Summer in Milan brings warm days, long daylight hours, and loads of sunshine that really shape how you experience the city. Average high temperatures hover around 26°C (79°F) in June and climb to 29°C (84°F) in July, so this is definitely the hottest stretch of the year.
Nights usually stay mild, and the heat often sticks around after sunset. Humidity adds to the warmth, making the air feel heavy, especially in July and August.
You get more sunshine than in other seasons, with daylight lasting well past 14 hours in June. Rain still happens in summer, but it usually comes as quick bursts rather than long, steady downpours.
This mix of heat, humidity, and bright skies brings both challenges and opportunities when you want to explore Milan’s streets, piazzas, or outdoor cafes.
If you know what the weather is actually like, you can plan better. From what to wear to when to head outside, understanding Milan’s summer climate helps you know what to expect.
Overview of Milan’s Summer Climate
Milan gets warm to hot summers because of its spot in the Po Valley. High humidity, not much wind, and frequent afternoon storms shape the weather, while the city’s geography and urban sprawl make the heat feel even stronger than in other parts of Italy.
Climate Classification and Regional Factors
Milan sits in a humid subtropical climate with a few continental touches. Its spot in northern Italy’s Po Valley really affects its summer weather.
The valley sits surrounded by the Alps to the north and west and the Apennines to the south, which trap both heat and moisture by blocking airflow.
Because of this, summers feel hotter and more humid than they do along the coast. The urban heat island effect makes things worse—buildings and pavement soak up heat during the day and release it slowly at night, so nighttime temperatures stay higher than in the countryside.
You’ll probably notice that even moderate summer temps can feel stifling. Since there’s not much wind, shade and air conditioning become extra important on the hottest days.
Typical Summer Weather Patterns
From June through August, Milan’s daytime highs usually land between 28–31°C (82–88°F). Nights cool down to around 18–20°C (64–68°F).
Heat waves sometimes push the temperature above 35°C (95°F), and every so often, it creeps close to 38°C (100°F).
Humidity sticks around, making the air feel warmer than the thermometer shows. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms pop up often, especially in late June and July, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and sometimes a quick cool-down.
Rainfall averages about 65–95 mm per month and spreads over 6–8 days. It doesn’t rain every day, but when it does, storms can last a few hours.
Sunshine is abundant, with 8–9 hours of sun per day in July—the brightest month.
Hot, humid days mixed with sudden storms pretty much define Milan’s summer and affect how you plan your days.
Average Summer Temperatures
Milan’s summers are warm to hot, with plenty of humidity and not much wind. Daily highs climb into the upper 20s °C (80s °F), and nights stay mild.
Temperatures usually rise steadily from June into July, with the hottest weather peaking in late July or early August.
Daytime Highs and Nighttime Lows
During summer, daytime highs in Milan typically hit 28–31°C (82–88°F). July tends to be the warmest month, with average highs close to 30–31°C (86–88°F).
Humidity and the city’s lack of breezes make these numbers feel even higher.
At night, things don’t cool off much. Nighttime lows average 16–19°C (61–66°F), depending on the month. The warmest nights happen in late July and August, when it sometimes doesn’t drop below 20°C (68°F).
The difference between day and night is smaller than on the coast. Heat lingers in the city because of the urban heat island effect, trapping warmth between buildings and pavement. Nights often feel warmer than they do outside the city.
Monthly Temperature Variations
June kicks off summer with average highs near 28°C (82°F) and lows around 17°C (63°F). The first half of the month feels warm but manageable.
July gets hotter, with average highs around 30–31°C (86–88°F) and lows near 19°C (66°F). This is usually the hottest stretch, and long days make the heat feel stronger.
August stays very warm, with average highs of 30°C (86°F) and lows about 19°C (66°F). Sometimes, things cool a bit late in the month.
By September, temperatures drop to 25°C (77°F) for highs and 15°C (59°F) for lows. That’s when you really start to feel autumn coming.
