Where to go in Italy in July 2026 (best summer picks)

The Italian summer, a timeless dream that captivates millions of travelers from around the world every year! With the arrival of July, it's officially time for holidays and relaxation: by the way, have you already thought about where to go this summer?

From enchanting coasts and unique seascapes, sun-drenched mountains and cities to experience, there's so much to see and do in Italy in July. And of course, there are countless travel options for your summer vacation.

You're in the right place: with this guide, get ready to discover with us where to go on holiday in Italy in July, we've picked 10 destinations for you!

July is a spectacular month in Italy, brimming with beauty to discover from north to south. Nature is at its very best, the summer mood enlivens every day, and the stunning beaches become an inviting beckoning for a few refreshing hours by the sea.

However, there is a downside, unfortunately unavoidable: the intense heat! July is typically a scorching month in Italy, which can cause discomfort especially during the midday hours. And the forecast for 2026 seems to predict a scorching hot Italy as well.

If you're staying in the city, avoid spending time outdoors in the hottest hours and opt for cooler activities. But if you're thinking of a relaxing trip to escape your stressful routine and enjoy some fresh air, then you might find good inspiration with one of the 10 destinations picked for this summer guide!

Ideal destinations for traveling to Italy in July:

• discover the beauty of the coast (Conero, Porto Ercole, Marettimo, Comacchio);

• discover the beauty of the mountains (Val Vigezzo, Castelsaraceno, Lake Barrea);

• discover the most interesting cities (La Spezia, Trieste, Perugia).

For a cool and picturesque summer vacation in July, you could visit Val Vigezzo, also known by the romantic name of the Painters Valley, a mountain destination offering a perfect mix of coolness, pristine nature, and fairytale villages.

The two main towns here are Malesco and Santa Maria Maggiore, with their picturesque, old-fashioned aesthetic. Near Malesco, we recommend visiting the spectacular natural waterfalls to cool off on hot mornings. For a relaxing afternoon in the shade, a must-visit is the pine forest of Santa Maria Maggiore, perfect for a picnic or a rejuvenating stroll before exploring the elegant town’s historic centre.

Both towns are part of a wonderful panoramic train route too, connecting Domodossola to Switzerland. Also not to be missed is the Pian dei Sali WWF Oasis, perfect for landscape photography and birdwatching, and the majestic Sanctuary of Madonna del Sangue in the hamlet of Re, a true architectural gem.

Heading further down the valley towards Lake Maggiore, we also recommend the beautiful town of Cannobio, so awesome especially at sunset with an aperitif by the lakeside.

If you're dreaming of a summer holiday that combines the charm of the sea with the liveliness of the city, La Spezia is the perfect choice. This splendid city is a Ligurian gem that many might probably only know as the gateway to the famous Cinque Terre (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore).

La ​​Spezia is truly a destination worth experiencing though! Here you can stroll in the shade, exploring a charming historic centre and take a break in the public gardens on Viale Italia overlooking the sea, perfect for a cool breeze during the hottest hours of the day. If you're interested in the city's fashion scene, treat yourself to a stroll along the lively Via del Prione, lined with shops, boutiques, and cafés.

For lovers of history and postcard-like views, the majestic San Giorgio Castle is a must-see, as is, especially at sunset, the Mirabello tourist port, an ideal spot for enjoying an aperitif while admiring the sea and the illuminated yachts.

La Spezia is also the best base for exploring the wonders of the Gulf of Poets, with its rugged coastline and charming seaside villages. We recommend traveling by sea via ferry for an unparalleled experience: in less than an hour, you can reach Portovenere and be captivated by its timeless poetry, and from here, you can discover other coastal gems like Lerici and Tellaro.

This summer, Conero Park is the perfect place for those seeking a vacation amidst pristine nature, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of adventure. We're sure this seaside promontory will surprise even the most demanding travelers!

Conero is a Mediterranean paradise, rich in lush greenery and coastlines bathed by the azure Adriatic Sea. Among the unmissable places on a vacation here is Portonovo bay, where you can relax on the splendid beach, explore exciting hiking trails immersed in Mediterranean woods, and take stunning panoramic photos.

