When to Go to Italy (2024)

Late spring and early fall offer Italy's nicest weather, but biggest crowds.

When to Go to Italy (1)
By Rick Steves

Italy's best travel months are May, June, September, and October. They're also the busiest and most expensive time to visit (with the north remaining just as busy throughout midsummer). Crowds aside, these months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather.

The heat in July and August can be grueling, particularly in the south, where temperatures hit the 90s. Fortunately most midrange hotels come with air-conditioning (but it's usually available only from June through September). August is also when many Italians take their summer vacations; big cities tend to be quiet (with discounted hotel prices), but beach and mountain resorts are jammed (with higher hotel prices). Note that Italians generally wear shorts only at beach resort towns. If you want to blend in, wear lightweight long (or capri) pants in Italy, even in summer, except at the beach.

Between November and April, you can expect cooler weather, and you'll miss most of the sweat and stress of the tourist season, though crowds can pick up over major holidays. Off-season, expect shorter hours at sights, more lunchtime breaks, and fewer activities. In the middle of winter, it often drops to the 40s in Milan and the 50s in Rome, and beach towns are nearly shut down and battered by waves (skip the Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast). However, even spring and fall can also be chilly at times — and, for the sake of energy efficiency, many hotels aren't allowed to turn on their heat until the coldest winter months.

When to Go to Italy (2024)

FAQs

When to Go to Italy? ›

The best time to visit Italy is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the temperatures are comfortable and there are fewer crowds. Wildflowers in early April and rising temperatures through to the end of June are a real draw.

What is the best month to go to Italy? ›

Italy's best travel months are May, June, September, and October. They're also the busiest and most expensive time to visit (with the north remaining just as busy throughout midsummer). Crowds aside, these months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather.

What is the cheapest time to go to Italy? ›

“Aside from winter travel, shoulder season (March through May and September through November) is known for cheap Italy deals,” he shared. If you can hold out until the end of the spring shoulder season, you'll be rewarded with pleasant temperatures in the mid to high 70s across the country, according to WeatherSpark.

What month does Italy close down? ›

August is a unique month to visit Italy because it's when locals close shop and go on vacation. That translates to you, the tourist, in a few different ways.

What is the best temperature to go to Italy? ›

66-86°F in the north. 66-86°F in central Italy. 74-95°F in the south.

How many days is enough for Italy? ›

How much time should I spend in Italy? Although there is enough to do in Italy to fill a week, we recommend a stay of at least ten days for a complete Italy experience. However, if you've only got a couple of days in Italy, you will still be able to cover many of the main highlights of the country.

What is the best month to visit Rome? ›

Rome's best travel months (also busiest and most expensive) are April, May, June, September, October, and early November. These months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather.

How much does an average Italy trip cost? ›

How much does a trip to Italy cost for a week? The cost of a trip to Italy for a week will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. A budget traveler can expect to spend around 800-1000 euros, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around 1500-2000 euros.

What is the least expensive month to go to Italy? ›

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Italy

High season is considered to be June and July. The cheapest month to fly to Italy is February.

What city in Italy is cheapest to fly into? ›

What is the cheapest city in Italy to fly into? While there are lots of cheap airports in Italy to fly into, the cheapest one is usually Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). With over 22 millions per year, it is the second busiest airport in Italy.

When should you avoid crowds in Italy? ›

For most travelers looking for sunny, warm days and minimal crowds the best time to visit Italy is late May or early October. These months are cooler and less busy than the hot summer months that lie between them. At these times you can explore the north and south, cities, coast and mountains in comfort.

What time is everything closed in Italy? ›

Even in the twenty-first century, many Italian businesses and tourist attractions close at lunchtime. Churches are usually closed from noon until at least 3pm. Especially in smaller towns, museums, tourist sights and shops may follow a similar timetable.

What month is cold in Italy? ›

Even though air temperatures can be mild, December, January, and February are still the coldest months of the year fin Italy so plan for a bit of chill and damp.

What is the rainy season in Italy? ›

November is usually the rainy season in Italy, although the sun in the south still shines quite often. In the spring, from March to mid-April, the weather can be sunny and mild, but also cold and wet: it is a rather unstable period.

What is the best time to visit Amalfi Coast? ›

The two shoulder seasons on the Amalfi Coast are September to October and April to May. They also happen to be two of the best times to visit, since the days tend to be sunny and warm. With fewer crowds and minimal rain, both are ideal times to enjoy the scenery.

What month is hottest for Italy? ›

Italy has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you're a sunseeker the best time to visit Italy is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 24 C and an average low of 17 C.

Is it cheaper to travel to Spain or Italy? ›

Italy vs Spain: cost

To stretch your travel budget, Spain is typically slightly more affordable than Italy, even in expensive cities like Madrid.

Is it better to visit Spain or Italy? ›

All in all, if you're travelling on a tight budget and want to get the most out of the destination you are visiting, then Spain might be the better option for you. Even in the major tourist destinations, it is a bit easier to stick to a tight budget in Spain than it is in major Italian tourist hot spots.

