Weather and Trail Conditions

In August, pilgrims can expect hot temperatures ranging from 15.8ºC to 25.7ºC. Rain is less likely in the first half of the month, so the trail conditions are generally dry and well-maintained.

• Average temp: 20.6ºC
• Average Low Temp: 15.8ºC
• Average High Temp: 25.7ºC
• Rainy Days: 7
• Rainfall (mm): 53
• Trail Conditions: The trail is hot, dry, and in good condition during August.

Clothing

Pack lightweight clothing and sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats. A light jacket may be useful for cooler evenings.

Safety

August is a safe time to walk the Tuscan stages, as the weather is hot and trails are well-maintained. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Pilgrims and Accommodations

Number of Pilgrims

August is the high season on the trail, and you can expect a large number of pilgrims, especially during the Chiuso per Ferie holiday when many Italians join the pilgrimage trail.

Stages with Open Accommodations

All six stages have open accommodations, but Consuma and Badia Prataglia may be more difficult to book due to their popularity as summer destinations. Additionally, many accommodation hosts take vacations in August, making fewer options available. Some hosts take vacations in the beginning of September because August pilgrims have been keeping them open.

Booking Recommendation

Book accommodations in advance, particularly in Pontassieve, where pilgrim accommodations are limited, and Consuma and Badia Prataglia, as these towns are popular summer destinations for locals.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is available for most stages, except Camaldoli and La Verna. Buses serving Camaldoli and La Verna Monasteries stop in the first week of June and don’t resume until mid-September. The best way to arrive at either stage using public transit is to walk from Badia Prataglia or take a taxi from Bibbiena, which can be reached by bus.

Starting in Florence in August

August is the peak tourist season in Tuscany, with hot, sunny weather. If you want to visit tourist attractions in Florence before starting your pilgrimage, expect long lines and crowded accommodations.

Experiencing Florence in August

August is a lively time to visit Florence, with hot temperatures and a bustling tourist season. Popular attractions will be crowded, so book ahead to secure your spot at museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Foreste Casentinesi National Park in August

August is a hot and sunny time to walk through the Foreste Casentinesi National Park. Be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Plan to carry 1.5L-3L of water per person per day, as the heat will make hydration important.

Foods Highlighted in August

August is the season for fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Be sure to try local dishes featuring these seasonal ingredients.

• Fresh Seafood: August is a great time to indulge in local seafood dishes, such as seafood risotto, fritto misto di mare (mixed fried seafood), and cacciucco (a flavorful fish stew).
• Tomatoes: During August, tomatoes are at their peak, and you’ll find many delicious dishes featuring this versatile fruit. Be sure to try panzanella (a Tuscan bread and tomato salad), pappa al pomodoro (a thick tomato and bread soup), and caprese salad (mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil).
• Melons: Summer melons like cantaloupe and watermelon are abundant in August. Enjoy them in simple dishes such as prosciutto e melone (cantaloupe wrapped with prosciutto) or as a refreshing dessert with a scoop of gelato.
• Grapes: As the grape harvest begins in late August, you’ll find many dishes featuring fresh grapes. Try schiacciata con l’uva (a sweet grape focaccia) or enjoy a glass of vino novello, a young wine made from the first harvest of the season.
• Figs: Fresh figs are in season during August and are a delicious treat to enjoy on their own or as part of a dish. Try them in salads, paired with cheese, or as a dessert with honey and ricotta.
• Gelato: While you can enjoy gelato year-round in Italy, there’s nothing quite like savoring this frozen dessert during the hot summer months. Be sure to sample the seasonal flavors, such as peach, apricot, and strawberry, as you make your way along the Via di Francesco.

Special Activities and Events in August

Florence and Casentino Events

• Chiuso per Ferie: Ferragosto (August 15th) is an important Italian holiday, marking the Feast of the Assumption. Various celebrations take place, including beach visits, barbecues, religious processions, fireworks, and horse races.
• Organ Music Festival: Held in July and August, the International Organ Music Festival takes place in Chiusi della Verna, with the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Sanctuary. The event combines organ music with the architectural and landscape beauty of the Sanctuary founded by St. Francis of Assisi.

Events Later on the Trail

• Palio della Balestra: In early August, Sansepolcro hosts the Palio della Balestra, an ancient crossbow competition between the cities of Sansepolcro and Gubbio. The event is a colorful spectacle with participants dressed in traditional medieval costumes.
• Umbria Jazz Festival: A ten-day festival held annually since 1973, usually in July, in Perugia and surrounding cities of the region of Umbria, Italy. The Umbria Jazz Festival is one of the most influential jazz festivals in the world.
• Ferragosto Celebrations: On August 15th, Italy celebrates Ferragosto, the Feast of the Assumption. Expect to find various celebrations, including religious processions, fireworks, and festivities throughout the towns and villages along the Via di Francesco.

Tips for Walking the Tuscan Stages in August

• Stay hydrated: With temperatures rising, be sure to drink plenty of water and carry extra water bottles with you.
• Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Start early: To avoid the heat, begin your walks early in the morning.
• Take breaks: Rest in the shade during the hottest part of the day and plan your route to include stops at cafes or other shaded areas.

Beyond Tuscany

Umbria Stages: Pieve Santo Stefano to Assisi to Rieti (Stages 7-23)

In Umbria, expect hot and sunny weather during August. This is an ideal time to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and historic towns. Key events during this period include the Ferragosto celebrations throughout the towns and villages and the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia. Enjoy local foods such as truffles, porchetta (roasted pork), and strangozzi (a type of pasta).

Lazio Stages: Rieti to Rome (Stages 24-28)

During your journey through Lazio, you’ll find hot, dry weather in August. Be sure to visit the iconic sites in Rome, such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Pantheon. Attend outdoor events like the Estate Romana, which offers various concerts, film screenings, and theater performances throughout the city. Sample Roman cuisine, including dishes like cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper) and supplì (fried rice balls with cheese).