Italy In Summer: What To Do & Where To Go By An Expert [2025]

Italy is one of the most popular destinations in Europe (if not the most popular), especially in summer. So, besides the heat, you can also expect to see many crowds in touristy places. Despite the crowds and the heat, Italy is worth visiting in the summertime.

I’ve been to Italy over 20 times, and I’ve guided US travel groups through many locations. I also visited many places in Italy in the summer alone, exploring the Dolomites, the Amalfi Coast, and stunning cities like Florence and Rome.

So in this article, I’ll give you an overview of what the summer looks like in Italy, the best things to do, and where you should go.

Let’s explore Italy together in the summer.

Visiting Italy In The Summer: Pros & Cons

Italy is a dream come true for many travelers. What better place to be in the warm weather, with little rain, where you can have beach days, visit iconic historical sites, enjoy outdoor dining and walkable cities, and much more?

That said, like anywhere in the world, there are pros and cons to visiting Italy in the summer that you should consider before planning your trip.

Let’s get into them!

11 Amazing Things To Do In Italy In The Summer

Summer is the perfect time to do pretty much everything in Italy – we’ll go into all the best places to visit and top things to do in each location!

The opportunities are endless, from the beaches to the most famous historical sites, especially on long, sunny, dry days!

1. Explore The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast includes 34 miles and 13 towns along the SS163 highway, aka the Amalfi Drive. This highway is a scenic drive that is a must-do if you have a car! Although the road is very tiny and curvy, so it’s more for the adventurous souls.

If you want to drive through, I recommend renting a small car or a motorbike to be more flexible. Start in the morning as there are many traffic jams throughout the day, too.

Each town along the Amalfi Coast has its own unique culture, which is part of why this area is a UNESCO site – meaning you should visit as many as possible!

Towns To Visit On The Amalfi Coast

✅ AMALFI: The oldest maritime republic in Italy

✅ POSITANO: Known for luxury resorts and fine dining, being a historical destination for the rich and famous

✅ RAVELLO: Known for gorgeous cliffside gardens including the one at Villa Cimbrone, a medieval-style estate

✅ PRAIANO: Known for its peaceful and slower pace

✅ MINORI: known for its food, including one of the oldest types of pasta in the world

✅ CETARA: A small fishing village known for its historical buildings and seafood

✅ CONCA DEI MARINI: An ancient Etruscan fishing village known for its fresh seafood

My favorite is Amalfi – it has a great vibe and is in the middle of the coast, so it’s a good idea to book your hotel in Amalfi and explore the coast from there.

💡 PRO TIP: The best way to see the Amalfi Coast is by ferry – there are many ferries throughout the day that you can catch between Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno. So hop on one and explore the coast that way.

My Top Tips For Visiting The Amalfi Coast

🚢 FERRIES: You can travel to the Amalfi Coast by car, ferry, train, bus, but I recommend the ferry because it’s the best experience and for your budget!

A ferry ride is around 20 euros each way, with various routes throughout the summer. They mostly run between Positano, Amalfi and Salerno, with connections between Minori and Maiori. It’s best to book tickets in advance.

🏖 BEACHES: The beaches don’t have sand but pebbles, so be sure to wear the right shoes.

2. Taste Delicious Food In Sicily

Sicily is known for its rich and diverse food scene, which was influenced by its unique location on the Mediterranean. Influences come from Greek, French, Spanish, Jewish, Arab and North Africa as well, and so there are foods you need to try here you won’t find elsewhere!

The first cookbook in Greek was by a Sicilian cook named Mithaecus, who was born in the 5th century BCE, making it the earliest cookbook with a known author.

Some of the best dishes to find in Sicily include arancini, cassata, cannoli, granita brioche, pasta con le sarde, pasta alla Norma, frittola and much more!

3. Go Hiking In The Dolomites

Dolomites are my kind of paradise. Located in northern Italy close to Austria and Switzerland, these Italian mountains offer much. And they’re the most beautiful mountains in Europe thanks to their uniqueness and facilities.

I spent an entire month living in the Dolomites in the summer. I often went skiing to Kronplatz and Sellaronda in the winter. You can’t go wrong with visiting the Dolomites.

I recommend booking your hotel in Val Gardena, as you can get a free bus ticket to explore other areas. Go hiking and visit Seceda, Alpe di Suisi, St. Magdalena, Piz Boe, or Tre Cime (the famous three mountain peaks).

You can also go hut-to-hut hiking in the Dolomites. One popular trek is Alta Via 1. It runs from Lago di Braies to La Pissa. It takes 9 days to complete, and you’ll sleep in mountain huts. I did half of the Alta Via trek and absolutely loved it.

