Where to go in Italy in August 2026: 10 incredible places beyond the tourist trail

August in Italy immediately brings to mind crowded beaches, packed art cities and overexposed destinations where finding a place to stay can feel almost impossible. 

Yet all it takes is stepping away from the most predictable routes to discover peaceful villages, unspoilt landscapes, cool mountain retreats and stretches of coastline that can still surprise you.

If you are looking for a different kind of trip, these 10 destinations away from the busiest tourist trails are the perfect starting point for planning your holiday in Italy in August 2026.

August is the month when the whole of Italy seems to head for the same beaches, the same art cities and the best-known holiday resorts.

But you do not have to follow the crowds to enjoy a restorative break: you can escape to the cool mountain air, discover villages and cities brought to life by centuries-old traditions, explore spectacular coastlines or let yourself be surprised by places that still remain outside the most predictable tourist routes.

We have selected 10 incredible places to visit in Italy in August 2026, combining sea, nature, culture and events that can make your journey truly special:

- Maratea
- Livigno
- Montepulciano 
- Sassari
- Bormio
- Capo Vaticano
- Fermo
- Genova
- Marina di Camerota
- Bellagio

Maratea, also known as the "City of 44 Churches" due to the numerous churches, chapels, and monasteries that dot its territory, is the "Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea", lapped by the benevolent waters of the Gulf of Policastro.

It boasts a wide and varied range of tourist attractions, starting with its beaches, among the most beautiful in Basilicata, then moving on to the old town centre, a captivating medieval gem made even more precious by the presence of picturesque alleys, historic buildings, and ancient churches, and finally to the pristine nature of the Pollino Park, which attracts hikers, excursionists, and mountain bikers.

Here are some of the main attractions that Maratea has to offer and made it a popular destination for August 2026:

- The beaches of Fiumicello, Cala Ventosa, and Punta Demenga;

- Mount San Biagio;

- The statue of the Christ the Redeemer;

- The church of San Vito and the basilica of San Marciano;

- The Civic Archaeological Museum and the MUSMA (Museum of Contemporary Sculpture).

Livigno is the perfect mountain destination for sports, hiking, and... shopping lovers.

Immersed in a breathtaking mountain landscape, with snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and a crystal-clear lake, you will be able to admire incredible panoramas from the "Carosello 3000", the highest point of all Italy, reachable by special lifts.

If you are a lover of acrobatic biking, then you absolutely cannot miss the challenges offered by the "Mottolino Fun Mountain", a bike park suitable for both beginners and experts.

Finally, if you are looking for a place to spend some quality time with your partner or family, you can't help but go to the Aquagranda, a water center with swimming pools, water slides, and saunas.

Perched on a hill between the Valdichiana and Val d'Orcia valleys, Montepulciano is a medieval village famous for its DOCG Nobile wine, Renaissance architecture, and fairytale atmosphere. This makes it the ideal destination for lovers of history, art, food and wine, and relaxation.

Listed by (following the “99% of Italy” campaign) the Visit Italy community in their guide to Italy's 99% not to be missed as one of the best hidden villages to visit, its must-see attractions include:

- The Town Hall, home to the Civic Museum, the Pulcinella Tower, and the Medici Fortress;

- The Etruscan Archaeological Museum and the Wine Museum;

-The Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Ricci Gallery.

Sassari is one of the most fascinating destinations to visit in Italy in August 2026, especially if you want to experience the March of the Candelieri, the great festival that transforms the historic centre every 14 August with music and devotion.

Known locally as the Faradda di li Candareri, the celebration sees representatives of the ancient guilds carry and make monumental wooden votive candles “dance” through the city streets. The procession renews the community’s vow to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and forms part of the Network of Celebrations of Great Shoulder-Borne Processional Structures, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The festival is also the perfect opportunity to discover Sassari, starting from Piazza d’Italia, an elegant 19th-century square surrounded by grand historic buildings, before continuing through the streets of the old town to the Cathedral of San Nicola, distinguished by its spectacular Baroque façade.

Palazzo Ducale, now home to the Town Hall, and the Fontana di Rosello, one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Sardinian city, are also well worth visiting.

Nestled at an altitude of 1,225 meters above sea level, in the heart of the Stelvio National Park, Bormio is a true paradise for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation. Known as the "Magnificent Land," it offers its visitors an unforgettable experience in any season of the year.

Surrounded by imposing mountains, such as the Ortles-Cevedale group and the Re di Valtellina, Bormio offers breathtaking panoramas that can be admired from various viewpoints, such as the Stelvio Pass, the Gavia Pass, and the Cima Piazzi.

Bormio is also renowned for its thermal baths, already known to the Romans, such as those of the Bagni Vecchi, Bagni Nuovi, and the Bormio Terme Spa Centre.

In addition, strolling through its historic centre, visitors can be awestruck by the superb beauty of the Giants' Tower, the Collegiate Church of SS. Vitale e Valeria, and the Podestà's Palace.

Located on the southwestern tip of Calabria, Capo Vaticano is a promontory, situated on the "Costa degli Dei", which overlooks the southern Tyrrhenian Sea and offers breathtaking views.

