Your flights are booked, hotels reserved, and activities planned for your summer vacation in Italy. Now for the toughest part—what to pack? A typical Italian holiday blends exploring ancient cities, enjoying wine in the countryside, and relaxing on the coast, so you’ll want versatile pieces that fit into one or two carry-ons, making travel between planes, trains, and cars a breeze.

Here’s a checklist of what to wear in Italy this summer and beyond: think breezy linen dresses, comfortable sandals, and plenty of raffia accessories. Add some Italian sunshine, and you’re all set to live la dolce vita!

City Style
Most Italian trips start in a major city like Rome, Milan, Venice, or Naples, where you can easily walk 20,000 steps a day. Comfortable sneakers are a must for sightseeing, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Pair a flowy dress or skirt with colorful sneakers or fisherman sandals, add a bag for essentials, and bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. Perfect for tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain or strolling the Spanish Steps with gelato in hand.

Tuscan Countryside
Just a few hours from cities like Rome and Florence, Tuscany’s rolling hills invite you to sip local wines and soak in the scenery. Rent a villa with friends, book a car for vineyard tours, and enjoy the ultimate Tuscan experience.

Seaside Vibes
Italy’s stunning coasts—from the Amalfi Coast and Capri to Portofino and Puglia—offer hidden coves and crystal-blue water. Pack a mix of swimwear, activewear, and eveningwear to be ready for anything. Bring layers for ocean breezes and don’t forget sunscreen for the strong Mediterranean sun.

Featured Items:
– Dôen Emmaretta shirred midi dress, $300
– Mango straight leg linen pants, $100
– Matteau striped cotton-poplin shirt, $400
– Reformation Clara cashmere cardigan, $198
– Nike LD-1000 sneakers, $105
– Khaite Audrey crossbody bag, $1,980
– Aritzia contour crew bodysuit, $48
– Everlane linen high-drape pants, $138
– The Row fisherman leather sandals, $1,090
– Saint Laurent cat-eye sunglasses, $535
– Allude striped cashmere vest, $375
– Aligne Natalie cotton midi skirt, $145
– Jil Sander bamboo leather tote, $2,250
– Reformation Jessie thong sandals, $128
– Rag & Bone stripe button-up shirt, $198
– Gucci bamboo thong sandals, $1,030
– Saint Laurent raffia bag, $1,200
– Hunza G seersucker swimsuit, $295
– Agua by Agua Bendita beach cover-up, $270
– Prada raffia tote, $2,050
– Vertigo choker, $700
– Faithfull Juliet shirred midi dress, $250
– Aritzia Isabelle sweater, $138
– Miu Miu crochet tote, $1,950
– Ancient Greek Sandals braided sandals, $275
– Everlane pleated shorts, $118
– Staud mini tote, $250
– Madewell straw hat, $78

Frequently Asked Questions
General Style Culture
Q Whats the general dress code like in Italian cities
A Italians tend to dress smartcasual wellfitted neat clothing in neutral or classic colors Avoid overly casual items like sweatpants or athletic wear in cities

Q Do Italians really dress up that much
A Yes generally Even for everyday activities Italians often prioritize looking polished and puttogether

Q Is it okay to wear shorts in Italian cities
A Its acceptable especially in summer but opt for tailored styles rather than athletic shorts Avoid very short or beachstyle shorts in urban areas

Q Are there any clothing items I should avoid bringing
A Skip overly revealing clothes loud logos and wornout items like flipflops Also avoid wearing swimwear outside beachpool areas

City Outfits
Q What should I wear for sightseeing in cities like Rome or Florence
A Comfortable yet stylish outfitsthink breathable fabrics comfortable shoes and a crossbody bag for security

Q What kind of shoes are best for walking on cobblestone streets
A Supportive flats cushioned sneakers or low block heels Avoid stilettos or thinsoled shoes

Q Do I need to cover my shoulders and knees to enter churches
A Yes many churches require covered shoulders and knees Carry a light scarf or shawl and avoid short skirtsshorts when visiting religious sites

Q What should I wear for a nice dinner out
A Italians often dress up a bit for dinner Men might wear collared shirts and trousers women often opt for dresses skirts or elegant separates

Seaside Resort Wear
Q What do people wear at the beach in Italy
A Swimwear is standard but cover up with a sarong kaftan or light dress when leaving the beach Walking around town in just a swimsuit is frowned upon

Q Whats appropriate to wear in coastal towns like Positano or Capri
A Resort wear linen pants breezy dresses espadrilles and stylish sandals Think effortless but chic