Italy Summer Travel Guide: Best Places, Tips & Itineraries
Discover the best destinations, weather tips, itineraries, and travel advice for an unforgettable Italy summer vacation.
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I lived in Italy for one and a half years while completing my master’s degree, and during that time, I traveled as much as possible across the country. Experiencing Italy both as a resident and as a traveler gave me a deep understanding of how different seasons shape each destination.
Over the years, I’ve visited nearly all of Italy’s most iconic places in different seasons. I explored Rome twice—once in May and again in July. I visited Florence in November, Tuscany in August, and Venice four times across winter, carnival season, summer, and early autumn. I’ve also traveled to Verona in autumn, Lake Garda and Lake Como in summer, the Dolomites in July, and the Amalfi Coast at the peak of summer.
With both local and travel experience, I can confidently say that summer is still the best time to travel in Italy.
Italy in summer feels magical. Long sunny days, blue seas, rolling green hills, dramatic mountains, and lively city evenings create the Italy most people dream of. Yes, it can be hot—sometimes reaching 37°C (98°F)—and air conditioning isn’t guaranteed in every hotel or B&B. But summer rewards you with unforgettable scenery, vibrant atmospheres, and the most beautiful photos you’ll take anywhere in the country.
This guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect Italy summer trip.
What Italy Can Offer You in Summer
Italy is one of the few destinations in Europe that truly offers everything in one country.
Coastal and island beauty shines in summer. From the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to colorful seaside villages like Cinque Terre, Italy’s coastline is at its best. Islands such as Sicily and Sardinia offer crystal-clear water and stunning beaches.
Tuscany in summer feels like a postcard come to life. Golden hills, sunflower fields, vineyards, and warm evening light make it one of the most romantic regions in Europe.
Cooler mountain and lake escapes in northern Italy provide relief from the heat. The Dolomites, Lake Garda, and Lake Como offer fresh air, scenic hikes, swimming spots, and peaceful towns.
Historic cities such as Rome, Florence, Verona, Siena, and Venice come alive with outdoor dining, festivals, and long summer evenings.
Italy in summer may be hot in the south, but cooler alternatives exist in the north and mountains. It’s perfect for travelers who love both culture and nature. And of course, Italian food tastes even better in summer—especially gelato.
10 Best Places to Visit in Italy in Summer (From North to South)
The Dolomites
Val di Funes, Lago di Braies, alpine hikes, and dramatic peaks make the Dolomites one of the best summer destinations in Italy. Temperatures are comfortable, and nature is at its peak.
Venice & Verona
Venice is hot but magical in early mornings and evenings. Verona offers Roman ruins, charming streets, and easier access to nearby wine regions.
Italian Lakes: Lake Como & Lake Garda
These lakes are ideal for swimming, boat rides, and relaxed summer days. Lake Como feels elegant, while Lake Garda is more casual and outdoorsy.
Cinque Terre
Five colorful villages perched along the sea, perfect for coastal walks, swimming, and sunset views. Summer is busy, but staying overnight makes a big difference.
Florence & Pisa
Florence is intense in summer heat, but manageable with early sightseeing and evening strolls. Pisa works well as a short side trip.
Tuscany
Beyond Florence, Tuscany’s countryside is breathtaking in summer. Renting a car lets you explore hill towns, vineyards, and scenic roads freely.
Rome
Rome is hot but unforgettable. Visit landmarks early, rest midday, and enjoy lively piazzas and outdoor dinners at night.
Sardinia
Home to some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, Sardinia is perfect for a summer beach holiday with turquoise water and wild landscapes.
Amalfi Coast
Cliffside towns, dramatic views, and turquoise seas define the Amalfi Coast. It’s crowded and expensive, but undeniably iconic.
Sicily
Sicily combines beaches, ancient ruins, volcanoes, and incredible food. Coastal areas are the most comfortable during summer heat.
Italy Summer Weather & What to Expect
Italy’s summer weather varies significantly by region.
Northern Italy and mountain areas usually range from 20–30°C (68–86°F), making them ideal for outdoor activities. Central Italy, including Rome and Florence, often reaches 30–37°C (86–98°F) in July and August. Southern Italy and Sicily are the hottest, especially during peak summer.
Heatwaves do occur, so plan sightseeing early, take long midday breaks, and enjoy evenings outdoors. If you’re sensitive to heat, northern regions, lakes, and mountains are the best choices.
