Are you planning a summer trip to Italy, but aren’t sure what to expect? You’ve come to the right place! In this article I have outlined everything you need to know to visit Italy in summer.
Being Italian, I have spent my fair amount of summertime in Italy, and can confidently say it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
I love Italy in summer, when schools close, the days are warm and long, and Italian piazzas are flooded with life. Whether with tourists or locals, summer is a time when Italy comes alive.
Italy also offers a huge variety of destinations, meaning you could be strolling through the cobbled streets of Rome eating gelato one day, tanning on the pristine beaches of Sardinia the next, and even go hiking around the green mountain peaks of Trentino on the same trip.
Manarola, one of the main towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre
Regardless of how you picture your idyllic Italy summer trip, you’ll need the information listed in this guide to help you make the most of it!
In this guide I have included all the most important information to visit Italy in summer.
Including what weather to expect in different parts of the country, what to pack for summer in Italy, the best destinations to visit in Italy in summer, what holidays to plan for and much more.
So without further ado, let’s dive in and plan the perfect Italy summer trip!
Contents
Relaxing on the nets of the catamaran we cruised in Maddalena Archipelago with at the Cavaliere Beach
Weather in Italy in summer
Before diving into all the best destinations to visit in Italy in summer, I want to go over what sort of weather you can expect throughout Italy during the various summer months.
Italian summers usher in the best of what this Mediterranean nation has to offer.
This is the time of year when the citizens of Italy and Europe take their vacations, with people flocking to Italian beaches to enjoy a spot of sun, sea and sand.
Italian cities, like Florence and Rome, see high heat and humidity, while mountain regions shed their ski credentials and become verdant oases for hikers and nature lovers.
Enjoying the view over Ragusa in Sicily
Weather in Italy in June
June marks the start of summer in Italy. Temperatures range across the board, but generally June is a mild, pleasant time of year to visit practically everywhere.
Evenings and mornings are still a little cooler than they are later in summer, especially in mountain regions. You can also expect scattered showers during June in Italy.
July weather in Italy
It’s a beautiful time of year to visit Italy. The nation’s varied destinations are usually hot and sunny with just a little bit of rain, usually in more southern regions.
The chances of wet weather ruining your trip are pretty low. Because of this, July is also a busy time of year to visit, so prepare for crowds.
Kayaking in Lake Caldonazzo, Trentino, in summer
Weather in August in Italy
Italy’s Mediterranean climate comes into full force in August. Not only is the country bathed in beautiful sunshine, but average temperatures are at their peak during this month.
The Alps and mountainous regions have cooler temperatures, obviously, but are still mild and perfect for hiking this time of year.
Cities, on the other hand, are hot and humid, particularly Milan. Sea temperatures are also very warm wherever you are: perfect for beach days at those iconic summer beach destinations.
Diving into the crystal clear water of Sardinia, Italy
Holidays to expect in Italy in summer
When you start planning your Italy summer holiday, you might want to take into account these national holiday days.
Republic Day falls on June 2nd, and this is when Italy celebrates its modern founding. It’s a public holiday, so you can expect to see parades and fireworks, with many celebrations taking place in Rome.
Some places may be closed on this day.
Italian schools close around the start of June, and open up again towards the end of September. That means you can expect to see Italian children taking over beaches, parks and public squares all over Italy.
The big summer holiday to keep an eye out for in Italy is Ferragosto. Falling on 15th August, it officially marks the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, although it’s not a particularly religious holiday.
The staircase leading up to the cathedral of Modica
Being Italian, I both love and hate Ferragosto. I love it because it’s a time when family and friends all come together, eat and drink loads and spend the night dancing away on the beach.
But I also hate it because pretty much the whole of Italy takes time off around Ferragosto. This means prices in Italian vacation spots shoot up, and there are a million people everywhere. This isn’t the case in cities though.
Romans and Milanese people, for example, head out of the city and flock to the countryside, beaches near Milan and mountain resorts.
Things may be closed in cities, while you can expect public transport (and accommodation) to be busy.
Basically if you visit Italy around the 15th of August, you can expect cities to be much quieter, whilst beach destinations to be busier and more expensive.
Diving into the crystal clear water of Sardinia in summer
What to pack for an Italy summer trip
Your Italy packing list will likely change depending on where exactly in the country you’re going. In general though, you’ll want to pack lightweight clothes.
