How to dress in Italy in summer means balancing comfort, style, and cultural awareness. You’ll face heat that can soar well into the 90s°F (35°C+), long days of sightseeing on cobblestones, and settings where a little polish goes a long way. It’s not just about what’s in your suitcase—it’s about being prepared for the weather, the terrain, and the local customs. In this guide, you’ll find complete packing lists for women, men, and children, plus a few tips. You’ll thank me for later.
I’d like you to stay tuned for similar upcoming posts covering the individual seasons. You can view our general post on all the seasons here.
This post contains affiliate links that help keep this website running. By purchasing through our links, we make a small commission at no extra charge to you. Thank you for your support!
Italy in Summer: What to Expect
Summer in Italy is hot—really hot—especially in July and August. Temperatures in most of the country range from the mid-80s°F (around 30°C) to well into the 90s°F (35°C+). Evenings can still be warm, although in some northern and coastal areas, it can cool down enough to need a light layer. Humidity can be high, especially in cities like Florence, Rome, Venice, and Lucca.
One thing that surprises many visitors is the lack of strong air conditioning in many hotels, restaurants, and trains. Pack with that in mind—you’ll want breathable fabrics and the ability to stay cool without relying on air conditioning.
Cultural Dress Codes & Style Tips
Italians take pride in their appearance, and even casual outfits tend to look polished. You don’t need to dress up for sightseeing, but avoid sloppy gym clothes, oversized logo T-shirts, or anything too revealing in cities.
Churches and cathedrals have modesty rules—shoulders and knees covered. A lightweight scarf or shawl in your bag is a lifesaver.
Evenings in nicer restaurants call for a step up from daytime sightseeing clothes. Think smart-casual: dresses or skirts for women, collared shirts for men.
Fabrics, Footwear, and Air Conditioning Reality
Breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and lightweight blends will keep you comfortable. Avoid heavy denim—it traps heat. Shoes matter: you’ll walk on cobblestones, uneven streets, and hills. Comfortable sandals, walking shoes, or sneakers are essential.
Layers are still useful. In northern Italy or in the evenings by the coast, a light cardigan, wrap, or jacket can be welcome.
Pro tip: A small folding fan can be your best friend in a warm train car or a crowded museum with limited air circulation. Or, consider one of my favorite travel tools and visit Amazon for a rechargeable one that can fit into a pocketbook.
Regional Clothing Notes
In northern Italy (Milan, Turin, the lakes), evenings can be cooler. You’ll see more tailored, city-style fashion.
In central Italy (Florence, Rome, Tuscany, Umbria), heat can be intense and more casual, but still smart, clothing works well.
In southern Italy (Naples, Sicily, Puglia), expect blazing sun and very light fabrics. You’ll need strong sun protection and airy clothing.
Women’s Summer Packing List (and what not to bring)
- Lightweight dresses and skirts that can be dressed up or down
- Breathable tops in linen or cotton
- Lightweight pants or cropped trousers
- A cardigan, wrap, or light jacket for evenings
- Comfortable walking sandals or sneakers
- A scarf or shawl for church visits
- Wide-brimmed hat or packable sunhat
- Light rain jacket or compact umbrella
- Swimwear if visiting the coast or lakes
What not to bring: Heavy jeans, high heels for daily wear, overly short shorts, and clingy polyester tops.
Pro tip: Pack one versatile dress you can wear sightseeing during the day and to a nice dinner at night—swap shoes and add a wrap. You’ll thank me when you realize how much luggage space you’ve saved.
Men’s Summer Packing List (and what not to bring)
- Lightweight shirts—linen, cotton, or polo shirts
- Breathable shorts for casual days (knee length works best)
- Lightweight trousers for evenings or dressier outings
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Casual loafers or clean sneakers for dinners
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
- Swimwear if near water
- Compact rain jacket or umbrella
What not to bring: Baggy cargo shorts, thick denim jeans, and sports jerseys (outside of actual games).
Pro tip: Pack at least one collared shirt, even if you think you won’t need it—you’ll thank me when you decide on a last-minute dinner at a nicer restaurant
Children’s Summer Packing List (and what not to bring)
- Breathable cotton T-shirts and shorts
- Lightweight dresses for girls
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Sunhat and sunglasses
- Light jacket or hoodie for evenings
- Swimwear and sandals if near water
- Compact rain jacket or poncho
What not to bring: Too many pairs of shoes or heavy clothing—kids will be hot, and you’ll be the one carrying extra layers they won’t wear.
Pro tip: Pack two hats per child—when one inevitably disappears mid-trip, you’ll be glad you did. Then again, you can always purchase one with a towns logo on it as a souvenir too.
Common Summer Packing Mistakes
Tuscany Treasures is a guidebook with a twist. Personal stories accompany places to visit, festivals & traditions in each town, and more. Separate chapters on rail travel, seasonal information, and Tuscany’s foods and wine.
Final Thoughts…
For even more tips on what to expect in every season, including how weather can shape your travel experience, see the “Seasons in Italy” chapter in Tuscany Treasures. It’s a great companion if you’re planning ahead for future trips or want to understand Italy’s rhythms year-round. Coming Fall 2025 is Umbria Treasures using the same format.
And if you’d like this checklist in a handy, printable format, we’ve put together a free PDF you can save on your phone or print before you go. If you have additional suggestions, please let me know and I can add it to the list!
