The Best Time to Visit Rome

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When is the Best Time to Visit Rome, Italy?

• Rome Hotel Layout

I believe Rome offers the greatest experiences during the transition seasons of spring and fall, specifically from April through June and September through October. Throughout these months, conditions are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. This ideal climate facilitates exploring the city’s open-air attractions, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. Visiting amid these transition seasons also permits dodging peak tourist season occurring in Rome`s summer months (July and August). Summer can be quite congested and hot, sometimes exceeding 32°C. However, the city remains lively with many events and festivals occurring.

I’ve gone to Rome in practically every month of the calendar. And even though there is no time of year that I’ve regretted visiting, there are better months than others. If I had to select my preferred month it would be May. When I have visited in summer, I’ve always made certain I made hotel bookings well in advance.

Traveling during the off-peak season, typically November through February, offers smaller crowds and lower lodging costs but weather can be cooler and wetter with temperatures between 40°F (4°C) and 60°F (15°C).

My Recommendations for Visiting Rome

Weather: The most mild weather conditions in Rome typically occur from April to June and September to October. During these months, temperatures tend to be comfortable and pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 27°C. This time frame is ideal for exploring the city’s attractions outdoors.

Shopping: Rome offers great buying opportunities throughout the year. However, the best discounts can be found during the winter and summer sales periods. In Italy, the winter sales usually commence in early January and continue through February, while the summer sales typically take place from July to August.

Honeymoon: For a romantic honeymoon, one may consider exploring Rome during the later part of spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October). The climate is gentle and agreeable during these times, perfect for strolling through charming roadways, delighting in outdoor dining, and taking in the well-known sights of the city. These durations are also slightly less crowded than the peak summer months, providing a more intimate experience.

Reducing large gatherings: To decrease exposure to the biggest crowds in Rome, plan your visit during the low-tourism period, usually November through February. At this time, you can expect fewer travelers, shorter queues at prominent attractions, and cheaper lodging costs. However, the climate may be cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (15°C).

Vatican: The optimal window for visiting the Vatican is during the transitional seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). Throughout these months, the atmospheric conditions are moderate and agreeable, while the throngs are usually thinner than amidst the peak summer months. This allows for a more pleasurable experience whilst touring the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Visiting Florence and Venice: If planning to visit Florence and Venice during the same trip, it`s advisable to go during the shoulder seasons (April through June or September through October) as well. The weather will be pleasant in both cities throughout these periods, with moderate temperatures and lesser chances of precipitation. This is an ideal time to explore the outdoor attractions of the places, such as Piazza San Marco in Venice and Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence. Additionally, these shoulder seasons have less crowds than the peak tourist months (July and August), offering a more enjoyable and relaxed experience. Travel between Rome, Florence, and Venice is convenient via train, with high-speed rail connecting the three cities in just a few hours.

• Best Time to Book Hotels for Rome: The Top-rated Hotels in Rome and the Best Accommodations for Families in Rome require early reservations. Try to arrange rooms at minimum 4 months in advance.

Rome Weather by Month

Rome Temperature by Month (high in Celsius)

Rome Rain by Month (mm)

