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A destination is nothing without its people and the cultures and traditions that they give life to. This is as true in Italy as anywhere else.
With the passion and joy that the locals exude, any Italian holiday destination isn't just beautiful, it becomes animated and alive. For inspiration on the perfect holiday spot suited for you, take a look at our list of the best summer holiday destinations in Italy.
With the August summer sun on your back and inimitable Italian landscapes as your backdrop, you can dive into these events alongside the locals who have given these places life. These are our favourite places to go in Italy in August:
Ready for a trip to Italy in August? Find our roundup of the best areas to visit, events to attend, and places to stay in Italy in August.
Why visit Italy in August?
In August, you’ll get to visit a different kind of Italy. Most Italians take their holidays in August, so when you visit Italy, you’ll notice the whole country is humming with the dolce vita. In cities, this may mean that many authentic restaurants are closed since owners take their holidays. However, the coast buzzes with new life.
The weather in Italy in August is known for being particularly warm, and often humid. You can count on the sun to be out and shining brightly every day, pushing many out to the coast where the sea breeze and refreshing turquoise waters beckon.
Though the coast can be quite crowded, the atmosphere of complete summer surrender makes it well worth visiting Italy in August. An important detail to remember before you pack your bags: August 15th is a public holiday in Italy and is very much respected!
Tempted by summer holidays on the Italian coast? See our guide to the best coastal towns in Italy.
Where to go in italy in august: Sicily
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily boasts miles upon miles of golden coastline, making it a very popular destination in Italy in August.
In addition to the perfect summer landscape dotted with beach umbrellas, you’ll find many events take place in August in Sicily to add to the unparalleled atmosphere.
For the region's best highlights, see our luxury guide to holidays in Sicily. If you want to plan a holiday more off the beaten path, consult our article on unique things to do in Sicily instead!
- Palio dei Normanni: a mediaeval fair in Piazza Armerina
In mid-August, the quiet town of Piazza Armerina in Sicily takes a step back in time. With its Roman mosaics and mediaeval cathedral, it’s the perfect backdrop for Palio dei Normanni, a historical reenactment that sees knights, lords, and ladies flock the cobbled streets.
Honouring the Holy Wars, this festival comprises three days of parades, celebrations, and challenges, culminating in the Quintana: a jousting event where different districts in the city face off in horseback challenges.
- Events in Sicily in August: the Festival of San Salvatore
In early August, the seaside town of Cefalù in northern Sicily honours their patron saint San Salvatore with processions, waterfront fireworks, and heaps of delicious food!
Start at the Duomo di Cefalù, a Norman-era cathedral and UNESCO world heritage site, and follow the festival path. Weaving among the open streets and mediaeval buildings, stop in at a food stall to taste the traditional Pasta a Taianu dish before making your way down to the waterfront. There, watch locals compete in the ntinna a mari, trying to grab a flag off of a slick pole hanging over the water.
The festival ends with a bang as scintillating fireworks reflect over the water on the final day.
- Where to stay in Italy in August: villas in Sicily
On the eastern coast of Sicily, Villa Nuova boasts a sleek and modern design where geometric shapes, consistent colours, and animal patterns meet in seamless fusion. You can just as easily spend your days here soaking in the pool as you can heading out to the nearby Santa Maria del Focallo beach.
What to know
- Villa Nuova, Sicily, Italy
- 10 guests
- Saltwater pool, barbecue, air conditioning
- Essential level conciergerie service
- From €6,505 per week
For even more inspiration, take a look at our collection of luxury villas with private pools in Sicily.
Where to go in Italy in August: Tuscany
Still undecided about where to go in Italy in August? The province of Tuscany boasts a wealth of wonderful things to do in August, making it a must on our list of places to visit in Italy in August.
What's on the programme? Hilltop towns steeped in history, sweeping, rolling fields of olive and vine, and small, bustling cities, towns and villages make up the expanse between Florence and Rome.
See what events in Tuscany are taking place below or consult our article on family-friendly things to do in Tuscany for even more idea of how to fill your summer in Italy in August.
- The famed Palio di Siena: A horse race event in Italy like no other
Biannually, the Palio di Siena sees ten horses and their riders tear across Piazza del Campo in pursuit of bringing pride to their ward. The riders don their ward's colours, mount their horses bareback and charge along the short circuit, sometimes crashing off their horses on tight turns.
With Le Collectionist, arrange to watch this spectacle from a local's balcony on the main square. With the best seat in the house and a drink in hand, you will witness the sheer power of these horses and their brave riders.
This event alone makes Tuscany one of the best places to visit in Italy in August.
- August harvest: dive into the world of agritourism in Tuscany
There’s no better time for agritourism in Tuscany than August, when the vineyards’ and olive groves’ fruitful harvests are transformed into the most delectable wines and oils.
Take this opportunity to discover the lush fields and sample the best flavours of Italy in August during wine and vineyard tours. Wondering where to start? See our recommendations for the best vineyards in Tuscany.
- Where to stay in Italy in August: villa rentals in Tuscany
A peaceful retreat in the province of Pisa, Villa Uvetta is the ideal retreat in Italy in August. Admire your private grounds from the pool, or explore the nearby village of Forcoli. Here, breathe in the holiday atmosphere and recharge your batteries in total tranquillity.
What to know
- Villa Uvetta, Tuscany, Italy
- 13 guests
- Swimming pool, jacuzzi, pool table, garden, private estate
- From €7, 755 per week to €19 775 per week
Want to go green? Find your haven of peace among our secluded country houses in Tuscany.
Where to go in Italy in August: Amalfi Coast
Where to go to the beach in Italy in August? The Amalfi Coast is known for its colourful fishing villages piled in the seaside cliffs.
