Packing for the Mediterranean Summer
September 28, 2025
The "Cathedral Dilemma"
If you are visiting Italy or Spain, you will face a conflict: The weather is 35°C (95°F), but the culture is conservative inside religious sites. Major sites like St. Peter's Basilica (Vatican), the Pantheon, and the Seville Cathedral strictly enforce a dress code.
The Rule: Knees and shoulders must be covered. I have seen security guards turn away tourists who queued for two hours because they were wearing tank tops.
The Solution: Men should pack lightweight linen trousers (jeans are too hot). Women often carry a large, lightweight scarf in their day bag that can be wrapped around shoulders or waist like a sarong before entering a church.
Fabrics Matter: Avoid Polyester
Southern Europe is humid in July and August. Athletic "wicking" fabrics (polyester) often hold onto odors after a day of walking. The local standard is Linen or lightweight Merino Wool.
Linen wrinkles instantly, but that is part of the aesthetic in places like Rome or Athens. It breathes better than anything else and dries quickly if you are hand-washing laundry in a hotel sink.
Footwear on Cobblestones
Do not pack thin-soled flip-flops for city walking. The cobblestones in Lisbon and Prague are unforgiving. You need sandals with a thick, supportive sole (like Birkenstocks or Tevas) or breathable canvas sneakers. Your feet will swell in the heat, so ensure your shoes have a little extra room.