum with an experienced guide on this small group tour.

Take a guided tour of the Uffizi and Accademia.

Go shopping in the central market in Florence and then learn how to cook a Tuscan meal. This tour gets nothing but rave reviews.

Take a food tour of Florence or a 2-hour guided sightseeing bike tour.

Day Trip to Lucca

Where to Stay in Florence in Summer

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial when visiting Florence in summer.

Prioritise:

  • Air conditioning

  • Quiet streets

  • Elevators (many historic buildings don’t have them)

  • Good soundproofing

Whether you base yourself in Florence for day trips or spend your whole Tuscany trip there, Summer offers great accommodation choices with excellent weather for walking everywhere.

Here are the best neighbourhoods for a Summer visit:

1. Duomo / Historic Centre

Best for first-time visitors and sightseeing.

Why stay here in Summer:

  • Close to major sights

  • Great for sunrise/sunset walks

  • Ideal for travellers wanting everything on their doorstep

Hotel picks:

  • Hotel Spadai – Modern, stylish rooms steps from the Duomo with exceptional comfort and soundproofing.

  • FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli – Bright, comfortable rooms on Via Calzaiuoli, perfectly located near the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria.

  • Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy (Luxury) – Elegant 5-star hotel on Piazza della Repubblica with refined rooms and classic Florentine luxury.

2.  Santa Croce

A lively, local neighbourhood with great restaurants.

Why stay here in Summer:

  • Perfect for dining outdoors

  • Close to the Arno River for evening strolls

  • Less touristy than the Duomo area

Hotel picks:

3. Oltrarno (Santo Spirito / San Frediano)

Florence’s artisan heart with a local feel.

Why stay here in Summer:

  • Best cafés and trattorias spill onto small piazzas

  • Lovely Summer evenings for aperitivo

  • Close to Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace

Hotel picks:

  • Hotel Lungarno– Luxury hotel on the Arno with elegant rooms and excellent service.

  • Casa Botticelli – Boutique accommodation with stylish interiors and a charming, local vibe.

  • Palazzo Guadagni – Boutique property with historic character and central access to artisan shops.

4. Santa Maria Novella

Convenient and surprisingly stylish.

Why stay here in Summer:

  • Great for day trips by train

  • Easy arrival/departure

  • Wide choice of modern hotels

Hotel picks:

5. Fiesole (Just Outside Florence)

A quiet hilltop escape with stunning views.

Why stay here in Summer:

  • Perfect weather for panoramic sunsets

  • Great base for hiking

  • Peaceful alternative to staying downtown

Hotel picks:

You can read my

full guide on where to Stay in Florence 

What to Eat in Florence in Summer

Florentine cuisine adapts to the heat with lighter, seasonal dishes.

What to Eat

  • Panzanella (Tuscan bread salad)

  • Prosciutto e melone

  • Burrata and fresh mozzarella

  • Seasonal vegetable pasta

  • Grilled fish and seafood

  • Fresh focaccia and schiacciata

  • Gelato — especially fruit flavours

Lunch tends to be lighter, while dinner is late and unhurried. Aperitivo often replaces a full meal, especially on very hot days.

What to Drink

  • Chilled white wine or rosé

  • Aperol or Campari spritz

  • Sparkling water (acqua frizzante)

  • Iced coffee (caffè freddo)

5 Great Places to Eat in Florence (Summer-Friendly)

1. Il Santo Bevitore

A favourite for seasonal Tuscan cooking with a lighter touch. The menu changes often, portions are balanced, and it works well for a relaxed summer dinner.

2. Cammillo

Classic Florentine cuisine done properly. It’s popular for a reason — reliable, unfussy, and a good choice if you want traditional dishes without tourist shortcuts.

3. La Ménagère

Part café, part restaurant, part flower shop. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch when the heat is high and you want something fresh and stylish.

4. Trattoria Sostanza (Il Troia)

Simple, iconic, and fast-moving. Best for lunch or an early dinner — famous for butter chicken and spinach, and refreshingly straightforward.

5. Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Tiny, no-frills, and very Florentine. Expect seasonal dishes, local wines, and a lively atmosphere — go early or be prepared to wait.

Top Gelato Picks in Florence

1. Gelateria La Carraia

A local favourite with rich, creamy flavours and generous portions — perfect after a walk along the Arno.

2. Cantina del Gelato Il Gelato Artigianale

Artisanal gelato with unique seasonals and house-made creations near Santo Spirito.

3. Edoardo il Gelato Biologico – Gelateria Piazza Duomo

Organic gelato right by the Duomo with interesting seasonal flavours.

4. RivaReno Gelato Firenze

Highly rated for smooth texture and classic Italian flavours with modern twists.

5. Gelateria Della Passera

Hidden gem in Oltrarno with daily-made gelato focusing on quality ingredients.

6. La Strega Nocciola Gelateria Artigianale – Firenze Duomo

Traditional artisan gelato close to major sights with creative seasonal options.

