Dreaming of a summer getaway filled with sun-kissed beaches, delectable cuisine, and captivating landscapes? Look no further than Italy! If you’re open to new adventures this year, then you’re at the right place. If ITALIAN SUMMER was not on your bucket list, then it is definitely worth adding it to your bucket list. From Lake Como’s magical shores to Rome’s busy streets, Italy has many things that’ll make a memorable summer. In this guide, we’ll show you the best places to see, tell you what to pack, share must-have experiences and give tips to enjoy your Italian journey to the fullest.
Top Destinations for Summer in Italy
When it comes to summer destinations in Italy, the options are endless. Imagine charming towns, ancient cities, and stunning shorelines ready for you. Now, check out these hot picks for a visit:
- Rome: Rome, Italy’s heart, stores gems of old relics, revived art, and food wonders. Visit famous spots like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Or just stroll along the stone-paved ways to enjoy the lively surroundings.
- Venice: They call Venice the “City of Canals,” and boy, is it unique! The twisting streets can make you feel like you’re in a maze, and just wait until you see the splendor of St. Mark’s Basilica! And don’t forget the gondola rides on those famous waterways.
- Lake Como: Have you heard of Lake Como? It’s in Northern Italy. Think about it. A place known for beautiful views, cute little towns, and expensive homes. Get a taste of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. Or, just chill by the lake. It’s peaceful there.
- Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast lays out a beautiful view with its bold cliffs, quaint villages in soft hues, and pristine blue waters. It stretches across the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are must visit spots. Here, you can explore winding lanes, relish in freshly caught seafood, and delight in wide cityscape sights.
- Portofino: Imagine being in Italy’s Riviera, finding a hidden gem called Portofino. It’s a lovely, quaint fishing town, rich with color. It’s known for unique stores and even famous faces. Walk on the waterfront, eat under the open sky right next to the water, or just hop on a boat for a breathtaking tour of the beautiful coastline.
- Capri: Nestled in Naples Bay, Capri island is a blend of unspoiled beauty and elegance. Visit the renowned Blue Grotto, meander around the pleasant town of Anacapri, or hop on a chairlift to Monte Solaro’s peak for stunning sights of the island and more.
- Tuscany: Tuscany, a land of gentle hills, grape fields, and ancient cities. It’s the heart of Italy’s charm. Florence offers a look into the past with its Renaissance-style buildings and art. Taste exquisite wines in Chianti. Relax in the hill-encircled towns of Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano.
- Sicily: Sicily, the biggest island in Italy, is a treasure chest full of historic wonders, diverse traditions, and breathtaking nature. Discover old Greek holy places, Byzantine tile artworks, and Baroque-style religious buildings in cities such as Palermo, Catania, and Syracuse. Alternatively, take time to unwind under the sun at Sicily’s untouched sandy shores.
Italian Summer Fashion: What to Pack
Summer wear in Italy perfectly marries elegance, ease, and adaptability. Wander the ancient alleys or bask seaside, don’t forget these must-haves:
Straw Bag: An accessory that’s not just trendy but useful too, for keeping your important items. It also adds a hint of country appeal to your look. Pick a braided carry-all or a firm straw bag to go nicely with your summer clothes. Shop Here:
ONLY
Pink Straw Bag
Marks & Spencer
Straw Tote Bag
Prada
Interwoven Logo Tote Bag
Hat: Protect yourself from the sun in style with a chic hat that not only shields your face from harmful UV rays but also adds a fashionable flair to your look. Whether you prefer a wide-brimmed sun hat, a classic fedora, or a trendy bucket hat, make sure to pack one for your Italian summer adventures. Shop Here:
H&M
Straw Hat
Adidas Sambas: Adidas Sambas, adaptable and cozy, are an ideal shoe pick for roaming around Italian towns, strolling on bumpy paths, or jumping into nature. Besides, their classic style pairs with anything, from simple shorts and tees to light, airy dresses. Shop Here:
Adidas
Samba OG Shoes