Think loose and long, which not only protects you from the sun, but also suits the strict dress code for churches.
Other essentials include a refillable water bottle, which saves money and is better for the environment, as well as sun cream, sun hat and shades to protect against UV rays.
A comfortable pair of shoes is always a good idea, no matter where you are.
Even if you’re not embarking on a hiking holiday, some sturdy sandals that will allow your feet to breathe in the hot weather is a good idea for walking around cities.
Those heading to the beach will want to pack travel essentials such as a swimsuit and a beach towel, while also having smart-casual outfits to wear in the evenings for dinner and drinks.
Enjoying the view over the Sassi of Matera in Italy
Best places to visit in Italy in summer
Sardinia
Average high: 30°C (86 °F)
Average low: 20°C (68°F)
Rainy days average: 6
Sardinia is a stunning destination in the summertime. With its beautiful Mediterranean coastline and turquoise waters, the island has a lot going for it.
Enjoying the view over the clear water of Cala Coticcio in Sardinia, Italy
This is the place to go for those who like an easygoing, slow-paced vacation – and especially if you like beach holidays.
In particular, those looking for a real getaway should head to La Maddalena, a small archipelago in the north of the island with secluded white sand beaches and rugged landscapes.
It’s actually a national park, and is ideal for exploring on boat tours.
Relaxing on Cala Soraja in Spargi Island, Italy
The natural pools of the Archipelago of Maddalena at the start of July (not completely overflowing with boats yet!)
The nearby Costa Smeralda on the northeastern coast is better known among jetsetters for its chic accommodation and luxurious stretches of beach. Over on the northwest is the famous La Pelosa Beach.
And located on the eastern coast is the Gulf of Orosei, an idyllic destination. Stretching for around 30 kilometres, here you can expect beautiful natural landscapes; ideal for snorkelling and hiking alike.
In my opinion, the beaches of Sardinia are amongst the best in the Mediterranean, so if the focus of your Italy itinerary is on the beach, this is the place to go!
Exploring the Golfo di Orosei and Cala Luna by kayak in Sardinia, Italy
Trentino
Average high: 25°C (77°F)
Average low: 17°C (62.6°F)
Rainy days average: 7
This Alpine destination is a popular Italy winter destination for its cosy winter scenes, as well as being one of the best ski resorts in Italy, but come summer Trentino is a stunning natural paradise in the heart of the Alps.
It’s the place to base yourself for a mountain getaway. From here you can explore the many towns, villages, lakes and hiking trails, while also exploring the culture and history of the region.
Hiking at Rolle Pass in Trentino
If you like cycling or hiking, or any number of outdoor activities, Trentino is the place for you.
Lush valleys are laced with well maintained cycle paths, while hiking trails wind through pine-clad valleys to impossibly beautiful Alpine lakes, the ideal spot for taking a dip after a sweaty trek.
For a rugged adventure, head to the atmospheric Rio Sass Canyon, situated in the Val di Non. Visiting Trentino in summer should feature on everyone’s Italy bucket list in my opinion.
As well as canyoning and kayaking, among other outdoor pursuits, those who want a more easygoing break in the mountains can indulge in fresh food and vineyards, taking road trips through the incredible scenery.
Beautiful reflections at Lake Welsperg in Trentino, Italy
Cinque Terre
Average high: 28°C (82.4°F)
Average low: 19°C (66.2°F)
Rainy days average: 4
For an unbeatable combination of hiking, beaches and charming coastal towns, make a beeline for Cinque Terre.
This UNESCO-recognised string of villages sits on the Italian Riviera, and also forms part of the Cinque Terre National Park.
Sunset over the perched colourful houses of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, Italy
This is a particularly popular destination, with romantic villages tucked on the cliffs and hugging the rugged coastline.
The colourful towns themselves are not only connected by road (and rail), but also by a network of hiking trails that afford some incredible views out over the Mediterranean Sea.
Many people choose to hike the Sentiero Azzurro, also known as the Blue Trail. This 7.5 mile route traces an old mule path along a narrow ledge that boasts spectacular vistas of the region’s coastal scenery.
In recent years, parts of the route have been closed due to bad weather, but sections of the trail do remain open.
Admiring the colourful houses of Manarola, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy
Admiring the colourful houses of Vernazza, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy
If you don’t fancy it, you don’t have to hike, of course.
