Summer in Rome offers students a completely different experience from any other time of year. From outdoor festivals and evening walks along the Tiber River to weekend trips across Italy and late-night gelato runs, studying at John Cabot University during the summer combines academics with the energy of the city at its liveliest.
Between iconic landmarks, cultural events, student activities, and opportunities to explore Italy, summer at JCU allows students to experience Rome in a unique and unforgettable way. Here is your ultimate guide to spending the summer at John Cabot University in Rome.
Explore Rome’s Iconic Landmarks
One of the biggest advantages of studying at JCU is living in the heart of Rome’s historic Trastevere neighborhood, with many of the city’s most famous landmarks within walking distance or a short bus ride away.
During the summer, students can experience Rome early in the morning before classes, during sunset walks, or in the evenings when the city comes alive after the heat of the day.
Some must-see landmarks for JCU summer students include:
- The Colosseum
- The Pantheon
- Trevi Fountain
- Piazza Navona
- The Roman Forum
- St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican City
- Castel Sant’Angelo
- The Spanish Steps
- Villa Borghese and Galleria Borghese
- Fontana dell'Acqua Paola
- Gianicolo Hill (especially during sunset!)
Many students enjoy walking through the historic center after dinner, when monuments are illuminated and the city feels more vibrant.
Experience Rome’s Summer Festivals and Events
Rome’s summer season is filled with events, live performances, outdoor movie screenings, and festivals that transform the city into an open-air cultural hub.
One of the most popular summer traditions is Lungo il Tevere, the seasonal riverside event along the Tiber River. During the summer months, the Lungotevere fills with pop-up restaurants, local vendors, live music, bars, and outdoor activities stretching along the river near Trastevere.
Other popular summer events in Rome include:
- Outdoor movie screenings across the city
- Open-air concerts and performances
- Opera performances at the Baths of Caracalla
- Local food festivals and neighborhood events
- Summer art exhibitions and museum events
- Estate Romana cultural programming
Join JCU Summer Trips and Student Activities
At JCU, students also have access to organized trips, cultural activities, and experiences throughout Italy organized through Student Engagement.
These activities give students the opportunity to explore new destinations, meet other students, and experience Italian culture firsthand during their time abroad.
Summer activities may include:
- Beach trips to nearby coastal towns
- Lake day trips outside Rome
- Weekend getaways across Italy
- Cooking and pasta-making classes
- Wine tasting experiences
- Hiking excursions and guided cultural visits
Students can explore upcoming activities and trips here!
Tips to Stay Cool in Rome During The Summer
Rome can get quite hot, especially from June - August, so it's important to be prepared and take precautions to stay cool and comfortable.
Here are some of the best ways JCU students stay cool while enjoying Rome during the summer months:
Take Advantage of Rome’s Public Water Fountains
Rome’s famous nasoni, which are public water fountains found throughout the city, provide fresh drinking water. Carry a water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, as you can refill your bottle for free.
Relax in Rome’s Green Spaces
Villa Borghese, Gianicolo Hill, Villa Pamphili, Orto Botanico, Giardino degli Aranci, and Parco degli Acquedotti are popular places for students to relax, picnic, journal, or study outdoors.
Enjoy Rome’s Summer Food Culture
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy gelato, granita, fresh pasta, aperitivo, and outdoor dining throughout Trastevere and the historic center.
Spend Time Near the Water
Many students take day trips to nearby beaches like Santa Marinella, Ostia, and Sperlonga, or visit lakes such as Lake Bracciano and Lake Albano, all easy destinations to reach from Rome by train, to cool off from the Roman summer heat.
Why Spend Your Summer at John Cabot University?
Studying abroad during the summer allows students to earn academic credit while experiencing one of the world’s most historic cities.
At JCU, students benefit from:
- U.S.-accredited, transferable credits, plus small class sizes and personalized learning
- International faculty and students from around the world
- Internship opportunities through our Center for Career Services
- Opportunities to travel throughout Italy and other European countries
- Student activities and organized trips
- An unforgettable experience of a lifetime
Spend Your Summer in Rome with JCU
Summer at John Cabot University is more than a study abroad experience — it is an opportunity to live in Rome, connect with an international community, and create unforgettable memories while pursuing your academic goals.
Ready to study in Rome?
Explore JCU’s programs or reach out to admissions@johncabot.edu to start planning your journey!
