Italy in August: Weather Info & Best Places to Travel (2024)

Are you planning a trip to Italy in August?

Italy is a popular summer destination, and there are a few things you should know before going in August. Prices are high, the beaches are crowded, and smaller Italian cities are quieter than usual due to August holidays.

With that being said, you can still plan an incredible trip to Italy in August if you plan ahead and know where to go.

We have spent months exploring Italy throughout all four seasons, and we are sharing all you need to know about traveling to Italy during the summer.

In this guide, you will find an overview of the best places to visit in August, the weather this time of year, holidays in August, and how to pack for a summer vacation to Italy.

Read on to learn what it’s like to spend August in Italy.

Is August a good month to go to Italy?

If you are planning a vacation to Italy in August, then you really need to think about what type of trip you want.

August is the month of vacation for Italians, which means the smaller cities shut down. Additionally, in the major cities, like Rome, Florence, and Venice, you can expect many local shops and restaurants to close for a couple of weeks or for the entire month.

The touristy sites in these cities, like the Vatican museums and Colosseum in Rome or the art galleries in Florence, will remain open in August.

If you are hoping for a more local experience and want to eat at local restaurants and visit some authentic shops, then August is not the best time to visit Italy. However, if you are flexible and only plan to visit the major attractions, then August is an okay time to visit.

Locals and foreigners flock to the mountains and to the beaches for vacation. Popular summer spots include Sicily, Puglia, Sardinia, Amalfi Coast, the Italian alps, the Dolomites, and other beach areas throughout the country.

Expect these places to be extremely expensive and busy.

The verdict? Avoid visiting Italy in August and opt for early September or late June instead. August is hot in both the big cities and beach destinations, it’s expensive, an things are either really busy or shut down. It’s a tricky time to visit due to the summer holidays.

August Italy Weather

The weather in August in Italy is hot, humid, and sunny. Don’t expect much rain, as this is one of the driest months in Italy.

Temperatures can soar well above 86°F (30°C) in the southern regions and inland cities like Rome, Florence, and Bologna, making it one of the hottest months of the year.

Coastal towns and islands such as Sicily, Sardinia, and Puglia, offer some respite with sea breezes but they are still very warm. These conditions are ideal for people looking to enjoy beach time and to bask in the Mediterranean sun.

Be prepared for the heat by staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and planning some indoor activities during mid-day.

Average Temperatures in Italy in May

Northern Italy: Average high temperatures between 70°F – 85°F (21°C – 29°C)

Central Italy: Average high temperatures between 83°F – 89°F (28°C – 32°C)

Southern Italy: Average high temperatures between 85°F – 89°F (29°C – 32°C)

Here’s an overview of the weather throughout Italy in August:

Our Experience: We’ve been everywhere from Tuscany and Cinque Terre all the way up to Venice, Bologna, Verona, and the Dolomites in August. Based on our experience, the August heat is extreme, especially in the cities, which is why we’d recommend avoiding the major cities during this month.

Not only that but the cities are still packed with tourists in August, even though many locals are on vacation. The small streets and vaparettos in Venice are busy, the sites in Florence are busy, and the famous towns in Tuscany are packed with tourists.

We prefer a more local experience when we travel, which is why we were disappointed to find that many restaurants and shops are closed almost the entire month of August.

Our favorite place to visit in August is the Dolomites. The weather was perfect for hiking, enjoying outdoor activities, and exploring mountain villages. Some of the popular trails were busy, but it wasn’t as bad as we thought it would be.

The Amalfi Coast is beautiful in August, but beware, it’s also overwhelmingly busy. Make sure to plan months in advance if you’re planning to visit Italy in August.

Advantages of Visiting Italy in August

• Long summer days: With 14 hours of daylight, you have more time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Festivals: August’s calendar is filled with cultural festivities across the country, including the famous Ferragosto national holiday, music festivals, and other Italian traditions.
• Beautiful beaches: The hot days and sunny weather are ideal for a beach holiday. Italy’s coastal areas, from the Amalfi Coast to Sicily, offer beautiful Mediterranean days perfect for relaxing by the water.
• Perfect for exploring the mountains: August is an ideal time to explore Italy’s mountain villages and numerous hiking trails, whether in the Dolomites or the Alps.
• Outdoor dining: The warm nights are ideal for al fresco dining and enjoying slow evenings.
• Sunny weather: With August being one of the driest months in Italy, you’re almost guaranteed to have clear skies and sunshine.

