Italy in June - The Best Things to See & Do (2024)

Written by Rem Malloy, since 1995 Rem has been guiding and designing trips to Italy and all of Western Europe and is considered an expert in his field for over 30 years.

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June is the peak season for touriststo visit Italy. The warm weather, sunny skies, and cool evenings make this month the ideal time to explore what Italy has to offer. With the amazing conditions brings crowds of tourists and often, high prices. However, the atmosphere, events, and attractions are certainly worth it. The weather in June makes nearly every part of Italy enjoyable. Whether you want to lounge on the beach, take a road tripalong the Amalfi Coast, orgo museum hoppingin the city, June is a great time to do it. If you want to visit during this iconic month, here is where to go and what to do while in Italy.

ITALY WEATHER IN JUNE

Italy’s June weather is ideal for sightseeing and exploring. By this time of year, the weather is quite warm, with southern Italy always reaching higher temperatures than in the north. While the locals aren’t scrambling to the northern regions to cool off yet, they are certainly taking weekend trips around the countryside during this time. It can often get hotter than visitors are expecting, so make sure to book a hotel with in-room air conditioning if you have trouble with the humidity:

• Northern Italy:13-27°C
• Central Italy:21-30°C
• Southern Italy:16-27°C

FESTIVALS/EVENTS IN ITALY IN JUNE

June has a few Italian holidays that you may get to experience. Here are the main holidays to look out for:

Republic Day (June 2nd)

This national holiday takes place each year. It celebrates the day that Italy voted to become a republic instead of being under a monarchy. Most locals have off of work and celebrate with military parades, ceremonies, and laying a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Rome.

June Solstice (June 21)

The dates vary slightly each year. The June solstice often is accompanied by festivals and local events all over the country. Check the lineup of the event for the Italian destination you’re visiting to find out what there is to do.

The Feast of St. John (June 24)

This public holiday takes place each year in Genoa, Turin, and Florence. The holiday is in honor of St. John, also referred to as John The Baptist. If you’re in Florence, there is a parade that takes place in the center of city. During the evening, they put on a firework show over the Arno River. Turin and Genoa hold a festival that lasts two days and involves parades, bonfires, sporting events, and music.

The Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul (June 29)

This holiday is celebrated in Rome and is meant to honor the Catholic saints Paul and Peter. There are religious rituals going on throughout the city, many of which are led by the Pope. Fairs, fireworks, and musical performances can also be seen throughout the city. Many businesses are closed during this day as well.

There are plenty of events going on in June. If you’re visiting, here are the ones you may want to experience:

Inflorata

This event takes place from June 18th until June 20th. It happens in Genzano which is outside ofRome. During this time, large portions of the area are covered in flower arrangements that look like intricate paintings. It started in the 18th century and finishes off with a bishop-led parade before sunset.

Pizza Festival

This festival ends on June 5th, so try and catch it if you’re visiting Italy early in the month. It takes place outside of Naples in Vulcano Buono. Renowned pizza makers from around the country come and compete by making pizzas from different categories. Visitors can attend and try the pizzas along with coffee and dessert. If you love pizza then check outour guide to the best pizza restaurants in Rome here.

Game of The Bridge

This festival takes place in Pisa on June 26th. More than 700 participants dress in costumes from the 15th century, and play fight to gain possession of the bridge. There are thousands of onlookers and the event starts off with a parade.

San Gimignano Medieval Festival

Celebrating its medieval past, this town throws a festival that is complete with street theater and a joust. It takes place on June 18th and 19th, with Sunday finishing up with a parade full of costumed locals.

MUV Music & Digital Art Festival

From June 1st to the 5th each year,Florencehosts an electronic music festival. Aside from musical performances, there are workshops and art installations. Typically, there are more than 50 musical sets and DJs to see.

Battle of Flowers

Flower-lovers will want to attend this annual event in Ventimiglia. It takes place from June 18th to 19th, and is a celebration of flowers. There is dancing, a parade, music, and a showering of flower buds all over the streets.

Festa della Sensa

Taking place in Venice on June 5th, this festival celebrates the city’s marriage to the water. There’s a parade on the water, a market, a procession through St. Mark’s Square, and a Venetian rowing competition.

Opera Festival

This event takes place in Verona from June 17th until September 3rd. All of the performances take place in Verona’s ancient theater which is over 2,000 years old.

Festa del Grillo

Happening in Florence, this festival takes place in Cascine Park on June 2nd. The park is filled with artificial crickets that are meant to represent good luck. You can buy them and listen to them tweet all around the park. The entire day is filled with entertainment and concerts throughout the park too.

Foligno’s Joust of the Quintana

This joust tournament features ten 10 knights who compete in a small ring on June 18th. There are events and parades going on throughout the day. And, there are smaller jousts happening on the days leading up to the main event.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT AROUND ITALY IN JUNE

Want to explore Italy’s best in June? Here are some of the top stops you should add to your itinerary!

