When Is the Best Time to Visit Italy
Italy offers a wide range of destinations, from large cities to coastal towns and quiet inland regions. The best time to visit depends on your plans. High season runs from May through September, when cities like Milan, Bologna, Lecce, Bari, Palermo, Catania, and Agrigento are busiest. These months bring longer days, warm weather, and the most frequent public transport schedules. Museums and cultural sites stay open longer, and outdoor dining is common, but popular areas tend to be crowded and hotels fill quickly.
Late spring and early fall are often more comfortable for travel. April, May, early June, September, and October offer mild weather and fewer visitors. These are good months for visiting historical centers, archaeological sites, and regional markets. In Sicily, places like Palermo and Catania feel easier to navigate. Inland towns near Agrigento or Lecce are more accessible, with less traffic and more open space. Bologna, known for food culture and portico-lined streets, is also more pleasant during these months.
Winter brings shorter days and cooler temperatures, especially in the north. In the south, the pace slows but remains welcoming. Cities like Milan and Bologna continue to host exhibitions, concerts, and seasonal events. Some coastal services reduce hours, but many restaurants and museums stay open.
Regional festivals add interest to each season. These include flower displays in Apulia during spring, open-air performances in Sicily during summer, and food festivals in Emilia-Romagna in autumn. Your guide can help align your travel dates with local events, ensure access to key sites, and support a smoother pace through well-timed itineraries.
Recommended Tours in Italy
What to do when in Italy
Best time to visit Rome
The best time to visit Rome is in spring and early fall, especially April to June and September to October. Temperatures are comfortable for walking, and major sites are open with fewer crowds than in peak summer. These months are also ideal for visiting markets, museums, and historic landmarks with more ease and space.
Best time to visit Milan
Late spring and early fall are the most comfortable seasons in Milan. This is when museums, outdoor cafés, and fashion districts are active but not crowded. Summers bring higher temperatures and more visitors, while winter can be cold, though holiday markets and indoor art exhibits give the city seasonal character.
Best time to visit Sicily
Spring and fall are the strongest windows for visiting Sicily. Palermo, Catania, and Agrigento offer sightseeing without intense heat or summer crowds. Late October still allows sun and sightseeing with fewer visitors. Summer brings warmth that suits beaches and outdoor dining, though locals often take holidays around mid August.
Best time to visit Venice
For a more comfortable experience in Venice, visit in April, early June, or late September. These months avoid the high summer crowds and humidity while keeping most attractions fully open. You can enjoy gondola rides, café terraces, and local events without long lines or extreme heat. Winter offers quiet charm but fewer services.
What is the Weather Like in Italy
Italy’s weather varies across the country and affects how each region feels throughout the year. In the north, cities like Milan and Bologna see cooler temperatures in spring and fall. April and May bring daytime highs between the low 60s and mid 70s Fahrenheit, with comfortable conditions for walking and sightseeing. Summer can reach the high 80s or low 90s and may feel humid, especially in the city. Autumn stays mild into October, though rainfall becomes more common. Winter brings cold, damp air and occasional snow, especially in areas surrounding Bologna.
In the south, cities like Palermo, Catania, Bari, and Lecce stay warm longer. Spring arrives early, with April and May offering temperatures in the high 60s and 70s. Summer is hot and dry, with highs reaching the 90s in July and August. These months are good for enjoying coastal breezes, morning markets, and shaded streets. By September and October, the weather cools slightly, and many places remain open but less crowded. Winter in Sicily and Apulia stays mild, with average highs in the 50s, making quiet visits possible, especially for those interested in food or culture rather than beach access.
The seasons also shape regional travel. Spring and early autumn mark flowering periods and harvests in places like Lecce, Bari, and Agrigento, which adds interest to countryside travel. August can be quieter in towns during Ferragosto, a national holiday when many Italians take vacation around the 15th. Your guide will help adjust routes and timing around regional changes and local calendars, so your travel experience stays smooth, even during seasonal shifts.
Which Is the Best Region to Visit in Italy
Choosing the best region depends on interests and season. For food-focused exploration, Emilia-Romagna stands out. Cities like Bologna and Milan showcase bold regional cuisine, food markets, and wine production. Visiting in spring or fall means regional food festivals and market stalls are active with seasonal produce.
Sicily shares a different pace. Palermo and Catania add coastal energy, bold street food, and archaeological sites like Agrigento. Spring or fall keeps weather manageable while avoiding high season crowds and August closures. Tours here include city markets, flavor-driven meals, and culturally layered neighborhoods.
Apulia and Matera offer narrow streets and rural landscapes and provide insight into local architecture and farming culture. Bari and Lecce bring olive oil, pasta, and slow meals served at family-run restaurants. Travelers in spring and fall see harvest activity and fewer visitors.
Each region on a Finest Journeys tour provides a distinct perspective on food, architecture, landscapes or history. Your guide helps tailor the sequence and timing, ensuring each place is at its best.
Top Experiences by Season in Italy
Experience
Best Time to Go
Why
Exploring Rome’s Ancient Landmarks (Colosseum, Forum, Vatican)
March to June, September to November
Pleasant weather for walking, fewer crowds than midsummer, and ideal conditions for sightseeing.
Discovering Florence and Tuscany’s Renaissance Heritage
April to June, September to October
Comfortable temperatures for visiting museums, galleries, and countryside towns surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
Cruising Venice’s Canals
April to June, September
Mild weather enhances time outdoors and on the water, with lighter crowds outside of peak summer.
Touring Milan and Lake Como
May to September
Warm conditions for lakeside villages, gardens, and enjoying Milan’s cultural and fashion scene.