Disadvantages of Visiting Italy in August

• High season prices: With Italians, Europeans, and foreigners flocking to Italy’s summer hot spots, prices are expensive in August. It’s peak tourist season, which means prices for hotels, flights, and certain activities are higher during this time.
• Intense heat: August is one of the hottest months in Italy, which can be uncomfortable for sightseeing and other mid-day activities, especially in the inland cities.
• Crowded tourist spots: Despite certain small cities being quieter due to locals vacationing, popular destinations, especially coastal areas, islands, the the mountains, can be extremely crowded with both international tourists and Italians on holiday.
• Closed businesses: Many local businesses, shops, and restaurants in cities may close for a part of August (or the entire month) as many Italians take their own vacations, particularly around the Ferragosto holiday on August 15th.

12 Best Places to Visit in Italy in August

1. The Dolomites in August

August is one of the best months to visit the Dolomites thanks to the clear skies and warm weather. We traveled to the Dolomites for one week in August and it exceeded our expectations, despite what we had heard about the crowds.

While some of the trails were busier than others (Tre Cime di Laverado & Seceda Ridgeline), there is so much to explore in this mountain range, that you can easily find space and quieter spots.

During the summer, the Dolomites are covered in green grass and wildflowers, and the long days allow more time for hiking and enjoying the beautiful sunset views.

Dolomites Weather in August

Expect highs between 70°F – 84°F (21°C – 29°C) and lows between 50°F – 60°F (10°C – 16°C). The temperatures vary greatly depending on the altitude and region.

Things to do in the Dolomites in August

• Take the cable car to Seceda and hike around this beautiful ridgeline.
• Visit Lago di Braies, an incredible crystal-clear lake.
• Hike around the Tre Cime di Lavarado.
• Enjoy the views of the Cinque Torri (5 peaks).
• Take in the stunning views of the churches in the Val di Funes. Our favorite place to watch the sunset is from the hillside overlooking the Church of St. Magdalena in this valley.
• Explore mountain villages in South Tyrol and other regions.

2. Italian Lakes in August

The Italian lakes in the northern regions are spectacular in August. From Lake Como and Lake Maggiore to Lake Garda, these splendid, mountainous lakes are alive with festivals and incredible weather.

August is the perfect time to go swimming in the lakes, take a boat ride, explore the charming towns, and enjoy the natural beauty.

Note: If you are driving, the roads around the lakes can be busy during this time, so expect more traffic than usual.

Weather in August

Since the lakes are spread out throughout northern Italy, the weather varies greatly. Lake Maggiore and Lake Garda tend to have warmer weather, around 81°F – 85°F (27°C – 29°C) highs and 65°F (18°C) lows.

Lake Como is a bit cooler with high temperatures of 77°F (25°C) and lows of 64°F (18°C).

Things to do in July

• Visit the charming towns around Lake Como.
• Go swimming in the lakes.
• Hire a boat for the day to enjoy the water.
• Hike to Punta Larici on Lake Garda for amazing views.
• Visit Riva del Garda, Sirmione, and other towns around Lake Garda.
• Visit Isola Bella and Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore.
• Check out the Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto (Botanical Gardens).

3. Italian Riviera in August

The Italian Riviera is known for its quaint towns, stunning sea views, and beautiful harbors. August is one of the most popular times to visit, thanks to the fantastic weather.

Located along the Ligurian Coast, the most well-known town is Portofino, with its exclusive boutiques, luxury hotels, and delicious dining options. Along the coast, you’ll find many small, rocky beaches that are wonderful to visit this time of year.

Because August is high season, we suggest getting to the beaches early in the day to secure a spot.

