Weather and Trail Conditions

In July, pilgrims can expect hot temperatures ranging from 15.7ºC to 25.7ºC. Rain is less likely, so the trail conditions are generally dry and well-maintained.

• Average temp: 20.7ºC
• Average Low Temp: 15.7ºC
• Average High Temp: 25.7ºC
• Rainy Days: 6
• Rainfall (mm): 52
• Trail Conditions: The trail is dry, strong, and in good condition during July.

Clothing

Pack lightweight clothing and sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats. A light jacket may be useful for cooler evenings.

Safety

July is a safe time to walk the Tuscan stages, as the weather is hot and trails are well-maintained. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Pilgrims and Accommodations

Number of Pilgrims

July is the high season on the trail, and you can expect the largest number of pilgrims for the entire year, as Italians also hit the trail during their summer vacations.

Stages with Open Accommodations

All six stages have open accommodations, but Consuma and Badia Prataglia may be more difficult to book due to their popularity as summer destinations. Expect to compete for accommodations on the Tuscan stages with local tourists and an increasing number of pilgrims. This is also the high season for Florence, so expect prices to be high in the city. Plan ahead and book accommodations in advance.

Raccomandazione Prenotazione

Book accommodations in advance, particularly in Pontassieve, where pilgrim accommodations are limited, and Consuma and Badia Prataglia, as these towns are popular summer destinations for locals.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is available for most stages, except Camaldoli and La Verna. Buses serving Camaldoli and La Verna Monasteries stop in the first week of June and don’t resume until mid-September. The best way to arrive at either stage using public transit is to walk from Badia Prataglia or take a taxi from Bibbiena, which can be reached by bus.

Starting in Florence in July

July is high season in Tuscany, with sunny, hot weather. If you want to visit tourist attractions in Florence before starting your pilgrimage, expect long lines, and crowded accommodations.

Experiencing Florence in July

July is a lively time to visit Florence, with hot temperatures and a bustling tourist season. Popular attractions will be crowded, so book ahead to secure your spot at museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Foreste Casentinesi National Park in July

July is a hot and sunny time to walk through the Foreste Casentinesi National Park, with sunflower fields in full bloom and an abundance of wildlife. Be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Plan to carry 1.5L-3L of water per person per day, as the heat will make hydration important.

Foods Highlighted in July

July is the season for fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Be sure to try local dishes featuring these seasonal ingredients.

• Fresh Seafood: July is a great time to indulge in local seafood dishes, such as seafood risotto, spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta), and fritto misto (fried mixed seafood).
• Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables: Enjoy the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, zucchini, eggplants, and peaches. Don’t miss the chance to try panzanella, a Tuscan bread salad made with tomatoes, onions, basil, and stale bread.

Special Activities and Events in July

Eventi a Firenze e Casentino

• Trekking of the Fireflies: From June 25th, Santuario della Verna offers a series of evenings dedicated to the observation of the magical natural phenomenon of fireflies illuminating the Casentino Secular Forests.
• Organ Music Festival: In July and August, Chiusi della Verna hosts the International Organ Music Festival in collaboration with the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Sanctuary. The sacredness evoked by the notes of the organ perfectly marries a context strongly characterized by faith and architectural and landscape beauty.

Events Later on the Trail

As you continue your journey, you may encounter events like the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia or the Rieti Cuore Piccante, a festival celebrating spicy foods in Rieti.

• Festival dei Due Mondi di Spoleto: An annual summer music and opera festival held each June to early July in Spoleto, Italy, since its founding by composer Gian Carlo Menotti in 1958.
• Umbria Jazz Festival: A ten-day festival held annually since 1973, usually in July, in Perugia and surrounding cities of the region of Umbria, Italy. The Umbria Jazz Festival is one of the most influential jazz festivals in the world.

H2: Tips for Walking the Tuscan Stages in July

1. Stay hydrated: With temperatures rising, be sure to drink plenty of water and carry extra water bottles with you.
2. Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
3. Start early: To avoid the heat, begin your walks early in the morning.
4. Take breaks: Rest in the shade during the hottest part of the day and plan your route to include stops at cafes or other shaded areas.

Oltre la Toscana

Umbria Stages: Pieve Santo Stefano to Assisi to Rieti (Stages 7-23)

In Umbria, expect warm and sunny weather during July. This is an ideal time to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and historic towns. Key events during this period include the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto, a renowned arts festival, and the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia. Enjoy local foods such as truffles, porchetta (roasted pork), and strangozzi (a type of pasta).

Lazio Stages: Rieti to Rome (Stages 24-28)

During your journey through Lazio, you’ll find hot, dry weather in July. Be sure to visit the iconic sites in Rome, such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Pantheon. Attend outdoor events like the Estate Romana, which offers various concerts, film screenings, and theater performances throughout the city. Sample Roman cuisine, including dishes like cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper) and supplì (fried rice balls with cheese).