The end of April is also a possibility. The best time for a trip to Italy is spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). Additional Carnival celebrations take place throughout the country, with famous festivities in the Sicilian town of Arcireale, Viareggio on the Tuscany coast and Ivrea in Piedmont, where the annual Battle of the Oranges marks the beginning of Lent. Winter traditionally offers the lowest rates and smallest crowds unless you are visiting the mountain ski resorts. From July through early September the country’s holiday spots teem with visitors. Naples hosts its annual blow-out festival for its patron saint, the Festa di San Gennaro, with religious ceremonies and parades throughout the city. We hope to go for 10-14 days and of course see as much as feasible, at least Venice, Florence, Rome, & Naples. I imagine we would travel by train throughout and book this for late September-early October. Italy is a country with … April 23rd to July 22nd. Alternatively, follow the Italians to the beaches of Puglia, Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily to soak up the sun and scenery. With 10 days I would fly into Rome, train to Florence (with day trips to Siena, San Gimignano, and Lucca), train to Venice, and then fly back from there. Italy and Greece have similar weather in winter: mild and gray in the south, cool/cold and gray in the north and interior. Sicily should be a trip on its own. For the best skiing opportunities, head to the Dolomites in the north or the Appenines in Abruzzo and central Italy. I’d be happy going to either in the off-season but Italy does lend itself to winter travel more than Greece. The best times to go to Sicily are late spring and early fall. or suggestions? Italy’s tourist season hits its peak in June, as the sights and attractions start to get hot and crowded. You’ll get the cheapest rates on Trenitalia.com. Will check out your site for hotel recommendations. August 20th to November 4th. Travelers who can handle the heat will enjoy fewer crowds in the big cities and lower prices as hotels try to fill empty rooms. The Best Time to Visit Italy. So fly into Rome and out of Venice, or vice versa. While the weather is warming up, the tourist influx is low. Rooftops of Palermo, Sicily. The best time to visit Italy is during the Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) seasons. Summer is the best time to travel to Italy, especially the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast. Thank you kindly. Florence holds its annual Scoppio del Carro, where a cart filled with fireworks explodes in front of the Duomo and a spectacular parade marches through the city. Almost every town organizes parades and processions, often in historical costume. or. How to get to Italy February means Carnival time, and Carnival in Italy means Venice. 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. The heat begins to subside in September, one of the most pleasant, if increasingly busy, times of year to visit Italy. In the focal point of Rome, the Pope undertakes the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday, as well as his traditional Mass on Easter Sunday. Planning a trip for 30th wedding anniversary to Italy early to mid-May, have 10 – 14 days flexible. Your email address will not be published. I doubt you’ll have time to train over to Switzerland but if you can swing it then great! We are considering a honeymoon to Italy or Greece. In seaside destinations like the Amalfi Coast, the Cinque Terre and Sicily, the summer crowds will have dispersed, but it’s still warm enough to swim. Florence holds the Festa della Rificolona every 7th September, which sees the night sky illuminated with thousands of paper lanterns. The best time to visit Italy is during spring and fall, when temperatures are comfortable and there are fewer crowds. If hillsides covered in russet and burgundy coloured vines laden with ripe grapes catch your imagination, then come in the autumn. Italy is an attractive year-round destination but recommended times to visit will vary on interests, budget, and weather preferences. Italy has a varied geography ranging from north to south. While Greece could easily fill a few weeks of sightseeing Italy has a greater number of interesting cities and top notch historical sights. A variety of German-style Christmas markets are held across the north of the country, including some of the best in Pordenone, Trentino and Bolzano, as well as versions in the larger cities of Florence and Verona. Christmas markets brighten the cities and towns in December, while February erupts with Carnival. Both Rome and Venice have direct flights with NYC. Wildflowers in early April and rising temperatures through to the end of June are a real draw. The main tourist cities in Italy are fairly crowded all year (especially Venice), but the peak tourist season is from the beginning of June through early August. Usually, the