What to wear on a summer city break in Rome

Short answer: Rome in summer means heat above 30 degrees, long days on foot and churches with a dress code. Pack light, airy, pale clothing, good socks for the cobblestones and a few pieces that cover shoulders and knees.

The heat in Rome and what it means for your clothes

In July and August the afternoon temperature in Rome is often above 30 degrees, and the stone city holds on to the heat well into the evening. That makes a fabric's ability to move moisture away more important than pattern or cut. Viscose from bamboo, cotton and linen are good choices because they feel cool and do not cling the way dense synthetic fabrics do. Choose pale colours that reflect sunlight and loose cuts that let air reach the skin, and keep darker pieces for the evening.

Your feet carry the whole trip

A day in Rome can easily become 15 or 20 kilometres on cobblestones, steps and hot tarmac. Feet sweat, and a sock that absorbs moisture and sits smoothly without creases lowers the risk of blisters. Pack a few more pairs than you have days so you can change at lunchtime if needed. Low sports socks work well with trainers and running shoes. Take a look at bamboo tennis socks for men, an obvious choice for long walks around the city.

Churches and museums require covered shoulders and knees

St Peter's Basilica and many other churches in Rome do not admit visitors in shorts or sleeveless tops. The easiest solution is a pair of long, light trousers or a skirt below the knee, plus a thin shirt or scarf in your bag. That way you can walk straight from the street into a church without going back to the hotel to change. Light fabrics that roll up without creasing much are practical here and take up little room.

Long days and swollen legs

Many people notice that their legs feel heavy after a day of heat, flying and endless steps. Some choose to wear compression stockings on the flight and on the longest walks because they give gentle pressure. If you have circulation problems or swelling, talk to your doctor before using them. You can read more about the type under bamboo compression stockings. It also helps to rest with your legs raised for a while when you get back in the evening.

Sleeping in a warm hotel room

Many older hotels in Rome have small rooms, and the air conditioning does not always work well. Light nightwear in a breathable fabric makes a difference when the night temperature stays above 22 degrees. Long, thin night trousers are comfortable if the air conditioning runs hard, while shorts are better when the room is warm. See night pants for men for light styles that take up little space in a suitcase.

A short packing list for four days

For a long weekend in Rome you can manage with four or five T-shirts, a pair of light trousers, a pair of shorts, a shirt, five pairs of socks, underwear for each day, nightwear and good walking shoes that are already broken in. Add a sun hat, sunglasses and a water bottle that you can fill at the city's many drinking fountains. Feel free to wash a few items in the sink along the way, as light fabrics dry quickly in the heat.

Frequently asked questions

What should you wear in St Peter's Basilica

Shoulders and knees must be covered. Long trousers or a long skirt and a T-shirt with sleeves are enough.

Which shoes are best for Rome

Shoes with a firm, cushioned sole that you have broken in at home. The cobblestones are uneven and hard on the feet.

How many pairs of socks should you pack

At least one pair per day and preferably a few extra, so you can change at lunchtime in the heat.

You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.