There is something magical about wandering through an Italian seaside town with nowhere to be except wherever the next beautiful view takes you.
That was exactly our day while exploring Gaeta, Italy, a charming beach town perched along the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, part of the beautiful Mediterranean. If you’ve never heard of Gaeta, don’t worry—you aren’t alone. It isn’t nearly as crowded as some of Italy’s famous coastal destinations, making it one of those hidden gems that locals have been enjoying for years.
For a day filled with walking, sightseeing, climbing hills, and soaking up breathtaking views, I knew comfort had to come first. Thankfully, this outfit turned out to be one of my favorites of the trip.
Why Linen Is Perfect for Summer Travel in Italy
When temperatures climb into the upper 90s with humidity to match, choosing the right clothing makes all the difference.
These wide leg linen type pants quickly became my go-to. The generous wide-leg silhouette allows air to circulate, helping keep you cooler while still looking polished. I especially love the thoughtful design details. Plus they come in lots of colors!
The front features beautiful pleats with a flat waistband panel between them so the pants lie smoothly across the tummy instead of adding bulk. That’s one of those little design features that makes a big difference. And of course…they have pockets! You all know how much I love a great pair of pants with pockets.
I paired them with a simple black tank that has excellent coverage and a flattering fit. Although the neckline sits a little higher—which made me feel slightly warmer in the intense Italian heat—I still reached for it multiple times during our trip because the quality is so good. Thanks to my sweet daughter for letting me borrow it! This tank comes in multitudes of colors too!
Comfortable Shoes Are Essential in Italy
One thing many people don’t realize before visiting Italy is that you’ll walk…a lot.
Gaeta isn’t filled with tiny cobblestone streets like many medieval villages. Instead, much of the town has large stone pavers that are much easier to navigate, but they still require supportive footwear.
These black sandals have traveled with me for several years because they are unbelievably comfortable. Unfortunately they’re no longer available, but I’ll do my best to link some similar styles below because everyone deserves a pair of sandals they can comfortably wear all day while sightseeing.
The Accessories That Made This Outfit Work
One accessory I absolutely couldn’t have done without was my lightweight Coldwater Creek straw cowboy hat.
Not only does it have a unique style with its leather tie and silver medallions around the crown, but it kept the strong Italian sun off my face all day long. Sometimes the best travel accessories are the ones that are both practical and stylish.
Make sure to check out my other post about our trip to Italy here.
My trusty straw tote bag was another travel MVP.
I love that it completely flattens inside my suitcase without losing its shape. Once I unpack it, it looks like it was never folded at all! It easily carried my sunscreen, water bottle, wallet, lipstick, and all those little extras that somehow end up in every travel bag.
Exploring Beautiful Gaeta, Italy
One of the highlights of our day was exploring the historic Castello Angioino.
Parts of this impressive fortress were once used as a prison, and walking through its corridors felt both eerie and fascinating. History seems to come alive within those ancient walls.
The reward for climbing to the top?
Absolutely breathtaking 360-degree views over the brilliant blue Tyrrhenian Sea. It was one of those moments where you simply stop talking because the scenery says everything.
Gaeta itself is such a wonderful surprise. While many international travelers head toward more famous destinations, Italians have long known about this coastal treasure. During the summer months, families gather here to enjoy the wide sandy beaches, beach clubs complete with umbrellas and lounge chairs, wonderful seafood restaurants, and the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
It’s incredibly family-friendly and feels wonderfully authentic.
Would I Visit Gaeta Again?
Without hesitation—yes.
If you’re planning a trip through central Italy, I highly recommend adding Gaeta to your itinerary. Whether you spend the day relaxing on the beach, exploring centuries of history, or simply wandering the charming streets with a gelato in hand, you’ll discover why this beautiful town has become such a favorite vacation spot for Italians.
And if you’re visiting during the summer, lightweight linen clothing, supportive sandals, a great sun hat, and a roomy straw tote will help you stay comfortable while enjoying every minute.
I’ll link everything I’m wearing below, along with similar sandals, so you can recreate this travel outfit for your own Italian adventure.
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