Ahhh, Italy, amore mio! Italy is one of my favorite countries in the entire world for many many reasons. The history, the culture, the natural beauty, and let’s not forget the delicious food. If you haven’t had the chance to visit this one-of-a-kind country, I would HIGHLY suggest it. From skiing in the Italian Alps in the winter to snorkeling in Sicily in the summer, Italy is a destination worth visiting year-round.
Here are my suggestions on the best time to visit Italy!
Spring in Italy
Months: April – May
Springtime is my absolute favorite time to visit Italy! The months of April and May are a great time to visit this wonderful country because the blooms of Spring are in full force. The streets are less crowded, the accommodation prices aren’t as high, the temperatures aren’t as hot as they are in the dead of summer, and the major attractions aren’t as busy.
Her Suitcase Tip: I’ve been told by locals that Italy starts to get busy after Easter break, so use the holiday as a good time reference when planning your vacation.
Depending on where you are in the country, temperatures in the spring can range from 60-70s degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime and taper off at night, so think LAYERS when packing for a visit.
Suggestions for Spring: enjoy pizza in Naples and hike Mount Vesuvius, explore the beauty of Cinque Terre without the crowds, or get lost in the streets of Venice.
Summer in Italy
Months: June – August
In the sizzling months of summer, prices tend to be higher and the tourists tend to be out and about, but man oh man, nothing beats the white sandy beaches of Sardinia or a breezy boat ride off the Amalfi Coast in the summertime. If sipping Aperol Spritz with a side of gelato under a striped umbrella by the Mediterranean doesn’t sound appealing, I’m not sure this is the season for you.
Her Suitcase Tip: Many Italians go away on holiday in August, so if surrounding yourself with locals is your goal, it may not be the best time to visit Italy.
Suggestions for Summer: Enjoy the crystal clear waters of Sardinia, sip on limoncello in Sorrento, or visit the many towns of Lake Como by boat.
Fall in Italy
months: september – november
If the hotter months aren’t your jam, September to November is another great timeframe to visit Italy. During the fall, the temperatures are gorgeous and great for exploring. Even in the northernmost areas, you’ll often find afternoon temperatures in the 70s and 80s through September. The swarms of tourists in popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are fading from the summer rush which can make seeing your go-to stops more accessible and enjoyable as the season goes on.
The fall is also the best time in Italy to explore the stunning foliage change in the countryside and enjoy the many local wine and food harvest festivals.
Suggestions for Fall: Get lost in the streets of Rome, stroll the vineyards of Tuscany, or take a hike in the Dolomites.
Winter in Italy
months: december – march
During the winter months, crowds are at a minimum so you’re able to explore Italy to your heart’s desire. Italy in the winter is known for the Christmas markets, theatre/opera season, and most of all, skiing. Resorts like Cortina, Monterosa, and Santa Caterina are perfect for outdoor adventurers who are looking for a little snow time.
Her Suitcase Tip: Stick to visiting the bigger cities like Rome or Florence in the wintertime. Many businesses in smaller cities like Cinque Terre and Portofino- whose shining moment is in the summer- will often close during the off-season leaving the town feeling deserted.
Suggestions for Winter: Visit the Christmas Markets of Naples, explore the many museums in Florence without the lines, or ski the slopes in Turin.
With so much to offer, Italy is a destination to visit anytime, anywhere. You really could make an argument for any season to be the best time to visit Italy!
want to learn more?
Check out my other helpful blog posts about Italy!
cheers! – sarah