Or you can just sleep in one of the mountain huts (rifugio) for an authentic experience. My favorite huts in the Dolomites are:

🏠 Rifugio Laguazoi
🏠 Rifugio Forcella Pordoi
🏠 Rifugio 5 Torri
🏠 Rifugio Son Forca
🏠 Rifugio Carducci

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4. Learn About The History In Rome

Even though you’ll find significant historical destinations throughout Italy, Rome is the number one spot to go to see the most famous landmarks, which include the Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain (free), St. Peter’s Basilica (free), Vatican Museums, the Spanish Steps (free), Castel Sant’Angelo, and many more places.

You can book tours of some places like the Colosseum, go on group tours to places like the Jewish Quarter and Vatican City, and explore others completely on your own, like the Pantheon and Spanish Steps!

The rise and fall of the Roman Empire was arguably the most famously dramatic in history. From its legendary founding by the twin sons of the god of war to the story of Julius Caesar to the reign of Constantine, this city controlled much of history.

The evidence is still there, just waiting to be explored.

5. Enjoy Sightseeing In Florence

Florence is another must-see destination in Italy at any time of the year, and summer is no exception. It’s my favorite city in Italy.

This major Italian city was the birthplace of the Renaissance and is home to the Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its iconic red dome, the Statue of the David, Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio (free), and the amazing leather shops.

Besides visiting the iconic sites, what I loved most about Florence was wandering around the streets admiring the architecture, chatting with the shopkeepers, admiring the outdoor, accessible statues and fountains, and lingering at outdoor restaurants drinking a cocktail and eating a meal.

💡 PRO TIP: You need to try their famous Steak Florentine in Osteria San Fiorenzo and delicious focaccia at All’Antico Vinaio (I get it every time I come to Florence).

6. See The Glass-Blowing Show In Murano

Murano is an island off of Venice known as Italy’s glass-blowing capital, so going to a show here is a must! The most important thing is to make sure you choose a high-quality experience and steer clear of tourist traps, which won’t give you a quality experience and will push shopping on you more.

Look out for anything that claims to be the “only real place” to see a demonstration, hotel trips, or people with signs near Vaporetto stops. Instead, choose shows from real glass factories that aren’t so strong on sales tactics.

💡 PRO TIP: I recommend booking this tour from Venice to Murano Island and seeing the glass-blowing show. Or take a Vaporetto Line 4.1 or 4.2 from San Marco Square or Line 3. from Piazzale Roma to Murano and visit this factory on your own.

➡ Book a tour to Murano with a glass-blowing show here.

7. Stroll Through The Streets Of Venice

Venice is a popular tourist site in the summer in Italy, but it’s still one of the best things to do because of the unique experiences it offers! It’s known for its uniqueness and the water, plus sites like St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, the Teatro La Fenice, Arsenal, and the neighboring islands.

You can easily take the Alilaguna ferry from the airport and then take water buses and water taxis around the city. The most popular transportation in Venice is the water taxi called Vaporetto.

Another must-to-do thing is the famous Gondola ride. It’s quite touristy (as the entire Venice is), but I think it’s worth experiencing once in a lifetime.

➡ Book your Gondola ride experience here.

8. Visit Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is another famous coastal area in Italy known for its colorful seaside villages built into cliffs, similar to the Amalfi Coast.

Five villages make up this area, including Riomaggiore, where you’ll find that picturesque view you see all over social media; Manarola, known for its wine, hiking, and medieval history; Corniglia, where you’ll find a view with all five villages to photograph; Vernazza, known for its authenticity; and Monterosso, known for its lemon trees.

To get the most out of Cinque Terre, you can hike along the shoreline, take a ferry, or take a scenic train ride between villages.

Head to the beaches and cafes to enjoy the scenery and soak up the summer sun!

9. Enjoy A Boat Ride In Lake Como

Lake Como has been popular with the rich and famous since the Roman Empire and continues to be a must-visit destination full of palaces, villas, spas, and historic sites.

Still, it’s mostly known for the lake, which is known for its unique microclimate, and for watersports like windsurfing and sailing.

Visiting Lake Como is one of the best things to do during an Italian summer, and going on a boat ride is the thing to do here! The main towns to see are Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.

You can take a private boat ride, take a water taxi to travel at your own pace or use the ferry service to travel between villages.

➡ Join this boat excursion and explore the highlights of Lake Como.

10. Taste Delicious Products In Emilia-Romagna Region

I was positively surprised by Parma and the region called Emilia-Romagna. It’s for all the foodies and travelers looking to escape the crowds in Italy in the summertime.

Emilia-Romagna is a major producer of delicious Italian products such as Parmigiano, Balsamico, and Prosciutto. I did a tour on my own, visiting local factories, learning about their produce, and tasting those high-quality products. It was one of the best experiences I had in Italy.

