What to expect when travelling to Italy this summer
Beaches
For many who visit Italy during the summer, beaches are the biggest draw - but you'll need to decide whether you prefer a free public beach or are willing to fork out for a spot at one of the many privately-run beach clubs that dot the coastline.
The average cost to rent two sunbeds and an umbrella at a beach club this year is €32-€35 per day during weekends, according to consumer watchdog Codacons, though prices can vary significantly depending on location.
In Sabaudia, south of Rome, customers can expect to pay up to €45; in Gallipoli on the southern coast of Puglia, €90; and in parts of Sardinia, as much as €120.
Crowds
Summer holidays start relatively early in Italy, with schools across the country closed from the second half of June and many families taking the opportunity to cool off on the shores of beaches and lakes.
It's not until August, though, that you'll really be competing for a spot to put down your towel, as this is when most Italians head to the sea to escape stifling temperatures inland.
Expect to find beaches packed and many cafes, shops and restaurants in cities closed or open for limited hours, particularly during the mid-August Ferragosto break.
An estimated 20.7 million visitors are expected to stay in Italy's beach towns between June and August this year, an increase of two percent on the same period in 2024.
Though most Italian cities empty out during the summer, the Vatican's Jubilee Year celebrations in Rome are expected to draw additional crowds to the Eternal City.
Weather
Summer in Italy is always hot, with temperatures in the mid to high 30s (Celcius) in many parts of the country, and this year is expected to be no different.
A series of "long-lasting and persistent heatwaves," with mostly sunny weather are currently forecast for July and August, says meteorologist Mattia Gussoni, writing for weather site ilmeteo.it.
Though projections are still subject to change, as things stand there aren't expected to be any record-breaking high temperatures.
That means it's gearing up to be a summer that will likely be "fully enjoyed by tourists," says meteorologist Alessio Gussoni.
Travel
direct flight routes from airlines including Easyjet, American Airlines and Vueling.
For those who prefer to travel by rail, a a new overnight train linking Marseille to Rome is due to run from July 4th until August 30th, and Italy's Trenitalia plans to resume a popular night train service connecting Rome to Munich, Germany, on July 15th.
If you've seen recent headlines about overtourism protests in Spain over or the sudden closure of the Louvre due to staff being overwhelmed by visitor numbers, you may wonder if something similar could happen in Italy this summer.
limit the number of visitors who arrive during peak seasons.
However, as things stand, anti-tourism protests and walkouts in Italy are on a smaller scale than those taking place in Spain.
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