Weather in the Italian Riviera in August

The weather in the Italian Riviera is pretty mild compared to Italy’s southern regions. Daytime temperatures reach 82°F (28°C) and the evenings are warm around 70°F (21°C).

Things to do in the Italian Riviera in July

• Explore the towns along the coast, such as Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Camogli.
• Eat delicious food, such as pesto alla genovese (pasta with pesto).
• Hike between the towns. Camogli to San Fruttuoso is a popular route.
• Enjoy the beaches in the region.

4. Tuscany in August

August in Tuscany is heavenly – and hot. With the rolling hills, green vineyards, and charming hilltop villages, it’s a great time to enjoy the Italian countryside if you are looking for a more relaxed vacation.

However, it’s also the peak of the tourist season, so expect the popular villages to be crowded and accommodation to be higher than usual.

Florence, Siena, and other big cities in Tuscany are very hot in August. We suggest spending more time in one of the smaller towns, or at an agriturismo in the countryside. Booking a boutique hotel with a pool is our ideal way to spend August in Tuscany.

Note: Some restaurants and shops may be closed in August due to the holidays.

Tuscany weather in August

The big cities in Tuscany, such as Florence, experience sweltering temperatures in August. Expect hot daytime temperatures up to 89°F (32°C) and cooler evenings around 65°F (18°C).

The towns in the countryside offer a bit of respite from the heat. For example, Montepulciano’s weather ranges from 82°F – 68°F (28°C – 20°C) from daytime to evening temps.

Things to do in Tuscany in August

• Road trip around Tuscany’s medieval villages.
• Relax by the pool at your hotel or agriturismo.
• Go wine tasting at one of the many local vineyards.
• Go hiking or biking around the hills.

5. Cinque Terre in August

These five picturesque villages, located along the Ligurian coast, make for an ideal day trip from Pisa or Florence. Although, we suggest staying a night or two, to make the most of your time here.

Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most popular destinations, which means the crowds in August are quite substantial. The coastal villages are connected by train, and the lines get extremely long during peak season.

If you are doing a day trip, try to arrive early in the morning to beat the masses. Be patient, as you will have to deal with crowds, and book your Cinque Terre Card in advance to get ahead of everyone else.

One of our favorite things to do in Cinque Terre during the summer is to go hiking between the towns. The best hike, in our opinion, is between Vernazza and Corniglia. The views are incredible!

Cinque Terre Weather in August

The weather in August in Cinque Terre is perfect for swimming, exploring the towns, and relaxing by the beach. Expect highs around 83°F (28°C) and lows in the evening around 68°F (20°C).

Things to do in Cinque Terre in July

• Enjoy the beach in Monterosso al Mare.
• Hike the Vernazza to Corniglia trail.
• Experience the sunset in Manarola.
• Take in the views in Riomaggiore.
• Go swimming in Vernazza or Manarola.

6. Umbria in August

If you’re looking to explore Italy and its hidden gems, then look no further than Umbria. This quiet region is located next to Tuscany but is much less touristy.

From Assisi, an incredible medieval village to Perugia, the capital of the region, there is so much to see here. We suggest staying in an agriturismo near Lake Trasimeno, such as Principe Del Trasimeno, where you can enjoy relaxing days by the pool and small hikes around the lake.

Many local restaurants and sites may be closed in August, so plan on doing outdoor activities and taking it slow here.

Umbria Weather in August

This central Italy region is a bit cooler than other inland regions this time. You can expect daytime temperatures around 84°F (29°C) and cool temperatures in the evening around 58°F (14°C).

Things to do in Umbria

• Explore Lake Trasimeno and Isola Maggiore.
• Visit Assisi, Orvieto, Spoleto, and Perugia.
• Go biking or hiking around the hills.
• Check out Marmore Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe.

7. Small Islands in August

Italy is home to several charming islands of its mainland coast. In southern Italy, near the Amalfi Coast, the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida are must-visit destinations.

Capri is one of the most popular islands to visit as a day trip from Sorrento and Positano, so expect crowds this time of year. The other two are lesser-known to foreigners, so you can enjoy a bit of authentic Italian culture there.