You can stay in Cinque Terre, just base yourself in one of the region’s five towns, each of which has a different character, best suited for certain types of travellers, and explore the region by train.
The largest town, and therefore most likely where you’ll find accommodation, is Riomaggiore.
Another option is Manarola, famed for its vineyards. But those wanting a beach break should head to Monterosso, the only Cinque Terre town with its own stretch of sand.
The colourful houses and harbour of Vernazza in Cinque Terre, Italy
Sicily
Average high: 26°C (78.8°F)
Average low: 18°C (64.4°F)
Rainy days average: 3
Sicily is a classic summer destination in Italy, and for good reason. The largest island in the Mediterranean, it’s an ideal mix of good weather, nature, history and – of course – beaches.
Speaking of the weather, this volcanic island can actually get particularly hot in August. But if that’s what you’re here for, then you’ll love this Mediterranean hotspot.
Piazza del Duomo in Catania, Sicily
Exploring the lunar landscapes of Etna Volcano in Sicily
One of the most famous places to visit is Mount Etna. This is the highest active volcano in the world.
And, if you’re really feeling adventurous, you can hike the 3,300-metre-tall behemoth itself, or at lower altitudes visit lava tunnels and experience a barren and bleak volcanic landscape.
Close to Etna is Taormina, which boasts dramatic views of the massive volcano itself. This hilltop destination on Sicily’s east coast is a popular resort area.
Think attractive streets with balconies overflowing with flowers and views out over the Mediterranean Sea.
Ragusa Ibla seen from the neighbouring hill
The main cathedral in Noto
As well as being a high-end destination, Taormina also has plenty of history: it was founded in the 4th century BC and still sports the ruins of its Greek amphitheatre (check this!)
Also historic is the ancient Valley of Temples, while cities such as Ragusa and Noto also boast charming old towns – perfect for wandering, camera in hand.
I spent seven days in Eastern Sicily last year, and can confidently say every Italy itinerary should include a visit to this island.
Exploring the Greek amphitheatre of Taormina at sunset
Lake Como
Average high: 25°C (77°F)
Average low: 17°C (62.6°F)
Rainy days average: 9
This dreamy destination in northern Italy’s Lombardy region has long been a haunt of the rich and famous. But if you’re neither of those, that doesn’t matter: you can still indulge in the beauty of this breath-taking landscape.
Italy’s third-biggest lake, Como can be visited on a day trip from Milan, or you could choose to stay in Lake Como and spend a night or two in one of the renowned lakeside locales, such as the magical Bellagio.
The best way to explore this beautiful countryside is either by hiking along the shoreline or taking a boat trip on the glistening water itself.
You could easily use the hub of Como, the main city, as a jumping off point for your Lake Como itinerary to see the sights.
Enjoying the view from the peak of Monte San Primo in Lake Como, Italy
Tuscany
Average high: 30°C (86°F)
Average low: 18°C (64.4°F)
Rainy days average: 7
The undisputed heart of Italy, Tuscany is the quintessential Italian vacation with a combination of landscapes and historic architecture, not to mention some delicious food.
Tuscany offers iconic cities such as Florence, Pisa and Siena, as well as pretty towns like the tower-filled San Gimignano and the beautiful Terme di Saturnia (complete with hot springs).
Sunset over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo
View over the Tuscan countryside
In short, you certainly won’t be missing out on culture if you visit Tuscany in summer.
Florence alone is packed with showstopper sights, from its famous black and white cathedral to the masterpiece-packed Uffizi Gallery and the awesome mediaeval bridge of Ponte Vecchio.
I once spent four days in Tuscany, but it wasn’t anywhere near enough to make the most of this wonderful region.
So whether you choose to stay in Florence or head for the countryside, make sure to spend a little longer under the Tuscan sun (did you get that travel movie reference?).
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
Puglia
Average high: 29°C (84.2°F)
Average low: 18°C (64.4°F)
Rainy days average: 8
In southern Italy lies the region of Puglia, taking up the “heel” section of Italy’s boot-like shape. It’s a popular beach destination where towns cling to cliffsides above turquoise seas.
Here visitors can spend days exploring ancient towns dotted with elaborate churches, tracing the roots of the various cultures that have left a mark on this part of the country.
One particularly famous beach destination is Polignano a Mare, while the UNESCO-recognised Alberobello is famed for its collection of trulli, conical-roofed houses with white-washed walls.
