If you’re wondering what to pack for Rome in summer, here’s the first thing I’d tell you: prepare for heat. And I mean real heat.
We visited Rome in August, and it was HOT. Walking around the ancient streets, climbing stairs, touring historic sites, and standing in the sun can wear you down quickly. Rome is incredible, but August isn’t the time to pretend you’re comfortable in jeans and heavy sneakers because they looked cute in your packing photo.
The good news? With the right clothes and a few smart extras, you can enjoy Rome without feeling like you’re melting.
This Rome summer packing list covers what to wear, the shoes that matter most, what to bring for churches and the Vatican, what to pack for sightseeing, and the things that helped us stay cool during our August trip.
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A Free Printable Packing List to Rome PDF
Make packing for your trip to Rome simple with my free printable Rome packing list PDF. It includes all the essentials you’ll want for exploring Rome’s historic sights, walking cobblestone streets, enjoying delicious Italian meals, and making the most of your trip without overpacking.
Download the free Rome summer packing list and use it as your checklist while you pack. From comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing to travel essentials and useful extras, this list helps make sure you don’t forget anything important.
Quick Rome Summer Packing List
If you want the short version, here’s what I’d make sure is in your suitcase:
- Lightweight linen dresses
- Breathable tops
- Linen or lightweight pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals
- A lightweight cardigan or shawl
- Crossbody bag or small day bag
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Portable fan or AC neck fan
- Portable phone charger
- Travel umbrella
- Basic toiletries
- Reusable water bottle
- Church-appropriate clothing
- Passport and travel documents
- Small packable bag
- Blister protection
- Crossbody bag or small day bag
- Lanyard for phone
And if you’re visiting in July or August, I’d put the portable fan and water bottle near the top of that list. Seriously. This is the one I used and it was a game changer when touring Rome in 37° C (100° F).
What Is Rome Like in Summer and What Should I Wear?
Rome’s summer weather can be hot, sunny, and dry, with July and August often bringing some of the hottest days of the year.
But there’s another part people don’t always think about when packing for Rome: you’re going to walk a lot.
Even if you plan your sightseeing carefully, you’ll probably walk farther than you expect. You’ll wander through piazzas, cross cobblestone streets, climb stairs, explore ruins, and walk from one attraction to another.
Now add 90-degree-plus temperatures.
That’s why the perfect Rome summer outfit isn’t just about looking good. It needs to be cool, comfortable, and practical for walking.
During our August trip, I quickly realized that lightweight clothing was much more comfortable than anything heavy or restrictive.
What to Wear in Rome in Summer
The key to dressing for Rome in summer is simple:
Lightweight, breathable clothing wins.
Linen became one of my favorite choices because it’s airy and comfortable in hot weather. Cotton and other lightweight fabrics are also great.
Pack plenty of:
- Linen dresses
- Cotton tops
- Lightweight skirts
- Linen pants
- Loose-fitting shorts
- Lightweight blouses
- Breathable T-shirts
- Comfortable walking outfits
I especially loved wearing dresses in Rome. They’re easy, cool, and you don’t have to think too hard about putting an outfit together in the morning.
And let’s be honest—you’re going to take a lot of pictures in Rome.
A lightweight dress works for sightseeing and looks great in photos around the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, the Colosseum, and other famous landmarks.
Don’t forget a light layer
This sounds strange when you’re preparing for 90-degree weather, but bring one lightweight layer.
Restaurants, museums, hotels, and transportation can have strong air conditioning (sometimes). You may also want something to cover your shoulders when visiting certain churches.
A lightweight cardigan, scarf, or shawl takes almost no room in your suitcase. I carried one in my daypack in case I needed to cover my shoulders for churches.
What Shoes Should You Pack for Rome?
If there’s one thing I’d tell anyone visiting Rome, it’s this:
Don’t bring shoes you’ve never worn before.
Rome is a walking city, and your feet will know it.
You’ll encounter cobblestones, uneven pavement, stairs, and long stretches of walking. Cute shoes that rub your heel after 20 minutes aren’t going to feel quite so cute by hour six.
For a summer trip, I’d bring:
1. Comfortable walking sneakers
Bring your most comfortable, broken-in walking shoes.
Make sure you’ve already worn them for several long walks before your trip.
2. Comfortable sandals
A supportive pair of sandals can be great for hot days when you don’t want to wear sneakers.
Look for something you can walk in for several hours rather than a sandal that’s purely for fashion.
3. Blister protection
I always recommend bringing blister bandages or another form of blister protection when traveling.
You don’t want a tiny hot spot on your heel turning into the souvenir you remember most from Rome.