Heat Waves and Temperature Extremes
Heat waves show up regularly in Milan’s summer. Temperatures can jump to 35–38°C (95–100°F)—usually in July or August, though sometimes as early as June.
These hot spells don’t last forever, but when they hit, they can stick around for several days. High humidity makes things feel even more intense, and without much wind, there’s little relief.
At night during a heat wave, the city might not cool below 22–24°C (72–75°F). That can make it tough to sleep, especially where there’s no air conditioning.
Record highs have nearly hit 38°C (100°F) in past decades. If you’re planning activities, it’s worth scheduling them for cooler parts of the day.
Rainfall and Humidity in Summer
Summer in Milan isn’t just about heat—it’s also about frequent rain showers and high humidity. Rain usually comes as quick, heavy bursts, and the air feels damp, especially during July and August.
These factors really affect how comfortable you’ll feel outside.
Average Precipitation Levels
Rainfall in Milan over the summer is moderate, but it doesn’t come evenly. Monthly averages range from about 70 mm to 90 mm.
June usually sees a bit less rain than July or August, but sudden showers are common in all three months.
Rain tends to fall as intense but brief downpours, not gentle drizzles. You might wake up to sun, then get caught in an afternoon storm.
Here’s a quick look at summer precipitation:
| Month | Average Rainfall |
|---|---|
| June | ~73 mm (2.9 in) |
| July | ~80 mm (3.1 in) |
| August | ~85 mm (3.3 in) |
Totals aren’t extreme, but the timing and intensity of showers can make the weather feel unpredictable.
Rainy Days and Thunderstorms
You’ll see about 7–10 rainy days per month in Milan during summer. That doesn’t mean all-day rain—it’s usually quick storms interrupting hot, sunny stretches.
Thunderstorms hit most often in July and August. Warm, humid air over the city often triggers late-afternoon or evening storms, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and sometimes lightning.
Storms don’t last long, but they can mess up your outdoor plans. If you’re sightseeing, carrying a light rain jacket or umbrella is a smart move.
Streets can get slippery during sudden downpours, so leave extra time if you’re walking or biking.
Humidity Trends and Effects
Humidity in Milan stays high all summer, usually between 70% and 80%. This makes the heat feel worse than the numbers suggest.
For example, a day at 29°C (84°F) can feel much warmer when it’s muggy.
Mornings and evenings are usually more comfortable, while afternoons feel sticky and heavy. High humidity also makes thunderstorms more likely, especially after a string of hot days.
If you spend time outside, you’ll probably notice it’s harder for sweat to evaporate, which can make any activity feel tiring. Staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade or indoors helps you handle the thick, heavy air that’s typical for Milan’s summer.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Summer in Milan means long days and loads of sunlight, especially in July before things start to shorten toward September. You get extended daylight and more sunshine hours than in spring.
Average Daily Sunshine
During summer, Milan averages 8 to 10 hours of sunshine per day. July is the sunniest month, with about 9.5 to 10 hours of sunlight daily.
June and August aren’t far behind, usually around 8–9 hours.
You can count on bright conditions for most outdoor activities, though humidity and the occasional storm can break up the clear skies.
Compared to places like Barcelona, Milan gets a bit less summer sun, but it’s still more than what you’d see in northern Europe. It’s a nice balance—plenty of daylight, but not the harshest Mediterranean sun.
| Month | Avg Daily Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|
| June | 8–9 hours |
| July | 9.5–10 hours |
| August | 8–9 hours |
These are averages—some days will be longer and brighter, others a bit cloudier.
Day Length Changes Through Summer
Daylight in Milan runs from about 15 hours in late June down to 13 hours by late August. The longest days hit around the summer solstice, with sunrise before 5:40 a.m. and sunset after 9:15 p.m.
By July, days start to shorten a little, but you still get over 14.5 hours of light. By late August, it’s closer to 13 hours, and sunsets come earlier.
This shift changes how you plan your evenings. In June and early July, you can have dinner outside late into the evening. By late August, earlier sunsets hint that autumn’s on the way.