How much money do I need for 2 weeks in Italy? ›

Those looking to experience Italy on a shoestring could spend two weeks here for around €1,320 ($1,420) excluding flights. However, if you're looking to avoid hostels & dine at the occasional restaurant or two, a €2,000 budget per person (excluding flights) is likely a more realistic figure.

What month is Rome least crowded? ›

September to February is the best time for the lowest prices and fewer crowds: there are fewer tourists and better room rates because of this. The hotels and accommodations are lower-priced, and the general price of staying in Rome decreases.

What month is Rome coldest? ›

Rome's coldest months are January and February. During these two months, it rains every couple of days but some days can be quite pleasant with high temperatures of 12°C (53°F). At night, the temperature can reach below freezing. If you don't mind a little bit of cold, Rome is beautiful during winter.

How much time do you need to see the Vatican? ›

The Vatican Museums are extensive, so it is recommended that you set aside at least 3-4 hours to comfortably visit. Most guided tours take 3 hours, including the Sistine Chapel.

How far in advance should I plan a trip to Italy? ›

Planning a trip to Italy should be done one year to six months in advance, but there are a few things that need to wait until just before you leave.

Do you tip in Italy? ›

First off, tipping in Italy is neither mandatory nor expected, but if you do decide to do so, the gesture is a very clear indicator that you appreciated the service provided.

Is Tuscany expensive to visit? ›

It's no surprise that one of the most popular regions of Italy is also one of the most expensive. Between accommodation, food and sites, you can really burn through the euros on a trip to Tuscany. But the good news is that it doesn't have to be that way – it is possible to travel Tuscany on the cheap.

How much is a trip to Italy for 1 week? ›

The average price of a 7-day trip to Italy is $1,170 for a solo traveler, $1,859 for a couple, and $2,034 for a family of 4. Italy hotels range from $50 to $232 per night with an average of $80, while most vacation rentals will cost $150 to $420 per night for the entire home.

What's the cheapest way to see Italy? ›

How to explore Italy on a budget
  • A guide to daily costs. ...
  • Fly into secondary airports or enter Italy overland. ...
  • Shoulder season is the best season. ...
  • Ditch the car and move around with public transport. ...
  • Discounts are often available for train trips, if you know where to find them. ...
  • Look out for lunch deals in trattorias.
May 20, 2023

Is it better to fly into Rome or Florence? ›

Florence is walkable, has more day trip options than you could possibly fit into one trip, some of the best food you'll ever taste, is charming and romantic, and will satisfy those hungry for art, fashion, food, and wine. Choose Rome if it's the historical sights you're looking to check off your list.

Which airlines fly direct to Italy? ›

ITA Airways, Delta, KLM, Air France, Iberia, American Airlines, United and British Airways all fly non-stop to Italy.

Is it better to fly into Rome or Milan? ›

If you fly into Rome you can catch a train from the airport into the city & then onto other places. Milan doesn't have train connection into town & both airports are a good distance from Milan. You would have to take a long, expensive, taxi ride or bus. Flying into Rome is much easier.

Is it better to see Italy on a tour or on your own? ›

TRAVEL WITH A LOCAL TOUR GUIDE

While you can make local friends on trains or experience rural life on a road trip, there's no better way to see Italy than with the help of a local tour guide. This is our top travel tip from our Italian experts, because no one knows Italy better than an Italian!

Is it rude to be late in Italy? ›

Most Italians do have a peculiar notion of punctuality and being 15, 20 or even 30 minutes late for a social situation is generally seen as perfectly acceptable – much to the dismay of people from countries where lateness is viewed as rude or inconsiderate.

What is the Amalfi Coast known for? ›

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its picturesque seaside towns, cliffs, and beaches. It's known for its stunning coastline and colorful villages with steep and narrow streets. Many towns along the Amalfi Coast have a rich historical legacy with important sights of historical and artistic value.

What time is dinner in Italy? ›

The Typical Italian Dinner

Italian dinner or la cena, usually from 8:00 to 10:00pm, is another time that Italians enjoy sitting down together and socializing. Dinner can be much later than 10:00pm, especially if eating out or dining at a friend's house.

What do Italians do on a Sunday? ›

In Italy, Sundays are family days and for many families, the only day that the kids are not in school (highschoolers attend half days on Saturdays as well). Sunday lunch – or Sunday brunch in some places – is a thing, so you should join the Italians. Just book in advance. Some good suggestions for Sunday lunch in Rome.

Does Italy shut down for lunch? ›

The riposo - Italy's midday siesta

You might know it as the siesta. In Italy, it is called riposo. This traditional early afternoon shutdown varies from business to business, but usually lasts about 90 minutes to two hours. It may begin anywhere from noon and 1:30pm and run until anywhere from 2:30 to 4pm.