And I highly recommend you do the same. So rent a car in Parma for 2 – 3 days and visit these 3 amazing factories:

👉 Casa Graziano – for prosciutto
👉 Acetaia Leonardi – for Balsamico
👉 Azienda Agricola Bertinelli – for Parmigiano cheese

💡 PRO TIP: You need to make a reservation beforehand. Just write an email to say that you want to join a tour.

11. Go Luxury Shopping In Milan

Milan is best known for luxury shopping, and while you’re there, you can visit additional sites like the Duomo, Sforzesco Castle, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Pinacoteca di Brera, and much more.

Above all, though, the luxury shopping here is among the best in the world. Quintessential areas for shopping include the Quadrilatero d’Oro, known as the “Golden Rectangle” of shopping with four streets filled with luxury shops.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, known as the world’s oldest shopping mall is filled with boutiques and designer stores, plus cafes and amazing architecture!

Some specific shops include 10 Corso Como, which boasts a boutique with a cafe, art gallery, and bookstore. In addition, shop at La Rinascente, a luxury department store; Slam Jam for streetwear; Frip for international and durable brands; and Bivio for luxury consignment finds.

👉 READ ALSO: Milan To Amalfi Coast: Ultimate Guide

Best Places To Visit In Italy In Summer

When deciding where to visit in Italy in the summer, consider factors like the weather and attractions, what you plan to do and how much heat you can handle.

If you haven’t been to the main cities, these are always worth visiting even when they’re hot – just make sure to research and plan your day around the heat!

Below are my absolute favorite places to visit in Italy – if you choose one of them, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed:

📍 Dolomites
📍 Emilia-Romagna
📍 Florence
📍 Tuscany
📍 Rome
📍 Amalfi Coast
📍 Puglia
📍 Sicily

📍 DOLOMITES

I’m a big mountain lover and must admit that the Dolomites might be my favorite place in Europe. They provide a summer heat respite in Italy, with the temperature rarely surpassing 25°C (77°F) in July-August and 20°C (68°F) in June, plus Sept-Oct.

The Dolomites are another UNESCO World Heritage Site and are amazing to visit to see the unique geological formations, wildflowers, go hiking, and enjoy outdoor adventures!

Base yourself in Val Gardena (you’ll get a free bus travel card), and explore some of the most iconic places like Seceda, Alpe di Suisi, or St. Magdalena village.

📍 EMILIA-ROMAGNA

Emilia-Romagna is a region in northern Italy that is warmer than the Dolomites in the summer but amazing to visit for many reasons, including the fact that it’s less popular and, therefore, less crowded in the summer!

Some cities you need to visit include the capital city, Bologna; Tabiano, which boasts gorgeous castles and thermal spring spas; or Modena, famous for the Ferrari factory.

The region is also well known for its cuisine. You can visit local factories and learn about the production of some delicious Italian products, such as prosciutto, Parmigiano cheese, and local Balsamico. The tour always includes a tasting, so you’ll have a great culinary experience.

📍 FLORENCE

Florence is hands-down my favorite city in Italy. It’s a must-see for first-time visitors and a place to return to for many reasons! The city’s historic center has been designated a UNESCO Heritage Site, and you might just find yourself hanging out there and soaking up the atmosphere!

It’s also a fashion capital and one of the world’s most beautiful cities. I can attest to that – you won’t tire of seeing the sites, plus hanging out in cafes and just admiring the beauty surrounding you!

Just be prepared for the heat in Florence – it’s one of the lowest elevation spots in Italy.

📍 TUSCANY

Tuscany is one of the most popular regions to visit in Italy, especially in the summer. Going to the beach is one of the best things to do here in the summertime – head north for more developed ones and south for less developed coastline.

Spend mornings and evenings exploring the city sites (Siena, San Gimignano, Pienza, Montepulciano, Greve in Chianti) and visiting thermal springs (Saturnia). You can also take a ferry to neighboring islands (Elba Island and Giglio Island).

Yet, the most popular thing in Tuscany is to go wine tasting and enjoy the local cuisine (a lot of truffles).

I suggest you rent a car in Florence and make a little road trip around for 1 – 3 days. Visit Siena, Pienza, and the stunning Val d’Orcia. Stop in Montepulciano and go wine tasting in the underground cellars. After, drive around Val d’Orcia and see some iconic spots like the Cypress trees.

📍ROME

Rome is always a good idea, even in the hot and humid summer months – you’ll just need to plan your day around the heat. Plan to stay out of the sun from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm to avoid the worst.

Summer things to do in Rome include heading to the nearby beaches, going to see the outdoor cinema at night, spending time outdoors in the many parks, and spending time in the AC at indoor museums.

Sites like the Colosseum and Castel Sant’Angelo have night tours, so you can go when the sun isn’t a problem (but still dress in cool clothing)!

