What to Pack for Summer in Italy (2024)

What to Pack for Summer in Italy (1)

What to Pack for Italy in the Summer

I am off for an Italian holiday this weekend. If you have been following me for a while, you know Italy was actually my first love before France. I studied abroad in Florence during college and the country will always hold a special place in my heart. It is where I fell in love with travel and found my passion for photography. Below is a packing list with ideas on what to Pack for Italy in the summer.

Last year, I took a trip to Amalfi Coast, Positano, and Capri with my now finacé. This year, I will be traveling to Como with my family and fiancé. After Como, my fiancé and I are headed to another part of Italy I have never been to before.

If you are headed to Italy this summer or sometime in the future, this is what I recommend you pack. I created this downloadable PDF packing list here to help you get organized.

What to Pack for Summer in Italy (2)

Italy will be hot and it’s best to pack lightweight fabrics, linens are great and flowy dresses. I always recommend some sort of jacket for the evenings. We will be on the lake where it will be cooler. A denim jacket is great for throwing over a dress at night.

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What to Pack for Summer in Italy (4)

Last summer, we had a trip to Positano booked and Europe/Italy had just opened up a few days before. We weren’t completely sure we were going to Italy due to COVID tests being negative and work obligations. I didn’t plan well when it came to packing. I feel a little more prepared this time around having some experience under my belt.

Accessories

Make sure you pack a hat, there are tons of places to buy one if you forget or it isn’t convenient to pack. I have this foldable hat from Madewell that I wore on the boat trip that did the trick. Also, sunscreen is so important. I never leave the house without it.

Sunglasses are a must, you will want a least one pair. There are tons of shops to buy all of these items and the euro is at a good exchange rate if you forget anything.

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What to Pack for Summer in Italy (6)

Italy Summer Shoes

For shoes: I am packing these Sézane sandals, sneakers (we may be hiking so I am considering a pair of Nikes), espadrilles, and a pair of flip-flops for the pool/beach.

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I always pack in a carry on which makes packing a challenge but it is so much easier for moving around. Packing cubes are a must and they help keep me organized.

Summer Italy Dresses

For dresses: I have these two from Sézane I recently purchased along with a J.Crew eyelet white dress.

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Accessories for Italy

Sunscreen. I haveSuperGoop Sunscreenand thisAvene mineral sunscreen. Since I am packing in a carry-on, I will have to buy more sunscreen once I arrive. The face sunscreen is what I am most concerned with so those will come with me.

Airpodsfor listening to music or podcasts on the plane.

Sunglasses. I scored theseRay-banson sale. I am happy to have a new pair and to protect my eyes.

Camera. I just got this new Fuji camera last summer I am looking forward to using on the trip.

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What to Pack for Summer in Italy (10)
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You can follow along on Instagram to see my Italy adventures.

*This post includes affiliate links. I make a small commission off of items purchased from my links. Merci!

As an experienced traveler and enthusiast of Italian culture and travel, I bring forth a wealth of firsthand knowledge and expertise in exploring Italy during the summer months. Having extensively traveled throughout the country, I understand the nuances of packing essentials for various regions, weather conditions, and activities.

Packing for Italy in the summer necessitates a blend of practicality, comfort, and style. The Mediterranean climate typically brings hot weather, urging the need for lightweight fabrics like linens and flowy dresses. A key consideration is to bring along a jacket for cooler evenings, especially in regions like Lake Como. A versatile denim jacket is recommended, easily draped over dresses for added warmth.

Accessories play a vital role in a summer wardrobe. A hat shields from the sun, and a foldable one can be convenient for travel. Sunscreen is an absolute must, along with sunglasses to protect your eyes. While packing essentials is crucial, Italy offers numerous shops to purchase forgotten items, aided by a favorable exchange rate for tourists.

Footwear selection is crucial. Packing a variety, including comfortable sandals like Sézane, sneakers for potential hikes (consider Nikes), espadrilles, and flip-flops for beach or poolside activities ensures you're prepared for various occasions and terrains.

Efficient packing is essential for easy mobility, and utilizing carry-on luggage coupled with packing cubes enhances organization.

Summer dresses in breathable fabrics like those from Sézane and J.Crew's eyelet white dress are excellent choices, offering both style and comfort in the Italian heat.

Regarding additional accessories, the emphasis on sunscreen, such as SuperGoop and Avene mineral sunscreen, is reiterated, especially for the face. Other items like AirPods for entertainment, sunglasses like Ray-Bans, and a reliable camera such as the Fuji camera for capturing moments are suggested for an enriched travel experience.

