Italy in May
You won’t be the only tourist in Italy at the end of the spring, as May is the unofficial start to the peak tourist season. This is still a great time to come, with temperatures often idyllic and the sun frequently shining.
Weather in Italy in May
The weather can vary across Italy in May. Southern areas will see highs of 24℃, making for some excellent beach weather though the sea may still be quite chilly. The average temperature in central Italy will be approximately 20℃ with lows of 16℃.
What to Do in Italy in May
One of the best things to do in Italy in May is to explore the verdant countryside of Tuscany. The region explodes into colour as spring wildflowers proudly bloom. Siena and Florence have some incredible Renaissance art and buildings, whereas smaller towns offer a more charming rustic experience.
Sorrento is also an excellent choice when you visit Italy in May. You can lounge in charming beach clubs and take boat tours of the coast, as the water won’t be as crowded with other holidaymakers. There is also ample opportunity to explore the ancient history of the area in places like Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Key Events in Italy in May
May is filled with events that take place throughout Italy. This is when the annual bike race, Giro d’Italia, takes place, travelling the country for three weeks. The 3448.6km race traverses the whole country and is a hotly anticipated event.
Similarly, 1000 Miglia also occurs in May. The week-long vintage car rally has been established for over 100 years, with drivers starting in Brescia and then racing to Rome and back. The route explores some of the most beautiful places in Italy and is a must-see event for car lovers.
Italy in June
June, along with July and August, is in the peak tourist season in Italy. Warm temperatures and crowds should be expected, although it’s possible to escape the heat by enjoying the beautiful beaches in Southern Italy or heading into the Dolomites for scenic hikes.
Weather in Italy in June
Summer has arrived, bringing with it scorching sunny days. The average temperature in Italy in June can range from 25℃ -30℃ across the country. In recent years highs of 40℃ have been reported, particularly in the south.
What to Do in Italy in June
One of the best things to do in Italy in June is to head to one of the country’s beautiful beaches. The coast will be busy at this time of year, but not as crowded as other summer months. Puglia is a particular standout with its lush beaches and warm Mediterranean climate.
June is also an excellent time to head to Lake Como in the North. With welcoming traditional villages, cycling paths and unrivalled natural beauty, this corner of Italy is a real paradise for those who want to avoid the packed beaches. If you are staying in Milan, it makes a perfect day trip, as it is only an hour away on the train.
Key Events in Italy in June
The highlight of events in June may be in Florence, where the annual Calcio Storico tournament is held. This early form of football is at least 500 years old, so teams dress up in historical costumes as part of the event.
June is also a month when many saints’ days are celebrated across Italy. In Rome, the feast of St Peter and St Paul is a wondrous spectacle. Likewise, in Turin and Genoa, fires are lit and parades fill the streets with colour and joy.
Italy in July
Summer brings sizzling heat along with many cultural events held throughout the country. July is right in the middle of Italy’s peak season, so there will be many other tourists and locals filling up town squares and top attractions.
Weather in Italy in July
Italian weather in July is hot and humid. Heatwaves are very possible, which can make exploring cities nearly unbearable.
Average temperatures in July can reach highs of 32℃ in the north and the south. If you want to avoid the worst of the heat, head to the peaks in the Alps or Apennines where the cool mountain air is perfect for hiking.
What to Do in Italy in July
One of the best things to do in Italy in July is to visit some of the undiscovered gems that won’t be teeming with tourists. Towns like Erice and Nocelle are perfect for a remote summer escape where you can enjoy the quaint charms of traditional Italian living.
Another great destination for an Italian vacation in July is Umbria. This region is often overlooked in favour of areas like Tuscany, but it provides just as much cultural wonder. From sampling olive oil to countryside hikes, Umbria is perfect for those who want to visit Italy and avoid the major cities.
Key Events in Italy in July
July is filled with amazing events and festivals which are certain to make your visit unforgettable. The Opera Festival will be held in Verona’s ancient arena and continues into September, while Siena hosts the first of the two Il Palio horse races in its central piazza.
In Palmero, there is the Festa di Santa Rosalia, which celebrates the city’s deliverance from the plague. The celebrations last for 5 days between the 10th and 15th of July and are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the traditions and folklore of Sicily.
Italy in August
August is when most Italians take their vacations, with soaring temperatures sending them to the mountains and the beaches where you’ll find big crowds. While some businesses will be closed in the cities, you might find some discounted hotel rates, if you can deal with the heat.
Weather in Italy in August
Be prepared for the overwhelming heat in August. Across the country, daytime temperatures will settle around 25℃, with highs of 30℃. Towards the end of the month, there will be more showers and rain but overall the month remains very warm and bright.
What to Do in Italy in August
If you don’t mind busy beaches, August in Italy is a great time to visit the Amalfi Coast. The beach is the best way to beat the heat as you can cool off in the sea and make the most of the summer atmosphere. In Amalfi, you can find secluded coves which is a brilliant way to avoid crowds. Of course, you can’t visit without grabbing a picture of the idyllic Fiordo di Furore.
Key Events in Italy in August
Perhaps the most notable event in August is Ferragosto, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This is a public holiday on the 15th of July when locals will head out to the country to visit family, so many businesses will be closed and cities will seem much quieter during this time.
If you are keen to experience historical festivities, be sure to attend the Quintana of Ascoli Piceno. This is a thrilling jousting competition which has roots as far back as the 9th Century. The reenactment feels like stepping back in time and has become a leading event in the Marche area.