10 BEST places to visit in Italy in July

Italy in July is full of energy, with long sunny days, al fresco dining, and world-famous festivals.

From the coastlines of the Amalfi Coast to the vineyards of Tuscany, July is ideal for exploring the country’s stunning variety of landscapes and traditions.

It’s peak summer season, so beaches, cities, and villages are full of life, colour, and celebration.

Here are the 10 best places to visit in Italy in July for unforgettable food, views, culture, and coastal charm.

1) Rome

Rome in July is full of life, sunshine, and endless things to see and do. The Eternal City’s ancient ruins like the Colosseum and Roman Forum are especially striking under the summer sun.

The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are popular, so early visits or skip-the-line tickets help avoid long waits. Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps buzz with tourists and locals enjoying gelato and street performers.

July is perfect for walking tours, especially in the early morning or evening when the golden light makes the city even more beautiful.

You can dine outdoors in cosy piazzas and enjoy summer dishes like pasta alla gricia or fresh seafood. Rome also hosts free outdoor events, such as concerts along the Tiber River and film screenings at Villa Borghese.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Rome

1) Is July too hot to visit Rome?

It can be hot, with temperatures around 30°C, but early mornings and evenings are pleasant. Carry water, wear light clothes, and take breaks in shady parks or museums.

2) Are tourist sites open in July?

Yes, all major attractions are open and busy. Booking tickets online in advance is the best way to skip long queues.

3) Is Rome walkable in summer?

Definitely. The city is compact and beautiful on foot, but consider using buses or taxis during the hottest part of the day.

2) Florence, Tuscany

Florence in July is a living museum filled with Renaissance art, warm Tuscan sunshine, and golden cityscapes. The historic centre is alive with energy, with street musicians and artists creating a romantic and cultural atmosphere.

The Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio are must-sees, especially in the morning before it gets too warm. July is perfect for dining outside, with trattorias serving local pasta, Chianti wine, and refreshing summer salads. Rooftop bars offer panoramic views of the red-tiled city and glowing sunsets over the Arno River.

Markets like Mercato Centrale are buzzing with fresh produce, cheese, and gelato. The Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo offer open-air green spaces and sweeping city views. Cultural events and open-air concerts take place in historic piazzas throughout the month.

Florence is also a great base for day trips to Siena, Pisa, or the Tuscan countryside. In July, Florence is artistic, passionate, and bursting with light and life.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Florence

1) Is Florence too crowded in July?

Yes, July is one of the busiest months in Florence due to the warm weather and school holidays. However, it’s manageable if you plan well — early mornings are much quieter, and booking tickets to major attractions in advance will help you avoid long waits. Visiting less-known spots like Santa Croce or the Bardini Gardens can also offer peaceful moments.

2) How do people stay cool in Florence during summer?

Locals and tourists alike take long lunches indoors or enjoy shaded spots by the river or in parks. Many museums are air-conditioned, and there are fountains and gelaterias on almost every corner. Evenings tend to cool off, so it’s common to explore or dine outside after sunset.

3) What should I wear in Florence in July?

Lightweight, breathable clothing is best, and comfortable shoes are a must for the cobbled streets. Just remember to bring something to cover shoulders when visiting churches or religious sites, as modest dress is still required in those spaces.

3) Cinque Terre, Liguria

Cinque Terre in July is a coastal dream, where colourful cliffside villages meet the turquoise Ligurian Sea.

The five towns; Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are connected by scenic hiking trails and trains. In July, the weather is hot and dry, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and boat tours. Each village has its own charm, from quiet hilltop views to lively harbours with fresh seafood stalls.

The sunsets are especially magical, painting the houses and cliffs in warm tones. The hiking trail from Monterosso to Vernazza is one of the most popular, offering spectacular sea views. Restaurants serve local dishes like anchovy pasta, seafood risotto, and fresh focaccia with olives.

The Mediterranean waters are calm and clear, ideal for snorkelling or paddleboarding. Early morning or late evening are the best times to explore to avoid peak heat and crowds. Cinque Terre in July is romantic, vibrant, and a perfect slice of Italian summer.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Cinque Terre

1) Is Cinque Terre overcrowded in July?