7. Il Procopio

Smaller local favourite with classic and inventive flavours — great for a relaxed gelato stop.

8. Venchi Gelato and Chocolate

Iconic Italian chocolatier with great gelato as well — perfect if you love rich chocolate options.

Tips for gelato in Florence:

  • Look for gelaterie with covered metal tubs (pozzetti) — a good sign of traditional artisan gelato.

  • Avoid overly bright colours and towering displays — they often mean artificial flavours.

  • Ask for a taste before choosing — most places are happy to let you sample.

Florence Summer Packing Checklist

Clothing

  • Lightweight linen or cotton tops

  • Loose dresses or breathable trousers

  • Shorts or skirts (knee-length for church visits)

  • Light scarf or wrap (sun + modesty)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Breathable sandals with support

  • Evening outfit for dinners or aperitivo

  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

How to Get Around Florence in Summer

Florence is compact and walkable, but summer heat changes how you move.

  • Walk early and late in the day

  • Use taxis for short distances during peak heat

  • Buses and trams are air-conditioned and reliable

  • Avoid driving — ZTL zones and parking are challenging

 Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in Summer. 

Best Day Trips from Florence in June

Bologna or Venice (Train Option)

Train enthusiasts will love how connected Florence is: Bologna is roughly 35–40 minutes away by high-speed train, and Venice is around 2 hours — both offering extraordinary culture, food, and architecture for a long day trip.

 Fiesole — Local Hilltop Escape

For a closer getaway, the small Etruscan town of Fiesole is just a short bus ride away, offering quiet ruins, sweeping views, and a peaceful contrast to the city below.

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day City Break

Day 1: Florence – Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, sunset market stroll.
Day 2: Day trip to Siena for the market and Gothic architecture.
Day 3: Lucca’s city walls by bicycle and a Aperitif in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

5-Day Countryside Escape

Days 1–2: Florence highlights.
Day 3: Chianti for winery tastings and olive oil sampling.
Day 4: Val d’Orcia—Pienza and Montepulciano under a golden sunset.
Day 5: Hot springs soak in Bagno Vignoni.

How to Spend 7 Magical Days in Tuscany by Car

 Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in August. 

Florence in Summer FAQs

Is Florence too hot in summer?

It’s hot, but manageable with planning and breaks.

Is August a bad time to visit Florence?

Not if you adapt your pace and expectations.

Are museums open in summer?

Yes — but book tickets in advance.

Do restaurants close in August?

Some local spots do, but many remain open.

Is air conditioning common?

Yes in hotels and museums, less reliable in apartments.

What’s the best area to stay in summer?

Oltrarno offers shade, charm, and quieter nights.

Is Florence crowded in summer?

Yes, especially at major attractions.

Should I combine Florence with Tuscany?

Absolutely — it balances heat and crowds.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Tuscany?

(Short Answer: Yes — It’s Still a Smart Idea)

Travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit Tuscany, but it’s one of the smartest things you can have when travelling in Italy.

Even in a relaxed destination like Tuscany, things can go wrong — from delayed flights and lost luggage to medical issues, rental car damage, or unexpected trip cancellations.

And while Italy has excellent healthcare, medical treatment for visitors can still be costly without proper coverage.

As long-term travellers living in Italy, we’ve found SafetyWing to be a practical option for trips around Europe, offering coverage for medical care, travel delays, and lost belongings without complicated fine print.

 SafetyWing

(Best for Long-Term Travel & Affordability)

We personally use SafetyWing, and have since 2019.

It’s perfect for travelling, spending multiple weeks or a whole year abroad. 

You can get a Quote here.

It’s the kind of insurance you hope you never need—but you’ll be very glad you have if something unexpected happens.

Final Thoughts: Is Florence Worth Visiting in Summer?

Florence in summer isn’t effortless — but it’s unforgettable.

The heat forces you to slow down, the crowds teach patience, and the long evenings reward you with moments that feel deeply Italian.

If you plan well, choose the right base, and travel with flexibility, Florence in summer can still feel timeless — just warmer, louder, and very much alive.

Planning a Summer Trip to Tuscany? Read These Next

Florence is just one part of Tuscany’s summer story. If you’re deciding when to go — or planning a longer trip — these seasonal guides will help you choose the best time and pace for your travel style.

Together, these guides form a complete Tuscany summer travel series, helping you decide not just where to go — but when.

PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE

These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT –  Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.

CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.

TRAINS – TRAINLINE – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.

BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.

ACCOMMODATIONS

BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.

HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.

TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.

ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.

                 Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.

Other Favorites in Tuscany

5 Best Wineries in Tuscany to Visit 2025

Where To Stay In Tuscany

The Ultimate Wine Lovers Guide To Tuscany
Discover The Best 5 Hilltop Towns In Tuscany

12 Amazing Day Trips From Florence.

A Perfect day trip From Florence To Pisa And Lucca

3 to 10-day Itineraries of Tuscany

Val d’Orcia 

Chianti