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

Are you planning to visit Italy in July?

July is one of the hottest and busiest months in Italy, and there are a few things you should know before you go. Prices are high, cities are crowded, and the beaches are packed.

With that being said, there are still plenty of amazing places to travel in Italy during the summer, such as the mountains and the hilltop towns of Tuscany.

We have spent months exploring Italy, from winter to summer, and we are sharing all you need to know about traveling to Italy in July.

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

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

July Italy Weather

You’re almost guaranteed to have sunny and warm weather in July in Italy. The long days, warm nights, and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy being outside, whether in the mountains, at the pool, or by the beach.

Southern Italy is especially hot in July, such as Sicily and Puglia. The Italian cities, Rome, Florence, Bologna, Naples, Venice, are also hot during the peak summer season and can be unpleasant to visit.

Because of this, we recommend avoiding the cities in July and opting for a beach, countryside, or mountain vacation instead to avoid the heat.

Average Temperature in Italy in July

• Northern Italy: Average high temperatures between 72°F – 83°F (22°C – 28°C)
• Central Italy: Average high temperatures between 83°F – 90°F (28°C – 32°C)
• Southern Italy: Average high temperatures between 84°F – 88°F (29°C – 31°C

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

Our Experience: For beautiful weather all around, July is a fantastic time to visit Italy. We prefer to save the popular coastal resort areas for early September or late June and love to visit the Dolomites in July, or the countryside.

There are plenty of lovely agriturismo accommodations (farm-stays) available throughout Tuscany, Umbria, and the mountains with pools, which offer a quiet escape from the summer crowds.

This is our ideal July vacation in Italy because the crowds can be overwhelming in the cities and near the beaches.

Advantages of Visiting Italy in July

• Sunny Weather: Blue skies, sunny days, and virtually no rain means July has some of the best weather in Italy, which is perfect for being outside.
• Long days & nights: With 14-15 hours of daylight in July, you can spend more time sightseeing and enjoying the pleasant evenings.
• Great time for hiking: July is the ideal month to go hiking in the Dolomites and Italian alps. The trails are open, the weather is not too hot, and the long days give you more time to enjoy the outdoors.
• Perfect weather for a beach holiday: The sunshine and heat make July a wonderful time to enjoy the many gorgeous beach destinations in Italy.
• Al fresco dining: Long nights and warm evenings call for dining outside. Restaurants all around Italy set up outdoor tables for people to enjoy dinner al fresco.

Disadvantages of Visiting Italy in July

• Expensive: July is the height of the peak tourist season, and everything is expensive. Expect higher prices on hotels, rental cars, flights, and activities.
• Hot weather: The July heat can be unbearable, especially in the cities. Make sure to drink plenty of water, wear sun protection, and plan for break indoors. It’s also important to note that many hotels do not have air conditioning, so you may need to plan around that as well.
• Overcrowded: Both foreigners and locals flock to the beaches, cities, and other popular destinations during the summer months. Plan for long lines, busy sites, and crowded beaches.
• Limited availability: With it being the high season, many hotels and restaurants book up quickly. If you are planning to visit Italy in July, then make sure to plan months in advance and make reservations ahead of time.

12 Best Places to Visit in Italy in July

1. The Dolomites in July

The Dolomites are one of our favorite places to visit in the world. July is one of the best months to visit this stunning mountain range thanks to the ideal weather conditions and natural beauty.

Imagine vibrant green hills, rocky mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. There is much to explore in the Dolomites during the summer. It’s a perfect time for enjoying the many hiking trails and even going on multi-day treks.

Dolomites Weather in July

Expect highs around 72°F (22°C) an lows around 51°F (10.5°C). The mild daytime temperatures in the Dolomites are comfortable for outdoor activities and the cooler evenings are nice for relaxing after a day of hiking and exploring.

Things to do in Dolomites in July

• Take the cable car to Seceda and hike around this beautiful ridge line.
• 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.

2. Italian Lakes in July

From Lake Como to Lake Garda, the northern Italian lakes are lovely in July. With flowers in bloom, warmer temperatures, blue skies, and mild water temperatures, this is a wonderful time to take boat trips around the lake, explore the small villages, and go swimming.

July is one of the busiest times for both Lake Garda and Lake Como, so expect crowds. Make sure to plan ahead, book your hotels and rental cars in advance, and expect traffic on the roads around the lakes.

Weather in July

High temperatures range from 79°F – 86°F (26°C – 30°C). Lake Garda tends to be a bit warmer than Lake Como. Expect pleasant evenings averaging around 65°F (18°F).

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.

3. Sardinia in July

Sardinia is Italy’s island paradise. With vibrant blue Mediterranean waters and white sandy beaches, July is a wonderful time to visit Sardinia.