From here you can also go on a day trip to the Sassi di Matera, which while it’s not technically part of Puglia, it’s close and stunning enough to make it worth it.
The view over the Sassi of Matera from Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio
The gorgeous view over Matera from the Convento di Sant’Agostino
Amalfi Coast
Average high: 29°C (84.2°F)
Average low: 24°C (75.2°F)
Rainy days average: 3
For a taste of the real dolce vita, spend your trip in Italy in summer at the Amalfi Coast.
Scattered with hilltop towns and seaside villages, this iconic coastline is home to picturesque (and chic) towns such as Positano and the luxurious Capri, a haunt of the rich and famous since the days of ancient Rome.
Those who have their own set of wheels will have an amazing time exploring this stretch of coastline by car, along winding coastal roads stopping off at cobbled villages and refuelling at hidden eateries.
On a trip to Amalfi Coast, you can expect to go on beautiful sunset boat tours in Positano, hiking along the coastal Path of the Gods, discovering the hidden ruins of Pompeii and much more.
Beaches, iconic views, a little bit of history – what more could you want from your Italian summer vacation?
The iconic view over Positano and its main beach
Is summer a good time to visit Italy?
While I’d love to say yes, absolutely, there are a few cons to visiting Italy in summer.
The weather may be amazing, but because of that – and because of summer vacation for most places in the world – the tourist crowds can put a dampener on your trip. It’s also a more expensive time of year to travel in general.
August in particular gets extremely hot and humid, especially in cities and in southern regions.
August is also the time of year that many Italians take holidays to beach destinations and mountain resorts, making them pretty busy.
Personally, I like June and early July. There’s less in the way of crowds, and awful humidity, but you still get that Italian summer feeling, with long days and good weather.
Plus it’s cheaper than heading to Italy during peak tourist season.
Chilling with my friends during a dinghy tour of Asinara Island in Sardinia, Italy
Places to avoid in Italy in summer
While I won’t say you should outright avoid certain places in Italy in summer, after all, if you only have holiday around Ferragosto and are set on visiting Rome, who am I to tell you not to?
But I do think there are places that will leave you with a better impression at other times of year. For example, the big cities like Milan and Rome, are simply too hot and humid to be enjoyable in summer.
Paired with the high number of shops and restaurants that will be closed during that time of year, it just wouldn’t be the same as visiting Rome in spring or winter.
The same goes for Milan in winter, while it won’t be the idyllic Italian summer holiday you’re picturing, it would without a doubt be more pleasant temperature-wise.
Exploring the rooftop of the Duomo cathedral in Milan, Italy
That said, there are still ways to make the most of city destinations in summer, for example if you head out to explore Milan or Rome at night, when the temperatures cool a bit and tourist crowds leave.
It’s the reason behind why there are so many popular Rome by night tours, which take you to the Vatican, Colosseum, Pantheon, and all the other sights that are flooded with tourists by day.
If you do decide to visit Rome anyway, make sure to check out my Rome 1-day itinerary and my Rome 3-day itinerary to find out the best things to do!
Personally, I would avoid also other famous destinations like Venice. While it won’t be as hot and humid as Rome or Milan, it can get extremely busy and expensive in high season.
You’ll go for that idyllic gondola ride in Venice, only to get stuck in the gondola traffic of the Grand Canal. Instead of staying in Venice, you could make it a quick stop as part of a longer Italy itinerary.
The Colosseum in Rome at sunset
Sunset in Venice, Italy, a popular Mediterranean cruise destination
Final thoughts on visiting Italy in summer
There you have it, the ultimate summer in Italy guide! Have you been to Italy before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!
In this article I tried to include everything you need to know about visiting Italy in summer, as well as highlighting where exactly in Italy you should be going in summer, and which places to avoid.
I know I’ve said a lot in this article how the summer tourist crowds and prices can get a bit much, but don’t let that deter you. Summer in Italy is a wonderful time of the year.
Watching the country come alive, and make the most of the long days and good weather is something that always fills me with joy. Italy in winter is popular thanks to the milder weather, but it can never be as magical as summer.
I hope you find this Italy summer guide useful in planning your own Italian summer vacation. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!
Before you go, make sure to check these 10 things Italians want you to know before travelling to Italy! And these great quotes about Italy to inspire your trip even more!
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