Vernazza Cinque Terre

The coast along Cinque Terre is absolutely dazzling during June. A lengthy road trip is one of the best ways to explore. However, Vernazza makes the list as one of the top destinations to visit. It’s one of the most authentic fishing villages in the region, and is free of car traffic. It’s famous for the incredible houses there. Make sure to visit Doria Castle, Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio. The hillside is full of vineyards for lazy afternoons of wine tastings. And, the beach features a protected harbor where you can lounge and watch the ocean waves.

San Gimignano

This hillside townis a popular, World UNESCO Heritage Site. The entire town features Gothic and Romanesque architecture, and is filled with history. There are 14 different towers to visit, and the bruschetta here is world renowned. There are plenty of churches and museums to explore too. It’s small so it makes a great day trip.

Rome

As one of Italy’s most famous cities, you can’t skipRomeon a June trip. It will be overflowing with tourists but also bursting with excitement and culture. Make sure to visit the obvious monuments like Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum. However, don’t forget to wander the cobblestone streets and make plenty of stops for gelato. Hang on the Spanish Steps when you need a break from walking, or pop into one of the many museums to cool down. The nightlife in Rome is incredible, so don’t forget to put on your dancing shoes once the sun goes down.

Lago di Braies

Located in northern Italy, this turquoise lake is absolutely gorgeous during the summer. The dazzling water reflects the towering mountains that surround it, making photo opportunities endless. Visitors tend to hike around the area, rent wooden boats to paddle across the lake, and view the historic church. The crowds here aren’t too overwhelming, and the lake is a great option for cooling off on hot, June afternoons.

Orvieto

Located on a volcanic mound, this clifftop village is a must-see. There’s a cathedral in Orvieto that is over 800 years old and is one of the top attractions. While you’ll have to travel quite far uphill, the views are certainly worth it. The little town is a great place to wander around when the weather is nice. Just make sure to try some of the authentic, Italian food in one of the outdoor cafes.

Florence

This iconic city is a paradise for art lovers.Explore the city, stop for some pizza, and then pop into one of the museums to cool off. Watch the sunrise from Piazzale Michelangelo, wander around Ponte Vecchio, and Galleria degli Uffiz. There’s the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, the Gucci Museum, and Mercato del Porcellino too. A great way to explore the city and the surrounding hillsides is by bicycle. There are quite a few places where you can rent one.

Naples

Naples is full of significant history with its city center being deemed a World UNESCO Heritage Site. There are castles, bustling markets, and cobblestone alleyways that will transport you back in time. This city is said to have some of the best pizza in Italy, and the world. Plus, the entire town is known for its foodie culture so make sure to eat plenty of meals while you’re visiting.

Milan

This city is one of the most fashionable in Italy. Wanderaround Milanand take a look at all of the latest summer fashion trends, or do some shopping yourself. You may want to visit the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Rent a bike and take your own tour around the city to see churches historic monuments, and the city shopping areas.

Sorrento

Located in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, this gorgeous town thrives in the warm weather. Wander the cobblestone streets, pop into a cute cafe, and soak up the views of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius. Visit the marinas for a swim, rent a bicycle to explore, or just lounge around and drink limoncello.

Venice

Veniceis a maze of cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, historic buildings, and shops. You’ll get lost along the canals but this is the best way to explore. Take a romantic ride on the gondola or find some shade in an unassuming art gallery. There are plenty of gelato stops around the town so you can stop off for a cool snack. Make sure tovisit the attractionsincluding; Saint Mark’s Basilica, Rialto Bridge, the Jewish Ghetto, and Doge’s Palace.

Pompeii

This historic epicenter is a World UNESCO Heritage Site for good reason. The town was destroyed by Mt. Vesuvius and still displays relics from the past. Make sure to check out the body casts that were preserved by the ash from the volcanic eruption, as they are one of the main attractions. You’ll most likely encounter crowds in June but it’s certainly worth it.

Pisa

No trip to Italy would be complete without snapping a classic photo in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Watching the crowds pose with the tower on their back or the tip of their finger is a pretty funny sight. You won’t be able to help it, and will probably join them for a silly photo of your own. Once you’re done with the photo shoot, grab some pizza in one of the nearby cafes.

Verona

This pretty cityis where Romeo and Juliet takes place. Recreate a romantic scene of your own on a warm, June night exploring. Piazzale Castel San Pietro is the best spot to watch the sunset, and the Roman Amphitheatre is one of the more classic works of architecture you should check out.

Como

This ritzy city is known for its stunning lake and luxurious lifestyle. Many of the rich and famous head to como for vacation. However, you can still afford to see it on a budget. Take the train to Como from Milan, and spend some time outdoors, wandering around the beautiful landscape. Try some local craft beer, stop off for a meal, and make sure to get plenty of photos.

Why not take a look at our other monthly guides for Italy created to help you get the most from your next vacation:

• The best things to see and do in Italy in January
• The best things to see and do in Italy in February
• The best things to see and do in Italy in March
• The best things to see and do in Italy in April
• The best things to see and do in Italy in May
• The best things to see and do in Italy in July
• The best things to see and do in Italy in August
• The best things to see and do in Italy in September
• The best things to see and do in Italy in October
• The best things to see and do in Italy in November
• The best things to see and do in Italy in December

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