The warm, sunny weather is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Additionally, there are many small towns and archaeological sites to visit.

July is Sardinia’s high season, so expect crowds. Make sure to book well in advance to get the best prices.

Sardinia Weather in July

Sardinia is hot in July. High temperatures average at 88°F (31°C) and low temperatures are around 67°F (19°C). Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle, so you are prepared for the heat.

Things to do in Sardinia in July

• 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.

4. Small Islands in July

Italy has many small islands just off the coast of the mainland.

Down south, near the Amalfi Coast, you can visit Procida, Ischia, and Capri. All three are stunning Mediterranean islands with colorful towns, delicious food, and stunning beaches.

Up north, in Tuscany, you can take a plane or boat to Elba Island. This rustic island has many nice beaches and is a popular vacation spot amongst Italians.

Weather on the islands

The weather varies depending on the island you are visiting. High temperatures in Capri and Ischia range from 87°F – 90°F (31°C – 31°C) in July. Elba Island is much cooler with highs around 79°F (26°C).

5. Italian Riviera in July

The Italian Riviera is located south of Genoa, Italy along the Ligurian coast. Portofino is the most famous town with its charming harbor and scenic sea views.

July is the busiest month to visit Portofino and the surrounding towns but the weather is also incredible. There are many small beaches dotted along the coast, and it’s best to arrive early in the day to get a spot before the crowds.

We suggest booking ahead to try and secure a hotel with sea views.

Weather in Portofino in July

The Italian Riviera is much milder than southern regions of Italy. Expect highs around 82°F (28°C) and warm evenings around 70°F (21°C).

Things to do in the Italian Riviera in July

• Explore the towns along the coast.
• 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.

6. Tuscany in July

Tuscany is lovely during the summertime; however, it can get really hot. We don’t recommend spending much time in the major cities, such as Siena and Florence.

Instead, head to the countryside, explore some of the small villages, and stay in an agriturismo or hotel with a pool. Visiting Tuscany in July is a great excuse to take a slow vacation and to relax by the pool.

If you do plan to visit Florence, make sure to book ahead and expect crowds.

Weather in Tuscany in July

The weather in Tuscany in July varies depending on where you are visiting. For example, the highs in Florence are around 90°F (32°C) in July. Whereas, smaller towns like Montepulciano experience high temperatures of 83°F (28°C).

Things to do in Tuscany in July

• Explore Tuscany’s hilltop villages.
• Go hiking around the hills.
• Go wine tasting.

7. Puglia in July

Puglia is one of our favorite Italy destinations in July. The water is warmer, the sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, and the small towns are alive and full of locals and tourists.

Of course, like most places in July, Puglia is overcrowded. However, you can find small beaches that are unknown to foreign tourists and enjoy a slower-paced trip by staying in less popular areas like the Valle d’Itria.

Weather in Puglia in July

The high temperatures range from 87°F – 90°F (31°C – 32°C) during the daytime and evenings cool down to around 72°F (22°C). There isn’t much shade at most of the beaches, so be sure to pack sunscreen and your own umbrella for the beach.

Things to do in Puglia in July

• Explore 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.

8. Sicily in July

Many Italians and foreigners flock to Sicily in July to enjoy this beautiful island during the height of summer. Avoid the cities, like Palermo, and head to the coastal areas to escape the brutal heat.

Explore the sun-drenched landscapes, visit ancient sites like the Valley of The Temples, and spend your day soaking in the sun at the beach.

Be prepared for packed beaches. Book your trip a few months in advance and try to get to the beach early in the day to secure your spot.

Weather in Sicily in July

With highs of 87°F (31°C) and lows of 74°F (23°C), the weather is great for beach days on the Mediterranean.

Things to do in Sicily in July

• 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.

9. Cinque Terre in July

The Cinque Terre are five small fishing villages located on the Ligurian coast, south of Genoa and north of Pisa. This is a perfect day trip destination from Pisa or Florence, or you can opt to spend a couple of nights here instead.

Cinque Terre is one of the most popular destinations in all of Italy, so you can imagine what the crowds must be like in July. Our advice is to spend a night or two here, so you can get started early and enjoy slower evenings after all of the day trippers have left.

Hike between the towns, such as between Vernazza and Corniglia, earlier in the morning to beat the other tourists.

Cinque Terre weather in July

July is mostly sunny and warm, with highs around 83°F (28°C) and lows around 69°F (20.5°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.

10. Amalfi Coast in July

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline located south of Naples. This is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, particularly between July and September.

We visited this region during peak season, and let’s just say it is crowded. The buses are packed, the restaurants are booked up, the beaches are busy, and the streets are filled with people.

