Summer in Italy: Discovering Climate Refuges for a Cool Trip

An Italian summer is magical: the sun shining on historic squares, the aroma of artisanal gelato, long days, open-air aperitifs, and the desire to explore.

If you are in Italy during the hottest months, remember that temperatures are higher, but don't worry! In addition to drinking plenty of water and always carrying a water bottle with you (which you can refill at the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci locations or near the schools), there is a wonderful new initiative that will help you enjoy the cities without suffering from the sweltering heat: Climate Refuges (Rifugi Climatici).

Many Italian municipalities have launched initiatives to map the cities' "cool spaces": public places equipped with air conditioning or dense natural shade, where you can rest, read a book, study Italian, or simply take a break during peak hours (between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM).

Here is a practical guide to finding a cool spot in our five beautiful cities!

⚜️ Florence: culture and cool spaces among the libraries

In Florence, the City Council has activated an official network of Climate Refuges. These are mainly public libraries, cultural centers, and historic spaces scattered throughout the neighborhoods.

Extra tip: The Biblioteca delle Oblate, located just a short walk from the Duomo, is the ideal spot. You can study or read your favorite books in the cool air-conditioned rooms and, when the sun goes down, head up to the terrace café for a caffè shakerato with a view of Brunelleschi’s Dome! It is located just a few steps from our school and is a favorite place for our students to read or study.

🏙️ Milan: more than 116 "Cool Spaces" in the city

Milan responds to the summer heat with an interactive map featuring over 116 Cool Spaces (Spazi Freschi). The Milanese network combines tree-lined parks, historic courtyards, libraries, and the traditional neighborhood community centers (case di quartiere).

Extra tip: If you are looking for a quiet place to do your Italian homework or relax in the cool after class, explore the local neighborhood libraries: they are fully equipped, quiet, and air conditioning is guaranteed.

🏛️ Roma: urban oases of the "Progetto Respiro"

The Capital, famous for its welcoming "nasoni" (the historic public drinking fountains that provide constantly fresh water), has launched the Progetto Respiro (Project Breathe). This initiative maps urban oases, historic gardens, and climate-controlled public buildings to protect citizens and tourists from the intense heat.

Extra tip: In addition to air-conditioned spaces, take advantage of monumental parks like Villa Borghese or the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden), or step inside one of Rome's countless historic churches: their thick, ancient stone walls provide an incredible natural cooling effect!

⛰️ Turin: art that regenerates

In Turin, the initiative is particularly fascinating: the museums of the Fondazione Torino Musei (such as Palazzo Madama, GAM, and MAO) have turned into Climate Refuges. The welcome areas and courtyards of these facilities are accessible to find shelter and relief during the hottest hours.

Extra tip: Combining the discovery of Turin's art with a refreshing break in the shade of history is the best way to experience a day like a true cultural student.

🏖️ Viareggio: sea breeze and the shade of the Pineta

In Viareggio, there isn't a digital map from the municipality yet, but there is no need: the locals know all the tricks to beat the heat! The ultimate climate refuge is its vast Pineta (the Pineta di Ponente and Pineta di Levante), a huge green lung just a few steps from the beach where the shade of the pine trees naturally cools the air.

Extra tip: During the central hours of the day, leave the beach and head into the Pineta for a light lunch, or visit the cool rooms of Versilia's cultural centers, lulled by the sea breeze that is never lacking out on the pier.

💬 And you, where do you find shelter?

Learning Italian also means adapting to the local rhythms and lifestyle. Taking a break in a climate refuge will allow you to rest, meet locals, and discover less touristy, authentic corners of the city.

We look forward to seeing you at school to fill up your water bottle and set off again to discover Italy! 🎒🇮🇹

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