20 August 2026
Florence
August is a month of vacation for everyone, including the Florentines. The city's inhabitants are divided between those who decide to leave for some exotic destination far away and those who enjoy the sun and sea of the beautiful Tuscan coast, which offers remarkable gems from Viareggio to the Maremma.
Many also choose the mountains, where they can enjoy the cool air after just a few minutes' drive, arriving, for example, at places of undisputed natural beauty such as Abetone and Val di Luce, Garfagnana or, further south, Monte Amiata.
But not everyone leaves the city in August. In fact, it is worth remembering that, in the past, during this month, the streets of Florence were filled with festivals, colors, and traditions—some of which have now disappeared—turning the city into a veritable carnival in the middle of summer.
The San Lorenzo watermelon festival: a must in the past (sometimes still celebrated today)
On August 10, for the celebrations of San Lorenzo, patron saint of the city, the narrow streets of the charming district in the historic city center, just a few steps from Palazzo Castri, once became the setting for a large and noisy open-air festival. Lasagna and watermelon for everyone, bakers and cooks passing delicious treats from door to door, from table to table.
This tradition was particularly appreciated by the local aristocracy until the end of the 19th century.
Florentine Ferragosto between popular games and typical dishes
Florentine Ferragosto was unique in that it was not celebrated on the 15th of the month but on the first of August. This day commemorated Cosimo I's victory over the exiles of the Republic at Montemurlo.
It was customary to give each other roast pigeon as a gift and eat it (a bit like capon at Christmas), and during that day, curious games and races such as donkey and duck races were held in the city.
August for tourists: a great time to enjoy Florence
Despite the possible heat of the summer sun, Florence in August is tinged with a timeless beauty, perhaps due to the lower intensity of tourist flows, the clear, crisp colors of the sky, and the streets emptied of frenetic noise.
During the summer days, you can take refuge in the museums, comforting yourself with the wonder of the sacred and contemporary art they contain.
When evening falls, the Florentine alleys fill up again with a charming bustle of young people riding bikes or sitting with a cocktail in the bright squares of the city center.
Like a true Italian New York, Florence in summer never seems to sleep: from early morning until late at night, you will find craft shops, large chains, and typical restaurants open. An endless array of cultural offerings will enrich your stay in the city.
Furthermore, if you want to live like a Florentine... during one day of your stay, take a trip out of the city, perhaps to Viareggio—the so-called Florence by the sea—so you can also admire the wonders of the Tuscan hinterland and coast.
You won't be disappointed!
