Italy is very diverse when it comes to its climate and geography, which means there’s no bad time to visit. It really depends on what you want to do and where you want to go.
In this guide, we share everything you need to know about the best times to visit Italy. We will discuss the weather in Italy for each month, give you some ideas of things to do and highlight some of the major events happening in Italy throughout the year.
The best time of year to visit Italy is during the shoulder season. This runs from April to June and September to November. During these periods, the weather is much cooler and the tourist season is yet to properly begin.
Winter is one of the best times to visit Italy if you are looking for a budget-friendly trip. The cities will be much calmer than usual, especially once the holiday buzz has died down. The ski season is in full swing up in the mountains, so there is still plenty of fun to be had.
The weather across Italy can vary greatly, particularly in winter. The north will see average temperatures of 5℃ and lows of well below freezing, whereas central Italy hovers around 8℃. The south is much warmer with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16℃. There will be approximately 119mm of rainfall over the month and some regions will see snow.
As January is in the middle of winter in Italy, this is the perfect time to enjoy the snowy slopes of the magnificent Dolomites for skiing. You’ll also find more skiing opportunities in the Apennines of central Italy.
On the other hand, if you’ve ever dreamed of viewing Michelangelo’s remarkable work in the Sistine Chapel, the low season is a great time to come for a more tranquil experience.
Christmas celebrations continue up until the 6th of January in Italy. On this day, Italians celebrate Epiphany, dressing in elaborate costumes and engaging in boat races. Children receive gifts from the good witch Befana and there is a mass held in St Peter’s Square.
February in Italy is still very cold and quiet. The ski slopes will be packed, but major cities and towns remain blissfully quiet. This is one of the best times to visit Italy if you are looking for a serene escape and want to avoid the summer crowds.
Temperatures warm up slightly, with regions in northern Italy warming to an average temperature of 9℃. The south will see highs of 15℃ in February, with mild days perfect for exploring. There will be some snow and rain across the country still, so be sure to pack some layers and warm clothes.
February is a great time to visit cities like Rome and Naples. The major attractions like the Colosseum and Pompeii will be less busy than usual, allowing you to take in the ancient wonders at a more relaxed pace.
Skiing is still one of the most popular activities around this time of year. You will find many prime conditions across the country from the Alps to Mt. Etna. Resorts will be teeming with winter sports enthusiasts and areas like Turin have some exceptional runs.
One of the biggest events in February is Carnival. The festival draws countless visitors to Venice, which does it bigger and better than anywhere else in Italy. There are many events that take place, including lavish masquerade balls, a candlelit parade of boats, street performances and concerts, with St. Mark’s Square the focal point of the revelry.
Valentine’s Day also falls in February, which is a very romantic time to visit Italy. In Verona, there is a half marathon dedicated to the love story of Romeo and Juliet, which is a wonderful event for active couples to take part in.
The first hints of spring bring a wonderful atmosphere to Italy. Popular cities will be slightly less busy than during the coming months, as the shoulder season in Italy begins to pick up. Discounted accommodation rates may be possible too, so it’s still an optimal time for a budget getaway.
With winter transitioning to spring, March brings a mixed bag of weather. Expect average temperatures of 10℃ in the north and highs of 20℃ in the south.
March is a perfect time to experience the Amalfi Coast as it is much less crowded than in the summer. Though the weather in Italy in March may not be the best for a beach holiday, it is perfect for coastal walks and mountain hikes, like the ‘The Path of the Gods’.
If you find yourself in Rome or Venice, be sure to make the most of the shorter lines at attractions like the Vatican Museum and the Doge’s Palace. This is a great time to visit Italy as you can explore at your leisure and can complete your itinerary without rushing.
One of the biggest events in Italy during March is the Rome Marathon. Starting at the Forum and finishing at the Colosseum, the 42km route takes runners all through the Eternal City and is a unique way to experience the top attractions in Rome.
Due to the yearly changes in the liturgical calendar Carnival and Easter may sometimes fall in March. Easter in Italy is a magical experience. With parades, religious gatherings and charming local traditions, the entire country comes alive with excitement for the holiday.
