The Best Time to Visit Italy
Italy is one of our favourite destinations and it dazzles in every season - whether you’re there to wander ancient ruins, sip wine in sun-drenched vineyards, or tuck into some seasonal feasts. But if you’re wondering what the best time to visit Italy is, the answer depends on what kind of experience you’re after.
Italy has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, mild springs and autumns, and relatively cool winters (especially in the north). While there’s no wrong time to visit, some months are better suited for soaking up the sun, others for cultural celebrations, and some for avoiding the crowds altogether.
What to expect from Italy in January
January is often the coldest month of the year, especially in the north, January is a great time to hit the slopes. The ski season in resorts in the Dolomites and Italian Alps is in full swing. It's also perfect for cultural travellers who want to soak in art and history without the crowds. Rome, Florence and Venice are quieter, more atmospheric and affordable this time of year.
Festivals and events in January
Epiphany
- Takes place on 6th January
- A national holiday celebrated with parades and befana witch traditions, especially in Rome and urban centres
What to expect from Italy in February
While it's still cold in February, the schedule of events keeps things interesting. In Venice, there are masked parades and lavish costumes to enjoy, meanwhile, Verona - the city of Romeo and Juliet - gets romantic with Valentine's Day celebrations.
Festivals and events in February
Venice Carnival
- Takes place in late January to early March, lasting for about two weeks, and ending on Shrove Tuesday
- Two weeks of elegant parades masquerade balls and other cultural events
Verona In Love
- A five-day festival held around Valentine's Day (14th February)
- Love is in the air and the city's historic squares are staged with heart-shaped light installations and decorations
What to expect from Italy in March
Temperatures rise, and the first signs of spring wash over the south. Rome and Naples warm up too, making it the perfect time for a stroll through their historic streets. With mild weather and fewer tourists, March is an excellent time to visit Sicily and the Amalfi Coast.
Festivals and events in March
Feast of San Giuseppe
- Takes place on 19th March, particularly big in Sicily
- A religious feast day commemorating St. Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary
- Celebrated with food, pastries and bonfires
April is one of the best times to visit Italy if you want mild weather and plenty of cultural experiences. Tuscany and Umbria are blanketed with flowers, making it the ideal time to venture into the Italian countryside. And, cities like Florence and Assis, host vibrant Easter celebrations.
Festivals and events in April
Easter Week
- As a Catholic country, Easter is a significant holiday.
- Easter Sunday, or Pasqua, is a time for feasting, and Easter Monday (Pasquetta) is also a public holiday (so beware of shop closures etc), frequently enjoyed with family and friends
- Expect traditional processions in cities like Rome, Florence, and Sorrento
What to expect in Italy in May
May is arguably the best month to visit Italy. The weather is warm (15°C – 24°C), but not hot, the flowers are in full bloom and the crowds are still manageable. This weather is ideal for exploring Cinque Terre, taking a boat trip on Lake Como, or enjoying the beaches of Puglia.
Festivals and events in May
Cantine Aperte (Open Wine Cellars)
- Typically held the last weekend of May
- Wineries across Italy open their doors to visitors
- It's a chance to enjoy quintessential Italian hospitality - visit wineries, tour vineyards, learn about winemaking, and taste wines
What to expect in Italy in June
Things start heating up in June (18°C – 28°C) - especially in the south - but it's still a great time to explore the cities, coastlines and countryside before the peak summer temperatures. Sardinia and the Amalfi Coast are particularly stunning - the cliffsides and hills are still in bloom and the white-sandy beaches are still mild enough to enjoy.
Festivals and events in June
Republic Day
- Takes place on 2nd June
- Commemorates the birth of the Republic in Italy
- Main celebrations include a military parade in Rome, a wreath-laying ceremony, and sometimes fireworks and concerts
What to expect in Italy in July
July is peak tourist season and it's hot in Italy, especially in central and southern regions. Many visitors flock to the Italian Riviera, and Sicilian beaches, or head north to the Dolomites for cooler mountain air.
Festival and events in July
Umbria Jazz Festival
- Takes place mid-July
- Expect a diverse line-up of international jazz musicians, workshops, and educational opportunities
What to expect in Italy in August
August is the hottest month in Italy and a major holiday period for Italians. Many businesses in cities close mid-month for Ferragosto, and locals head to the coast or mountains. For travellers, it’s perfect for island hopping or relaxing by the sea.
Festival and event in August
Ferragosto
- A public holiday celebrated annually on August 15th
- A blend of ancient Roman traditions and Christian celebrations,
- Italians typically escape the city, shut up shop and spend the day outdoors, going on long walks, retreating to beaches or mountains, firing up barbecues, and chilling with friends or family
What to expect in Italy in September
September is the best time to visit Italy for foodies and wine enthusiasts. It's grape season in Tuscany and Piedmont, with wine festivals and local markets in full swing. The weather is still warm, but cities start to quiet down again.
Festivals and events in September
Chianti Wine Festival
- Held in Greve in Chianti on the second weekend in September
- Expect tastings, food stalls, and live music in the heart of Tuscany
Regata Storica
- Held annually in Venice on the first Sunday in September
- A historic rowing competition with elaborate pageantry
What to expect in Italy in October
October brings crisp air with temperatures between 13°C and 21°C, the landscapes are golden and the calendar packed with food and wine festivals. Alba is the place to go for the International White Truffle Fair, while the lakes and countryside are perfect for scenic walks and cosy meals.
Festivals and events in October
Alba Truffle Fair
- Takes place from October to December
- Expect a variety of experiences, including world markets, truffle tastings, culinary events, historical parades, and more
What to expect in Italy in November
November is shoulder season. Expect cooler days (8°C – 16°C) and fewer tourists - perfect for museum-hopping in Milan, foodie adventures in Bologna, or exploring Naples’ underground world.
Festivals and events in November
All Saints' Day
- Takes place on 1st November
- Italians enjoy family gatherings, church attendance, and visits to cemeteries
- A common tradition is visiting graveyards to clean the graves of loved ones and adorn them with chrysanthemums and other flowers
What to expect in Italy in December
Italy becomes a winter wonderland in December. Rome and Florence twinkle with lights and nativity scenes, while northern towns like Bolzano host magical Christmas markets. The Dolomites and Alps offer prime skiing conditions.
Festival and events in December
Christmas markets
- Begin in early December and last until 6th January
- Expect stalls selling local handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and traditional Italian sweets like panettone and torrone
- Most festive markets are found in Bolzano, Merano, Milan and Verona
