Italy in summer is like stepping into a living postcard – where golden sunlight dances on cobblestone streets, the Mediterranean sparkles in every shade of blue, and the air smells like fresh basil and sea salt.
From hidden coastal gems to alpine escapes that’ll make you forget the heat, we’re about to take you on the ultimate Italian summer adventure.
Get ready to discover secret beaches, mouthwatering gelato spots, and landscapes so stunning they’ll steal your breath. Here are the best places to visit in Italy this summer – let’s dive in!
1. Cinque Terre – Colorful Cliffs & Hidden Coves
Picture this: five rainbow-colored fishing villages clinging to dramatic cliffs, connected by hiking trails with heart-stopping sea views. That’s Cinque Terre, Italy’s most Instagram-famous coastline.
Hike the Sentiero Azzurro between Vernazza and Monterosso (early morning beats the crowds), then cool off with a dip at Guvano Beach – a secret spot only accessible by foot or boat. Foodies, don’t miss trofie al pesto – this region invented the green gold.
With its car-free charm and sunset aperitivo culture, Cinque Terre is hands-down one of the top summer destinations in Italy.
2. Sardinia – Caribbean-Blue Waters, Italian-Style
Forget flying to the Bahamas – Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda serves up water so turquoise you’ll rub your eyes in disbelief. The La Pelosa Beach in Stintino? It looks photoshopped, but that powder-white sand is 100% real.
Snorkel through the Grotta del Nereo, Europe’s largest underwater cave, or sail to the Maddalena Archipelago where dolphins often join the party. Pro tip: Try pane carasau – Sardinia’s crispy flatbread that stays fresh for days.
With over 1,800 km of coastline, Sardinia is easily one of the best beach destinations in Italy for summer.
3. Dolomites – Alpine Magic Without The Winter Chill
Who says mountains are just for winter? The Dolomites in summer transform into a hiker’s paradise with wildflower meadows, emerald lakes, and via ferrata routes that’ll get your adrenaline pumping.
Take the Seceda cable car for views of jagged peaks that look painted against the sky, or hike to Lago di Braies – that famous photogenic lake is even more magical at sunrise. Stay in a malga (alpine hut) for the full Heidi experience.
For cool temps and Insta-worthy landscapes, the Dolomites are one of the most unique summer spots in Italy.
4. Puglia – Trulli Houses & Secret Sea Caves
Puglia is Italy’s heel – and it’s kicking all kinds of awesome. The trulli houses of Alberobello look like they’re from a fairy tale, while Polignano a Mare serves up cliff diving and the most dramatic beach bars.
Swim through the Grotta della Poesia, a natural pool carved by the sea, or cycle the Via Francigena through olive groves. Don’t leave without trying orecchiette pasta – those “little ears” taste like sunshine.
With its mix of quirky architecture and turquoise waters, Puglia is one of the best places to visit in Italy this summer.
5. Lake Como – Glamorous Villas & Mountain Backdrops
George Clooney knew what he was doing when he bought a place here. Lake Como is where old-world glam meets nature’s grandeur – think pastel villas, floating pools, and gardens so lush they’ll make you swoon.
Hop on a private boat tour to spot celebrity homes, or ride the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views. The Villa del Balbianello? That’s where Star Wars filmed – no Death Star, but the gardens are out of this world.
For la dolce vita at its finest, Lake Como is one of the top summer destinations in Italy.
6. Sicily – Ancient Ruins & Volcanic Adventures
Sicily isn’t just Italy – it’s Italy on steroids. From the smoking craters of Mount Etna to the Valley of the Temples, this island packs 3,000 years of history into every square mile.
Swim in the natural pools of Cavagrande, explore the ancient theater of Taormina, or stuff yourself with arancini (Sicily’s famous fried rice balls). Just don’t miss the Stromboli volcano at night – it puts on a lava show every evening.
With its fiery personality and turquoise coasts, Sicily is one of the most exciting summer spots in Italy.
7. Amalfi Coast – Cliffside Villages & Lemon Groves
The Amalfi Coast is that postcard you wish you were inside – where pastel houses cling to cliffs, lemon trees scent the air, and every turn reveals another heart-stopping view.
Take the Path of the Gods hike at dawn when the light turns the sea to liquid gold, or sneak away to Fiordo di Furore, a fjord-like beach most tourists miss. The lemon granita at Pansa in Amalfi town? Life-changing.
For sheer Mediterranean magic, the Amalfi Coast is one of the best summer destinations in Italy.
8. Venice – Canals Without The Crowds
Here’s a secret: Venice in summer is magical if you know where to look. Skip San Marco at noon and head to Burano instead – that rainbow island where lace-making and butter cookies reign supreme.
