Florence experienced several days of temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) earlier this summer.
Over the past few days, however, the weather has become a little more comfortable, with daytime temperatures around 35°C (95°F) and pleasant breezes in the mornings and evenings. Taking advantage of the cooler weather, I decided to enjoy a walk through Boboli Gardens for the first time in a while.
Although Florence is crowded with tourists during the summer, Boboli Gardens feels noticeably cooler than the city center thanks to its abundant greenery. Walking beneath the shade of the trees with a gentle breeze makes it a refreshing escape from the heat.
Boboli Gardens Is Still Under Restoration in Summer 2026
This summer, restoration work is still ongoing in several parts of Boboli Gardens, including the Amphitheatre and some of its historic fountains, both of which are among the garden’s most famous attractions.
In addition, the Museum of Porcelain, located at the highest point of the gardens, remains closed, and the flower beds in front of the museum appeared less carefully maintained than in previous years.
For first-time visitors to Florence—or for travelers who may only have one opportunity to visit—the ongoing restoration may come as a disappointment if they only discover it after entering the gardens.
Even So, Boboli Gardens Remains a Favorite Place for Local Residents
For those of us who live in Florence, however, Boboli Gardens is much more than a tourist attraction. It is a peaceful place where we enjoy walking throughout the year.
Listening to birds singing, spotting squirrels if we’re lucky, and spending time surrounded by nature, it’s hard to believe that the bustling city center is just outside the garden walls.
Even with some areas under restoration, the gardens are spacious, filled with shady paths, and remain an ideal place for a relaxing walk during the summer. They are also a popular place for local children to play.
Why Is Restoration Being Done During the Tourist Season?
Naturally, I wondered:
“Why carry out restoration work during the busiest tourist season?”
The explanation was quite practical.
Winter in Florence is colder and much wetter, which means that materials used for restoration take much longer to dry. Because the preservation of historic monuments depends heavily on weather conditions, summer provides a much better environment for this kind of work.
Although the timing may disappoint some visitors, these restoration projects are essential if Florence’s cultural heritage is to be preserved for future generations.
Cool Down with an Italian Iced Coffee
After my walk, I stopped at the café inside Palazzo Pitti for a short break.
On a hot summer day, I highly recommend trying an Italian-style iced coffee called Caffè Shakerato.
Unlike regular iced coffee, it is made by shaking freshly brewed espresso with ice, creating a smooth, frothy texture and a wonderfully refreshing flavor.
If you’re visiting Florence during the summer, it’s definitely worth trying at least once.