The best time for an Italy summer trip is late May to June. The weather is warm but comfortable, crowds are smaller, and it’s easier to explore all day. July and August bring intense heat and peak crowds, so plan carefully.
Italy Summer Itinerary Ideas
Choosing the right itinerary is key to enjoying Italy in summer. Below are three carefully planned Italy summer itineraries, designed for different travel styles and trip lengths.
7-Day Italy Summer Itinerary
Venice → Florence → Rome
This classic 7-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Italy’s most iconic cities and cultural highlights in a short time.
Days 1–2: Venice
Spend your first two days exploring Venice’s canals, historic squares, and unique atmosphere. Visit St. Mark’s Square early in the morning to avoid crowds, explore quieter neighborhoods like Dorsoduro, and enjoy a gondola ride or vaporetto cruise along the Grand Canal. Evenings are magical in Venice, especially in summer when the city feels calmer after day-trippers leave.
Days 3–4: Florence
Travel to Florence by high-speed train. Focus on Renaissance art and architecture, including the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. Due to summer heat, plan museum visits in the morning and enjoy leisurely dinners and evening walks after sunset. If time allows, take a half-day trip to Pisa or nearby Tuscan towns.
Days 5–7: Rome
End your trip in Rome, Italy’s most historic city. Visit major landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Rome is hot in summer, so start sightseeing early, rest during midday, and enjoy lively piazzas and outdoor dining at night.
Best for: First-time travelers, short trips, culture lovers
Tip: Book trains and attractions in advance to save time
10-Day Italy Summer Itinerary
Venice → Dolomites → Florence → Tuscany → Rome
This 10-day itinerary offers a balanced mix of cities, nature, and countryside, making it ideal for travelers who want more variety and a slower pace.
Days 1–2: Venice: Explore Venice at a relaxed pace, focusing on early mornings and evenings. Consider visiting nearby islands like Murano or Burano for a quieter experience.
Days 3–5: Dolomites: Head north to the Dolomites for a refreshing escape from the heat. Spend your time hiking, enjoying alpine views, and visiting scenic spots like Lago di Braies or Val di Funes. Summer temperatures here are pleasant, making it one of the best regions in Italy during summer.
Days 6–8: Florence & Tuscany: Return south to Florence for art, history, and food. Balance sightseeing with relaxed evenings and rooftop views. Florence serves as a perfect gateway to Tuscany. Rent a car and explore the Tuscan countryside. Visit hill towns such as Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano. Summer landscapes, vineyards, and golden light make Tuscany unforgettable during this season.
Days 9–10: Rome: Finish in Rome with a well-paced itinerary that avoids midday heat. Focus on highlights and enjoy Rome’s vibrant nightlife and food scene.
Best for: Travelers who want diversity, couples, photographers
Tip: A rental car is highly recommended for Tuscany
20-Day Slow Travel Italy Summer Itinerary
Venice → Dolomites → Lake Garda → Cinque Terre → Florence → Tuscany → Rome → Amalfi Coast
This slow travel itinerary is ideal for those who want to experience Italy deeply without rushing, even during the busy summer season.
Days 1–2: Venice: Take your time exploring Venice beyond the main attractions. Wander through local neighborhoods, enjoy long meals, and visit lesser-known churches and canals.
Days 3–5: Dolomites: Spend several days in the Dolomites to hike, relax, and enjoy cooler weather. This is one of the best regions in Italy for escaping summer heat.
Days 6–7: Lake Garda: Travel to Lake Garda for swimming, lakeside towns, and scenic boat rides. The lake offers a relaxed summer atmosphere and stunning views.
Days 8–9: Cinque Terre: Explore the five coastal villages, hike scenic trails, and swim in the sea. Expect crowds, but staying overnight allows you to enjoy early mornings and peaceful evenings.
Days 10–11: Florence: Use Florence as a base for museums, day trips, and slow city exploration. Spread out major attractions to avoid fatigue and heat.
Days 12–14: Tuscany: Immerse yourself in Tuscan countryside life. Stay in an agriturismo, enjoy wine tastings, visit local markets, and explore small villages at your own pace.
Days 15–17: Rome: Spend several days in Rome focusing on neighborhoods rather than rushing between landmarks. Enjoy Rome’s nightlife and evening strolls.
Days 18–20: Amalfi Coast: End your Italy summer trip on the Amalfi Coast. Relax by the sea, explore Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. While busy, it’s a stunning way to finish your journey.
