Italy in the summer? Always a good idea. But if you’re skipping the typical tourist traps and looking for something a bit more curated, charming towns, elegant coastlines, and a dose of dolce vita with a side of style, these spots should be on your radar.
From sun-kissed villages to breezy lakeside retreats, here are five destinations in Italy where summer just hits differently.
There’s something effortlessly cool about Cinque Terre. Maybe it’s the pastel buildings stacked along the cliffs, or the way the locals seem to take their time with everything. Either way, it’s got that laid-back-but-gorgeous energy that feels tailor-made for summer.
Hike between the five villages if you’re up for a bit of a workout (the views are worth every step), or just settle into a seafood lunch in Vernazza and let the day unfold. The towns are small, but each one has its own character – Monterosso for the beach, Manarola for sunsets, Riomaggiore if you’re into that quiet, romantic feel.
It’s not fancy in the over-the-top sense, but it doesn’t need to be. Cinque Terre is beautiful because it keeps things simple, and that’s its charm.
Taormina has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from an old movie – something with vintage convertibles and scenic winding roads.
Perched on a hillside with views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, it’s one of Sicily’s most glamorous summer spots. The ancient Greek theatre here hosts concerts and festivals, and the streets are filled with chic little boutiques and cafes that spill out onto cobblestones.
You can spend the day at Isola Bella, a tiny island that’s basically a pebble beach with the clearest water you’ll ever swim in, then head back into town for an aperitivo as the sun starts to fade. It’s stylish in a very Sicilian way – dramatic, warm, and full of life.
For those seeking an indulgent stay, rent luxury villas in Sicily to experience true luxury. These handpicked properties offer a spacious home away from home, with prime locations in Taormina and other Sicilian regions.
Lake Maggiore
Everyone talks about Lake Como – and fair enough, it’s stunning. But Lake Maggiore? That’s where things get interesting.
It’s a little more low-key and a lot less crowded. The vibe here is classic and romantic, with elegant villas, lush gardens, and those hazy mountain views that feel like a vintage postcard come to life.
Stresa is a great base – old-school charm, grand hotels, and boat access to the Borromean Islands, which are as dreamy as they sound. You can explore ornate palaces, sip espresso in lakeside cafés, and still have time for a dip in the water before dinner.
There are a range of luxury villas on Lake Maggiore to rent, complete with spacious living areas, panoramic terraces and stunning lake views. If you like your summers peaceful, scenic, and laid-back, Maggiore might be your lake.
Puglia is a charming region that stretches across the south-east coast of Italy.
It’s got whitewashed hill towns, endless olive groves, and beaches that feel like secrets, especially if you venture away from the more crowded coastlines. Towns like Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Alberobello (pictured above and below) bring all the charm, while places like Polignano a Mare serve up clifftop views that practically demand a slow lunch and a long look.
And let’s not forget the food. It’s rustic, fresh, and impossible to get wrong – burrata, orecchiette, and seafood straight from the Adriatic.
What’s great about Puglia is that it still feels real. You’re not just visiting a destination, you’re experiencing slow mornings, sunny afternoons, and golden-hour evenings that make you never want to leave.
Capri is effortlessly chic. From the moment you step off the ferry, everything feels a little elevated – limoncello with a view, linen everything, and streets lined with high-end shops and locals who make it look easy. But even with all the designer flair, Capri doesn’t lose its soul.
Take a boat ride around the island, float past the Faraglioni rocks, and swim in water so clear you can see your reflection. Or just wander through Anacapri, which is quieter and feels more lived-in, with hidden cafes and little courtyards that aren’t on any travel guides.
Whilst Capri can be on the pricier side, its natural beauty and chic vibe make it absolutely worth the splurge.
Italy is full of beautiful places, but these destinations offer something more than just pretty views. They’ve got character. They’ve got charm. And they deliver that sweet spot of summer luxury with authenticity.
So, are you feeling coastal calm in Cinque Terre? Island elegance in Capri? Or maybe you’re ready for the rustic-chic vibes of Puglia or the timeless calm of Lake Maggiore?
Wherever you land, just be sure to slow down, sip something cold, and soak it all in. Stylish escapes aren’t about ticking boxes, they’re about living the moment, beautifully.
And for more of Bonnie’s travels in Italy click here.
Bon Voyage xx
Not all luxury travel has to be velvet ropes and…
Staying at The Best Hotel in the World – Capella…
What to do in Bahrain Where? Bahrain Location? Bahrain is…
Your email address will not be published.
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Δ