The combo of long daylight and high sunshine hours gives you lots of time to explore, whether you’re wandering the city or heading out to nearby lakes.
Wind, Air Quality, and Other Weather Factors
Milan’s summers bring light winds, plenty of humidity, and sometimes stagnant air that can affect how comfortable you feel. Air quality often becomes a bigger deal than wind, especially during hot spells when pollution hangs around.
Typical Wind Patterns
Winds in Milan during summer are usually light to moderate, around 5–12 km/h (3–7 mph). Breezes aren’t consistent, and calm days are pretty common.
This lack of strong wind makes the heat feel worse, especially downtown where buildings trap warmth.
Northern Italy’s geography plays a role here. The Alps block stronger winds from the north, and the Po Valley often ends up with still, stagnant air. Don’t expect those refreshing coastal breezes you might find elsewhere in Italy.
Thunderstorms in late summer can bring short-lived gusts that cool things down and clear out haze for a bit. If you’re outside, keep an eye out for sudden weather changes during these storms.
Air Quality Considerations
Air quality in Milan during summer can be hit or miss. On hot, dry days, you might notice more ozone and fine particles, especially in July and August. Since wind is limited, pollutants from traffic and industry can hang over the city.
Humidity adds to the discomfort. When moisture is high, the air feels heavier and haze can lower visibility. Sensitive groups—kids or people with asthma—might feel this more.
If you want to spend time outside, mornings or evenings are usually better, when temperatures are lower and pollution levels drop a bit. Parks and green areas also tend to feel nicer than the dense city center.
Tips for Experiencing Summer in Milan
Summer in Milan means hot days, long stretches of sunlight, and a surge of cultural events. You’ll find yourself soaking up the outdoors, checking out seasonal festivals, and maybe sneaking away for a day trip—but don’t forget to brace yourself for the heat and those occasional evening storms.
Best Outdoor Activities
If you want to enjoy Milan’s summer, you should head outside to its parks, canals, and historic corners. Parco Sempione sits right behind Castello Sforzesco, offering shaded paths, picnic spots, and a pretty great view of the Arco della Pace. When the city gets too hot, this park feels like a small oasis.
The Navigli district really comes alive in the evenings. People crowd the canals for aperitivo, which is that classic Milanese ritual of drinks and snacks before dinner.
If you walk or cycle along Naviglio Martesana, you’ll pass through quieter neighborhoods and even hit a bit of countryside as it winds northeast toward the Adda River.
When the heat feels unbearable, locals often hop on a short train ride to the Alps or Lake Como. Up there, the air’s cooler and the hiking trails are hard to resist.
Seasonal Events and Local Customs
Summer in Milan brings a whole lineup of cultural events. At Castello Sforzesco, the Estate al Castello series fills the courtyard with open-air concerts, theater, and dance. Most of these shows happen in the evening when things finally cool down a bit.
The Milan Latin Festival stretches through much of the season. You’ll find live music, dance floors, and Latin American food, drawing a mix of locals and travelers. The energy is infectious, and it’s just outside the city center.
Big outdoor concerts also take over places like San Siro Stadium and the city’s hippodromes. If you want to see Milan’s social side, these events are where residents gather at night for music and food.
Travel and Packing Recommendations
Milan gets pretty hot in the summer, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F). Pack light, breathable clothes—think cotton or linen.
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes, especially if you’re planning to explore the city by foot or maybe even by bike.
Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat. These really help during those bright days.
Toss a small umbrella or a light rain jacket in your bag too. Short evening thunderstorms sometimes pop up, and it’s better to be prepared.
If you’re heading to churches like the Duomo di Milano, remember to cover your knees and shoulders. I usually bring a light scarf or cardigan to handle dress codes without weighing down my bag.
It’s easy to forget, but staying hydrated matters. Carry a refillable water bottle—Milan’s public fountains give you safe drinking water, which is honestly pretty convenient.