• Rome Weather in January: Rome experiences its coldest temperatures in January, with daytime highs generally ranging from 8°C to 13°C. There is approximately six hours of sunshine daily and around 83mm of rainfall spread over 14 days, so while you likely won`t be stuck inside the whole month, a raincoat will serve you well at least some of the time. Days are relatively short early in the month, with sunset around 5 pm, extending to around 5:30pm by late January. (Average High: 13°C. Average Rainfall: 83mm.)
• Rome Weather in February: While February is cool, things are starting to warm up a bit, rising an average of a degree by month’s end. While it is slightly drier than January, at least a few showers and storms are likely this month, so you’ll still need that rain jacket. By the end of February, the sun doesn’t set until about 6pm. (Average Max Temperature: 14°C. Average Precipitation: 76mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Rome for March: This month marks the beginning of springtime changes, with average temperatures rising from approximately 9°C initially to 12°C by month`s end. Precipitation lessens significantly to 68 mm across 13 days on average, and daylight hours lengthen as the sun sets later at 7:35 pm on March 31. As outcomes can vary between pleasant or chillier with drizzle, choosing versatile attire is advisable. (Average Maximum Temperature: 17°C. Average Rainfall: 68mm.)
• Weather in Rome for April: Spring is in full bloom during April, with flowers emerging and many warm, bright days punctuated by some cooler and wet ones. While expecting one or two showers is reasonable, approximately 10 hours of sunshine each day will be experienced on average, allowing ample opportunity to profit from the sun before it sets just after 8pm by month`s end. Packing both long- and short-sleeved shirts along with a lightweight rain jacket should suffice. (Average High Temperature: 20°C. Average Precipitation: 68mm.)
• Rome Weather in May: During this period, temperatures often create ideal conditions and the sun frequently beams down from the sky. With just 48 millimeters of rainfall distributed across 10 days, you’ll only rarely require a rain covering – your sunglasses, however, will prove handy for the majority of the time. Later in the month it can start to get hot and humid, but in the afternoon a gentle breeze often passes through to cool things off. The sun doesn’t descend below the horizon until after 8:30 pm toward the ending portion of the month, and after nightfall, a light jacket or wrap is usually perfect for maintaining warmth. (Average Max Temperature: 24°C. Average Precipitation: 48mm.)
• Conditions in Rome during June: Early in June, the climate is often pleasant, with warm temperatures that are not too hot. Towards the end of the month, the heat starts to intensify and rainfall is scarce, with just around 41 mm spread over eight days. Days are quite lengthy, with June 21st being the longest day of the year and sunlight staying out until almost 9 pm. Pack loose, airy clothing crafted from lightweight materials, like skirts, dresses and capri pants for women, along with a broad-brimmed hat. For men, linen pants or long Bermuda shorts are typical. (Average Maximum Temperature: 29°C. Average Rainfall: 41mm.)
• Climate conditions in Rome during July: July is considered Rome`s hottest month, with an abundance of sunshine, very warm ambient temperatures, infrequent rainfall and normally little or no breeze to help moderate the heat. Many local inhabitants and workers in the city tend to vacate as promptly as able during the peak summertime period, heading to coastal or cooler mountainous areas further north. Light attire for males and females is the usual practice. The advantage to July`s heat is nights often stay delightfully warm, making al fresco dining and people observing after sundown, around 8:30pm by July 31, a genuine pleasure. (Average Maximum Temperature: 32°C. Typical Precipitation: 23mm.)
• Rome Weather in August: August remains hot and bright, but temperatures start easing slightly, starting around 27°C, gradually declining to about 25°C by month`s end. The probabilities of rain increase too, with about 36mm of precipitation across six days, though most of the time if you want to cool off you`ll need to head into air-conditioned buildings or out to the coast. This is when most locals take their holiday, escaping the heat by enjoying a cool dip in the sea while visitors bake in the oppressive mid-day sun. The respite comes as the sun goes down at 7:45pm by month`s end – a great time to take advantage of the pleasant summer nightlife. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 36mm.)
• Rome Weather in September: Temperatures decrease in September, delivering pleasant albeit warm conditions. Early in the month average high temperatures hover around 23 to 24°C, but by month`s end, daytime highs generally reach about 19°C. Precipitation increases notably, to 68 mm spread over nine days, so there’s a chance you’ll need a lightweight rain jacket, especially if visiting later in September. (Average Max Temperature: 27°C. Average Precipitation: 75mm.)
• Rome Weather in October: During the tenth month, Rome experiences a bracing coolness in the air where the tree leaves start changing into reddish hues. The conditions are usually balmy during the day but comfortably mild at night. Early in the month the average high temperatures are around 19°C, sometimes warm enough for beach visits. Gradually that figure falls to about 15°C by month`s end. While dampness increases to roughly 94mm spread over 12 days, nearly 60 percent of October`s days bring sunshine. As daylight saving time concludes late in the month, evenings arrive just after 5pm on Halloween. (Average Max Temperature: 23°C. Average Precipitation: 94mm.)
• The weather in Rome during November continues to cool, averaging 14 to 15°C early in the month and dropping to around 10°C by month`s end. Be prepared for rain, but nice days may surprise you, especially early November, though you won’t have as much daylight to enjoy them as the sun sets around 5pm the first half of the month, and by November 30, it sets at 4:40pm. (Average Maximum Temperature: 18°C. Average Precipitation: 120mm.)
• Rome Weather in December: During the month of December in Rome, temperatures tend to range on the cooler side and often include damp conditions, representing one of the less warm periods to visit the city. Normal temperatures start around 10°C, and descend to between 7°C and 10°C by month`s end. You`re likely to experience a few showers or even small storms during your time there, along with early sunsets, though the earliest sunset isn`t until 4:39pm in the first half of the month. Be prepared for chilly nights and wet days, while an occasional pleasantly warm day could occur, but don`t rely on it. (Average Max Temperature: 15°C. Average Precipitation: 96mm.)