Under the blazing August sun, the rustic villages and small beaches pulse with new life as locals flock to the shore.
Between the event below and our itinerary for an Amalfi Coast visit, your holidays in Italy in August will be nothing short of dreamy as you set the sound of the waves, seagulls, and laughter lull you into bliss.
- Honouring mozzarella cheese at Fiordilatte Fiordifesta: flavours of August in Amalfi
Italy is known for its delicious foods: cheese, pasta, cured meats, olive oil, bread… The list goes on! At Fiordilatte Fiordifesta, sample all of these Italian delicacies and more.
Visit Agerola, perched in the mountains above the coast, in August to celebrate the region’s cheese-making know-how and traditions. Between tastings and demonstrations, this is a don’t miss event in August for any food lover !
- Where to stay in Italy: visiting the Amalfi Coast in August
In Positano, part of the Amalfi Coast, the immaculate walls of Villa Chiara are the ideal refuge for your summer holidays in Italy. Aside from the fantastic views, discover a unique interior design. Everything you need for an idyllic holiday is at hand in this house, where you can have the most beautiful backdrop to your holidays.
What to know
- Villa Chiara, Amalfi Coast, Italy
- 12 guests
- Sea view, jacuzzi, hammam, indoor pool
- From €24,925 to €36,585 per week
Where to go in Italy in August: Puglia
The southernmost point of the country, often referred to as the heel of the Italian boot, Puglia is an endlessly beautiful region for your August holidays.
So far south, the weather at this time can be a lot to handle, but if you’re willing to brave the heat, you’ll be handsomely rewarded. Some of the region’s best events take place in August.
So lather on your sunscreen, don your sunglasses and hat, and set out to this beautiful coastal region to discover one of the best summer holiday destinations in Italy.
- Valle d’Itria Festival in Puglia: music sounding out across Italy in August
Running from July to early August, the music festival in Valle d’Itria is a must for fans of classical or opera music.
First hosted nearly 50 years ago, the festival has become a true cornerstone of the Apulian summer, sending enchanting symphonies soaring through the night to lull any attendee. Some of the region’s best venues come together to host these musical shows, most notably the Piazza Ducale in Martina Franca, but also the Chistro di Palazzo San Martino, the Teatro Paolo Grassi, and churches and masserias scattered across the area.
From charming baroque towns to the verdant valley, this festival unites sights and sounds for an unforgettable August in Italy.
- Dance the August night away at the Notte della Taranta Festival in Puglia
Put on your dancing shoes and head to the streets of Salento and its surrounding villages, where for a whole month, nights are dedicated to the traditional Tarantella dance and the folk music that animates it.
Streets are lined with stalls selling food, drinks, and crafts, and of course hundreds of dancers!
The main event of the festival takes place in Melpignano, where over 100,000 visitors flock to dance the night away as the choreomania comes to a close. Professional dancers and musicians take the stage in the middle of a crowded field to play the festival to an end.
This event in August is certainly not to be missed if you’re after a lively holiday in Italy.
- Where to stay in Puglia: villa rentals for August in Italy
In the picturesque countryside, Villa Ulivi brings a palace atmosphere to Puglia through its spacious interiors and immaculate design dotted with African art. With a view of the sea from every room and secluded setting, you can enjoy some calm and quiet respite when visiting Italy in August.
What to know
- Villa Ulivi, Puglia, Italy
- 10 guests
- Saltwater pool, bocce court, air conditioning, sea and nature view
- Club level conciergerie service
- From €13,505 per week
To find out all about this extraordinary house in Puglia, follow our interview with the owners of Villa Ulivi.
Where to go in Italy in August: Lake Como
The region of Lombardy is home to the great lakes of Italy, where decades of opulence have come to seek quietude in a paradisiacal setting.
Thus, Lake Como is one of the best places to visit in Italy in August.
Whether you wish to hike the mountain trails, marvel at grand estates and blossoming gardens, or see some of the best things to visit in Lake Como, these August events are a must.
- Enjoy the festival of wine in Sondrio while visiting Lake Como in August
A short drive from Lake Como, the old town of Sondrio, around Castel Masegra, becomes the picture-perfect setting for a celebration of wine.
Warm light is cast down onto the streets, as people dress up to enjoy the music, market stalls, and various tastings of the Valtellina varieties that are on offer. This is a great way to learn more about the region, not only from those who cultivate it, but also those who live in it, and those who return time and again to satiate their love for it.
For more inspiration, take a look at our favourite things to do in Lake Como.
- Musical delights on Lake Como in August: exploring the Como City of Music Festival
From the month of July through to the middle of August, Como comes to life with a variety of musical and artistic performances.
Spruce up and jiggle to some jazz in the sprawling gardens of Villa Olmo Park, or let percussionists from around the world come to you with their beats. Every Friday from July to August, Villa Carlotta opens its doors for audiences to be mesmerised by classical music concerts.
Lake Como is one of the best places to visit in Italy in August for those who love all types of music.
- Where to stay in Lake Como in August
Blending alpine charm and lakeside views, Chalet Gatsby has all the makings of a perfect stay in Lake Como in August. Enjoy a cosy home where wood and stone meet in warmth and harmony, with an infinity pool overlooking the hills and a sauna to boot!
What to know
- Chalet Gatsby, Lake Como, Italy
- Infinity pool, sauna, barbecue, air conditioning, panoramic mountain view
- 10 guests
- From €6,705 per week
Ready to go? Choose from one of our family homes in Lake Como and find the one that suits you best!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING ITALY IN AUGUST
At Le Collectionist, we've made sure we have some of the best homes for the perfect luxury holiday in Italy. Simply choose one from our collection and let our luxury concierge service take care of the rest.