📍 AMALFI COAST

The Amalfi Coast is also a great place to go in the summer, but expect enormous crowds. Yet, the gorgeous views and experience make it worth braving the crowds, high temperatures, and prices for most.

I don’t recommend visiting the Amalfi Coast for the beaches (they have stones, and you can barely find a spot on the beach). Instead, explore the coast. It’s best to take a ferry from any of the major towns like Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento and explore it. You’ll get the best views of the coast from the ferry.

Then, stroll through each town, go souvenir shopping, and enjoy the vibe. You can also go hiking and visit Ravello.

I recommend booking your hotel in Amalfi town and exploring the coast from here. Stay 3 – 4 days, and on one day, make a day trip to the romantic island, Capri.

📍 PUGLIA

Puglia is surrounded by water and has the longest coastline on the mainland, meaning more ocean breezes and more beaches to visit when it gets hot, making this area one of the best to visit during the summer in Italy.

Aside from the coast, there are seaside towns to visit, including Bari, Lecce, Otranto and Vieste, as well as a lot of countryside where you can visit national parks and do more outdoor activities! Puglia also has many summer festivals to attend if you’re there at the right times.

📍 SICILY

Sicily is less hot and less expensive than more popular destinations in the summer, but it’s also full of hills and distinct from the more popular areas with less colorful architecture, so it may not measure up to the photographic standards of some of the more Instagram-famous places.

It’s worth visiting the archaeological sites, including the Valley of the Temples, plus other local spots, including nature reserves and markets (a lot of cheap food).

Another thing you can’t miss is making a day trip to Etna volcano. You can only get there with a local guide. And let me tell you – you’ll learn a lot about this active volcano, and the views are incredible.

➡ Join this guided tour to the Etna volcano with a local.

Italy In Summer: Weather

Summer in Italy is known for hot and dry weather throughout the majority of the country, which makes it ideal for spending time on the beaches and doing outdoor activities. The average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) throughout the country.

Yet, due to its diversity, and the weather changes in each part. So, in this section, I’ll cover what the weather is like in each part of Italy, so you can prepare for your vacation and pack accordingly.

June Weather In Italy

Summer in Italy begins in June, and the weather is warm and sunny. Here’s what you can expect in each region during this month:

Northern Italy (Dolomites)

In June, the weather in Northern Italy is pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It’s perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and sightseeing without having to sweat as much as other regions, plus you’ll find amazing landscapes to admire and photograph with lush greenery and clear skies.

More activities to do here include mountain biking, paragliding, and visiting the many charming alpine villages.

Central Italy (Florence, Tuscany, Cinque Terre, Rome)

Central Italy has warm and sunny days throughout June, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).

It’s a great time to visit historic cities, vineyards, and beaches, and especially to admire the landscapes of Tuscany and the Cinque Terre. Italian cuisine is always delicious, and you can find all kinds of fresh pasta, seafood, and gelato.

Southern Italy (Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Sicily)

Southern Italy has hot and sunny weather throughout June, with temperatures averaging between 25°C and 30°C (77°F and 86°F).

The warm and sunny, dry weather is perfect for spending time at the beach and in the water, sitting at outdoor cafes, and visiting historical sites.

July Weather In Italy

July in Italy is peak summer, with temperatures reaching their highest numbers and clear skies. Here’s what you can expect in each region during this month:

Northern Italy (Dolomites)

Northern Italy experiences warm temperatures in July, with averages ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). It’s a fantastic time for outdoor activities and exploring villages, with weather that’s a bit cooler than other regions.

Cultural events and festivals also happen in July, and you can attend if you’re visiting when they’re taking place.

Central Italy (Florence, Tuscany, Cinque Terre, Rome)

Central Italy gets hot and sunny in July, with temps soaring to averages between 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). It’s still a great time to see the major sites, and when it’s too hot, you can go on night tours of many of these, such as the Colosseum.

You can also visit the coastline and enjoy the refreshing water, plus go wine tasting and sit at outdoor cafes.

Southern Italy (Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Sicily)

Southern Italy in July is scorching, with averages ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). With the heat, July is a great time to experience the beaches and nightlife in Southern Italy, especially the Amalfi Coast beaches!

You can also explore the ancient ruins in places like Sicily and the baroque architecture in Puglia – just be sure to stop for gelato to cool off, and drink a lot of water and electrolytes!

August Weather In July

August weather in Italy continues to be hot and dry, and summer vacationers abound throughout the country. Here’s what you can expect in each region during this month:

Northern Italy (Dolomites)

Northern Italy in August is warm and sunny, with averages ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Since the weather in Northern Italy is still cooler during August, this is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, as well as spending time on the lakes!

August also brings more storms and occasional rain, so be prepared.

