Arguably one of the best places to visit in Europe, Italy offers a captivating blend of culture, history and stunning landscapes. But with a country so diverse, the best time to visit Italy depends on what you’re looking for in your trip.
We’ll help you navigate the seasons in Italy below so you can choose the perfect time frame for your adventure. Whether you crave pleasant weather, manageable crowds or a festive experience, here’s what you need to know.
Best Months to Visit Italy
Italy’s long peninsula stretches from the cool Alps in the north to the sunny Mediterranean Sea shores in the south, so the best time to go to Italy depends on the weather you prefer and what parts of the country you want to see.
Generally, spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are considered the best times to visit most of Italy, whether traveling to Rome or elsewhere in the country. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures, manageable crowds and beautiful scenery.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of visiting Italy during these different months:
Summer: June - August
Summer is the peak season in Italy, and for good reason. The weather is hot and sunny, perfect for swimming, sunbathing and exploring outdoor attractions. However, the crowds can be overwhelming, especially in popular tourist destinations. You can expect higher prices for flights and accommodations during this time.
- Pros: Hot, sunny weather, ideal for swimming and outdoor activities, many festivals and events
- Cons: Heavy crowds, high prices, can be very hot in southern Italy
You’ll also find plenty of things to do in Rome and other parts of the country:
- Palio di Siena (July 2 and August 16): A historic horse race held twice a year in Siena.
- Festa del Redentore (third Sunday of July): A Venetian festival celebrating the end of the plague.
- Umbria Jazz Festival (July 11–20): A major jazz festival held in Perugia.
- Sagra del Carciofo Romanesco (April 11–13): A festival celebrating Roman artichokes in Ladispoli.
Spring: March - May
If you’re looking for the best month to visit Italy, consider springtime. The mild and pleasant weather makes it ideal for exploring cities, towns and the countryside. While some regions, particularly in the north, may still experience occasional rain showers, the overall climate is mild and inviting.
- Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, beautiful blooming flowers and landscapes
- Cons: Occasional rain showers in some regions, slightly higher prices than in the off-season
Annual events to attend:
- Carnevale di Venezia (February 14–March 4): A colorful and extravagant carnival held in Venice.
- Festa della Sensa (second Sunday of May): A Venetian festival celebrating the city's bond with the sea.
- Festa della Primavera (April-June): A spring festival held in Florence.
- Tulip Festival (March-April): A colorful festival held in Pienza.
Fall: September - November
Fall is another excellent time to visit Italy. The weather is milder, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. You’ll witness vibrant fall foliage among the country’s landscapes, especially in the northern regions.
- Pros: Mild weather, beautiful fall foliage, harvest festivals and events
- Cons: Some regions may experience rain showers (especially in the north), some attractions may close earlier in the day
Annual events to attend:
- Grape Harvest Festivals (late August/early September to late October): Held throughout Italy, especially in wine-producing regions like Tuscany and Piedmont.
- Eurochocolate (November 14-23): A chocolate festival held in Perugia.
- Lucca Comics & Games (October 30-November 4): A popular comics and gaming convention held in Lucca.
- Festa di Ognissanti (November 1): All Saints' Day, celebrated with religious processions and local traditions
Winter: December - February
Winter in Italy offers a diverse climate. While the northern Alps provide ideal skiing conditions and snowfall, southern regions like Sicily enjoy pleasant daytime temperatures. Central cities like Rome and Florence have cooler weather with occasional rain, making it perfect for exploring indoors or bundling up for outdoor activities.
Tourist crowds are typically smaller during the winter months, so you can enjoy popular attractions with less hassle.
- Pros: Festive atmosphere, smaller crowds, lower prices and flights and accommodations
- Cons: Colder weather in northern regions, some attractions may have limited hours or be closed
Annual events to attend:
- Christmas Markets (December): Held in various cities, offering traditional crafts, food, and festive decorations.
- New Year's Eve Celebrations (end of December to New Year’s Eve): Celebrated with fireworks and parties throughout the country.
- Epiphany (January 6): Celebrated on January 6th with the tradition of the Befana, a kind witch who brings gifts to children.
Best Time to Visit Italy FAQ
Still have questions about the best time of year to visit Italy? Find answers below.
Is Italy Expensive to Visit in the Summer?
Summer is the peak tourist season in Italy, so prices for flights, accommodations and activities tend to be higher. However, the high season also brings a vibrant atmosphere, longer daylight hours and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, so it just depends on the type of experience you want to have. You can save money by taking advantage of Italian vacation packages.
When Are Accommodations the Cheapest in Italy?
The best months to visit Italy for cheaper accommodations are the shoulder seasons: spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these times, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and prices for flights, hotels, and activities are more affordable. If you’re looking for places to stay in Rome on a budget, these are the best times to book.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Italy for a First-Time Traveler?
The best time to travel to Italy for the first time depends on the type of trip you want to have, but in general, consider spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for your first visit. These shoulder seasons are the most affordable, offering good weather and manageable crowds. You can enjoy the scenery, explore historic cities and experience Italian culture without the overwhelming crowds of peak season.
Book Your Italian Getaway Through AAA
Now that you know the best time to visit Italy, you can plan your dream trip. With AAA, you can get help every step of the way, from booking flights and accommodations to planning activities and tours.