What To Do in Florence in August
As summer reaches its peak, Florence and Tuscany still offer unforgettable experiences in August - from festive city celebrations to medieval fairs and one of Italy's most thrilling traditions.
As summer reaches its peak, Florence and Tuscany still offer unforgettable experiences in August - from festive city celebrations to medieval fairs and one of Italy's most thrilling traditions.
While many locals head to the coast or the mountains for summer holidays, visitors in August can enjoy a quieter side of Florence along with lively festivities. The Feast of San Lorenzo brings the city together for a day of celebration and community spirit. In the hills of Tuscany, the town of Volterra transforms into a city-wide medieval fair, while the excitement builds once again in Siena for the second running of the Palio horse race — a spectacle that draws visitors from around the world.
10 August 2025
San Lorenzo, one of Florence's patron saints, is celebrated with a day full of tradition and festivities. A historical parade departs from Piazza della Parte Guelfa in the morning, making its way through the city to the Basilica di San Lorenzo for a special mass. In the evening, the piazza fills with music, and the city offers a free communal meal at 8:30pm, where locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate under the stars.
10 & 17 August 2025
About an hour and a half south of Florence, the hilltop town of Volterra steps back in time with a grand medieval fair for two Sundays in August. Streets fill with knights, archers and artisans in period costume, while falconers and fire jugglers entertain the crowds. Market stalls showcase traditional crafts and handmade wares. As night falls, the city is lit by candles and torches, adding to the magic with fire shows, music and dancing in the piazzas.
Website: https://volterra1398.it/
16 August 2025
The thrill of the Palio returns to Siena for its second running of the year. Held twice annually, on 2 July and 16 August, this legendary horse race dates back to the 14th century. The city's contrade (districts) proudly display their colorful banners and compete for victory in Piazza del Campo. Days of trial races and celebrations lead up to the big event, with parades of over 600 costumed participants and the blessing of each horse and rider. The race itself, beginning at 7pm, is fast, dramatic and fiercely competitive - a one-of-a-kind tradition that's well worth a day trip from Florence.
Website: https://www.ilpalio.org/
Last Sunday of August 2025
The hilltop town of Montepulciano, about 90 minutes south of Florence, hosts this unique and colorful tradition each year on the last Sunday of August. Teams from different city districts race through the cobblestone streets, rolling large wine barrels toward the finish line in Piazza Grande. The festivities include medieval pageantry, flag-throwin performances and lively celebrations, making it a fantastic event for visitors looking to experience local Tuscan traditions.
Sign up for our Vacation Perfect newsletter and real estate updates.