Beating the heat in Rome in the Summer

Unprepared or uninformed, you risk spoiling your vacation. June, July, August and generally, the beginning of September are hot months - August being the hottest.

Outdoors for 4 hours or more not just on the tours but walking to your next destination can be debilitating for even those coming from hotter states or countries, since most people are not accustomed to being outside for so many hours.  

Overlooked as well is the heat reflecting off the stones and bricks in the afternoons. Considering all this I implore you to bring reinforced hats or sun umbrellas, gel-scarves or towels, even to put inside your hats, which absorbs the heat, protecting the top of your head, the most vulnerable part of your body when it comes to heat absorption, as a consequence, the more likely to make you feel weak. They are secure items that prevent weariness or waning in the tours. 

Even if the temperatures may be higher from where you come or unless you spend 4 hours outside in the heat with no shade, most people find the heat unbearable, so come prepared.

Beverages

Bring mineral waters or water with salts especially to the archeological sites like on the Ancient Rome tour, which is one of the main reasons I try to do it in the morning.

Be aware in the summer of consuming too much alcohol, even lots of beers to cool you, as a lot of alcohol invariably results in dehydration, headaches and nausea.

There’s a reason why Italians flee Rome to cooler coastal or mountainous regions. 

Clothing

There is a Dress Code for Churches, particularly in St. Peters Basilica.  All churches expect one to be respectfully dressed. The easy line markers are garments close to the knee and shoulders should be covered for men and women, so no spaghetti straps, sleeveless tops, miniskirts or short shorts.

An accommodating way to meet all the codes and not feel sticky or overheated is to carry scarves for whenever you need them.