Central Italy (Florence, Tuscany, Cinque Terre, Rome)

Central Italy is hot and sunny throughout August, with temperatures averaging between 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Spend hot days inside air-conditioned museums like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and Vatican City in Rome, and take advantage of night tours and nightlife when the sun has gone down.

You can also see things during the day; just break up your tour with gelato and indoor stops as needed!

Southern Italy (Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Sicily)

Southern Italy continues to be a scorcher during August, with averages ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Since it’s still hot, it’s the perfect time for beach vacations, exploring ancient ruins, and experiencing nightlife in Southern Italy.

Head to the Amalfi Coast for beaches and explore the islands, visit the villages of Puglia, or go to historic sites like the Valley of the Temples in Sicily. Just don’t forget to drink water, plus wear a hat and sunscreen!

👉 READ ALSO: How Far Is Paris From Italy? Ultimate Guide

My Tips For Visiting Italy In The Summer

I aim to always give you a good picture of what to expect from each country you visit. I want to provide some tips to help you prepare and have a great time in Italy.

Here are my tops travel tips for Italy if you’re visiting in the summer:

👉 Be prepared for crowds
👉 It’s gonna be hot
👉 Higher prices – mainly for accommodation
👉 Book your accommodation in advance
👉 Have a plan but remain flexible

👉 Be Prepared For Crowds

Many of the most popular locations in Italy can be extremely crowded in the summer months because this is peak tourist season!

So first and foremost, be mentally prepared – don’t think you’re going to have anything all to yourself and be ready to have patience when there are lines and such.

Also, if you want to see a site without crowds, you’ll need to get up extra early in the morning to arrive – this is especially important if you want good photos.

👉 It’s Gonna Be Hot

Exploring outdoors in extreme heat while traveling can be tricky. You must listen to yourself and the people with you, and don’t push yourself beyond your limits. Have a plan for getting out of the heat when needed, and don’t be afraid to change or cancel plans if you must – health is more important!

In addition, wear a hat, sunscreen, and good walking shoes, and bring lots of electrolytes to mix with your water. I also recommend bringing snacks with protein, which can help to restore your energy.

The best way to see places in the hottest months is to go to outdoor spots early in the morning – aim to finish before 11:30 am – then do indoor activities or the beach until the evening.

👉 Higher Prices – Mainly For Accommodation

While visiting Italy during the shoulder seasons can be easier on your budget, summer is the peak tourist time, and prices increase a lot, especially for hotels and accommodation. So prepare to have a bigger budget. It’s just the way it is.

If you want to cut your costs, use public transportation and eat street food, or use a travel credit card – for no foreign transaction fees, plus the ability to rack up points – and a debit card with a bank like Wise.

👉 Book Your Accommodation In Advance

Because of the high number of tourists flocking to Italy in the summer, it’s important to book your accommodations well in advance to secure your preferred places and possibly get the best deals.

I recommend looking and booking your accommodation for the summer already end of February, in March, before the summer comes. I’ve experienced it myself, so if you don’t want all the good hotels to be fully booked, start booking already in March.

*NOTE: If you want to go hut-to-hut hiking in the Dolomites, book a spot in the mountain huts already in December or the beginning of January (writing based on my experience). In February, it’s gonna be too late.

👉 Have a Plan But Remain Flexible

There’s nothing more stressful than when you’re not ready to go with the flow on a trip – I’ve been guilty of this at times. But, my best travel memories have happened when I decide to go with whatever happens and be ready to change plans.

Even if that means I skip the crazy long line to the Pantheon and sit outdoors at the cafe across from it, taking in the view and drinking an Aperol spritz! Especially when it’s hot and crowded, tensions can escalate when you let yourself stress.

Remember, this is Italy, where the motto is “La Dolce Vita,” or the sweet life, taking your time and enjoying the everyday moments of life. And Italy is full of things to enjoy all around you!

What To Avoid In Italy In The Summer

While Italy is a dream destination, there are things I recommend avoiding to make your trip easier and more enjoyable. By avoiding these things, you can spend more time exploring and relaxing and less time worrying about things like money or baggage!

❌ Don’t buy cheap tourist souvenirs (unless, like me, you need a magnet for your mom that takes little room in your bags!)

❌ Be aware of your surroundings to avoid pickpockets and other scams

❌ Don’t overpack

❌ Don’t let yourself be in the sun for too long

❌ Don’t overdo the pasta, as it’s heavy and can make you feel worse in the summer heat

What To Pack For Your Trip To Italy In The Summer

If you’re wondering what to pack when visiting Italy, especially in the summertime, I’ve prepared a detailed guide on how to pack and what to pack. It contains information about packing, different things to think about when preparing for your trip, and a checklist so you can follow each step and be sure not to forget anything.