With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation, the site is a true paradise for lovers of the sea and nature.

The offer of activities to do is diversified and captivating:

- A day at Tono Beach, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy.

- A boat trip to the Caves of Capo Vaticano, a complex of sea caves with suggestive rock formations.

- A visit to the Capo Vaticano's Lighthouse to admire the panorama of the Aeolian Islands and Stromboli.

- A walk in the ancient village of Capo Vaticano to discover its history and traditions.

- A tasting of typical Calabrian products, such as 'nduja, soppressata, and Calabrian pecorino cheese.

Fermo is one of the most surprising cities in the Marche region, combining Roman remains, medieval and Renaissance architecture, sweeping views stretching as far as the sea and deeply rooted traditions. August is the most fascinating time to discover it, when the Cavalcata dell’Assunta brings the atmosphere of ancient celebrations back to the historic centre.

The heart of the visit is Piazza del Popolo, an elegant 15th-century square overlooked by Palazzo dei Priori, home to the Civic Art Gallery and the evocative Sala del Mappamondo. The room is lined with wooden bookshelves and dominated by the large globe created in 1713 by Silvestro Amanzio Moroncelli. Not far away, hidden beneath the streets of the city centre, are the Roman Cisterns, an impressive underground complex dating from the Augustan age and made up of 30 interconnected chambers.

Climbing towards the highest point of the city, you reach Girfalco Hill, where the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands out for its asymmetrical Romanesque-Gothic façade in Istrian stone.

In August, however, Fermo takes on a completely different character thanks to the Cavalcata dell’Assunta. For several days, taverns, performances, competitions between the 10 districts and historical re-enactments bring the city to life, culminating on 15 August with the costumed procession and the horse race for the Palio. 

Featuring more than 1,000 participants, including knights, nobles, district representatives and townspeople, the event recreates the ancient tribute paid by the surrounding castles to the city’s patron saint.

Nicknamed “La Superba”, Genoa is a complex and fascinating city best explored slowly, wandering through the narrow caruggi of the historic centre, stepping inside traditional shops and looking up at the façades of its noble palaces.

Unmissable sights include the Strade Nuove and the Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Port redesigned by Renzo Piano and the Genoa Aquarium. To experience the city’s more distinctly maritime soul, head to Boccadasse, where pastel-coloured houses cluster around a small bay, or to Nervi, where you can walk along the cliffs and find some relief from the summer heat in the large parks overlooking the sea.

August 2026 also offers several opportunities to enjoy Genoa after sunset. The Old Port comes alive with the EstateSpettacolo programme, while Piazza delle Feste hosts the Porto Antico Progfest on 1 August. 

The Lilith Festival della Musica d’Autrice continues until 8 August, while lovers of contemporary art can visit the major Mimmo Rotella retrospective at Palazzo Ducale until 13 September.

Located in the heart of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, Marina di Camerota astonishes with the dazzling beauty of its beaches, the azure of its waters, and the charm that the ancient village exerts on all those seeking a holiday of adventure and relaxation.

Organize a tour of the most beautiful coves of this little corner of paradise, such as Cala degli Infreschi, Cala Bianca, Cala Luna, Pozzallo, Porto Infreschi, Calanca.

Immerse yourself in the alleys of its historic center and be enchanted by the beauty of the Norman Tower, the Church of San Nicola di Bari, and the Sanctuary of San Vito.

Known as the "Pearl of Lake Como," Bellagio offers breathtaking views dotted with magnificent historic villas, such as Villa Serbelloni, with its Italian gardens and panoramic views, and Villa Melzi, famous for its park rich in sculptures and works of art.

Bellagio is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway: the cobbled streets, the characteristic restaurants, and the picturesque views create a magical atmosphere that will surely win you over.

In addition, if you are a hiking enthusiast, there are numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains.

Finally, don't forget to taste the typical dishes of local cuisine, such as missoltina (dried and salted fish) and polenta taragna (polenta with melted cheese).

In August, the weather in Italy reaches its summer peak, with long days, clear skies and high temperatures that often exceed 35 °C in the inland areas of the south and large cities.

On the coasts, however, sea breezes mitigate the heat, making the days pleasant, especially in the afternoon hours. In the north and the mountains, August provides cooler, more livable weather, with nights that may require a light sweatshirt.

It is important to know that humidity can be intense, especially in the large cities of the Po Valley and in the coastal areas of Central and Southern Italy.

For this reason, it is the perfect month for those looking for the sea, high altitudes or small shady villages where they can slow down and enjoy the dolce far niente.

What you can do in Italy in August 2026?

August is also the month of popular festivals, open-air music festivals and the most authentic festivals in Italy. 15 August, Ferragosto, is one of the most popular festivals: from North to South, fireworks, picnics, religious processions and concerts under the stars are organised.

In Siena, the famous Palio dell'Assunta is run, one of the country's most fascinating historical events. In Apulia, it is time for the Notte della Taranta, a traditional music festival that enlivens the towns of Salento with overwhelming sounds and dances.

In Trentino and South Tyrol, Alpine traditions are celebrated with folk festivals and markets while the 2026 Art Biennale takes place in Venice. Wherever you go, you will find something to experience.