Yes, July is peak tourist season, especially during the day. To enjoy it more peacefully, stay overnight in one of the villages and explore early in the morning or after 5 pm when day-trippers leave. Booking trains and accommodation in advance is strongly recommended.

2) Can you swim in Cinque Terre?

Absolutely. The beaches in Monterosso are the most accessible, but there are also hidden coves and rocky spots in Vernazza and Manarola. The sea is calm and clean in July, perfect for both strong swimmers and families.

3) Is hiking safe in Cinque Terre during summer?

Yes, but it’s best to start early in the day to avoid the midday heat. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. Some trails require an entry pass, so check online or at local info points before starting.

4) Lake Como, Lombardy

Lake Como in July is the ultimate lakeside escape, with dramatic mountains, elegant villas, and sparkling blue water. The towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are especially charming, with narrow streets, flower-filled balconies, and lakeside promenades.

The weather is warm but usually not stifling, with cool breezes off the lake and plenty of shade from trees and old buildings. Boat trips are one of the best ways to explore, connecting each town and offering views of luxurious waterfront villas.

Swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular in designated areas where the water is clean and inviting. Outdoor cafes serve classic Italian dishes like risotto and grilled lake fish alongside crisp white wine. July is also a great time to visit Villa del Balbianello or Villa Carlotta, known for their gardens and panoramic views.

Evenings are peaceful and beautiful, especially as the sun sets behind the mountains. Day trips to nearby Lugano or Milan are possible and easy by train or car. Lake Como in July is refined, scenic, and wonderfully relaxing.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Lake Como

1) Is Lake Como suitable for families in July?

Yes, it’s very family-friendly. There are plenty of outdoor activities, from boat rides to gentle hikes, and many hotels offer family rooms and amenities. It’s a quieter alternative to the busy beaches and perfect for slower, quality travel time.

2) Can you swim in Lake Como?

Yes, swimming is safe in designated areas. There are lidos (public beach clubs) with lifeguards, loungers, and changing areas. The water is fresh and cool, which is perfect for a hot July afternoon.

3) Is it easy to get around Lake Como without a car?

Definitely. Ferries and fast boats connect the main towns, and trains run to Como town from Milan in about an hour. Walking and biking are also lovely ways to explore each town once you’re there.

5) Amalfi Coast, Campania

The Amalfi Coast in July is a showstopper, with its cliff-hugging roads, pastel-coloured towns, and endless views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are the most iconic stops, each offering a unique mix of beaches, history, and Mediterranean charm. The coast is sunny and hot in July, perfect for beach lounging and boat trips to hidden coves. The views from high points like Villa Cimbrone in Ravello are absolutely stunning, especially with the sea glistening below.

Restaurants serve seafood pasta, lemon desserts, and local wine on outdoor terraces with sea breezes. Ferries and buses help visitors get around, but hiring a private boat offers a more luxurious way to see the coast.

July also brings cultural events, like the Ravello Festival with classical music in a magical cliffside setting. The beaches are small but picturesque, framed by dramatic cliffs and colourful buildings.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Amalfi Coast

1) Is the Amalfi Coast expensive in July?

Yes, prices for hotels, restaurants, and transport rise significantly during high season. Booking well in advance and staying in smaller towns like Praiano or Minori can help lower costs without missing the experience. Dining away from main tourist streets also saves money.

2) Is it easy to travel the Amalfi Coast without a car?

Yes, and it’s actually recommended due to narrow roads and limited parking. Ferries and SITA buses run regularly between towns, and taxis or drivers can be hired for more comfort.

3) Are the beaches sandy on the Amalfi Coast?

Most are pebbled or rocky, not sandy. Water shoes are helpful, and many beach clubs provide loungers and umbrellas for comfort. The clear water and views make up for the lack of sand.

6) Venice, Veneto

Venice in July is alive with colour, history, and the shimmering beauty of its canals under the summer sun.

Gondolas glide past ornate palaces and quiet backstreets, while lively piazzas buzz with music, chatter, and outdoor dining. July is dry and warm, making it ideal for exploring by foot or boat, although early mornings and evenings are best to avoid peak heat.

