Things to Do in Rome This Summer

Temperatures soar in Rome from June to September, when there is very little respite from the relentless Mediterranean sun. To see the Eternal City’s highlights in comfort, plan carefully, and avoid long lines in unshaded areas. Here are a few ways to savor the best of Rome’s sights—even in the dog days of summer.

• Skip the outdoor line and indoor crowds with a private after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
• Get out of the sun and join a skip-the-line underground tour of the Colosseum.
• See city highlights from an open-top bus on a hop-on-hop-off tour.
• Head below ground on a crypts and Roman catacombs tour.
• Escape the city heat by taking a day trip to visit the lush gardens of Tivoli.
• Enjoy the shade in Villa Borghese Park, and make a stop in the Borghese Gallery to see some of Rome’s most spectacular art.
• Avoid the hottest hours of the day by t ouring Rome at night.
• Discover Rome’s cuisine with a food tour at sunset, when temperatures drop and appetites awaken.
• Do as the Romans do and head for the hills of the Castelli Romani.
• Cool down with a gelato-making workshop (and tasting).