There’s a reason Italy is the 5th most visited country in the world, with over 62 million annual travelers! Magnificent architecture, rich history, unique food, and unbeatable fashion are just a few of the amazing things this country has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, rolling vineyards, opportunities to wine and dine, or artistic masterpieces, Italy has something for you. With so much to discover, it’s important to choose the best time of year for the activities most suited to your travel style! The weather in Italy follows a regular cycle of seasons, with the country experiencing all four major seasons in a year.
To help you out, we’ve created this detailed guide to seasons in Italy and the best experiences in each!
- Peak Season: Mid-May to July
- Off Season: December to February
- Shoulder Season: March to Mid-May and October-November
SPRING
(from March to May)
Springtime, or primavera, might win the prize as the best season to visit Italy. From north to south, you’ll find blossoming flowers and pleasant weather conditions. Beaches might be closed during the month of March, but then are typically open for the rest of the season. You might spend your days exploring historical sights (which sometimes close around 5pm), then your evenings enjoying local restaurants and cafes. For our adventurous travelers, this is also a great time to go hiking and sightseeing in the forests. If you plan ahead, you’ll find good deals on flights, accommodation, and tours (when compared to peak summer season).
Local Tip: Discover Sicily during this time of year, where you’ll find sunny weather, flowers in full bloom, and less crowded villages.
SUMMER
(from June to August)
Summer, or estate, is generally considered a very busy and expensive time to visit Italy’s cities and major tourist areas like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre. Tourist crowds are at their maximum, prices are high, and the heat can be unbearable (especially in the cities). Since tourists from all around the world are coming to various cities during the summer season, we recommend booking your flights and hotels in advance! Keep in mind that the month of August is also when the national summer holiday Ferragosto is celebrated, so certain shops and businesses may be closed.
Local Tip: Don’t let the crowds deter you! If you’re a beach and food lover, take advantage of the warm conditions and explore Puglia, a less known region in the south that will be less crowded than more mainstream destinations.
AUTUMN
(from September to November)
As the leaves change and we move into autunno, Italy becomes a dream destination for anyone who enjoys mild weather, passive rain showers, and foliage-covered landscapes. The countryside bursts into color and locals celebrate their rich culinary culture with chocolate, wine, and truffle festivals throughout Tuscany, Marche, Piedmont, and Umbria. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella and warmer layers as weather during this time of year can be unpredictable. You’ll find lower prices for most travel expenses, but will have to book in advance if you want to visit a particular festival!
Local Tip: A perfect time to discover regional food and wine, head to Tuscany or Piedmont, where you can explore cities such as Barolo, Alba and Turin.
WINTER
(from December to February)
Even parts of Italy can experience cold temperatures in winter (inverno). If you enjoy skiing or other winter sports, you’ll love this time of year! We suggest visiting the Dolomites (Trentino, Veneto) or the Alps (Piedmont, Aosta Valley). If you’re a lover of the arts or looking for indoor activities, you’ll also find less crowds in the historical cities of Florence, Venice.
Local Tip: Attractions such as the Vatican Museums or Borghese Gallery in Rome welcome fewer tourists during colder months, but are equally stunning to visit! Head to a hotspot like this during the off-season to see the sights (minus the crowds)!
Now that you’re familiar with Italy’s seasons, are you ready to plan your next trip to the bel paese? Schedule your free consultation so our local experts can help plan your perfect getaway, anytime of the year!
