Does Italy Have Air Conditioning? Here’s my Experience
I’ve lived in Italy for over three years without air conditioning. I’ve sweated through 102°F (39°C) heat waves, learned the art of strategic window positioning, and spent nights wishing for a proper breeze. If you’re wondering whether Italy has A/C and if you can survive without it, here’s my take.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission. I will only recommend products and services that I would [or currently use] myself.
Air Conditioning for Vacation in Italy
If you’re coming from North America, where summers mean walking from an air-conditioned house to an air-conditioned car to an air-conditioned restaurant, you should absolutely book a place with A/C.
Summers in Italy are hot. Rome, Florence, and inland areas routinely hit the upper 90s to 102°F (35-40°C) in July and August. Even coastal towns can be stifling, especially in places without much shade.
After a long day of sightseeing—sweating through Vatican queues or climbing Florence’s Duomo—you’ll want relief. Book a place with A/C.
What to Expect with Air Conditioning in Italy
Yes, air conditioning exists in Italy, but it’s not like what you’re used to. Here’s what to expect:
- Limited power – A/C units in Italy are often wall-mounted splits, usually above the door. They cool the immediate space but don’t blast arctic air.
- Key card system – Many hotels and rentals require you to insert your room key card into a slot to activate the electricity. This means no running the A/C while you’re out.
- Energy-conscious usage – Italians are conservative with A/C. Many apartments won’t even have it, and some hotels will set temperature limits or specific hours when it operates.
Do You NEED A/C to Live in Italy?
This is where it gets personal.
I grew up in the southeastern U.S. (Georgia), where summers come with humidity levels that make you feel like you’re breathing through a wet towel. Italy, especially central and southern parts, is hot but much drier.
I’ve adapted by:
- Timing window openings and closings like a tactical operation.
- Using fans religiously.
- Accepting that I’ll sweat through my shirt almost daily from June to September.
I won’t lie—there are stretches in August when I regret my life choices. But I’ve made it work. That said, the second I visit the U.S., I bask in the glory of aggressive central air.
If you’re planning to move to Italy, whether you need A/C depends on:
- Where you live – Coastal areas and northern regions (Milan, Turin) are more manageable. Rome, Florence, and inland areas? Brutal.
- Your heat tolerance – If you grew up in Arizona or Florida, you might adapt. If you’re from Seattle or Canada, you’ll struggle.
- Your apartment setup – North-facing windows? Decent airflow? You might survive. Top-floor apartment with no shade? You’re cooked—literally.
My Recommendation for Tourists
If you’re visiting Italy in the summer, just book a place with A/C.
You’ll be outside all day, sweating through cobblestone streets and piazzas. Don’t make your nights miserable too.
How to Find a Place with A/C in Italy
- Use Booking.com filters (A/C is listed under amenities). Booking.com has the most options, as it’s the standard booking platform in Italy. Here are well-reviewed places to stay in Rome, all with air conditioning.
- Cross-check reviews—people complain if A/C is weak.
- If renting an Airbnb, confirm it has “aria condizionata” (air conditioning) and not just a fan.
Yes, you’ll pay a bit more. But unless you enjoy waking up in a pool of your own sweat, it’s worth it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re moving to Italy, you might learn to live without A/C, but it depends on where you are and how much discomfort you can handle.
If you’re visiting in the summer? Don’t suffer. Book a place with A/C.
You’re on vacation—sweat during the day, but sleep comfortably at night.