first half of June is less crowded than the second half. Best Time to Visit Greece & the Greek Islands. The best times to visit Italy for ideal weather are. They're also the busiest and most expensive time to visit (with the north remaining just as busy throughout midsummer). The streets, beaches, and attractions won’t be as jam-packed as they will in the summer and temperatures are typically pleasant, in the low to mid-20s °C. This may just be one of the best, yet unknown times to visit Italy. As one would expect, further north, you can expect the coldest temperatures and snow in the mountainous areas, and further south, the warmest temperatures in the country. Italy. Best Time to Travel to Italy’s Popular Cities. As a first time traveler to Italy, should we book a tour or try and book everything on our own? October sees an autumnal bite in the air as the coastal resorts start shutting up shop, making it a great time to enjoy sightseeing and activities in the major cities of Rome, Florence and Venice. Unpredictable weather makes March the ideal time for city breaks, with indoor museums a popular choice on rainy days. We want to visit other cities, which ones would be easiest to train to and continue our adventure and then flying out of the last city visited back to California. New Year celebrations, or Capodanno, are marked by parties, concerts and fireworks throughout the peninsula. These months offer pleasant weather conditions and lesser crowds. Want to hit Amalfi, Sorrento, Pompeii, Rome, Florence/Pisa. The beautiful town of Siena holds the first of its two annual Palio horse races in the central piazza on 2nd July (the second is in August), and Venice fills its waters with boats and its sky with fireworks for the Redentore Feast on the 15th. Take the train for internal travel. Hi all, just wondering what month is the best time to visit Sicily for the first time? The chilled-out Umbrian town of Spoleto is the site of the Festival dei Due Mondi (Two World Festival), which invites international names in music, dance and theatre for two weeks of concerts and performances. The summer months can be hot, crowded, and expensive. November marks the drop into low season, as the damp, cooler weather sends Italians scurrying back inside. Generally speaking, October might be the best time to go to Italy, no matter what you want to do or what regions you want to visit. Be sure to check the dates before planning your trip if you hope to attend, or want to avoid a spike in visitors. The best time to visit Italy in winter is in December or February. Fly in to Naples and train north flying out from either Pisa (bigger airport than Florence) or Milan (bigger still). The best time to go to Italy will be different depending on what you want to do or see. Oh Bej!‘, a fantastic Christmas fair dedicated to the city’s patron saint, St. Ambrose. Classical music fans should travel to Verona, which hosts its Opera Festival in the spectacular ancient arena. June is a great month to visit Italy. If you’re planning to swim, however, bear in mind that only the south of the country is likely to be warm enough outside the May to September period. The Lido of Venice welcomes international movie stars for its Film Festival at the beginning of the month, and also holds the awe-inspiring Regata Storica (Historical Rowing Regatta). Spring, summer, and autumn are heralded as the best times to visit Italy. Any tips? Getyourguide.com is a good place to find quality tours. The best time to visit Italy is during spring, from the months of March to May and then fall, from the end of September to November. Northern countries are becoming appealing although still a little cool. The summer brings a plethora of cultural events to all corners of Italy. Travelers can escape the heat with a trip to the unspoilt beaches of the south, or into the cool, tranquil hills of the Tuscan and Umbrian countryside. While there aren’t many festivals or other events in March, sometimes Carnival and/or Easter fall during this month as they follow the liturgical calendar. I lived in central Italy over 30 years ago for 22 months, so excited to go back but not really familiar anymore with it. For certain countries in the south, such as Spain and Greece, spring is the best time to visit: Neither too hot or too crowded with tourists. We are originating in NY. Truffle lovers should head to Alba, where the annual Festa dei Tartufi takes place throughout October and November, while those with a sweet tooth shouldn’t miss the chocolate festival in the pretty town of Perugia. Milan holds its ‘Oh Bej! We just don't want to go when it's terribly hot, as in above 80 degrees, or so. However, prices tend to skyrocket in the winter resorts, where the increased snowfall makes it the best time to visit. As the temperatures begin to rise (although usually still too cool for the beach), the country starts to come out of hibernation. When Is The Best