Linen Shirt and Pants: Stay relaxed and stylish in easy-breezy linen pieces that show off effortless class. Match a sharp white linen top with fitted trousers or a fluid skirt. It’s an ageless summer outfit that can easily transition from exploring Rome to open-air meals in Florence. Shop Here:
ZARA
Oversize Linen Blend Shirt
Uniqlo
Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt (Available in 7 Different Colors)
H&M
Linen trousers
Uniqlo
Linen Cotton Shorts (Available in 6 Different Colors)
Tank Tops: Enjoy the relaxed feel of summer with a collection of tank tops in airy materials and lively colors. Regardless of your choice between traditional neutrals or daring patterns, tank tops act as a flexible clothing staple. You can enhance them with eye-catching accessories or pair them under a thin jacket for chillier nights. Shop Here;
Uniqlo
AIRism Bra Sleeveless Top
Bikinis: PBring along various chic swimsuits or bikinis to bask in Italy’s breath-taking beaches or for a restful day by a plush resort’s pool. Choose eye-catching hues and patterns or fun prints to create ripples wherever you head to. Shop Here:
ZARA
Asymmetric Cut-Out Swimsuit
ZARA
Bandeau Swimsuit With Metal Pieces
Beach Dress: Grab a comfy, light beach dress for easy style during your beach fun. Go for a loose maxi dress or a cool cover-up, either way, a beach dress smoothly takes you from catching the rays to enjoying cocktails by the beach. Shop Here:
H&M
Crochet-Look Beach Dress
Cinq A Sept
Kerry Midi Beach Dress
White Summer Dress: A trip to Italy isn’t complete without a white summer dress. The options? Maybe a light sundress, a graceful maxi dress, or an elegant midi dress. White symbolizes the heart of summer style. It’s perfect with sun-softened skin and gold trinkets. Shop here:
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Dress
ZARA
Midi Cami Dress
Flip Flops: Want cool and cozy feet? Grab some trendy flip flops or sandals! They’re great for relaxing beach walks or discovering cute coast towns. Choose plain colors or shiny metallics to mix and match with your summer outfits. Shop Here:
Sunglasses: Ward off the dazzling Italian sun with a stylish set of shades. Choose large frames or timeless aviators to inject some sophistication into your summer outfit while shielding your eyes from damaging UV rays. Shop Here:
Miu Miu Eyewear
Oval-Frame Tinted-Lenses Sunglasses
VEHLA
Dixie – Choc Tort/Cinnamon
Joker And Witch
Carro Rectangular Beige Sunglasses
PRERTO
Personalized Black Sunglasses
Comfortable Heels: Boost your night outfit’s elegance with comfortable heels. Choose block heels or wedges. They’re stable and supportive. They let you easily dance all night. Especially when you’re enjoying Italy’s lively night scene. Shop Here:
CAI
Bandaged in White Heel
CAI
Buckled Thong White Heel
Prada
55mm Patent-Leather Slingback pumps
Evening Dresses: Boost your nighttime outfit with refined dresses made of light materials and shapes that enhance your figure. Pick from streamlined slip dresses to airy maxi dresses. Go for styles that mirror your individual preference, soaking in the allure and sophistication of evenings in Italy. Shop Here:
ZARA
CUT-OUT STRETCH DRESS
ZARA
Fitted Strapless Dress
Self-Portrait
Metallic Tiered Midi Dress
Denim Shorts: Denim shorts are a versatile, handy item for summer. You can make them fit any event. Match them with a light top and slip-ons for an easy, daytime vibe. Or, level them up with a classy jacket and high-heels for a stylish nighttime outfit. Shop here:
ZARA
TRF High-Waist Denim Ripped Shorts
H&M
High Denim Shorts
Skirts: Summer calls for an upgrade of your attire with elegant skirts in gentle pastel tones or dynamic patterns. You can go for either midi or maxi, both of which can be teamed up with a minimalist-style tank top or a chic fitted crop top for an approachable yet trendy appearance. Shop Here:
H&M
Tiered Skirt
Essential Italian Experiences
Touring Italy’s famous sights and picturesque views is certainly a key part of any summer getaway. Yet, it’s living the culture that truly marks your journey. Check out these must-do Italian experiences for your plan:
Live Pasta and Pizza Class: Dive deep, find your inner cook, and master the secrets of creating real Italian pasta and pizza on your own. From shaping dough to whipping up that ideal sauce, a practical cooking class presents an engaging and delightful avenue to explore Italy’s cooking customs.