April is certainly one of the best months to visit Italy. The weather is much more pleasant and the country bursts into bloom as spring settles over the land.
Average temperatures in north Italy range from 10℃-18℃. The warm weather brings an end to the ski season and many resorts close for the summer.
Southern regions experience lovely highs of 25℃ and cooler evenings that fall to 15℃. Some showers should be anticipated, but on the whole, Italy enjoys gorgeous sunshine in April.
Creatives should head to Milan in April to experience Design Week. The streets become decorated with installations and stunning displays made by local artists and designers.
In the south, Mt Vesuvius is one of the best things to do in April. The hike to the top should only take around 30 minutes at a relaxed pace. From the summit, there are stunning views of Naples and the surrounding landscape.
Easter is a major celebration in Italy. Rome serves as the focal point with the Pope undertaking the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday. In Florence, you can see a cart loaded with fireworks ignite right in front of its famous Duomo, along with a magnificent parade that marches through the centuries-old streets.
Liberation Day also falls in April. This marks the end of WW2 and is a huge celebration of Italian pride. Parades throughout cities like Rome and Florence honour fallen Partisans and other festivities include concerts, food markets and political rallies.
You won’t be the only tourist in Italy at the end of the spring, as May is the unofficial start to the peak tourist season. This is still a great time to come, with temperatures often idyllic and the sun frequently shining.
The weather can vary across Italy in May. Southern areas will see highs of 24℃, making for some excellent beach weather though the sea may still be quite chilly. The average temperature in central Italy will be approximately 20℃ with lows of 16℃.
One of the best things to do in Italy in May is to explore the verdant countryside of Tuscany. The region explodes into colour as spring wildflowers proudly bloom. Siena and Florence have some incredible Renaissance art and buildings, whereas smaller towns offer a more charming rustic experience.
Sorrento is also an excellent choice when you visit Italy in May. You can lounge in charming beach clubs and take boat tours of the coast, as the water won’t be as crowded with other holidaymakers. There is also ample opportunity to explore the ancient history of the area in places like Pompeii and Herculaneum.
May is filled with events that take place throughout Italy. This is when the annual bike race, Giro d’Italia, takes place, travelling the country for three weeks. The 3448.6km race traverses the whole country and is a hotly anticipated event.
Similarly, 1000 Miglia also occurs in May. The week-long vintage car rally has been established for over 100 years, with drivers starting in Brescia and then racing to Rome and back. The route explores some of the most beautiful places in Italy and is a must-see event for car lovers.
June, along with July and August, is in the peak tourist season in Italy. Warm temperatures and crowds should be expected, although it’s possible to escape the heat by enjoying the beautiful beaches in Southern Italy or heading into the Dolomites for scenic hikes.
Summer has arrived, bringing with it scorching sunny days. The average temperature in Italy in June can range from 25℃ -30℃ across the country. In recent years highs of 40℃ have been reported, particularly in the south.
One of the best things to do in Italy in June is to head to one of the country’s beautiful beaches. The coast will be busy at this time of year, but not as crowded as other summer months. Puglia is a particular standout with its lush beaches and warm Mediterranean climate.
June is also an excellent time to head to Lake Como in the North. With welcoming traditional villages, cycling paths and unrivalled natural beauty, this corner of Italy is a real paradise for those who want to avoid the packed beaches. If you are staying in Milan, it makes a perfect day trip, as it is only an hour away on the train.
The highlight of events in June may be in Florence, where the annual Calcio Storico tournament is held. This early form of football is at least 500 years old, so teams dress up in historical costumes as part of the event.
June is also a month when many saints’ days are celebrated across Italy. In Rome, the feast of St Peter and St Paul is a wondrous spectacle. Likewise, in Turin and Genoa, fires are lit and parades fill the streets with colour and joy.
Summer brings sizzling heat along with many cultural events held throughout the country. July is right in the middle of Italy’s peak season, so there will be many other tourists and locals filling up town squares and top attractions.