Best for: Slow travelers, long vacations, repeat visitors
Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, especially in coastal areas
Transportation in Italy
Transportation in Italy is efficient and traveler-friendly, especially during summer.
High-speed trains are the best way to travel between major cities. Routes like Venice–Florence–Rome take only 3–4 hours and are faster and easier than flying. Trains run city-center to city-center, avoiding airport stress.
Regional trains are slower but affordable and ideal for short distances, small towns, and countryside areas such as Tuscany and Cinque Terre.
Local buses are useful for reaching villages not connected by train. Long-distance buses, including FlixBus, are budget-friendly but slower.
Flying between Venice, Florence, and Rome is not recommended. However, flights are necessary for Sicily and Sardinia. Alternatively, consider ferries, which offer scenic and relaxed travel, especially for slow travelers or those bringing a car.
What to Pack for Italy in Summer
You should pack light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as Italian cities involve a lot of walking. Bring sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. A refillable water bottle is useful, as many cities have public drinking fountains. Don’t forget power adapters and light layers for evenings or mountain areas.
Travel Tips for Italy in Summer
My best tip is booking trains and major attractions in advance to avoid long lines. Visit popular landmarks early in the morning (especially at Vatican, the crowd starts lining up very early!) or late in the evening when the sun hasn’t set (until 9PM) the but the temperature is more comfortable. Take advantage of Italy’s slower midday pace and enjoy long dinners after sunset.
If you are going to visit beaches, understand that many are private beach clubs with entrance fees. And lastly, always check air conditioning availability when booking accommodation.
Italy Summer Trip FAQ
Is summer too hot in Italy?
Summer in Italy can be hot, especially in July and August, with temperatures often reaching 30–37°C (86–98°F) in central and southern regions. However, with good planning, summer is still an excellent time to visit. Traveling early in the day, taking midday breaks, and choosing cooler destinations such as northern Italy, lakes, or mountain regions can make the heat manageable and even enjoyable.
Is August a good time to visit Italy?
August is Italy’s peak summer month and also the time when many Italians take their holidays. Cities can be very hot and crowded, and some small local businesses may close, particularly around mid-August (Ferragosto). That said, beaches, islands, and major tourist destinations are lively, well-staffed, and vibrant. If you enjoy a festive atmosphere and seaside destinations, August can still be a great time to visit.
What are the best beaches in Italy in summer?
Italy has some of Europe’s best summer beaches. Sardinia offers crystal-clear water and white sand, Sicily combines beaches with culture and history, and the Amalfi Coast is famous for dramatic scenery and turquoise seas. Puglia is also an excellent choice, with beautiful beaches, fewer crowds, and generally more affordable prices.
What is the best month to visit Italy in summer?
The best summer months to visit Italy are late May and June. During this period, the weather is warm but not extreme, crowds are smaller than in peak summer, and sightseeing is much more comfortable. Early September is also a great option, offering summer weather with fewer tourists.
How do Italians handle the summer heat?
Italians adapt their daily routines to the heat. Many shops close in the afternoon, meals are eaten later, and evenings are spent outdoors. Travelers should follow the same rhythm—sightsee in the morning, rest midday, and enjoy evenings when temperatures cool down.
Are Italian cities air-conditioned in summer?
Air conditioning is common in modern hotels, trains, and shopping centers, but it’s not guaranteed in older buildings, B&Bs, or budget accommodations. Always check accommodation listings carefully if air conditioning is important to you.
Is it better to visit northern or southern Italy in summer?
If you’re sensitive to heat, northern Italy—including the Dolomites, Lake Como, and Lake Garda—is generally more comfortable. Southern Italy and Sicily are hotter but perfect for beach holidays. The best choice depends on whether you prefer culture, nature, or seaside relaxation.
Is summer a good time for an Italy honeymoon or romantic trip?
Yes, summer can be very romantic in Italy. Long evenings, outdoor dining, coastal sunsets, and scenic landscapes create unforgettable experiences—especially in places like Tuscany, the Italian Lakes, and the Amalfi Coast.
Other Italy Travel Guides
- 15 Best Things to Do in Rome Italy
- Tuscany Roadtrip in 5 Days
- Val Di Funes Day Trip from Trento/Bolzano
- Best Things to Do for a Day Trip in Venice
- 1 Day Hiking in Cinque Terre Itinerary
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