Time To Visit Bologna Italy – Bologna Weather Many travelers start by asking when to visit Italy in the first place, and that’s a good place to start. June through September is usually high season in Italy. Sweltering temperatures cause most Italians to flock to the beach or mountains during August, when the Feast of the Assumption on the 15th prompts many businesses to close for the middle two weeks of the month. Went there a few times and would love for my wife to see/experience it. May strikes the perfect temperature balance in Italy, but as it is sandwiched between Easter and summer, there are still a few bargains to be found — especially in the coastal resorts, where the high season just begins to get underway. From Milan to Sicily, Italy is one of the best destinations on the planet. Dave, love your site. The Giro d’Italia (Italy’s annual bike race) travels across the country for a three-week period. Alternatively, visit Tuscany to sample the new oils from the olive harvest, or squeeze in a trip to San Miniato near Pisa for the truffle fair. Would like to see Sicily, but it’s on the other side. Not sure how to arrange flights. Rome is the focus at Christmas time, with the Pope’s Christmas Eve Mass drawing in the crowds. Italy's best travel months (also its busiest and most expensive) are May, June, September, and October. Ciao, bella!Ready for the ultimate Mediterranean getaway? Shoulder season is the best time to visit the majority of Italy’s cities. It's also quite warm during those months, so really the best weather for sightseeing is in April, May, September, and October. Best time to visit Italy Every month offers something beautiful or exciting somewhere in Italy. Updated: September 24, 2020. Good luck, sounds like a lot of fun. Early December is still quiet, but people begin to flock to Italy to celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays starting in the middle of the month. With the winter finally wearing off, and the weather getting slightly warmer, outdoor activities become enjoyable again. That’s different then doing a tour for your entire trip, but when there, be sure to do local walking, history, and food tours. Updated: April 2020. 2. If rolling fields the colour of crimson, lime and yellow, full of wild flowers make you smile, then the best time to visit Italy is in the spring. 3. Looking to fly into Rome from San Francisco or Sacramento. Hello, planning a trip to Italy in late March. From the 7th December. It has to be in January. With fewer tourist crowds but still boasting the remnants of summer warmth, September is a great time to visit Italy. Summer weather brings the best of Italy to life while the biggest tourist crowds will come later in the summer: in July or August. I know the answer to that is a big NO but thought I’d ask. Your email address will not be published. The best time to visit Italy for some diving or snorkeling is from April to June and mid-September to October. Andalusia, Crete, Malta and the south of Italy are good choices right now. Mountainous areas are cooler, while even Rome’s nighttime temperatures drop to about 15°C (the daytime high is 27°C, however). Late spring and early fall are the best times of the year to go to Sicily. Planning for about 10 days. The best time to visit Italy, in terms of the weather and lack of crowds, is April to late June, and September or October. Home > Italy > Best Time to Visit Stretching from the azure shores of the Mediterranean to the snowy peaks of the Alps, Italy has just about everything to offer tourists, so it's no wonder that Italy is one of Europe's most popular vacation spots. Do tours while in Italy. It’s both a great trip and doesn’t allow for much time for anything else. Florence holds its annual tournament Calcio Storico, an early form of football dating back to the 16th century, while Venice is overrun with boats, canoes and kayaks as it celebrates the Vogalonga, a 30-kilometer race through the city’s canals. The best time to go to Italy: The best time to visit Italy is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September and October) when there is nice weather, moderate temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower prices. With its fascinating history, breathtaking natural beauty, delicious Italian food, and endless entertainment options, Italy is the place to be 365 days a year. The age-old Italian saying — “Marzo pazzerello guarda il sole e prendi l’ombrello” (“Crazy March, look at the sun and take an umbrella”) — gives an idea of the variable weather throughout the boot during the winter-to-spring transition. thanks. I know it’s not the best weather but of the two countries which offers the most to see and do in winter? As the coldest month of the year in Italy, January is the perfect time to look for bargains on flights and accommodations. We are thinking of this May, towards the end of the month. Summer also sees crowds in … Three tips: 