How to Plan a Summer Trip in Italy 2024/2025

Italy is a summer wonderland for a family to explore, especially with teenagers.

Besides splendid masterpiece artworks and classical architecture, a summer trip in Italy could also provide you with relaxing time by the coastal and interesting agritourism (visiting vineyards, picking lemons in orchards, tasting olive oil, witnessing traditional harvesting methods...).

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Weather in Summer in Italy

Summer in Italy typically spans from June to August. It is usually hot and sunny in most areas except Venice, which is a little muggy. Occasional thunderstorms or showers might happen in the afternoons or evenings.

July and August are the hottest months with temperatures of 18–31°C (64–88°F). On the hottest days, it might reach about 31–35°C (88–95°F) at noon. June is comparatively more pleasant with temperatures of 25–28°C (77–82°F) during the daytime.

For a more comfortable experience, June is a better month for a summer trip to Italy. In addition, you would see fewer crowds in June than in July or August, as July and August are the local summer holidays with student groups everywhere.

Average Daily Temperatures in Italy's Main Cities in Summer

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Top Places to Visit in Summer in Italy

1. Rome: World-Famous Archaeological Sites and Leisurely Piazzas

The Colosseum

Explore the splendid history and magnificent architecture of Rome by visiting the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon.

Car-free Italian piazzas adorned with gorgeous fountains are scattered throughout the city for you to experience a serene time (a leisurely stroll, delightful dinner, stunning sunset, etc.).

Rome is a city with a rich culture. A private tour with an English-speaking guide would help to unveil the interesting stories behind the sites and make your children's time there more meaningful and memorable.

2. The Vatican: A Trove of Renaissance Art and Architecture

St. Peter's Basilica

When visiting the Vatican, don't miss the Vatican Museums. A family-friendly guide might design some scavenger hunt games for your family to better explore the exhibits from the top masters including Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini.

You could also climb to the top of St. Peter's Basilica for views over the city.

3. Florence: Art and Romance

Frescoes on the dome of the the Florence Cathedral

Full of artistic heritage, Florence may captivate your family with masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and more.

Florence Cathedral is a must-see. It represents the city's civic and religious power during the Renaissance. You could also climb to the top for a bird's-eye view and a beautiful family photo.

Every June 24th, Florence hosts the Feast of Saint John, a celebration featuring medieval-style soccer matches at Piazza Santa Croce, accompanied by thrilling fireworks.

4. Venice: Ride a Classic Gondola and Make a Venetian Mask

Venetian Mask

Take a classic gondola ride through the canals and enjoy a leisurely way for your family to view the 'Floating City' from a different perspective.

Don't miss making a Venetian mask in a street workshop. You and your family could design your own style and learn the story behind the mask.

If you happen to visit at the same time as the Redentore Feast is held, which is on the third weekend of July, you would witness breathtaking fireworks over St. Mark's Basin. A temporary bridge would also be built to connect the Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore church on the island of Giudecca with other parts of Venice.

5. Naples: Delve into the Birthplace of Pizza

Pompeii

Explore Pompeii and the Herculaneum ancient ruins, which were frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman life.

Have a pizza-cooking lesson in its birthplace and enjoy pizza straight from the oven. Delight your taste buds with authentic Neapolitan pizza, sfogliatelle pastries, and street food, such as fried pizza (pizza fritta) or cuoppo (a type of Neapolitan fried food).

6. Sorrento: Enjoy Relaxing Fruit Picking and Beach Time

Sorrento is conveniently connected to Rome and Naples. You could visit a local farm for agritourism experiences to learn about lemon cultivation, taste freshly pressed olive oil, and enjoy the beautiful beach.

You could also have a day trip to the island of Capri for sightseeing, swimming, as well as sunbathing.

Summer Itineraries in Italy: the Best 2 Options

Here are two suggested private summer itineraries, for 9 and 11 days, designed for an unforgettable family journey through Italy's most essential destinations, filled with cultural immersion and interesting activities.

1) 9-Day Classic Route: Essence of Italy

Eating ice cream by Pantheon

• 3 nights in Rome (side trip to the Vatican)
• 2 nights in Florence
• 3 nights in Venice

This itinerary covers the essence of Italy. Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Rome and engage in interactive activities, such as a treasure hunt in the Vatican. Step back in time to meet the masters by visiting their artistic treasures in Florence. And then take a water bus in Venice, which is like a huge water theme park.

2) 11-Day Family Route: Highlights and Beach Recreation in Italy

Cruise through Venice on a Gondola

• 2 nights in Venice
• 2 nights in Florence
• 2 nights in Rome (side trip to the Vatican)
• 3 nights in Sorrento (day trip to Naples)

Get ready for an enchanting journey including Italy's finest destinations, designed to captivate everyone's heart. Begin your journey on the poetic waterways of Venice, then bask in the historical marvels of Rome and the artistic grandeur of Florence. For a more educational experience, explore Pompeii in Naples, exploring the ancient Roman city.

Enjoy the joyous experience of fruit picking and sail to the island of Capri to explore the tranquil blue caves or go kayaking in the sunshine. There are various water activities for a refreshing escape without any disturbances.

7-Day Flash Family Adventure in Rome and VeniceUnleash Your Family's Inner Explorer in Italy

Feel free to contact us to obtain a tailor-made itinerary and quote for your family trip to Italy. All of our tours are fully customizable.

How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost?

A private tour for a family of 3–5 people usually costs $400–500 per person per day, including flights and train journeys within Italy, 4-star hotels, attractions, guides, and private transfers.

July and August are the peak season in Italy. During these months, the cost may double. You're advised to make a reservation at least 3 months before your departure date.

You could learn more by reading our article: How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost?

What to Wear When Visiting Italy in Summer

Packing for Italy in the summer requires a balance between staying cool in the heat and being respectful of local customs, especially if you plan to visit churches or more conservative areas. Here's a guide on what to pack and how to dress:

Lightweight clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Dresses, shorts, skirts, and short-sleeved tops are great choices. Even if it's hot, avoid overly revealing clothing, especially if you plan to visit religious sites. Keep your shoulders and knees covered when visiting churches or more conservative areas.

Swimwear: If you're planning beach visits, pack your swimsuit and a cover-up.

Light scarf or shawl: Useful for covering your shoulders when needed and it could also come in handy during cooler evenings.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Italy?

If you have an American, UK, Canadian, Australian, etc. passport, you could travel to Italy without a visa for up to 90 days.

With a planned launch in 2025, citizens from countries enjoying visa-free access to European Union countries will be required to register using ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) online at least 4 days before departure. The registration process for ETIAS only takes a matter of minutes of entering the information required and paying a fee.