Full Disclaimer: These are the two types of shoes I wore in Rome. Due to it being around 100° F, I mostly wore BIrkenstock sandals. For me, I find my Birkenstocks very comfortable and can easily walk in them all day. However, they don’t have the best grip, so if stability is a problem for you, I would chose a different shoe. The key takeaway is bring shoes you have worn and know you can do plenty of walking in them without worryig about sore feet and blisters.
What to Wear to the Vatican and Churches in Rome
This is one part of your Rome summer packing list you don’t want to overlook.
Even though Rome is extremely hot in summer, some churches and religious sites have dress requirements. You’ll want clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when required.
That doesn’t mean you need to pack heavy clothing.
Instead, consider:
- Lightweight linen pants
- A midi or maxi skirt
- A lightweight dress that covers the knees
- A scarf or shawl
- A lightweight top with sleeves
- A cardigan or cover-up
A scarf is especially handy because it takes almost no space in your day bag.
My strategy: Wear your coolest outfit for sightseeing, but keep a lightweight layer or scarf in your bag so you can cover up when needed. I also carried a light wrap skirt on days I wore shorts or dresses that didn’t cover my knees.
That way you aren’t walking around Rome in a full-length outfit all day when it’s scorching outside.
How to Keep Cool in Rome in Summer
This deserves its own section because Rome in August is no joke.
I knew it would be hot before we went. I still underestimated it.
The trick isn’t simply packing summer clothes. You also need to plan your sightseeing around the heat.
Start Your Day Early
This is probably one of my biggest tips.
Get up and get moving early.
Morning temperatures are generally more comfortable than the afternoon, and some of Rome’s biggest attractions can get very busy later in the day.
Visit outdoor attractions early when possible. You’ll be happier, less sweaty, and you’ll have more energy for the rest of the day.
Then take a break during the hottest part of the afternoon.
There’s no prize for being miserable.
Plan for Later Evenings
Rome is beautiful in the evening.
Instead of trying to cram every attraction between noon and 3 p.m., consider taking a break during the hottest part of the day and heading back out later.
Grab lunch, relax at your hotel, take a shower, and recharge.
Then head out again for dinner, gelato, evening walks, and sightseeing.
Honestly, this can make a summer trip feel completely different.
Bring an AC Neck Fan
This was one of my favorite things I packed for Rome.
I brought an AC neck fan from Amazon, and it was surprisingly helpful while we were walking around.
It’s not going to make Rome feel like you’re standing inside an air-conditioned hotel room, but when you’re walking through the city in August and the air feels still, having a little breeze around your neck feels fantastic. Plus the back side of this model cools too, so you have a cooling sensation on the back of your neck. Game chnager!
I especially liked having it when we were outside sightseeing.
If you’re traveling to Rome in July or August, I would absolutely consider adding a portable neck fan to your packing list.
Drink Plenty of Water
This sounds obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing.
Bring water with you when you’re sightseeing.
You’re likely to be walking a lot, spending time outside, and sweating more than you realize.
Rome also has public drinking fountains where you can refill your bottle, so bringing a reusable water bottle is useful.
A small insulated bottle can be especially nice because cold water tastes even better when you’re hot and tired.
Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking.
Pro Tip: Make sure your daypack has a space to hold your water bottle. I have this Sherpani anti-theft backpack that was excellent in Rome.
Wear Linen and Other Breathable Fabrics
This is where your clothing choices really matter.
Linen is one of my favorite fabrics for a Rome summer trip because it’s lightweight and breathable.
I’d rather have a slightly wrinkled linen dress than spend the day sweating in a thick fabric.
For Rome in August, I packed clothing that was:
- Lightweight
- Loose-fitting
- Breathable
- Easy to wash
- Easy to mix and match
You don’t need a completely different outfit for every day. A small summer capsule wardrobe can work really well.
Find Accommodation With Air Conditioning
This is one thing I would not compromise on for a summer trip to Rome.
Book a place with air conditioning.
After spending hours walking around Rome in August, coming back to a cool room is wonderful.
And don’t assume that every European hotel room will have the type of air conditioning you’re used to at home. Check the accommodation description and recent reviews before booking.
When researching hotels or apartments, I specifically look for:
Air conditioning + good location + good reviews.
A central location can also save you from having to spend as much time walking or taking transportation during the hottest part of the day.
What to Pack in Your Rome Sightseeing Bag
You don’t want to carry your entire suitcase around Rome.
For sightseeing, I prefer a small crossbody bag or comfortable day bag that holds the essentials. For Rome I chose a Sherpani anti-theft backpack to keep my valuables safe in all the hustle and bustle.