The Venice Biennale, one of the world’s most important art exhibitions, adds extra cultural depth to your visit if it’s running that year. Even outside the big attractions, Venice’s charm lies in getting lost in its narrow alleys, hidden squares, and quiet canals.

Try traditional Venetian dishes like sarde in saor or cuttlefish risotto with a spritz in hand. Take a boat trip to colourful Burano or the glass workshops of Murano for a refreshing change of pace. Sunsets over the Grand Canal are unforgettable, especially from a waterfront restaurant. Venice in July is atmospheric, elegant, and rich in timeless beauty.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Venice

1) Is Venice too crowded in July?

Venice is very popular in summer, and tourist areas like St. Mark’s Square can be packed during the day. Visiting early or later in the evening is a great way to enjoy the city with fewer crowds. Staying overnight on the island, rather than visiting on a day trip, also lets you see a quieter, more peaceful side of Venice.

2) Is it safe to drink the tap water in Venice?

Yes, Venice has excellent quality tap water, and there are public drinking fountains around the city. Bring a reusable bottle and fill up as you explore to stay hydrated and reduce plastic use.

3) How do I get around Venice in July?

Venice has no cars, so getting around is done by walking or using vaporetti (water buses). Gondolas are mostly for scenic rides, but public boats are practical and affordable for longer trips between districts or to nearby islands.

7) Verona, Veneto

Verona is a romantic and underrated Italian city that shines in July, with a mix of Roman history, Shakespearean legend, and northern Italian charm. It’s famously home to Juliet’s balcony, but the city has much more to offer than just its Romeo and Juliet heritage.

The Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheatre older than the Colosseum, hosts world-class opera performances in July that draw thousands of visitors. Piazza delle Erbe is full of life, lined with cafes, colourful buildings, and market stalls. The Adige River winds through the city, offering scenic walking paths and peaceful viewpoints.

Verona’s summer evenings are magical, especially when lit by soft lanterns and live music. Climb Castel San Pietro for the best panoramic views over the rooftops and towers.

The food scene is rich with local specialities like risotto all’Amarone and Valpolicella wines. It’s also a great base for day trips to Lake Garda, which is just under an hour away. Verona in July is warm, cultural, and full of romance and music.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Verona

1) Is Verona worth visiting compared to bigger cities?

Yes, Verona offers a more relaxed experience with just as much history and beauty. It’s less crowded than places like Florence or Rome but has incredible architecture, festivals, and food. It also offers easy access to nearby lakes and vineyards.

2) What’s special about the Verona Arena in July?

In summer, the Arena hosts an open-air opera festival, attracting world-class performers. The setting is stunning, and even if you’re not an opera fan, the atmosphere is unforgettable. Booking tickets early is essential as the best seats sell out quickly.

3) Is Verona walkable and family-friendly?

Very much so. The city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, with pedestrian zones and plenty of shaded benches. Children often enjoy the castles, tower climbs, and open piazzas where they can run around safely.

8) Sardinia (Costa Smeralda)

Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda in July is pure Mediterranean bliss, with emerald waters, white-sand beaches, and glamorous resorts. It’s a top summer destination for Italians and international travellers alike, known for luxury but also natural, rugged beauty.

The beaches are some of the best in Europe, like Spiaggia del Principe and Cala Brandinchi, offering calm, clear water perfect for swimming. Snorkelling, sailing, and boat tours to hidden coves and sea caves are hugely popular in July’s ideal sea conditions.

The towns of Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia are lively with stylish restaurants, beach clubs, and shopping. Inland, the island’s traditional culture remains strong, with nuraghe ruins, hearty local dishes, and colourful festivals. Sardinia offers a unique mix of high-end and rustic, depending on where you stay.

You’ll find everything from five-star resorts to charming agriturismo stays. Even in busy July, it’s possible to find quiet beaches if you explore off the main tourist track. Sardinia in July is sunny, luxurious, and deeply memorable.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Sardinia

1) Is Sardinia family-friendly or more for luxury travellers?