Wander the hidden canals of Cannaregio, hunt for murano glass treasures, or take a rowboat lesson like a real gondolier. Pro tip: Dinner at sunset on the Zattere beats any fancy restaurant.
When explored right, Venice remains one of the most romantic summer spots in Italy.
9. Umbria – Italy’s Green Heart
Tuscany’s cooler cousin Umbria delivers rolling hills, medieval towns, and none of the crowds. Spello in June becomes a living artwork when locals carpet the streets in flower petals.
Truffle hunt in Norcia, raft the Nera River, or bike through olive groves around Spoleto. The Castelluccio plains? In summer, they bloom into a psychedelic wildflower wonderland.
For authentic Italy off the beaten path, Umbria is one of the best places to visit in Italy this summer.
10. Portofino – Luxury Yachts & Hidden Hikes
This tiny harbor town packs big glamour – where candy-colored buildings watch mega yachts drift by. But the real magic? The secret trails leading to secluded coves.
Hike to San Fruttuoso Abbey, only reachable by foot or boat, or snorkel around the Christ of the Abyss statue underwater. The pesto here (made with local basil) will ruin all other pesto for you.
For jet-set vibes with outdoor adventures, Portofino is one of the top summer destinations in Italy.
11. Elba Island – Napoleon’s Beach Escape
When even an emperor chooses your island for exile, you know it’s special. Elba’s 150 beaches range from pink sand coves to dramatic cliffs – with none of the Sardinia price tags.
Snorkel at Cavoli Beach, hike to Monte Capanne for 360° island views, or explore Napoleon’s summer villas. The seafood here – caught daily – tastes like the Mediterranean distilled.
For island-hopping on a budget, Elba is one of the best summer spots in Italy.
12. Bologna – Foodie Capital & Cool Porticoes
Bologna doesn’t just feed you – it feeds your soul. The world’s oldest university city keeps things delicious with 40km of shaded porticoes perfect for summer strolls.
Join the secret pasta-making classes in home kitchens, climb the Asinelli Tower at sunset, or hunt for vintage treasures at Mercato delle Erbe. The mortadella here will make you question all other cold cuts.
For authentic flavors without tourist traps, Bologna is one of the top summer destinations in Italy.
13. Maremma – Tuscany’s Wild Coast
Cowboys ride here – seriously. Maremma is Tuscany untamed, where wild beaches meet hot springs and vineyards stretch to the sea.
Soak in the Cascate del Mulino thermal waterfalls, ride horses through the Uccellina Park, or feast on acquacotta soup in Pitigliano’s cave restaurants. The Saturnia hot springs at dawn? Pure magic.
For adventure and relaxation, Maremma is one of the best hidden summer spots in Italy.
14. Lake Garda – Adventure & Orange Groves
Italy’s largest lake mixes mountain drama with Mediterranean flair. The Limonaie del Garda are ancient lemon houses clinging to cliffs, while Riva del Garda serves up windsurfing thrills.
Hike to Varone Waterfall to cool off, or take the cable car up Monte Baldo for views stretching to the Dolomites. The lakefront gelato in Sirmione? Worth every calorie.
For active families, Lake Garda is one of the best summer vacation spots in Italy.
15. Aeolian Islands – Volcanic Archipelago
These seven wild islands off Sicily’s coast bubble with thermal waters, black sand beaches, and the world’s most active volcanoes.
Hike Stromboli at dusk to watch lava fireworks, soak in the natural hot springs of Vulcano, or snorkel the underwater fumaroles of Panarea. The capers here grow on volcanic soil – they’ll ruin supermarket capers forever.
For geological wonders, the Aeolians are one of the most unique summer destinations in Italy.
16. Trentino – Lakes & Apple Orchards
Think Switzerland but with better food. Trentino’s Dolomite valleys hide mirror-like lakes and orchards bursting with fruit.
Paddleboard on Lake Tenno (that Caribbean-blue water is real), bike the Val di Non apple route, or hike to Cascate del Varone. The speck ham here – smoked in mountain air – is life-changing.
For alpine charm without the crowds, Trentino is one of the best summer spots in Italy.
Final Thoughts
From alpine lakes to volcanic islands, Italy in summer is a masterpiece waiting to be explored. Whether you’re after lazy beach days, food pilgrimages, or mountain adventures, la bella vita is calling.
So what are you waiting for? Book that ticket, pack your favorite linen shirt, and dive into the best places to visit in Italy this summer!
Which spot made your heart race? Drop a comment and let us know! 🇮🇹