Moving on along the coast, you can visit Conero's most magical beaches. This stretch of sea is a succession of breathtaking coves and small pristine sandy bays perfect for bathing, within an extraordinary setting. Among the most famous beaches not to be missed: Due Sorelle, Gabbiani, Sassi Bianchi, and Sassi Neri.

For an even more immersive experience, we recommend a boat or kayak tour to discover the local most scenic spots, such as the Scoglio della Vela and the evocative sea-carved caves, such as Marchesina.

For a stay and pleasant summer evenings, choose the towns of Sirolo and Numana, welcoming seaside locations with lively squares, colorful alleys, and panoramic terraces.

Porto Ercole is one of those places that creates the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and the Italian-style dolce vita, perfect for a memorable summer vacation. Located on Monte Argentario and just a few kilometers from Orbetello, on the southern coast of Tuscany, it's an ideal destination to reach even from Rome (just 150 km by car).

Porto Ercole knows how to captivate and pamper its visitors with its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The heart of its historic centre, dominated by the Palazzo dei Governanti, overlooks the lively tourist port: here you can enjoy a relaxing stroll while admiring the moored boats, or sip a drink and dine at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.

But summer calls for the sea, and the coast here is a true masterpiece. Prepare to discover wild beaches and coves with crystal-clear water, often accessible only on foot or by sea, especially ideal for snorkeling or exciting boat tours.

For more active travelers, there's no shortage of opportunities for a bit of adventure. The area offers spectacular hiking and trekking trails in the heart of the promontory, along paths scented with Mediterranean flora, the remains of ancient seaside forts, and breathtaking views spanning the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago (Giglio and Giannutri, in particular).

Marettimo is an island with a wild soul, yet where the heart of the Mediterranean beats strong. The westernmost of the Egadi Islands, in Sicily (reachable by sea from Trapani), this pristine pearl is ready to welcome you for your July vacation in Italy.

Upon arrival, Marettimo presents itself to travelers as a charming seaside village, a jewel of white and blue houses where you'll find welcoming accommodations, excellent restaurants ready to delight you with traditional cuisine, and a picturesque little harbor.

From here, you can embark on exciting boat trips around the island, famous for its numerous sea caves, which can be discovered by sea. On the northeast side of the island, you can admire and explore the Camel Cave, the Thunder Cave, and the Lion Cave, while sailing along the wild west coast, you'll be enchanted by the Presepe Cave and the Bombarda Cave.

On Marettimo you can also sunbathe and swim. Cala Bianca and Cala del Cretazzo are the best beaches to visit on the island, with their turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. And for those seeking adventure? Marettimo offers spectacular scenic hikes among ancient ruins on the coast and towards the heart of the island, particularly the path of the Roman Houses, the Falcone peak, and the Punta Troia sea cliff.

Who said visiting a city in the summer is a bad idea? Trieste is the ideal destination to debunk this myth, with its mix of cosmopolitan elegance, culture, and outdoor beauty that could captivate everyone.

Trieste's city centre offers visitors a truly rewarding mosaic of aesthetics and sensations. Climbing the Colle di San Giusto hill, you can admire the namesake Cathedral and Fortress, while visiting the central Piazza Unità d'Italia you will immerse in a stunning backdrop of majestic historic buildings, each one more beautiful than the last, especially Palazzo del Lloyd Triestino, Palazzo Modello, and Palazzo della Prefettura.

Also not to be missed are Trieste's Grand Canal, the ancient Roman Theatre, the evocative Revoltella Museum, and the sumptuous Baroque Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. To experience life like a true local, treat yourself to a break in one of the city's historic cafés! In July, Trieste's evenings are also enriched by the sounds of Trieste Loves Jazz, the unmissable musical event that lights up the summer.

Even just outside the city centre, Trieste offers wonderful attractions. Miramare Castle is certainly one of them: a romantic aristocratic residence built on the picturesque Grignano promontory, white and gleaming in contrast with the intense blue of the sea. Miramare includes an immense botanical park and Italian-style gardens, exceptional places to discover in the heart of summer.

If the days are too hot, you can also cool off by visiting the Val Rosandra Nature Reserve. This green area is Trieste's hiking paradise, on the border with Slovenia, offering picturesque shaded trails among limestone rocks, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.

