Florence in August: Summer Heat, Quiet Streets & Slow Evenings
Timeless Wanderers: Published January 31, 2026
August in Florence: Heat, Gelato & a Slower Pace
Florence in August is intense, unapologetically summer, and very different from the city most people imagine.
The days are hot, the sun is strong, and by midday the streets shimmer with heat.
But beneath that intensity lies a quieter, more local version of Florence — one shaped by Ferragosto holidays, empty neighbourhoods, and evenings that stretch long into the night.
August is not about rushing between museums or ticking off sights.
It’s about slowing down. Early mornings with a cappuccino in a shaded piazza.
Long lunches followed by air-conditioned escapes.
Sunset walks along the Arno when the heat finally softens and the city glows gold.
While many Italians leave Florence in August, visitors who understand the rhythm of the month often find it surprisingly rewarding.
This is a time for travelers who don’t mind adapting their schedule, who value atmosphere over ambition, and who are happy to plan around the heat.
If you approach Florence in August with realistic expectations — and a flexible itinerary — it can feel calmer, more spacious, and more authentic than you might expect.
Why Visit Florence in August?
August won’t suit everyone, but for the right traveler, it offers some real advantages.
One of the biggest surprises is how quiet Florence can feel, especially compared to spring and early summer.
With many locals away on holiday, residential neighbourhoods empty out and some tourist-heavy areas feel less crowded than you’d expect for peak season.
Early mornings in particular can be wonderfully peaceful.
Accommodation availability is another plus.
While prices are still high in the city centre, August can offer better deals than June or July, especially for longer stays or apartments.
You may also find more flexibility with hotel upgrades or last-minute bookings.
August is also ideal if you enjoy evening-focused travel.
Florence truly comes alive after sunset this time of year, with riverside strolls, outdoor dining, rooftop bars, and cooler temperatures that make wandering the city a pleasure.
That said, Florence in August is not about doing everything. It’s about choosing well — and knowing when to take a break.
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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.
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Florence Weather in August: What to Expect
August is the hottest month of the year in Florence.
Daytime temperatures: 30–36°C (86–97°F)
Evenings: Still warm, but more comfortable after sunset
Rain: Rare, with the occasional short summer storm
Humidity: Can feel heavy, especially in the afternoons
The heat peaks between 12 pm and 4 pm, when sightseeing can feel exhausting.
Locals structure their days around this — and visitors should too.
Plan outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the evening, and treat the afternoon as downtime.
Light clothing, breathable fabrics, a hat, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle are essential.
Florence has public drinking fountains, and staying hydrated is non-negotiable in August.
Best Things to Do in Florence in August
Explore Early, Rest Midday, Wander Late
The key to enjoying Florence in August is timing. Start your days early.
Walk across Ponte Vecchio before the crowds arrive.
Visit Piazza della Signoria when the stones are still cool.
Enjoy breakfast in the shade while the city slowly wakes up.
From late morning onward, retreat indoors.
Museums, churches, and galleries provide welcome air-conditioning and shade.
Save outdoor exploration for after 6 pm, when the heat softens and Florence feels almost cinematic.
Focus on Air-Conditioned Highlights
August is the perfect time to be selective with museums. Choose one or two key sites rather than trying to see everything.
The Uffizi Gallery , Accademia Gallery , and Palazzo Pitti are excellent midday escapes.
Booking tickets in advance is essential, as opening hours can change in August and queues in the heat are no fun.
Smaller museums and historic palazzi are often quieter, making them a good alternative if you’ve already seen the major sights.
Embrace Florence After Dark
Evenings are where August shines.
Dinner starts later, piazzas fill with life, and walking becomes enjoyable again.
Stroll along the Arno, enjoy gelato after sunset, or book a rooftop aperitivo to watch the city glow as temperatures drop.
Outdoor cinema events, concerts, and summer festivals are common in August, especially toward the end of the month.
You can read my full
Comprehensive Guide on Florence here
Ferragosto in Florence: What It Means for Visitors
Ferragosto (August 15) is Italy’s biggest summer holiday. Many Florentines leave the city entirely, heading to the coast or countryside.
For visitors, this means:
Some small shops and family-run restaurants may close
Tourist attractions generally stay open
The city feels noticeably quieter
Plan meals carefully around Ferragosto week. Research restaurants in advance, and be flexible. On the plus side, the lack of local traffic makes Florence feel calmer and less hectic.
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.
Where to Stay in Florence in August
Whether you base yourself in Florence for day trips or spend your whole Tuscany trip there, August offers great accommodation choices with excellent weather for walking everywhere.
Here are the best neighbourhoods for a August visit:
1. Duomo / Historic Centre
Best for first-time visitors and sightseeing.
