Italy in August isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s hot. It’s crowded. It’s alive.
As a teacher on summer break and a park ranger who thrives in nature, I thought I might crave solitude. But Italy—messy, magnificent, magical Italy—had other plans. And I’m not mad about it.
Chapter Trail
Rome: Ancient Heat and Eternal Lessons
I started in Rome, where history smolders in the August sun. The Colosseum stood proud in 95-degree heat, and I stood with it—sweaty, wide-eyed, and in total awe. As a teacher, I couldn’t help imagining my students seeing it for the first time, realizing gladiators fought right where we now take selfies.
The Roman Forum felt like walking through a textbook, except better because I could touch the stones. (Okay, I didn’t actually touch the stones—ranger instincts kept me respectful.)
Pro tip? Early mornings and late evenings are your best friends in August. By noon, you’ll want to trade ruins for gelato and a shaded piazza.
Florence: Art, Arno & Aperol
Florence in August is a furnace of Renaissance beauty. Crowds gather at the Uffizi and around Michelangelo’s David, but patience rewards you with face-to-face time with some of the greatest art on Earth. I cooled off along the Arno River, wandered into unexpected chapels, and hiked up to Piazzale Michelangelo just in time for a sunset that made me audibly gasp.
As a ranger, I always appreciate a good view. This one? Epic. Hills, rooftops, cathedrals bathed in gold. Worth every bead of sweat.
The Dolomites: Escape to Elevation
After the cities, I needed altitude. Cue the Dolomites—Italy’s rugged northern Alps. Cool mountain air, pine forests, alpine lakes… I was back in my element.
I hiked around Lago di Braies, biked through wildflower meadows, and saw more marmots than people. It was exactly the nature reset I needed. The Dolomites are a dream for anyone who loves trails, silence, and crisp mountain mornings. August? Surprisingly perfect. While much of Italy sweltered, I layered up in the evenings and watched stars pierce the sky above the peaks.
Ranger-Teacher Tips for Italy in August
Hydrate like it’s your job. Especially in cities. Fountains aren’t just pretty—they’re often drinkable!
- Book museums early. Everyone else is on vacation, too.
- Chase nature after cities. National parks like Gran Paradiso and the Dolomites are a breath of fresh (and cooler) air.
- Respect the siesta rhythm. Shops close midday, but it’s the perfect excuse for a nap or a long lunch.
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