It’s great for both. Families will love the shallow beaches and nature excursions, while luxury seekers have access to top-end resorts and fine dining. You can tailor your trip depending on whether you want peaceful nature or glamorous nightlife.

2) How do I get to Sardinia?

You can fly into airports in Olbia, Alghero, or Cagliari, or take a ferry from mainland Italy. Rental cars are highly recommended for exploring beaches and small towns at your own pace.

3) Is it easy to find quiet spots in July?

Yes, though it requires a little effort. Avoid the most popular beaches after midday and ask locals about lesser-known areas. Visiting early in the morning or staying on the western side of the island helps beat the crowds.

9) The Dolomites, Trentino-Alto Adige

The Dolomites in July offer a cooler, greener escape from the coastal heat, with towering peaks, alpine meadows, and endless hiking trails.

This mountain range in northern Italy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its dramatic rock formations and pristine lakes. July is the ideal time for outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and via ferrata climbing routes.

The weather is warm but fresh, especially in the mornings and evenings, with wildflowers blooming across the valleys. You can base yourself in towns like Ortisei, Cortina d'Ampezzo, or Canazei, all offering cosy lodges and great food. Highlights include the crystal-clear Lake Braies, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and scenic cable car rides.

Local cuisine blends Italian and Austrian flavours, with hearty dishes perfect after a day outdoors. Even if you’re not hiking, the views from road trip routes or chairlifts are absolutely breathtaking. Families love the alpine playgrounds and farm visits, while couples enjoy the peaceful, romantic scenery.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting The Dolomites

1) Is July a good time to visit the Dolomites?

It’s the best time. Trails are open, wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is dry and mild. It’s also the most popular month, so booking ahead for accommodation is important.

2) Do I need to be a serious hiker to enjoy the Dolomites?

Not at all. There are trails for all levels, from short walks around lakes to challenging summit hikes. Many spots are accessible by car or cable car for panoramic views without the climb.

3) What should I pack for a Dolomites trip in July?

Bring layers, as it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings. Hiking shoes, a light waterproof jacket, and sunscreen are must-haves, along with a refillable water bottle.

10) Naples & The Amalfi Hinterland (Campania)

Naples in July is hot, loud, and absolutely full of life. It’s the birthplace of pizza and a hub of southern Italian culture, with bustling streets, loud markets, and beautiful views over the Bay of Naples. July is a great time to explore the city’s underground catacombs and ancient ruins, especially Pompeii and Herculaneum, which are nearby.

Naples also serves as a gateway to less-crowded but equally stunning parts of the Amalfi hinterland, like Agerola, Ravello, and Scala. These hill towns offer cooler breezes, hiking trails like the Path of the Gods, and gorgeous views without the heavy coastal crowds.

In the city, you’ll find world-class museums, churches, and UNESCO-listed architecture. Street food like sfogliatelle, pizza fritta, and cuoppo is everywhere and incredibly affordable.

The nightlife is buzzing, especially along the seafront promenade. Despite its chaotic charm, Naples is full of soul and history waiting to be uncovered. Naples and its nearby mountains in July are raw, passionate, and unforgettable.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Naples & The Amalfi Hinterland

1) Is Naples safe for tourists in July?

Yes, though it has a reputation for being gritty, Naples is safe in the main areas. As with any city, be mindful of pickpockets and avoid wandering alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-known districts like Spaccanapoli, Chiaia, and Vomero for the best experience.

2) Is it easy to visit Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast from Naples?

Very easy. Trains run regularly to Pompeii and Sorrento, and ferries or private drivers make the Amalfi Coast accessible for day trips or overnights. Many visitors use Naples as a central hub to explore the entire region.

3) How hot is Naples in July?

It’s one of Italy’s hottest cities in summer, with temperatures often above 32°C. Stay hydrated, wear light clothes, and plan sightseeing for early morning or after sunset when it’s cooler.

There you have it! These are 10 of the best places located in Italy, perfect for your next adventure in July! Whether you plan to do a road trip around Italy in July or are visiting for a long weekend, you should definitely check out some of these places!

When exploring these hidden gems, always consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group, as some locations may require local expertise for the best experience.

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 13,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!