Italy in July: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

July is a great time to visit Italy as the summer season truly settles in. Cities come alive, countryside havens burst with color, and sunny and long days are ideal for lazing on Italian beaches.

July is a peak travel month in Italy, with many international visitors taking advantage of the warm weather and peak-summer vibes. You will find that popular sites and picturesque destinations will see crowds because of the popularity of the season, but working with a travel specialist can help you explore and discover Italy away from the typical July masses.

You can create an experience that combines culture and cuisine as you start your day with visits to famous ruins, perhaps winding down with a gondola ride if you find yourself in Venice, then welcoming a warm night with a plate of perfectly prepared pasta, serenaded by a traditional Italian tune.

July in Italy is hot as the summer season enters full swing. Temperatures are high as you travel south, with a slightly cooler climate up north. Rainfall is mostly non-existent in July, making it a great time to explore the outdoors, gaining a little reprieve from the heat when you visit mountainous regions. If you choose to vacation in regions such as Sicily or Puglia, your daily highs could reach around 86F°, while spending time in the Lombardy or Vento regions will see you sipping local wine, surrounded by picturesque vineyards, in comfortable temperatures averaging between 77°F and 86°F. Sardinia and Sicily are perfect destinations if you want to spend quality beach time under a warm Italian summer sun. The glorious weather does draw local crowds as Italians travel to these popular islands for their summer escape.

Florence • Best Place for Sightseeing

Florence is a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture, and the extended daylight hours and warm days allow for ample time to explore its rich cultural heritage. To avoid the heat and summer crowds, it is advisable to visit key sites such as the Uffizi Gallery or Accademia as soon as they open or just before closing time. In July, Florence hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals that, when combined with the city’s historical significance, make this an exciting time to visit. You can discover the Estate Fiorentina festival, which features theater performances and art exhibitions in beautiful outdoor settings. You can escape the busy city center and spend a pleasant, sunny afternoon wandering the Boboli Gardens at the Pitti Palace on the south side of the Arno River. The garden contains numerous Renaissance statues and fountains.

Sardinia • Best Place for Great Weather

If you are looking to make the most of Italy’s glorious July weather, you may want to spend time in Sardinia, the sunny, warm days creating the perfect atmosphere for beach activities or simply lazing on white or golden sand. Visit the main beach of Santa Teresa di Gallura, where the sand is light in color and texture and the water is some of the shallowest on the island. This is ideal if you want to spend time swimming and basking in the sun. If you find yourself in Costa Smeralda, you can enjoy stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters or enjoy the fantastic nightlife and myriad classic dining options. Escape the July heat with an early-morning or late-afternoon stroll through the narrow streets of Castelsardo, the medieval town perched on a hill that offers incredible views of the Gulf of Asinara.

Puglia • Best Place for Families with Children

Discover the natural beauty and fun activities you can enjoy when discovering Puglia with your family in July. Enter the Castellana Caves with their impressive rock formations and explore the charming streets and fascinating trulli houses with their conical roofs in Alberobello. Puglia boasts beautiful sandy beaches that are perfect for families, with shallow waters at beaches like Torre Lapillo and Capitolo making for a great day of sun and swimming in July. Dolphin watching is a popular pastime for the entire family when you take a boat ride in the Gulf of Taranto, providing an educational and memorable experience. You and your family can enjoy a horseback riding experience, allowing you and your children to explore the beautiful countryside while learning about local flora and fauna. Then take your family vacation indoors to add some flavor to your vacation by indulging in a cooking class, where you will learn to make traditional Puglian dishes such as orecchiette pasta.

Lake Como • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

When you visit Lake Como, you will discover an exceptional destination for romantic scenery, especially in July. With crystal-clear waters reflecting the summer sky and landscaped gardens in full bloom, its natural beauty, charming towns, and a variety of romantic activities make exploring Lake Como a brilliant idea. The bright colors of summer and dramatic mountains and lush greenery provide a picturesque backdrop for romantic getaways, placing you in the perfect place to enjoy hiking or a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore promenades. Scenic trails and viewpoints offer perfect spots for you to relax in a romantic setting. Lake Como boasts numerous restaurants with terraces overlooking the water, providing the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. Candlelit meals with stunning views create a magical atmosphere for you and your loved one to appreciate.

Umbria • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Take yourself away from the hustle and bustle of sizzling summer hotspots by spending time in the central region of Umbria. Staying in Umbria in July can be a good idea for avoiding crowds due to its relatively lower tourist traffic compared to more popular regions such as Tuscany. Visiting Umbria in July offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and a more peaceful atmosphere. The region is dotted with picturesque villages and historic sites, making Umbira an ideal choice for you to explore charming towns like Assisi, Perugia, and Spello without the crowds. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through picturesque villages, historical sites, and local markets, or soak up the natural beauty of the landscape on a hike or cycling tour, all far away from the summer crowds often associated with coastal or urban areas.

Dive into a World of Jazz in Umbria

You are invited to enjoy a showcase of various jazz styles, including traditional, modern, and fusion, with concerts held in various historic venues around Perugia. This renowned annual music event takes place over 10 days during July, with all venues offering picturesque backdrops. The festival will also offer you the chance to attend a workshop or masterclass conducted by renowned musicians. Take some time to immerse yourself in the culture of Umbria, enjoying music, culinary delights, and a truly festive atmosphere in Perugia.

Sip and Savor Lemon-Flavored Treats in Naples

Treat yourself to a wide array of lemon-based dishes, including lemon cakes, limoncello, and various appetizers and desserts that highlight the fruit’s refreshing flavor. This all takes place in Massa Lubrense in Naples, the Lemon Festival taking place over two days, transforming the picturesque town into a lively celebration of local culture and cuisine. Step out onto colorfully decorated streets where vendors man their stands proudly. Taste and purchase lemon products while live performances, cultural activities, and entertainment suitable for all ages create a festive atmosphere.

Spend a Day at the Races in Sardinia

Visit the island of Sardinia and attend the L'ardia Di San Costantino festival and horse race. Taking place annually on July 6 and 7, the event commemorates Constantine’s victory over Maxentius and presents a thrilling horse race around the Sanctuary of San Costantino. About 100 riders race down a steep hill, circle the sanctuary seven times, and finish at a dry fountain. The atmosphere is intense, almost chaotic, with hundreds of hooves thundering around the course. Afterward, celebrate with traditional food and drinks. This deeply rooted Sardinian tradition offers a unique glimpse into the island's intriguing history.

Italy is a country brimming with historic sites, charming villages, and stunning scenery, and the hot weather and clear, long days in July make this an ideal time to explore the country and its islands.

Discover Italy’s rich history in popular cities or escape to tranquil lakes or idyllic beaches by finding more ideas for your trip with our Italy tours or Italy travel guide.