Visiting Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coas
April to June, September to October
Clear skies and warm weather make coastal drives and archaeological sites more enjoyable.
Exploring Sicily’s Ancient Ruins and Volcanic Landscapes
April to June, September to October
Comfortable climate for walking archaeological parks and exploring Mount Etna’s slopes.
Enjoying Sardinia’s Beaches
June to September
Warm seas and sunny days create perfect conditions for swimming and coastal relaxation.
Hiking in the Dolomites and Northern Alps
June to September
Trails are open and safe, with clear views of dramatic mountain landscapes.
What Are the Best Cultural Festivals in Italy?
Italy holds cultural festivals throughout the year that reflect local identity, seasonal traditions, and regional calendars. In February, Catania celebrates Saint Agatha with religious processions, music, and food stalls. Spring and summer bring open-air concerts, food fairs, and community gatherings in cities such as Palermo, Lecce, and Bologna.
August 15 marks Ferragosto, a national holiday linked to the Assumption. It signals a widespread summer break, especially in southern cities and coastal areas. Public life slows down, and many local businesses close while families travel or spend time together.
In autumn, the harvest season brings wine and food festivals to towns across Emilia-Romagna, Apulia, and Sicily. Markets and community events feature regional produce, tastings, and performances. These events offer travelers a chance to see how tradition connects with daily life.
Agrigento holds a special role in 2025 as Italy’s cultural capital, hosting exhibitions, performances, and public events. Guides can help time your travel to take advantage of what is happening locally.
January
La Befana
Nationwide – January 6. Celebrates the end of the holiday season. Children receive sweets or small gifts, and local fairs are held in towns and cities.
Festa di Sant'Antonio Abate
Various rural areas – Celebrated with bonfires, parades, and blessings of animals.
February
Festival of Saint Agatha
Catania – February 3–5. Honors the city’s patron saint with religious processions, fireworks, and food stalls.
Venice Carnival
Venice – Two weeks leading up to Lent (dates vary). Known for masks, costumes, and performances in historic squares.
March
Dantedì
Nationwide – March 25. Celebrates Dante Alighieri with public readings, exhibitions, and cultural events.
Rome Marathon
Usually held mid to late March. Cultural and sporting event bringing locals and visitors together.
April
Scoppio del Carro
Florence – Easter Sunday. Historic firework display set off from a cart pulled by white oxen in front of the cathedral.
Vinitaly
Verona – Late April. Major wine fair showcasing producers from across Italy (exact dates vary).
May
Infiorata di Noto
Noto (Sicily) – Mid-May. Streets are decorated with flower carpets designed by local artists.
Calendimaggio
Assisi – First week of May. Medieval-themed festival with music, games, and parades.
June
Festival of Saint John
Florence and Turin – June 24. Celebrations include fireworks, parades, and rowing events on the Arno River.
Palio di San Ranieri
Pisa – June 17. Historic boat race on the Arno with teams representing city districts.
July
Palio di Siena
Siena – July 2. Traditional horse race in the central square, held in honor of the Madonna of Provenzano.
Umbria Jazz Festival
Perugia – Mid-July. International jazz festival with concerts in public squares and venues.
August
Ferragosto
Nationwide – August 15. Public holiday with family gatherings, beach trips, and fireworks in some towns.
La Notte della Taranta
Salento (Apulia) – Mid to late August. Folk music festival celebrating the pizzica dance.
September
Festival delle Sagre
Asti (Piedmont) – Weekend around the second Sunday. Rural food festival with traditional dishes, wine, and parades
Regata Storica
Venice – First Sunday in September. Historic boat parade and races on the Grand Canal.
October
Eurochocolate
Perugia – Mid to late October. Chocolate festival with tastings, sculptures, and cooking demonstrations.
Alba White Truffle Fair
Alba (Piedmont) – Begins early October and runs into November. Truffle market, tastings, and cooking events.
November
All Saints’ Day
November 1. National holiday honoring the saints, often observed with church services and cemetery visits.
Truffle Festivals
Tuscany and Umbria – Throughout the month. Towns such as San Miniato host markets and tastings.
December
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
December 8. National holiday with religious events and start of the festive season.
Christmas Markets
Throughout December. Found in Milan, Bolzano, Rome, and Florence, featuring crafts, food, and decorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Italy?
May, June, September, and early October are often the most comfortable for travel. These months offer mild weather, open sites, and fewer crowds compared to high summer. They are especially good for walking tours, countryside visits, and cultural events.
Is summer a good time to travel to Italy?
Summer can be enjoyable, especially in coastal regions, but it is also the busiest season. Temperatures can be high in cities like Rome, Milan, and Bologna. Popular destinations may be crowded, and prices often rise during July and August.
Are there any festivals or public holidays to plan around?
Italy has many local and national events, such as Easter, Ferragosto on August 15, and food or music festivals throughout the year. Some businesses close during major holidays, so it helps to check the calendar and plan accordingly.
Is winter a good time to visit Italy?
Winter is quieter and less expensive. Cities like Milan, Bologna, and Rome remain active and are good for museums, markets, and indoor activities. In the south and Sicily, the weather stays milder, though some services slow down.
Do tourist attractions close during the off-season?
Most attractions in cities stay open year-round. However, some coastal and rural services reduce hours or pause during winter. Your guide can help adjust your itinerary to make the most of local conditions during your visit.
Our local expert in Italy
Planning Your Perfect Luxury Vacation in Italy with Finest Journeys
Finest Journeys plans your Italy visit according to season, geography, and your interests. You travel with a local guide and private transport, timing each stop to match weather, events, and opening hours. Speak with our team to begin planning a trip that suits when you want to go and what you want to experience.