I’d pack:
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Portable fan
- Phone
- Portable charger
- Passport or a secure copy, depending on your plans
- Small wallet
- Lip balm
- Tissues
- Hand sanitizer
- Lightweight scarf
- Blister bandages
- Small umbrella
- Light shawl (if you need something more for entering churches)
- Lanyard for your phone
And don’t overpack your day bag.
You’ll be carrying it for hours.
A phone lanyard is a simple travel essential that I recommend for keeping your phone close and secure while exploring Rome. With your phone attached to a wrist strap or lanyard, it’s much harder to accidentally drop it, leave it behind, or being pickpocketed while touring.
Sun Protection for Rome
The sun can feel intense when you’re walking around Rome in summer.
Pack:
Sunscreen
Bring sunscreen and actually use it. Your shoulders, neck, face, and arms can get plenty of sun while you’re sightseeing.
Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses is essential.
Hat
A lightweight, packable hat can be a lifesaver when you’re standing in the sun.
A hat also gives you another layer of protection when you’re walking around large outdoor attractions.
What Toiletries Should You Pack for Rome?
You don’t need to bring your entire bathroom.
Keep toiletries simple and travel-sized.
My Rome summer toiletry essentials:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush
- Hair ties
- Makeup basics
- Lip balm
- Any medications you take
- Blister bandages
- Hand sanitizer
- Travel tissues
If you’re traveling with only a carry-on, remember that liquids need to meet the airline’s current carry-on requirements.
Can I Use My Curling Iron in Rome?
If you plan to style your hair in Rome, don’t forget a dual-voltage curling iron. European outlets use a different voltage than the U.S., so a dual-voltage tool is important when traveling internationally. I used this dual-voltage iron and my adapter. It worked great!
Electronics to Pack for Rome
Don’t forget your electronics, especially if you’re taking lots of pictures.
I’d bring:
- Phone
- Phone charging cable
- Portable power bank
- European travel adapter
- Camera, if you use one
- Extra memory card, if needed
- Apple Watch or other smartwatch charger
A portable charger is especially useful when you’re using your phone for Google Maps, photos, tickets, reservations, and translation all day.
Your battery can disappear surprisingly fast when you’re sightseeing.
What NOT to Pack for Rome
Sometimes knowing what to leave at home is just as helpful.
Don’t pack uncomfortable shoes
You will walk.
A lot.
Don’t bring your entire wardrobe
Rome doesn’t require 14 completely different outfits.
Pack lightweight pieces that work together.
Don’t pack heavy fabrics
If you’re visiting in August, thick sweaters and heavy pants aren’t going to get much use. I brought a jean jacket and light sweater in August. I never came close to touching them.
Don’t bring a huge purse
A smaller crossbody or day bag is much easier to manage while sightseeing. I prefer a backpack to fit plenty and it’s comfortable for long travel days.
Don’t forget that churches may require more coverage
You don’t want to discover this when you’re standing at the entrance.
Rome Summer Packing List: My Complete Checklist
What to Pack for Rome in June, July, and August
While summer packing is fairly similar across the three months, there can be some differences.
Rome in June: What to Pack
June can be warm and sunny, but temperatures may be more comfortable than the peak of summer.
Bring lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light layer for cooler evenings.
Rome in July: What to Pack
July can get very hot, so breathable clothing becomes even more important.
I’d definitely pack a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a portable fan.
Rome in August: What to Pack
This is the month we visited, and it was HOT.
If you’re traveling to Rome in August, take the heat seriously.
Wear lightweight clothing, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning or evening when possible, drink plenty of water, and book accommodation with air conditioning.
The AC neck fan I brought was also one of those things I was genuinely glad I packed.
Final Thoughts on Packing for Rome in Summer
Packing for Rome in summer isn’t complicated, but packing for Rome in August requires a little more thought.
The biggest lesson I learned from our trip is that comfort matters.
You’ll be walking. You’ll be sightseeing. You’ll be standing in the sun. You’ll probably be eating more gelato than you planned. And you’ll want enough energy left to enjoy Rome in the evening.
Pack lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes, a water bottle, sun protection, and something to help you stay cool. Linen and dresses are great choices, and I was especially happy to have my portable AC neck fan.
Most importantly, don’t try to conquer Rome in the middle of the afternoon just because that’s when you think you should be sightseeing.
Start early. Take a break when the heat peaks. Go back out in the evening.
Rome isn’t going anywhere.
And you’ll have a much better trip if you’re comfortable enough to enjoy it.