In the northern region of Tuscany, Elba Island is another hidden gem. Known for its rustic charm, stunning beaches, and popularity as a destination among Italians, the island is an escape from Italy’s touristy hot spots.

Weather on the islands

Capri, Ischia, and Procida, located in southern Italy, are quite warm in August. Daytime temperatures can reach 90°F (32°C) and the evenings are warmer at 75°F (24°C) on average.

Elba Island is much cooler, with highs of 80°F (27°C) and lows of 67°F (19°C).

8. Sardinia in August

Sardinia is an ideal Mediterranean escape. This island boasts white sandy beaches and beautiful azure waters.

August is the prime month to visit, so like much of Italy, expect crowds and high season prices.

Book a hotel by the sea and enjoy a vacation filled with swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring the island’s ancient sites.

Sardinia Weather in August

Sun-soaked days and clear skies define the weather in August in Sardinia. Highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows of 68°F (20°C) are to be expected, so make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen for the long days at the beach.

Things to do in Sardinia

• Explore the beaches, such as Costa Smeralda or the picturesque La Pelosa beach.
• Take a road trip to explore some of the smaller villages on the island.
• Visit Alghero and Cagliare, two of the big cities on Sardinia.
• Go hiking in Gennargentu National Park.

9. Amalfi Coast in August

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most sought-after summer destinations. The iconic coastal towns, the small beaches, and the incredible seafood all make this an ideal spot to visit in August.

Based on our experience, high season is a bit crazy here. We recommend booking your hotel months in advance, so you can stay in one of the main towns, such as Positano, Sorrento, or Amalfi and walk to dinner and the beaches.

Do not rent a car, as traffic is bad on the small roads in August.

Make use of the ferries, as this is often a faster and more scenic route compared to the local buses and taxis.

Amalfi Coast Weather in August

The weather is quite nice here in the summer. The daytime average temperature is 86°F (30°C) and the evening temperature is warm at 76°F (24°C).

Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

• Take a boat ride to Capri and explore the island for a day or two.
• Enjoy the beaches in Positano.
• Hike the Path of the Gods, one of the most popular trails.
• Explore other towns, such as Ravello, Sorrento, and Atrani.

10. Puglia in August

Puglia has exploded in popularity over the last few years. Instead of only being a vacation spot for Italians, it has become an international destination for summer holidays and for good reason.

Located on Italy’s heel, Puglia is home to endless sandy beaches, untouched nature, and unique Italian architecture. We spent a couple of weeks staying in a Trulli house (the white cone-shaped buildings) in the Valle d’Itria, and it was one of our favorite experiences in Italy.

We suggest staying at a masseria (farmhouse) in the countryside, as the towns tend to be overcrowded in August. You’ll also need to rent a car to get around.

Puglia Weather in August

The northern part of Puglia is a bit cooler than the southern tip. Temperatures in Bari reach 86°F (30°C) during the day, while in Lecce down south, they can get up to 90°F (32°C). Evenings are pretty mild around 67°F (19°C).

Things to do in Puglia

• Road trip around to the local towns, such as Alberobello, Locorotdono, Ostuni, and Polignano a Mare.
• Relax at one of the many beaches in the region.
• Go olive oil tasting.
• Eat fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

11. Sicily in August

In August, Sicily becomes Italy’s premiere island destination. With its rich culture, Mediterranean landscapes, sun-kissed coastal cities, and incredible cuisine, it’s no wonder people flock to this island in the summer.

August is one of Sicily’s hottest months, so we recommend escaping the heat and staying near the sea. Expect crowds, little to no air conditioning, and busy beaches.

Sicily Weather in August

The days are hot and the evenings are warm as well. Highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows of 75°F (24°C) are pretty average for August in Sicily.

Things to do in Sicily

• Explore the many beaches around the island.
• Hike to the top of Mount Etna early in the morning.
• Explore some of the towns around the island, such as Palermo, Taormina, and Catania.