I’ve also written a separate article about packing for Italy, with detailed information on each item and practical tips. I’ve also included what exactly I pack each summer when I go to Italy with my photos.

Get my packing list for Italy in summer by clicking on the image below:

Where To Stay In Italy In The Summer

It depends on your itinerary and which places you want to visit. I recommend making a base in a major town or city and exploring the area for a few days. Then, move to another city or town to explore a different part of Italy.

The main areas I recommend visiting are the best places I mentioned in this article. So, base yourself in one of these places. Below each place, I’ve also listed my favorite hotels I recommend booking in the area.

🏠 Dolomites

Dolomites are the mountains in northern Italy. They consist of several areas. Some of the most famous are:

✔ Val Gardena
✔ Val di Fassa
✔Val di Funes
✔ Tre Cime
✔ Cortina d’Ampezzo

I recommend staying in Val Gardena in the Dolomites as it offers some of the best places to visit. You’ll also get a free card for public buses to explore other areas, too.

Here are my favorite hotels to book in Val Gardena:

➡ Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti – luxury hotel – check prices & availability here
➡ Boutique Hotel Planlim – mid-range hotel – check prices & availability here
➡ Monte Pana Dolomites Hotel – mid-range hotel – check prices & availability here
➡ ICARO Hotel – mid-range hotel – check prices & availability here
➡ Apart Lara Ruveda – apartment – check prices & availability here

🏠 Lake Como

Lake Como is the most beautiful lake in Italy, and it’s true. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountains, it’s a great spot to relax. But be prepared for the crowds.

The best towns to base yourself in when visiting Lake Como are:

✔ Como
✔Bellagio
✔ Varenna

These towns are well-connected by local ferries, so you can explore the entire lake and its highlights.

I recommend booking the following hotels in these locations:

➡ Piazza Cavour Lake View – apartment in Como – check prices & availability here
➡ Vista Palazzo – luxury hotel in Como – check prices & availability here
➡ Casa Carlo Bellagio – apartment in Bellagio – check prices & availability here
➡ Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni – luxury hotel in Bellagio – check prices & availability here
➡ Divina Vita Apartments – apartment in Varenna – check prices & availability here
➡ Hotel Villa Cipressi – luxury hotel in Varenna – check prices & availability here

🏠 Emilia-Romagna

If you want to visit the Emilia-Romagna region and taste some of the local Italian and delicious products such as prosciutto, Parmigiano cheese, or balsamico, I recommend baking a base in Bologna. It’s one of the oldest cities in Italy, full of history and, of course, delicious food.

Here are my top hotel recommendations for Bologna:

➡ Casa Petronio Apartments – apartment – check prices & availability here
➡ I Portici Hotel Bologna – luxury hotel in Como – check prices & availability here
➡ Grand Hotel Majestic – luxury hotel – check prices & availability here

🏠 Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is another popular destination where you might want to go. But as with the Amalfi Coast, prepare for the crowds in the summer.

It has 5 main towns where you can book accommodation:

✔ Monterosso – largest town with most facilities
✔ Vernazza – the most beautiful
✔ Corniglia – in the heart of Cinque Terre
✔ Manarola – very famous and picturesque
✔ Riomaggiore – most romantic town to be

If you want to experience the proper taste of Cinque Terre, I recommend staying in Vernazza or Riomaggiore.

Here are my favorite apartments in these areas in Cinque Terre:

➡ MADA Charm Apartments Piazza – apartment in Vernazza – check prices & availability here
➡ Vernazza Luxury Apartment – luxury apartment in Vernazza – check prices & availability here
➡ Miramare love nest 5terreparco – apartment in Riomaggiore – check prices & availability here
➡ L’Incanto Divino – apartment in Riomaggiore – check prices & availability

🏠 Florence

Florence is my favorite city in Italy, and it’s a great place to stay if you want to explore the city and surrounding areas like Tuscany, Pisa, or Lucca.

Here are my top recommendations for hotels/apartments in Florence:

➡ Chic Stay Boutique Apartments – apartment – check prices & availability here
➡ The Artist’s Palace Florence – luxury hotel in Como – check prices & availability here
➡ Arte Boutique Hotel – luxury hotel – check prices & availability here

🏠 Tuscany

When it comes to Tuscany, I think the most beautiful part is either Chianti or Val d’Orcia. If you want to experience authentic Tuscany with the cypress trees and stunning towns and enjoy many wine-tasting sessions, then I recommend staying in Val d’Orcia.