1. Spring is the best time to visit Italy to avoid summer heat and crowds. Spring Also, any way to get to San Marino that isn’t a major hassle? During the weeks leading up to Martedì Grasso (Fat Tuesday), the streets of Venice are a riot of colour and masks. The best months for traveling in much of Italy are from April to June and mid-September to October: Temperatures are usually comfortable, rural colors are rich, and the crowds aren’t too intense (except around Easter). Choose periods between April and May or September and October as the best time to visit Italy.Despite possible showers, the weather in spring stays mild most of the time with perfect conditions for sightseeing and chilling in Terme di Saturnia. You’ll be plenty busy enough getting through Amalfi, Sorrento, Pompeii, Rome, Florence, and Pisa (without worrying about San Marino). If the weather isn’t a deal-breaker, this month offers plenty of empty museums and deserted cultural sites. We’ll discuss the best time to visit Rome, Florence, and Venice. based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). (As a side note, would love to see Como and train through the alps – but not required) Best to start south and travel north, ultimately flying out of Switzerland or better the opposite way? Easter is a major celebration in Italy. However, prices tend to skyrocket in the winter resorts, where the increased snowfall makes it the best time to visit. It takes a bit more effort but worth it for the trip you get. Crowds aside, these months combine the convenience of peak season with pleasant weather. Northern Italy's weather tends to be colder compared to that of Southern Italy. However, there are some variations based on the specific nature of each city. Fly in and out of different cities so you don’t have to retrace your steps. Best time of year to visit . Read below for more weather and travel details. Rome, Florence, Venice. As the coldest month of the year in Italy, January is the perfect time to look for bargains on flights and accommodations. The problem with late spring and summer, however, is that everyone has … Sicily would be great too if possible. This is the time that temperatures are comfortable and you are likely to experience fewer crowds. Tuscany in summer | © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/tuscany-paesaggio-cipresso-1707192/, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/marmolada-dolomiti-veneto-belluno-1815406/, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/venezia-italia-carnevale-maschera-1251378/, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/campidoglio-piazza-roma-classico-1156731/, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/pasqua-firenze-toscana-692667/, © David.78/wikicommons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:16_may_2012_giro_d_italia_Peloton.jpg, © Lorenzo Noccioli/wikicommons https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Calcio_Storico_partita_1.JPG, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/gare-cavallo-terra-di-siena-palio-1606175/, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/san-nicola-arcella-mare-calabria-1979120/, © wikicommons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Venezia_-_Regata_Storica_-_Corteo_05.jpg, © Kent Wang/Wikicommons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:White_truffles_from_Alba.jpg, © pixabay https://pixabay.com/it/ulivo-olio-toscana-marche-campagna-2092564/, © angelocesare/Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/angelocesare/2133002142/in/photolist-4fuce1-edKXia-7uWxF7-edS3m3-edLApk-pX8cfq-edSBGu-7o13YL-7pn9NZ-4fjA6B-tPPxL-edSvmA-4bPtm1-edKy8R-edRHzS-7nW8MF-edKZnt-edKnsB-edRSEb-4cfGqu-edLmBH-edRM8f-7oDaQr-edM5Gg-edM76M-7o14u7-uj1VN-qiGBN7-edRDod-7wuT2-4jofYp-5M8Zj8-ibERaV-edLsPt-7o12Y9-edRmvA-4fcCUA-7ozdj9-5LFe2H-edLfMr-943LHb-edKAWP-7q3Btz-edS7fj-edSng5-7pVFPf-edM4u6-5QWV2D-7zeX6-edLaJg. The scenery is vibrant, prices are lower, and the weather is ideal for exploring all the country has to offer. June is one of our favorite months to travel through Europe. For the purpose of this article, we’ve broken down the weather into North Italy, generally focusing on the Tuscany/Umbria region, with South Italy referring to the Rome/Naples regions. Required fields are marked *, Newsletter – Get all new and updated articles. Best Time for Sightseeing The best time to travel to Italy can be a tricky question! If you want to see snowy mountains in the Dolomites or go skiing, obviously you’ll want to go in the winter. Best Time to Visit Italy by Season. You won’t have to battle tons of crowds and high prices when visiting Italy during this time. Soaring temperatures in July and August mean this isn't the best time to visit Italy for cycling or hiking, particularly in the south, Sicily and Sardinia. Not really concerned about getting to Venice. When Is the Best Time to Visit Italy? 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