Best time to visit Italy

From its romantic, history-rich cities, to idyllic islands and rolling hills in rural beauty spots, it’s clear why Italy is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which influences its weather patterns and seasons. As a result, Italy attracts vast numbers of visitors each year, around the year, which makes deciding when to go to Italy pretty tricky. To help you make up your mind, read on to find out the best time to visit Italy, including early fall and early spring as ideal times for enjoying mild weather, fewer crowds, and unique seasonal experiences.

When's the best time to visit Italy?

If you’re planning to swim, however, bear in mind that only southern Italy is likely to be warm enough outside the May to September period.

Set your heart on visiting Italy in summer? Discover the best beaches in Italy.  

Best months to visit Italy

The best time to visit Italy, in terms of weather and lack of crowds, is from April to June, and in September or October. Spring flowers add to the beauty of Italy during the spring months. Early October offers warm weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to enjoy seasonal delicacies like white truffles and new olive oil.

In general, it’s true to say that even the most beautiful places in Italy feel unpleasantly hot and crowded in July and August. The pleasant weather in spring and fall makes these months ideal for exploring various regions, hiking, and experiencing local attractions. 

To help you decide when to visit Italy, read on for our month-by-month overview of what to expect from the weather in Italy around the year.

Planning to visit Italy? Find inspiration in our customizable Italy itineraries, or talk to our local Italy travel experts.

Weather in Italy in January

January is the heart of winter in Italy. Expect cold temperatures, rainy days, and some snowfall.

Talking of which, if you want to ski, January is a top time to visit Trentino-Alto Adige.   

Overall though, skiing aside, visiting Italy in January means low visitor numbers, low temperatures, and lower costs for accommodation and shopping — this is sale season. 

January also means some activities, such as sailing the Amalfi coast, will be off the table.

Planning a trip in January? Make sure to read all about the weather in Italy in January.

Weather in Italy in February 

You’d do well to consider visiting Italy in low season months like February. Fewer crowds mean better opportunities to explore (for example) the best museums in Florence. 

Rough Guides tip: To better prepare for your trip to Florence, also read our guide to the best areas to stay in Florence.

Planning a trip in February? Make sure to read all about the weather in Italy in February.

Weather in Italy in March

The weather in Italy in March can be somewhat changeable. That means bursts of rain, and temperatures ranging from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C) in Central and Northern Italy.  

In Southern Italy, the temperature typically ranges from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C). As March progress, expect more sunshine and green landscapes.

Just come prepared with a umbrella and layers, and you’re set for a fine experience with fewer crowds.

Make sure to read all about the weather in Italy in March.

Weather in Italy in April 

As in March, the weather in Italy in April can be unpredictable, so that umbrella will still come in handy, along with sunglasses. 

In April, Italy is shifting towards summer, with temperatures in Central Italy ranging from 50°F to 64.4°F (10°C to 18°C), and those in Southern Italy ranging from 55.4°F to 64.4°F. (13°C to 18°C).

Weather in Italy in May 

In May, the weather in Italy is markedly warmer. During this month, Rome averages a temperature of 73.4°F (21°C), while Venice averages 62.6°F (17°C).

Meanwhile, Naples sees highs of 69.8°F (23°C). As such, it’s a great place to visit in May to explore the Amalfi Coast, and take trips to islands like Capri and Ischia. 

Bear in mind, though, that even Rome drops to around 51.8°F (11°C) in the evening.

There are still chances of rain showers too, with 3 inch (76mm) of rain expected in Florence, and 1.9 inch (48mm) expected in Rome.

Traveling to Rome? Don't miss the opportunity to choose the best places to stay in the city.

Weather in Italy in June

Heralding the full swing of the high season, come June the weather in Italy has truly hotted up. 

In Northern Italy, expect temperatures ranging from 55.4°F to 80.6°F (13°C to 27°C). In Central Italy, you’re looking at 60.8°F tot 80.6°F (16°C to 27°C), and in Southern Italy, 69.8°F to 86°F (21°C to 30°C). June is a great time to visit Italy's beach destinations, such as the Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

If you like it hot, June can be a great time to visit Italy for a beach break, or to take to the Tuscan hills for hikes. Just be prepared for hiked prices, and bigger crowds. 

Set on visiting Italy in June? Consider exploring Emilia-Romagna — Tuscany without the crowds.

Looking for even more ideas for your summer adventure? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations for June.

Weather in Italy in July

Hot, humid and sublimely sunny, the weather in Italy in July is ideal for those who can handle the heat.  

Daytime temperatures often exceed 86°F (30°C), dropping to 64.4°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C) at night. Being peak season, beach resorts and historic cities are both pretty darn crammed.

For lower temperatures, and smaller crowds, consider heading to Italy’s high alps.

Planning a trip in July? Make sure to read all about the weather in Italy in July.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations in July.

Weather in Italy in August

With temperatures raised from July, it’s fair to say that the weather in Italy in August is scorching, making it a popular time for travel during the vacation season!  