Italian weather in July is hot and humid. Heatwaves are very possible, which can make exploring cities nearly unbearable.
Average temperatures in July can reach highs of 32℃ in the north and the south. If you want to avoid the worst of the heat, head to the peaks in the Alps or Apennines where the cool mountain air is perfect for hiking.
One of the best things to do in Italy in July is to visit some of the undiscovered gems that won’t be teeming with tourists. Towns like Erice and Nocelle are perfect for a remote summer escape where you can enjoy the quaint charms of traditional Italian living.
Another great destination for an Italian vacation in July is Umbria. This region is often overlooked in favour of areas like Tuscany, but it provides just as much cultural wonder. From sampling olive oil to countryside hikes, Umbria is perfect for those who want to visit Italy and avoid the major cities.
July is filled with amazing events and festivals which are certain to make your visit unforgettable. The Opera Festival will be held in Verona’s ancient arena and continues into September, while Siena hosts the first of the two Il Palio horse races in its central piazza.
In Palmero, there is the Festa di Santa Rosalia, which celebrates the city’s deliverance from the plague. The celebrations last for 5 days between the 10th and 15th of July and are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the traditions and folklore of Sicily.
August is when most Italians take their vacations, with soaring temperatures sending them to the mountains and the beaches where you’ll find big crowds. While some businesses will be closed in the cities, you might find some discounted hotel rates, if you can deal with the heat.
Be prepared for the overwhelming heat in August. Across the country, daytime temperatures will settle around 25℃, with highs of 30℃. Towards the end of the month, there will be more showers and rain but overall the month remains very warm and bright.
If you don’t mind busy beaches, August in Italy is a great time to visit the Amalfi Coast. The beach is the best way to beat the heat as you can cool off in the sea and make the most of the summer atmosphere. In Amalfi, you can find secluded coves which is a brilliant way to avoid crowds. Of course, you can’t visit without grabbing a picture of the idyllic Fiordo di Furore.
Perhaps the most notable event in August is Ferragosto, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This is a public holiday on the 15th of July when locals will head out to the country to visit family, so many businesses will be closed and cities will seem much quieter during this time.
If you are keen to experience historical festivities, be sure to attend the Quintana of Ascoli Piceno. This is a thrilling jousting competition which has roots as far back as the 9th Century. The reenactment feels like stepping back in time and has become a leading event in the Marche area.
September brings an end to the peak season in Italy. The autumn harvest is in full swing, so it’s a great time to visit for foodies. Tourist numbers will decrease this month but it’s still a busy time of year for a visit to Italy.
The weather will likely be a bit more pleasant now with temperatures cooling, especially later in the month. The average temperature in Italy in September will fluctuate between 20℃ to 30℃, dropping to 15℃ in the evenings. There will also be approximately 45mm of rainfall over 6 days, but the majority of the month will be sunny.
September is an excellent time to explore cities and tourist attractions in Italy as they will be much less crowded. Sights like the Trevi Fountain and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are some of the best things to do in Italy in September as you can enjoy them in a more relaxed atmosphere.
September is also one of the best times to go wine tasting. The many vineyards in regions like Tuscany will be reaping their harvest, so this is an optimal time to visit if you want to sample authentic Italian wines.
The Sagra dell’Uva, a harvest festival, takes place at the Basilica of Constantine in the Roman Forum, providing the opportunity to honour the grape. Harvest festivals will be occurring all over Italy in September and are an excellent opportunity to get involved in local traditions.
October is a lovely time to visit Italy, with the leaves on the trees beginning to turn red. The weather is mostly warm during the day and comfortably cool in the evening. It’s a great month to see the sights and even enjoy some of the beaches, which will be much less crowded now.
Temperatures in October typically range from 14℃ to 20℃, but can vary depending on the region and altitude. Southern Italy will remain fairly warm with highs of 23℃. You might experience occasional rainfall, especially in the northern areas.