Lastly, social media platforms like Instagram can offer glimpses into the traveler's Italian adventures.

By melding personal experiences, recommendations, and an understanding of the climate and culture, I'm well-versed in advising on packing essentials for a fulfilling and enjoyable Italian summer vacation.

What to Pack for Summer in Italy (2024)

FAQs

What am I forgetting to pack for Italy? ›

Packing for Italy? 10 Things You Shouldn't Forget
  • Clothes that mix, match & layer well. ...
  • Shoes made for walking. ...
  • A good looking, comfortable day pack. ...
  • A scarf or lightweight cover-up. ...
  • Your finest clothes. ...
  • Your proper camera. ...
  • Adaptors, chargers & a portable charger. ...
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen.
Oct 3, 2019

Are leggings ok in Italy? ›

The answer is yes, you can wear leggings in Italy, but it is important to consider the context of your trip and dress appropriately. Leggings are generally considered to be a casual item of clothing in Italy and may not be appropriate for certain occasions.

What shoes to pack for Italy? ›

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The shoes you bring should be broken in and durable enough for all-day wear. Water-resistant shoes are also a plus in the spring to avoid that wet sock feeling on potential rainy days. For men and women, a pair of tennis shoes is essential.

What to pack for Italy in July for a week? ›

Summer (June to August)

Temperatures can reach as high as 38°C³, so remember to pack some sunscreen and stay well hydrated. Your Italy packing list for summer should include: Light and airy clothing, such as shorts, sundresses and tank tops. Swimsuits for beach trips or time spent around the hotel pool.

What you can and can't wear in Italy? ›

Keep your shoulders covered at all times and wear a shawl if your shirt or dress is sleeveless. Short shorts, hats, and mini skirts are prohibited altogether.

What purse to wear in Italy? ›

Cross-Body Purse

Sometimes I come home with a few. But I always use a specific kind of purse when I'm traveling (in Italy and elsewhere) – a cross-body purse. Wearing a purse across your chest can be a key part of travel safety. A cross-body bag makes it harder for a would-be thief to grab it and run.

Are sneakers OK in Italy? ›

2 Pairs of Comfortable Shoes: Include a pair of loafers for dining out and leather sandals or stylish sneakers for day-to-day exploration.

Do they wear sneakers in Italy? ›

Gone are the days when sneakers were reserved just for the gym. Italian women have masterfully incorporated them into everyday chic. Italian sneakers are a blend of comfort and avant-garde design.

What to wear for dinner in Italy? ›

There is no dress code when going to most restaurants but you might receive some funny looks if you show up in sweats. Dressing well is respectful and you'll want to try to blend in with the locals. Unless you're going to a very fancy restaurant, dark jeans or other slacks are acceptable.

Should you wear white sneakers in Italy? ›

The Classic White Sneaker

A classic white sneaker ticks all the boxes and is a local favorite (trust me, anything too technical like a running shoe would make you stand out as a tourist.)

Should I bring sandals to Italy? ›

Don't Bring Flip-Flops.

A better way to “keep it classy” would be to wear a strappy, or classier pair of sandals that won't make you feel out-of-place in those sacred sanctuaries.

How to pack for 14 days in Italy? ›

One of the practical packing tips for Italy is to stick with neutral, mix-and-match pieces and limit the quantity. This way, you can create different outfit combinations using fewer items, leaving enough space for souvenirs! Don't forget to include essentials like travel adapters, toiletries, and travel documents.

What do Italians eat for lunch in summer? ›

The best Italian recipes to enjoy in summertime
  • Fried squid with aioli and Aperol spritz. ...
  • Spinach gnudi. ...
  • Peppers with roasted garlic, anchovies and basil. ...
  • Focaccia pugliese with fresh tomatoes. ...
  • Grape, balsamic and radicchio spelt pizzas. ...
  • Burrata with sticky roasted tomatoes, pine nuts and basil.

Do you need a jacket for summer in Italy? ›

Italy will be hot and it's best to pack lightweight fabrics, linens are great and flowy dresses. I always recommend some sort of jacket for the evenings.

What shoes do Italians wear in summer? ›

Summer: Italian women often lean towards breathable materials as temperatures rise. Espadrilles, open-toed sandals, and lightweight sneakers are favorites. Materials like canvas and light leather are prevalent. Remember, it's not just about style but also comfort.

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