Where is the best place to fly into Italy? ›

Here you are the 10 most important Italian airports with the highest passenger traffic.
  • Cagliari-Elmas Airport (CAG) ...
  • Milan Linate (LIN) ...
  • Aeroporto Marconi di Bologna (BLQ) ...
  • Palermo-Punta Raisi Falcone and Borsellino Airport (PMO) ...
  • Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP) ...
  • Marco Polo Airport in Venice (VCE)

What area is Amalfi Coast? ›

The Amalfi Coast (Italian: Costiera Amalfitana) is a stretch of coastline on the northern coast of the Salerno Gulf on the Tyrrhenian Sea, located in the Province of Salerno of southern Italy.

What is hurricane season in Italy? ›

Peak medicane season is from late September through the end of the year, when southern Mediterranean waters are at their warmest and upper atmospheric conditions are most likely to be present.

What is the best time to travel to Italy and Greece? ›

The best time for sightseeing in France, Italy, and Greece is April to June and September to October. The spring to early summer, as well as the early fall months, offer the best weather across the different countries, while also promising fewer crowds in even the most heavily visited destinations.

Does Italy have an off season? ›

The shoulder season or off-season can be the best time to visit Italy for the budget-conscious traveller. Shoulder season months include April, May, the first few weeks of June, September, and October, while off-season months include November and February. You may be able to get good deals on hotels and flights.

When should I visit Sicily? ›

A great time to visit Sicily is between April and October when the temperatures are mild and the chances of rainfall are lower. However, if you're looking for fewer crowds and have plans to visit cities, towns, archaeological sites and museums , then November to March is also a good time to visit.

When not to visit the Amalfi Coast? ›

The Amalfi Coast is less busy from November to March. However, restaurants and hotels in the smaller towns may shut down and many of the ferries and hydrofoils don't run during this period. It's better to visit after Easter when everything re-opens again.

Where do you fly for Amalfi Coast? ›

There is no Amalfi Coast airport; the nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast is the Naples Capodichino Airport, located about 60 km (37 miles) to the north. Though Naples Capodichino is the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast, it's not your only option to fly to the Amalfi Coast.

What seasons are best in Italy? ›

When is the best time to visit Italy? The best time to visit Italy is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the temperatures are comfortable and there are fewer crowds. Wildflowers in early April and rising temperatures through to the end of June are a real draw.

What is the best climate in Italy? ›

Imperia. Imperia occupies first place in the ranking thanks to its very few heat waves. Imperia Italy weather is characterised by pleasant year round temperatures.

How is Italy in May? ›

May weather in Italy is typically beautiful. Northern Italy is warming up but still can see snow at higher elevations. Temperatures hover around the 15°C mark (59°F). Central Italy warms up quite a bit in May (especially in recent years).

What month is warmest in Italy? ›

Italy has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you're a sunseeker the best time to visit Italy is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 24 C and an average low of 17 C.

What is the coldest month in Italy? ›

The coldest month is January: the Po valley's mean temperature is between −1–1 °C (30.2–33.8 °F), Venice 2–3 °C (35.6–37.4 °F), Trieste 6–7 °C (42.8–44.6 °F), Florence 5–6 °C (41.0–42.8 °F), Rome 7–8 °C (44.6–46.4 °F), Naples 9 °C (48.2 °F), and Cagliari 12 °C (53.6 °F).

What is the average cost of a trip to Italy? ›

The cost of a trip to Italy for a week will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. A budget traveler can expect to spend around 800-1000 euros, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around 1500-2000 euros. Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of 3000 euros.

What is the best time of year to avoid crowds in Italy? ›

For most travelers looking for sunny, warm days and minimal crowds the best time to visit Italy is late May or early October. These months are cooler and less busy than the hot summer months that lie between them. At these times you can explore the north and south, cities, coast and mountains in comfort.

Which city in Italy is cheapest to fly into? ›

What is the cheapest city in Italy to fly into? While there are lots of cheap airports in Italy to fly into, the cheapest one is usually Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). With over 22 millions per year, it is the second busiest airport in Italy.

What is the best time of year to visit the Amalfi Coast? ›

The two shoulder seasons on the Amalfi Coast are September to October and April to May. They also happen to be two of the best times to visit, since the days tend to be sunny and warm. With fewer crowds and minimal rain, both are ideal times to enjoy the scenery.

What is the warmest month in Rome? ›

July is the hottest month of the year in Rome, although August is nearly as hot, with average temperatures of 25°C (77°F). Due to the high humidity, visiting the city during these months can be a little stifling.

What is the wettest month in Rome? ›

Winter. Winter is the coldest season in Rome, usually mild but harsh conditions can be experienced from time to time. The temperatures fall as low as 13 °C in December, January and February. Winter is also the wettest time of the year in Rome, with the average rainfall at around 93 mm in December.

What is the average temperature in Italy by month? ›

Interested in Florence?
Average Temps by MonthHighsLows
January52 °F (11 °C)37 °F (3 °C)
February55 °F (13 °C)37 °F (3 °C)
March61 °F (16 °C)43 °F (6 °C)
April66 °F (19 °C)46 °F (8 °C)
8 more rows

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