Italy in the Summer: How Travel Expert Clarisse Beats the Heat
During heatwaves, it’s not unusual to see firemen using hoses to spray water on the streets to cool them down, creating impromptu “barefoot parties.”
Italy in the summer is breathtaking. In Tuscany, wheatfields appear like a quilt of gold-green velvet thrown over the undulating landscape. In the mountains of Umbria, forests of chestnut and hazel flourish. Along the Amalfi Coast, the vividness of its palette – the yellow of bulging lemons, electric pink bougainvillea, the brash cobalt blue of the sea – seems almost unreal.
But, with all the beauty that long sunny days bring, so comes the baking Mediterranean heat. For visitors from cooler climes, it can take some acclimatising to. Fortunately, with some clever strategies, you can stay comfortable while enjoying the landscapes, beauty and culture.
To help you out, Clarisse, a Travel Director and Italy expert with 18 years of experience living in the country, shares her top tips for staying cool while exploring this magnificent destination.
For travel inspiration, take a look at our Italy Guided Tours.
It’s estimated that there are anywhere between over 20,000 and 65,000 churches throughout Italy.
Seek coolness in churches and cathedrals
“One excellent way to escape the heat of Italy in the summer is by visiting the country’s numerous stunning churches and cathedrals. As the heart of Catholicism, Italy boasts some of the best, including iconic landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica the Vatican City and the Milan Duomo. These churches provide a cooler refuge, and a treasure trove of delights, each reflecting Italy’s rich history, artistry and spiritual significance.
“I really love the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà in Venice, built next to an orphanage where composer Antonio Vivaldi taught music. Here you can cool off with spectacular concerts that hosts draw visitors to its serene interiors decorated with precious original frescos.
“When in Rome, don’t miss St. Pietro in Vincoli, a hidden gem featuring Michelangelo’s statue of Moses and relics of St. Peter’s chains. While, for art lovers, the Church of St. Louis of the French showcases stunning Caravaggio paintings.
“Additionally, public parks provide shaded areas for relaxation and a breath of fresh air.”
Opt for granita over gelato
“When it comes to refreshing treats in Italy in the summer, swap gelato for granita — a more refreshing, less creamy frozen treat that combines fresh fruit juice or syrup with crushed ice. Or try freshly squeezed fruit juices, like “centrifuga,” which extract pure juice from fruits, watermelon, which has a high water content, is a perfect choice. Or enjoy a glass of Italian lemonade made with just lemon juice and icy water. Sip these drinks slowly though when they’re very cold to avoid thermal shock and stomachaches!
“For a delightful twist, as you are in the land of coffee, try “crema al caffè.” This cold, frothy coffee creamer is served in a cup with spoon and savored by Italians only in summer time. Or for the real coffee lovers you can’t beat a simple “caffe shakerato” (shaken ice coffee) served in a cocktail glass. This can be sweet or sugar-free and is found only in bars.”
Explore milder regions
“A country with such varied topography, if travelling to Italy in the summer consider visiting regions where the temperatures are milder. Coastal towns benefit from refreshing sea breezes, making destinations like Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, or Puglia and Adriatic coast pleasant options.
“The enchanting island of Capri provides a lovely escape with gorgeous views and cooler temperatures. Likewise, mountainous areas or the hilly countryside of Tuscany offer a reprieve from the heat.”
Sightsee early or late
“To avoid the midday heat, plan your sightseeing for the early morning or opt for unique nighttime tours. Italians often venture out only after 4:30 p.m., (as many shops close from 1.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m), which in turn sees social life flourish in the cooler evenings.
“Visiting iconic sites like the Colosseum at night is a magical experience; the illuminated ruins create a stunning atmosphere and offer a more tranquil experience without the daytime crowds.”
Choose dining wisely
“When dining out in Italy in the summer, consider the restaurant’s location and setting. Many restaurants provide air conditioning, but opting for an outdoor terrace in the evening makes for a beatiful dining experience.
“Look for restaurants located by the water for a cooling breeze, or choose eateries situated at higher altitudes. In picturesque Tuscany, temperatures tend to be lower in the heart of the vineyards where the breeze blows, making a great restaurant location.”
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Enjoy your hotel’s amenities
“Take advantage of your hotel’s amenities during the hottest parts of the day. Relaxing by the pool, enjoying a spa treatment, or simply lounging in a shaded area or on your balcony if you have one can be excellent ways to stay cool.
“Superior 4 and 5 star hotels are a hallmark of Insight Vacations’ tours, with premium facilities to ensure you remain refreshed and ready for your adventures in Italy. Try a quick warm shower before going out in the heat, as you will feel immediately fresh and not sweaty after seconds.”
Dress like an Italian: Comfortable and stylish
“Italy in the summer offers abundant inspiration for dressing comfortably yet stylishly. Chic yet practical outfits are on show all around you!
“Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen and avoid dark colors and tight-fitting clothes that can trap heat. Choose lightweight outfits that allow for airflow and consider bringing a cotton scarf to keep your neck cool; it can double as a hat or shoulder cover for added sun protection. With a little creativity, you can enjoy looking chic while staying comfortable.”
Minimize your load
“When exploring Italy, avoid heavy backpacks that can lead to unnecessary sweating. Stick to the essentials for a comfortable day out. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, sun protection, and a lightweight folded umbrella for shade.
“A magic towel, a compressed dry towel that expands when dampened, can also come in handy. I always have a thermal water spray, which I keep in the fridge overnight and carry with me during the day for a refreshing spritz.”
Enjoy swimming in Italy’s magnificent lakes
“Italy’s warm summer months provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy its stunning lakes, where you can cool off while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Lake Maggiore, with its crystal-clear waters and charming lakeside towns like Stresa and Baveno, is a favorite. You can take a refreshing swim or rent a boat to explore the hidden coves. All the while the surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop.”
Stay hydrated
“It is essential to hydrate frequently to keep you refreshed and energized while exploring the magnificent sights of Italy.
“It’s common for people to drink mineral bottled water in Italy, rarely do we ask for tap water in restaurants. When you order coffee at a bar, it’s customary to request a glass of water – an excellent way to stay hydrated.
“In Rome and other cities, you’ll find public drinking fountains, providing refreshing and drinkable water for anyone in need. Rome’s historical center has more than 200 public fountains called Nasoni (big noses) from which drinkable water continuously flows.
“During heatwaves, it’s not unusual to see firemen using hoses to spray water on the streets to cool them down, creating impromptu “barefoot parties” as passersby delight in having the cool water gently spread on their feet and legs.”
To book your perfect Italian tour, take a look at our collection of small group premium journeys.
About Leanne Williams
I'm a writer, editor and interview specialist with a lifetime's love of travel. There’s nothing more inspiring to me than meeting, and writing about, the world's leading destination experts and travel industry insiders. The thing I love most about writing for Insightful is that I'm always learning something new.
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