Day Tours: Immerse yourself in the plentiful past and rich culture of Italy with fun and informative day tours. Guide-led strolls to time-honored landmarks, fossilized ruins, and lesser-known treasures await you. Enjoy exploring Pompeii’s decayed snapshot of historic chaos. Marvel at Michelangelo’s divine art in the Sistine Chapel and wander through the captivating hamlets of Cinque Terre. A knowledgeable guide adds color and depth to your journey, making each moment even more memorable.
Capri Island Tour: ake a boat journey around the magical island of Capri. You’ll find secret nooks, ocean caverns, and awe-inspiring views. Navigate the wild shoreline, take a dip in the Blue Grotto’s clear waters. Adventure and rest, find both on the Capri island tour.
Sunset in Tuscany: Imagine the wonder of a Tuscan twilight. Local wine in hand, breathtaking views before you. Try a wine tasting at a winery, eat outdoors at an agriturismo, or see the sunset from a hilltop town. The twilight beauty of Tuscany will amaze you.
Gondola Ride in Venice: Experience Italy in its purest form by taking a classic gondola ride along Venice’s age-old canals. Get a different look at the city’s impressive architecture, as a singing gondolier guides your journey. Feel the magic and allure of Venice from this fresh point of view.
Wine Window in Florence: Immerse yourself in Italy’s rich wine culture with a visit to a traditional wine window in Florence. Dating back to the Middle Ages, wine windows were used by Florentine nobility to sell wine directly to customers without direct contact—a practice that has recently been revived and offers a unique and charming glimpse into Italy’s past.
Diving into these core Italian adventures, you’re not just making unforgettable memories. You’re also touching the soul of Italy’s rich past and lively culture.
Navigating Italian Summers: Tips and Tricks
An Italian summer guarantees sunny days and warm evenings. But readiness for the heat and humidity is key. Let’s go over some strategies to make the most of your Italian summer:
Stay Hydrated: The summer heat skyrockets, and keeping your body hydrated is important. Always bring your refillable water bottle. Make sure to frequently drink fluids, especially when you’re outside or doing some exercises.
Dress Appropriately: Pick clothes made of light, airy materials like cotton or linen to stay comfy when it’s hot out. Wear loose outfits in bright shades; they bounce the sun’s rays off you. Dark clothes suck up the heat, so skip them.
Plan Ahead: Does a mob of tourists sounds daunting? Consider this: Plan your journey beforehand. Do a bit of homework on hotspots, snag your passes on the internet, and think about this: Hit those famous landmarks either in the quiet stillness of morning or as the day mellows into the afternoon. This helps you ditch the noon sun and throngs of people.
Embrace the Siesta: Embrace the Italian custom of siesta, a respite in the warmest hours of the day. It’s a moment to unwind, revitalize, and dodge the heat. Your hotel room offers a haven, while a neighborhood cafe provides cool shade.
Learn Some Basic Italian: English is common in tourist spots, but some Italian phrases can add to your trip and help you bond with locals. Work on usual hellos, sayings, and polite phrases for smooth chats.
With these pointers, you’re ready for Italian summers and a memorable journey.
Conclusion
Your Italian summer is just ahead, offering endless opportunities for fun, rest, and exploration. Imagine strolling through Rome’s ancient ruins, tasting delicious gelato in Florence, or basking in the sun on the Amalfi Coast.
Italy has plenty of charm and wonder to offer. So, start packing, get into the Italian groove and prepare to have an amazing Italian summer adventure. Get ready for this journey with a willing heart and an eager spirit for travel. We can almost guarantee that this summer will be unforgettable for you.
To sum it up, an Italian summer is not only a season; it’s a way of being—cherishing life, love and la dolce vita. Whether it’s sipping espresso in a lively square or relaxing on a sunny beach, take in every moment and let Italy’s beauty mesmerize you. Thank you for taking this journey with us; until we meet again, ciao!
Buon Viaggio! (Safe travels!)