These are the main towns in Val d’Orcia:

✔ Pienza
✔ Montalcino
✔ Montepulciano
✔ Chianciano Terme

Below, I’m giving you my favorite hotels in Val d’Orcia that I always like to recommend to my clients when creating itineraries for Tuscany (and they love them):

➡ Poggio ai Gelsi – close to Pienza – check prices & availability here
➡ Mastrojanni Relais – close to Montalcino – check prices & availability here
➡ La Pievina – close to Montepulciano – check prices & availability here
➡ Agriturismo Humile – close to Chianciano Terme – check prices & availability here

🏠 Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is another popular area, especially for a romantic gateway and all the honeymooners. It’s truly stunning but also super crowded. So if you want the atmosphere to be really romantic, I recommend visiting in May or September.

These are the main towns on the Amalfi Coast, where you can stay (that are also well-connected by ferries):

✔ Sorrento
✔ Positano
✔ Amalfi
✔ Salerno

Sorrento is well-connected and has beautiful hotels and more facilities. Positano is truly romantic, with luxury hotels and high-end facilities.

Amalfi is in the heart of the coast, and it’s my favorite place to stay, thanks to its vibe and hotels. And Salerno is the biggest city, but a bit off the coast, so I don’t recommend staying here.

These are my favorite hotels/apartments on the Amalfi Coast for you:

➡ Hotel Miramalfi – mid-range hotel with seaviees in Amalfi – check prices & availability here
➡ Anantara Convento Di Amalfi – luxury hotel in Amalfi – check prices & availability here
➡ Positano Luxury Villas – luxury villas in Positano – check prices & availability here
➡ Grand Hotel Capodimonte – luxury hotel in Sorrento – check prices & availability here

🏠 Rome

If you’re visiting Italy, Rome is almost a must-to-see place. It’s full of history, interesting architecture, and delicious food.

If you want to visit Rome, I recommend staying in these hotels/apartments:

➡ Umilta 36 – mid-range hotel close to Trevi – check prices & availability here
➡ Palazzo Ripetta – luxury hotel near the Spanish Steps – check prices & availability here
➡ Horti 14 Borto Trastevere Hotel – mid-range hotel in Trastevere (best area for food & drinks) – check prices & availability here
➡ II Corso Comfort Rooms – apartment at Via Corso shopping street – check prices & availability here

🏠 Puglia

Puglia is a less-known destination in Italy, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it might be the perfect place to visit. You can come to enjoy local wine, see stunning architecture, and enjoy looking at the locals.

The main towns in Puglia are:

✔ Bari
✔ Lecce
✔ Monopoli
✔ Alberobello

I recommend staying in one of these hotels when visiting Puglia:

➡ Via Bozzi Luxury Homes – apartment in Bari – check prices & availability here
➡ Arvian B&B – apartments in Bari – check prices & availability here
➡ Trullo Ninetta – traditional apartment in Alberobello – check prices & availability here
➡ Palazzo Scotto – mid-range hotel in Alberobello – check prices & availability here
➡ Patria Palace Lecce – luxury hotel in Lecce – check prices & availability here

🏠 Sicily

Sicily is like a different Italian world. Isolated from the mainland, it’s the end of the boot on the map. You can come here to experience the local life, eat delicious food, enjoy the beaches, archaeological sites, and climb up the active volcano – Etna.

The main towns in Sicily are:

✔ Palermo
✔ Catania
✔ Marsala

I recommend staying in one of these hotels when visiting Sicily:

➡ Bastione Spasimo Boutique Hotel – mid-range hotel in Palermo – check prices & availability here
➡ One – apartment in Palermo – check prices & availability here
➡ ETNEA Suite 270 – mid-range hotel in Catania – check prices & availability here
➡ B&B Palazzo Perrotta – luxury-range hotel in Catania check prices & availability here
➡ B&B Nonno Gino – apartment in Marsala – check prices & availability here
➡ Best Western Hotel Stella – mid-range hotel in Marsala – check prices & availability here

Italy Summer Trip Itinerary

I love planning trips for you guys, and this article is no different. Now you know what to expect from Italy in the summer. I’ve included all the information you need to know before planning your trip.

Let’s put the puzzles together now – I’ve also created an itinerary you can follow in the summer to visit the best places in Italy.

You can use it for 7 days, 10 days, or 14 days in Italy:

ITALY SUMMER ITINERARY:	NOTES:
0.DAY: Fly To Venice	Starting point of this itinerary is Venice – you can stay 1 night in Mestre area of Venice.
1. DAY: Venice – Cortina d’Ampezzo	Pick up your rental car in Venice and drive to Cortina d’Ampezzo (Dolomites) + visit Lago di Braies in the afternoon by car
2. DAY: Cortina d’Ampezzo	Spend the day in Cortina d’Ampezzo. If you like hiking, hike up to Tofana di Mezzo or take a cable car to Tofana and enjoy stunning views.
3. DAY: Cortina d’Ampezzo – Ortisei	Enjoy one of the most beautiful rides through mountain passes in the Dolomites. You’ll drive through Passo Falzarego and Passo Gardena until you reach Ortisei.
4. DAY: Ortisei (Val Gardena)	Enjoy a day in Val Gardena visiting its 2 highlights – you can either take a cable car up to Seceda from Ortisei and enjoy the views and local mountain huts. Or take a cable car to Alpe di Suisi, go hiking (easy hikes), and immerse into the local atmosphere.
5. DAY: Ortisei – Lago Di Garda – Verona	Today, you”l drive from the Dolomites south to Verona. On the way, I highly recommend visiting Malcesine at the Lake Garda. Stop your car, have lunch there, and you can even take a local boat to Limone Sul Garda. Then, drive alongside the lake to Verona.
6. DAY: Verona – Florence	In the morning, you can stroll through Verona a bit and enjoy its atmosphere. After, drive to Florence. On the way, I recommend visiting Acetaia Leonardi (balsamico factory) and learn about balsamico production + taste some samples. It’s super interesting.
7. Florence	Enjoy a day in Florence
8. Florence – Siena – Val d’Orcia	Drive from Florence to Siena, and visit Siena for about 2 – 3 hours. In the afternoon, drive to Val d’Orcia in Tuscany, check in to your beautiful hotel and enjoy the atmosphere with wine tasting.
9. Val d’Orcia	Make a little road trip around Val d’Orcia – visit Pienza, Montepulciano, Cypress Trees, and Montalcino.
10. Val d’Orcia – Rome	Drive from Val d’Orcia to Rome. On the way, you can visit the famous thermal baths ‘Saturnia‘ (but be prepared for them to be very crowded).
11. Rome	Enjoy Rome today and go sightseeing: Piazzal del Popolo, Spanish Steps, Trevi, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Campo di Fiori, Castel Saint Angelo, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City & Museums
12. Rome	Sightseeing in Rome & optional cooking class
13. Day Trip To Naples & Capri	Today, you can make a day trip to Naples, Pompei, Capri Island, or even visit the Amalfi Coast. In the evening, come back to Rome. Or you can stay a night in Naples and fly out from Naples if you need more time to enjoy the area.
14. Rome	Enjoy Rome & Fly back home

NOTE: This is a full 14-day itinerary for Italy that will help you to see the highlights. Here is what you can do, if you have less time:

👉 If you only have 7 days in Italy, on the day you land, drive from Venice to Ortisei (skip Cortina d’Ampezzo). Then follow the itinerary and finish in Florence.

👉 If you have 10 days in Italy, also drive from Venice to Ortisei on the first day (skip Cortina d’Ampezzo). Then follow the itinerary and finish in Rome. You can also skip Verona if you want to enjoy Naples and Amalfi Coast from Rome in a day.

FAQs

I’ve also answered some of the frequently asked questions about the summertime in Italy. So check my answers below:

What Is The Best Month To Visit Italy?

The shoulder seasons, which are from April to June and September to October, are the best times to visit Italy for costs, weather, and fewer crowds. However, summer is the most popular time and can be the best for you if you’re looking for summer weather, more crowds, and lots of beach time.

Is It Worth Visiting Italy In Summer?

Italy is always worth visiting – and yes, it’s worth it in the summer as long as you have a plan that considers the higher temperatures, prices, and crowds! Spending time at the beach and on the water, plus going to sites in the morning when it’s cooler, are just some ways to make summer in Italy a positive experience.

What Is The Coolest Part Of Italy In Summer?

Northern Italy, especially the Dolomites, is the coolest part of the country in the summer because of the higher elevation and the Dolomite mountains. You can easily enjoy hiking, mountain biking, lake adventures, and more here in comfortable temperatures!

Is Italy Expensive In The Summer?

Yes, Italy is more expensive in the summer than other times of the year because of the high demand from tourists, making it peak season. When researching and planning in advance, you can still find cheaper options to save on a trip.

Is It Too Hot To Go To Italy In June?

For most people, June isn’t too hot, as it doesn’t heat up the most until July and August. I think June is the best summer month to explore Italy when it comes to the weather and temperatures.

However, some people might find Southern Italy too hot. If you want to avoid the heat, Northern Italy is much cooler than the rest of the country, especially the Dolomites.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To Italy?

October, November, January, and February are usually the cheapest months to visit Italy because there are fewer tourists during this time, and there are more off-season discounts and promotional offers for attractions, flights, and accommodations.

WRAP-UP: Italy In Summer

This is what you can expect from Italy in the summer. I would personally avoid visiting Italy in July and August just because of the crowds. It always worsens my experience, and I lack the local aspect of life. My favorite time to visit Italy is May and September. There is something magical about seeing the places where no people are around, and you can see locals enjoying La Dolce Vita.

If you have any questions or need help planning your trip to Italy, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com. I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Italy Travels!

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