We understand that July is popular for a reason: the warm weather. However, make sure to book several months in advance because hotels book up very quickly.

Reserve restaurants a couple of weeks beforehand, and get up early to catch the local buses or the ferries. They can sell out during this time.

Amalfi Coast Weather in July

Daytime temperatures are around 84°F (29°C) and evening temperatures are around 76°F (24°C).

Things to do in the Amalfi Coast in July

• 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.

11. Umbria in July

Umbria is one of Italy’s hidden gems. This lesser-known region is filled with charming towns, beautiful nature, and a lot of Italian culture.

From medieval villages, like Assisi, to gorgeous Italian lakes, such as Lake Trasimeno, this is a wonderful place to visit in Italy in July.

One of the world’s most important Jazz festivals, the Umbria Jazz Festival, is held annually in Perugia for 10 days in July. You can book your tickets here for this popular event.

Umbria weather in July

Compared to the rest of Italy, the temperatures are pretty mild in Umbria in July. Expect evenings around 58°F (14°C) and mid-day temperatures around 84°F (29°C).

Things to do in Umbria in July

• Explore Lake Trasimeno.
• Attend the Umbria Jazz Festival.
• Visit Assisi, Orvieto, and Perugia.

12. Other Italian Beach Destinations

While Italy may be famous for its beaches in Cinque Terre, Sicily, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast, there are many other beaches that are less busy and just as beautiful.

Here are a few other beach areas to consider for your trip to Italy:

• 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 July

Is Italy expensive in July? Yes, July is one of the most expensive months to visit Italy.

July is the peak travel season in Italy. With both Europeans on vacation and foreigners, it gets extremely busy and therefore, pricey. The major tourist destinations, such as the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Sicily, Rome, Florence, and Venice, are particularly expensive.

Hotels, rental cars, flights, and certain activities cost more than the off-peak season. We highly recommend reserving everything at least 3-4 months in advance if you are planning to visit Italy in July.

If you are traveling on a budget in July, we recommend visiting some of the less-touristy destinations during this time. Umbria, the Dolomites, Sardinia, and even some towns in Tuscany will have more affordable options.

Holidays & Festivals in July

• Umbria Jazz Festival – One of the world’s largest jazz events held in Perugia.
• Palio di Siena – A major horse race held in the Piazza del Campo in Siena.
• Festa del Redentore – One of the largest festivals in Venice with fireworks, a gondola parade, and other celebrations.
• L’Ardia di San Costantino – A multi-day horse race in Sardinia with food vendors and other celebrations.
• Feast of Saint Rosalia – A huge festival in Palermo, Sicily with a parade, fireworks, and live music.
• Stresa Festival – From July to September, this classical and jazz music festival brings in famous artists from around the world to Lake Maggiore for a series of live music and concerts.
• Verona Opera Festival – Watch a famous opera inside of an ancient Roman theater in the center of Verona.
• Lucca Summer Festival – A concert series with major artists throughout the month of July.

What to wear in Italy in July?

Trying to figure out what clothes to pack for Italy in July? Luckily, it’s easy to pack for this time of the year since the weather is pretty predictable. Pack for hot weather and sunshine.

Here’s what we recommend packing for your trip:

• Pack for mild evenings: Bring a light jacket or cardigan and some breathable pants for the cooler evenings.
• Pack for the heat: Bring shorts, dresses, tank tops, hats, swimsuits, sandals, and any other necessary summer clothes.
• Bring comfortable shoes: You’ll walk a lot in Italy. Bring sandals or closed-toe shoes that you can walk around in all day comfortably.
• Pack for religious sites: If you plan to visit churches around Italy, make sure to bring some modest clothing to cover up. Many religious sites require you to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Pack for the beach: Make sure to bring sunscreen, flip flops, swimwear, hats, a water bottle, and anything else you need for hot days at the beach.

Getting around Italy in July

Whether you rent a car, take the train, or fly from north to south, there are plenty of ways to get around Italy. Here are a few tips to help you easily 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 July

• Book in advance: July is peak season, so it’s wise to book your accommodations, train tickets, transportation, and any entry tickets well in advance to ensure availability.
• Reserve restaurants: Popular restaurants book out. If there is a certain restaurant that you want to eat at, we always recommending calling in advance to make a reservation. Try to call at least one week ahead of time.
• Get out early: Beat the crowds and get out early in the morning to either snag a spot at the beach or to beat the heat.
• Plan for extra travel time: The roads and trains are busy this time of year. You may experience traffic or delays.
• Go shopping: July and August are the months of summer sales (called saldi) in Italy. If you love shopping, this is a great time to get discounts on both designer and boutique items.

July in Italy: Frequently Asked Questions

More Information for your Trip to Italy

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