Northern Italy averages 64.4°F to 86°F (18°C to 30°C), Central Italy 69.8°F to 89.6°F (21°C to 32°C), and Southern Italy 78.8°F to 89.6°F (26°C to 32°C).

Weather in Italy in September

All things considered – not least the mild weather and decreased crowds — September is one of the best months to visit Italy. 

In terms of the temperatures, expect daily average highs of 80.6°F (27°C). Come night, it ranges from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C).

In good news for beach-lovers, the sea is also still pretty warm, and you can expect to fork out less for accommodation. 

In addition, if you’re planning to explore some of the country’s celebrated historic cities, all those ancient sites and world-class museums will be less crammed.

Love taking lesser-traveled roads? Discover enticing alternatives to Italy's big sights.

Weather in Italy in October 

With peak season over, and average daytime temperatures of in 73.4°FF (23°C) Rome, and 69.8°F (21°C) in Florence, the weather in Italy in October makes it one of the best months to visit.  

October is also a time to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage in various regions of Italy. For wine lovers, the grape harvest season in September and October is an ideal time to experience vibrant vineyards and partake in wine tastings.

And, while the sea is now generally too cold for swimming, pretty much all other activities are still on the table. With the Sagra del Vino festival held in Rome in the first weekend, early October offers warm weather and fewer crowds, making it a top month to visit the capital.

Looking for more options for an fall vacation? Also check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable vacation in October.

Weather in Italy in November 

Come November, expect an average countrywide temperature of 55.4°F (13°C), with the north dropping down to a range of 35.6°F to 14°F (2°C to 10°C), and Central Italy ranging 44.6°F to 60.8°F (7°C to 16°C). 

At the same time, Southern Italy’s temperature ranges from 55.4°F to 64.4°F (13°C to 18°C). 

You can also expect some drizzle and decidedly chilly evenings.

Weather in Italy in December 

Averaging 55.4°F (13°C) around the country, December is one of Italy’s coldest months, though it does still enjoy nine hours of daylight. 

And in good news for art lovers, all those world-class galleries will be far less crowded. 

Love culture? The low season months of November and December aren't bad times to explore the Italian cities of the Renaissance.

Italy's peak season

The best time to visit Italy is the peak season, which are June, July and August. These summer months coincide with school summer vacations, leading to an influx of tourists seeking good weather and cultural experiences. This period is typically characterized by warmer weather, longer daylight hours and various vibrant events and festivals.

Coastal areas such as the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and Sicily are becoming especially popular for their superb beaches and scenic towns. So if you’re planning to visit popular areas, especially beach resorts, avoid July and especially August when the weather can be too hot and the crowds at their most congested.

In August, when most Italians are on vacation, you can expect the crush to be especially bad in the resorts, and the scene in the major historic cities – Rome, Florence, Venice – to be slightly artificial, as the only people around are fellow tourists. It is advisable to pre-book tickets and plan your visit early in the day to avoid long lines.

Italy shoulder season: fewer crowds

The nicest time to visit, in terms of the weather and lack of crowds, is from April to May, and in September or October. These shoulder months offer a perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists. If you’re planning to swim, however, bear in mind that only the south of the country is likely to be warm enough outside the May to September period.

Italy's low season

The low season in Italy falls during the winter months (November to March) and is characterized by cooler temperatures, shorter daylight hours and a dramatic drop in tourist numbers. A winter trip offers a unique opportunity to experience Italy in a different light, with fewer crowds and the chance to explore popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice without the typical tourist congestion.

Winter in Italy can be especially magical. Cities decorated with Christmas decorations take on a special charm and offer an enchanting festive atmosphere. And in regions such as the Italian Alps, you can enjoy skiing and various winter sports activities.

Another advantage of the winter in Italy is that at this time there are low prices for accommodation and flights, which is suitable for travelers who do not have a large budget.

Average temperatures and rainfall in Italy

On average, Italy witnesses varying rainfall patterns and temperatures throughout the year.

• In the northern regions, such as Milan and Venice, the climate is characterized by relatively mild summers and cold winters, with an average annual rainfall of around 30 to 35 inches (762 to 889 mm).
• Central Italy, encompassing cities like Rome and Florence, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers, and mild, rainy winters, receiving an average of 25 to 30 inches (635 to 762 mm) of rainfall per year.
• Southern Italy, including Naples and Palermo, showcases a subtropical climate with scorching summers and mild winters, accompanied by an average annual rainfall of approximately 20 to 25 inches (508 to 635 mm).
• The coastal areas experience more moderate temperature fluctuations compared to inland regions, making Italy a year-round destination for travelers seeking a diverse and captivating climate experience.

Need help planning your trip? Talk to our local Italy travel experts.

Want more info to help you plan your trip to Italy? Get The Rough Guide to Italy, and read up on the best things to do in Italy. 

Or, for more inspiration, browse our Italy itineraries, or contact our local Italy experts to help you curate your ideal itinerary.