12. Other Italian Beach Destinations

Looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more relaxing beach vacation? Visit one of Italy’s lesser known beach destinations instead. Here are a few ideas:

• Beaches near Rome: Sperlonga beach, Anzio, Ostia, and Fregenae
• Beaches in Le Marche: Spiaggia Mezzavalle, Portonovo beach, Sirolo
• Beaches near Ravenna: Lido Adriano, Lido di Dante, Lido di Classe

Cost to Visit Italy in August

Is Italy expensive in August? Yes, August is the peak travel season in Italy, which means prices are at their highest.

With demand for accommodation, flights, and transportation increasingly significantly during this time, prices are much higher than the off-peak season.

The major tourist destinations, such as the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Sicily, Rome, Florence, and Venice, are particularly expensive.

If you’re hoping to travel on a budget, then you can visit less popular regions, like Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, and Umbria. However, because these regions are not super touristy, many local restaurants and sites may be closed.

Holidays & Festivals in August

• Ferragosto (Assumption Day): A major national holiday on August 15th, which marks the beginning of summer holidays in Italy. Expect restaurants and shops to be closed.
• Palio di Siena: Located in Siena’s main square, Piazza del campo, this bareback horse race is one of the most famous festivals in all of Italy. I’ve been myself and it’s worth visiting!
• Festa dei Candelieri: This religious holiday in Sardinia features a host of celebrations and religious processions.
• La Quintana: A popular jousting tournament takes place in Ascoli Piceno on the first Sunday in August.
• Palio del Golfo: In La Spezia, located near Cinque Terre, this popular rowing tournament takes place on the first weekend in August.

What to wear in Italy in August?

Wondering what to pack for your summer trip to Italy? With hot weather across the country, it’s best to pack summer clothes for your trip.

Dresses, shorts, flowy pants, light-weight shirts and tops, and easy-to-wear clothes are essential. Pack both comfortable walking shoes and sandals.

For the evenings, bring pants and a light cardigan or jacket, as it tends to cool down at night, particularly up north in the mountains.

Of course, if you are visiting the beach, bring all of your beach essentials, such as a hat, sunscreen, cover-ups, and a water bottle.

If you are planning to visit religious sites, then you need to make sure you are wearing clothing that covers both your knees and shoulders. I often pack a light scarf and bring it in my daypack just in case.

Getting around Italy in August

Whether you rent a car, take the train, or take a flight, Italy is easy to travel around. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your way around:

• Train travel in Italy: Taking the train is one of the best and most convenient ways to get around for your trip to Italy. Book your tickets online in advance via Trenitalia.com, the official website for booking train tickets. Download the app for the easiest use. For high-speed trains, try to reserve your tickets at least 3-weeks ahead of time for the best prices.
• Renting a car in Italy: Taking a road trip through Italy in June is a great idea! Especially because the countryside will be beautiful and green. We have rented a car more times than we can count in Italy and it’s one of the best ways to explore some of the more hidden gems in Italy. Rent your car through Discover Cars, our go-to rental car site for Europe, to get the best prices.
• Traveling by air in Italy: There are plenty of airports to get you around Italy. If you’re planning to visit the north (Venice or Milan) and south (Sicily or Puglia) part of Italy on the same trip, then flying is the quickest way to get around.

Travel Tips for visiting Italy in August

• Book in advance: With August being peak season, make sure to book your accommodations, transportation, and tickets for popular attractions well ahead of time to secure availability.
• Stay hydrated and protected: The August heat in Italy can be intense, especially in the cities and coastal towns. Make sure to bring a water bottle, wear a hat, and put on sunscreen to stay protected.
• Plan for Ferragosto: This is a major national holiday on August 15th. Much of the country shuts down and many activities, restaurants, and shops may be closed.
• Reserve restaurants: We suggest calling ahead and reserving tables at your must-try restaurants at least a week or two in advance. With so many people visiting, the good spots book out quickly.
• Get out early: Beat the crowds (and the heat) and get to the beach or popular sites early in the morning.

August in Italy: Frequently Asked Questions

More Information for your Trip to Italy

• Italy in April
• Italy in May
• Italy in June
• Italy in July
• Italy in September
• Italy in October
• Italy in November
• Italy in December