October in Italy is a time to slow down and enjoy the little things, like food. Autumn brings some amazing seasonal delights to the country like truffles in Umbria and mushrooms from the Dolomites. October is one of the best times to visit Italy if you are eager to embark on a gourmet food tour.
If you like chocolate, head to Perugia for the Eurochocolate Festival. The festival brings many visitors who want to taste luxury chocolate from all over the world. The 10-day event features chocolate sculptures, tastings and chocolate-making workshops. It’s a paradise for chocoholics and anyone with a sweet tooth.
The low season in Italy begins now, with wet, cooler weather and fewer tourists out visiting the sights. You might even find a few empty museums. It’s a good time to come for discounted hotel rates and sample olive oils from the recent harvest.
Winter settles over Italy in November, bringing wetter days and cold nights. Average temperatures in Italy in November range from 8℃ – 15℃. Coastal temperatures will likely be on the higher end, but will be much too cold to enjoy proper beach time. If you are planning to visit Italy in November, be sure to pack warm layers, particularly for the evenings.
November is an ideal time to explore Italy’s world-class art museums, such as the Vatican Museums in Rome, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice. You will find these galleries blissfully empty of tourists, which will make your experience much more serene.
November is also the time for indulging in hearty, seasonal dishes that will warm you up against the cold. Try specialities like truffle-based dishes, hearty stews, and roasted chestnuts available at local trattorias.
The 1st of November is All Saints Day, which is a national holiday in Italy. There aren’t lavish parades and festivities since this is a time to remember lost loved ones. Many restaurants and shops will be closed as locals go to visit cemeteries and pay their respects.
Various towns and villages, especially in Tuscany, hold chestnut festivals (Sagra della Castagna) during November. Here you can enjoy roasted chestnuts, local products, and traditional music and dances.
The early part of December will be quiet, but by the middle of the month, many tourists flock here to celebrate the holidays. Italy comes alive with Christmas markets and elaborate decorative scenes that can be found throughout the country. December is one of the best times to visit Italy if you want to experience the magical Christmas atmosphere.
December is one of the coldest months in Italy, so be sure to pack for wet and cold weather. Average temperatures in the north can range from 10℃ to -5℃, which will also mean a high chance of snow.
Visiting Italy in December offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s festive spirit, cultural traditions, and winter delights. Throughout Italy, you will find charming Christmas markets selling handmade gifts, Christmas ornaments and sweet treats. Wander the stalls to find some unique gifts and treat yourself to a warming mulled wine.
You will also find that Italy has a long-standing tradition of setting up elaborate nativity scenes during December. Take a winter walk through the streets and admire the beautiful cribs and effigies on display in churches, squares, and private homes across the country.
On December 8th, Italians celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This religious holiday marks the beginning of the Christmas season. It is celebrated with processions and festivities across Italy, paying tribute to the Virgin Mary.
Rome attracts the biggest crowds around Christmas, as the Pope hosts his Christmas Eve Mass. There will also be plenty of lively New Year’s Eve celebrations across Italy, with sparkling firework displays over the major cities of Rome, Florence and Milan.
There seems to be no bad time to visit Italy, with each month offering its own highlights and events. The best time to visit is around the shoulder season in April-June and September-October, since you can enjoy your trip with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Winter is still an optimal time to visit for a quiet city break or the Italian ski season.
If this guide has inspired you to visit Italy, get in touch with us for advice about the best time to visit for the needs of your vacation.
If you’re looking to experience some of the most popular destinations in Italy, our Rome and Amalfi escape is an excellent way to experience the bustling capital, as well as explore the stunning coastlines of Italy, giving you the best of both worlds.
With everything from sparkling lakes, soaring mountains and beautiful beaches, to hilltop villages and spectacular cities. Italy is a favourite among many travellers. While it…
Tuscany, a region in Italy, is one of the world’s most popular wine destinations producing an array of internationally recognized wines in various styles. While…
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city steeped in rich history and culture going back thousands of years. With sights like the Colosseum, Palatine…
COPYRIGHT © 2023 UNFORGETTABLE TRAVEL. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