Many travelers know Basilicata only for the iconic Matera, but this beautiful southern region has so much more to offer. If you're looking for the perfect escape from the heat and chaos of the usual crowded destinations this summer, perhaps Castelsaraceno is the alternative destination you've been waiting for.

Nestled in the Lucanian mountains, this charming heart-shaped village welcomes travelers with a cool, refreshing climate, perfect for relaxing and fully enjoying the adrenaline rush of a unique and unforgettable experience you can only find here.

Castelsaraceno's main attraction is indeed the famous tibetan bridge, an icon that earned the town the acknowledgment of Luminous Destination for 2026. Known as one of the longest tibetan bridges in the world, here you can literally walk over 500 meters above the region's characteristic canyons: a breathtaking experience, especially with the colors and cool summer breeze at sunset, which will give you a nice dose of thrill, in complete safety, of course.

After the emotion of the high altitude, treat yourself to a relaxing stroll through the alleys of Castelsaraceno's historic centre and visit the Museum of Shepherd Traditions. This innovative museum takes guests on a fascinating journey through time, discovering the local agricultural and pastoral culture through interactive installations and authentic stories.

Looking for a mountain destination with a beautiful lake for your summer vacation, but not the usual Alps? Abruzzo has the perfect place for such a retreat in July: Lake Barrea, in the heart of the National Park, the perfect alternative for a different kind of summer.

This picturesque pond is located on the southern border of Abruzzo, nestled between the villages of Barrea, where you can discover a majestic castle, Villetta Barrea, and Civitella Alfedena. The area is a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers, with its cool, green spaces sheltered from the intense sun and heat. The area is ideal for walks, camping, and relaxing treks suitable for the whole family.

Also not to be missed is a visit to the Camosciara Nature Reserve, just 3 km from the inhabited towns. In this vast protected area you can spot beautiful deer and chamois. Formed by a limestone amphitheater, Camosciara is home to countless trails through breathtaking waterfalls, streams, and woods, perfect for refreshing mountain walks. Among the most beautiful summer treks, we recommend the trails leading to the Ninfe Waterfall.

A beach holiday in July, but with an interesting cultural and natural twist? Then Comacchio is the ideal solution! Known as the “little Venice” of the Po Delta, this charming town is ready to welcome you with family-friendly beaches, lush green landscapes, and a captivating atmosphere.

Your experience in Comacchio begins by exploring the enchanting historic town, where you can admire the elegant architecture of Palazzo Bellini and delve into the history of this area thanks to the rich Ancient Delta Museum.

The most iconic feature of Comacchio's historic centre is undoubtedly the presence of picturesque canals that cross through the town, framed by monumental bridges. The most famous and important is the majestic Trepponti Bridge, dating back to the 17th century, an undisputed symbol of the town with its scenic stairways.

Just south of the town you can find the magical Comacchio Valleys, a natural paradise perfect for hiking, cycling, or birdwatching. Here, you can spot splendid peacocks and pink flamingos!

And if July calls for sea and sun, you can't miss the Comacchio Shores: seven wide sandy beaches in a magnificent natural setting, perfect for those who love doing sports at the beach and offering a lively nightlife scene.

There are alternative and fascinating destinations to discover in Italy in July, away from crowded beaches and the usual tourist routes. This summer, why not treat yourself to a trip to beautiful Perugia? With its cultural energy and cool evenings by the hillside, we're sure the Umbrian capital will exceed your expectations.

And if you love concerts and consider yourself a lover of great music, you'll certainly have another good reason to visit Perugia in July: Umbria Jazz, the best event of the summer season transforming the city into a stage ready to welcome awesome artists. The international guest star for this edition's opening is Sting, ready to offer a magical night of great music under the stars.

But the excitement in Perugia continues during the day, too. The best way to escape the summer heat is to visit the city's most prestigious museums, easily accessible in the historic centre. A truly cultural and artistic tour, where you can take refuge among the masterpieces of the Umbria National Gallery or discover the hidden treasures of the Capitolo di San Lorenzo Museum.

Don't forget the frescoes at the Nobile Collegio del Cambio at Palazzo dei Priori, and the evocative contemporary art itinerary at the Palazzo della Penna Civic Museum.