Rome's night-time tourism push offers a model for Italy's crowded cities

Rome is testing a new tourism strategy this summer by opening its historic sites at night, in response to recent heatwaves and the large crowds that saturate attractions during the day, according to France 24. The initiative includes museums, parks, archaeological sites, monuments, villas, and historic residences, marking a significant shift in how the capital manages its cultural heritage.

The experiment comes as Italy grapples with the twin pressures of record summer temperatures and overtourism, which have made daytime visits increasingly uncomfortable and even hazardous. France 24 described the move as a 'revolution' in the city's approach to tourism, offering visitors a cooler and potentially more atmospheric alternative.

Rome's night-time opening is being closely watched by other Italian cities, including those in Piemonte, where the summer heat has also taken a toll on visitor numbers and the comfort of those exploring urban centres.