Why stay here in August:
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 August:
Perfect for dining outdoors
Close to the Arno River for evening strolls
Less touristy than the Duomo area
Hotel picks:
La Maison du Sage – Cozy boutique hotel with elegant rooms, warm service, and central Santa Croce location.
Hotel Mulino di Firenze – Quiet riverside stay with comfortable rooms and friendly hospitality.
Plaza Hotel Lucchesi – Stylish hotel with rooftop pool and panoramic views of the Arno River.
3. Oltrarno (Santo Spirito / San Frediano)
Florence’s artisan heart with a local feel.
Why stay here in August:
Best cafés and trattorias spill onto small piazzas
Lovely August 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 August:
Great for day trips by train
Easy arrival/departure
Wide choice of modern hotels
Hotel picks:
The Place Firenze – Modern, comfortable rooms with central location near Santa Maria Novella station.
c-hotels Ambasciatori – Contemporary hotel offering easy access to Florence sights and transport links.
25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino – Stylish boutique hotel with fun design and convenient central location.
5. Fiesole (Just Outside Florence)
A quiet hilltop escape with stunning views.
Why stay here in August:
Perfect weather for panoramic sunsets
Great base for hiking
Peaceful alternative to staying downtown
Hotel picks:
Belmond Villa San Michele – Luxury hilltop hotel with breathtaking views, historic charm, and exceptional service.
Hotel Villa Fiesole – Elegant property with panoramic terraces, peaceful gardens, and a relaxing atmosphere.
You can read my
full guide on where to Stay in Florence
Is Florence in August Worth It?
Florence in August is not for first-time visitors who want to see everything quickly. It’s not ideal if you dislike heat or need a packed sightseeing schedule.
But if you:
Enjoy slower travel
Don’t mind planning around the weather
Love evening culture and atmosphere
Want fewer crowds than spring or early summer
…then August can be surprisingly rewarding.
It’s a month that asks you to adapt — but gives you space, calm, and a different perspective on the city in return.
Florence in August for Food & Wine Lovers
August dining in Florence is shaped by Ferragosto and summer heat, but that doesn’t mean it lacks character.
Many traditional, family-run restaurants close for part of the month, while those that remain open cater to a slower, more international crowd.
Menus lean heavily toward simple, seasonal dishes — grilled vegetables, fresh pasta, seafood, and cold antipasti.
Evenings are when the food scene truly comes alive.
Wine bars and enotecas fill after sunset, with chilled whites and Tuscan rosé replacing bold reds.
Aperitivo becomes a central part of the dining rhythm, often replacing heavier meals.
August is a time to eat later, and embrace Florence’s relaxed summer pace.
Getting Around Florence in August
August heat makes smart planning essential when getting around Florence.
Walking is still the best way to explore, but it’s best done early in the morning or after the sun dips lower.
Midday movement should be limited where possible, especially in exposed areas.
Public transport remains reliable and air-conditioned, making buses and trams a practical option during the hottest part of the day.
With fewer locals in the city, taxis are often easier to find than in other peak months.
As always, supportive footwear and a flexible schedule make navigating Florence far more comfortable in August.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in August.
Best Day Trips from Florence in June
Pisa (½ day)
Lucca (full day)
Siena (full day)
San Gimignano & Volterra (full-day duo)
Chianti wineries
Val d’Orcia road trip (ideal with a Car Rental:)
- A Perfect day trip From Florence To Pisa And Lucca
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.
FAQs About Florence in August
Is Florence too hot in August?
It can be very hot, especially midday. Early mornings, late evenings, and indoor attractions make it manageable.
Are attractions open in August?
Major museums and sights remain open, though hours may vary. Always check ahead.
Do restaurants close in August?
Some smaller, local places close around Ferragosto, but tourist-friendly restaurants stay open.
Is August crowded in Florence?
Crowds exist, but the city can feel quieter than June or July due to locals being away.
What should I pack for Florence in August?
Light clothing, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
Is August good for day trips?
Yes — hill towns, Lucca, and the coast are excellent August escapes.
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
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It’s the kind of insurance you hope you never need—but you’ll be very glad you have if something unexpected happen
Final Thoughts: Florence in August
Florence in August strips the city back to its essentials.
Without the constant rush of peak sightseeing season, you’re left with golden evenings, quiet mornings, and the chance to experience Florence at a slower, more deliberate pace.
It’s not the easiest month — the heat can be draining — but it’s also one of the most atmospheric.
If you’re willing to adapt and focus on quality over quantity, August can offer a side of Florence that many travelers never see.
When approached thoughtfully, Florence in August isn’t something to endure — it’s something to lean into.
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.