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Are you planning a vacation in the capital and wondering what to do in August 2025 in Rome? Despite the summer heat, Rome in August offers unique atmospheres, cultural events and crowd-free sights. In particular, the Vatican, Largo Argentina and Spanish Steps areas offer much more than you expect: art, relaxation, shopping and taste.
August 2025 near the Vatican: art, spirituality and views
The Vatican area is among the most visited, but in August it has a quieter, more livable appeal. Here’s what you can do:
- Visit St. Peter’s Basilica early in the morning to enjoy the golden light of dawn and avoid the hottest hours.
- Explore the Vatican Museums at night, taking advantage of the summer special openings with nighttime guided tours (check the dates on the official website).
- Climb St. Peter’s Dome for a breathtaking view of Rome.
- Stroll down Via della Conciliazione to Castel Sant’Angelo and enjoy the festival Along the Tiber, with booths, music and street food along the river.
Helpful tip:
leave your luggage at a convenient luggage room near the Vatican to enjoy the area in complete freedom.
What to do in August in Largo Argentina: Roman history and atmosphere
In the heart of the historic center, Largo Argentina is perfect for those seeking the true soul of Rome:
- Discover the Sacred Area of Largo Argentina, with its open-air Roman temples and famous feline colony cats.
- Walk to Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona, past Baroque fountains and outdoor cafes.
- Join evening guided tours that tell the mysteries and legends of ancient Rome.
- Stop for homemade ice cream or dinner in the alleys of the Jewish Ghetto, a short distance away.
Helpful tip: Leave your backpack or trolley in a luggage room in Largo Argentina and visit Rome unburdened.
Summer experiences around the Spanish Steps
Elegant and iconic, the Spanish Steps are a must to experience at leisure, especially at sunset:
- Climb the Spanish Steps and enjoy the view from above.
- Shopping on Via del Corso and Via Condotti, taking advantage of the summer sales.
- Attend concerts and live performances scheduled in downtown squares, often free during “Estate Romana.”
- Relax at Villa Borghese, one of Rome’s most beautiful parks, ideal for a shady break.
Special events in August 2025 in Rome
- Ferragosto in Rome (Aug. 15): many churches hold celebrations and solemn masses. Major museums and archaeological sites remain open.
- Estate Romana: a rich program of events, outdoor film screenings, concerts and theater performances spread throughout the city.
- Temporary exhibitions: check out the exhibitions in the Capitoline museums and the Scuderie del Quirinale.
How to experience Rome at its best in August
- Avoid the hottest hours: visit archaeological sites and monuments in the morning or at sunset.
- Walk between central areas and take advantage of air-conditioned public transportation.
- Conserve energy by leaving your luggage in secure storage: Leave Your Bags points at Vatican e Largo Argentina allow you to explore Rome without unnecessary burdens.
If you’re wondering what to do in August in Rome, know that the city doesn’t go on vacation: between art, culture, events and breathtaking views, Rome welcomes you with all its beauty.
Choose to experience the Vatican, Largo Argentina and Spanish Steps areas like a true Roman: slowly, light-heartedly … and without luggage.