Rome Events and Festivals

Rome Events in January

• Three Kings Day – Celebrated on January 6 each year in Italy where it is called La Befana, this holiday marks the end of the Christmas season. On this day, Italian children discover treats and toys left for them in their shoes after waking up. Many events and processions are held across the country too. In Vatican City specifically, hundreds dressed in medieval attire walk along the path leading up to the Vatican carrying symbolic gifts for the Pope. A morning mass is conducted by the Pope at St Peter’s Basilica to commemorate the Magi bringing gifts for baby Jesus.
• Post-Holiday Shopping Sales – A state-mandated sale period begins in January and lasts for six to eight weeks. While the date varies annually, the sales typically initiate early in the month, following La Befana, and are renowned for phenomenal discounts. Look for signs in shop windows reading SALDI, meaning “sales.”
• Feast of Saint Anthony – January 17 designates another Italian holiday, though notably more modest than La Befana. The feast day honoring Saint Anthony Abate occurs at the church dedicated to him. As he serves as the patron saint of animals, one of its festivities involves blessing creatures. Animal-doting Romans bring their furry companions to receive blessings, prominently at Sant’Antonio Abate on the Esquiline Hill.

Rome Events in February

• Carnival – Carnival (Carnevale) and the start of Lent begin as early as February 3. While most associate the event with Venice, Rome decided to try reviving its Carnival magic of old in 2009. Both the pre-Lenten festivities (Carnevale) and the religious processions, beginning on Ash Wednesday, are part of the tradition in the capital and Vatican City. Many acts take place in Piazza del Popolo, including choreographed horse shows, races, dancers and costumed performers. There are lots of activities for kids, such as free horse rides in the Piazza, a merry-go-round and puppet shows. In the area around Castel Sant` Angelo offers an especially festive atmosphere with music and often a decorated artificial ice rink.
• Valentine’s Day (Festa di San Valentino) – Valentine`s Day is celebrated very similarly in Italy as it is in the US, with hearts, chocolates, affectionate notes and romantic candlelit dinners by moonlight. A fresher tradition of securing padlocks to bridges, railings and street lamps was initiated just after the publication of the best-selling novel, I want you (Ho voglio di te) by Italian author Federico Moccio, which was then followed by the well-liked motion picture with an identical name. In the story, young lovers tie a chain and a padlock around a street lamp on the northern side of the Milvian Bridge (Ponte Milvio) in Rome. They inscribe their names on it, secure it and toss the key into the Tiber River below, as a desire that they will be together endlessly. Throughout the country, such as Rome, you can spot padlocks that have been placed near bridges and all sorts of other unexpected places too. On Valentine’s Day, couples can also avail a two-for-one ticket deal at all state-run museums and archaeological sites.
• Sales – Continuing to monitor for post-holiday discounted prices, as remaining inventory sees drastically reduced costs as the season concludes.

Rome Events in March

• Festa della Donna – International Women’s Day occurs on March 8 annually, and in Italy it’s known as Festa della Donna (Festival of Women). The day is characterized by the men gifting their partner bundles of yellow mimosa flowers, taking care of all household duties, cooking dinner and ending the day with a relaxing foot massage. The city is overrun with mimosas, while fun opportunities abound for celebrating the day in the local restaurants and clubs.
• Commemoration of Caesar’s Passing – Held on the Ides of March, March 15, an array of cultural happenings are generally held in the Roman Forum near the statue of Caesar, commemorating his demise, including a reenactment of Caesar’s death that is staged at the site of his assassination in the Torre Argentina archeological site. Some arrive in fancy costumes.
• Maratona di Roma – On the third Sunday in March each year, the Rome Marathon which draws runners from around the world, starts at the Roman Forum, passing some of the city’s most famous sites and the Vatican before ending at the Colosseum.
• Holy Week – Holy Week can occur in March or April, though it always begins on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter. The Pope will hold a special mass in Saint Peter`s Square, Vatican City, including a blessing of palms during the holy ceremony. On Maundy Thursday morning, an unusual mass with fewer crowds offers a better chance to see the Pope. On Good Friday, a Papal Mass will be held in Saint Peter’s Basilica, followed by the stations of the cross, or Via Crucis. The Pope will share a meditation in various languages while a large glowing cross helps create an emotional experience, even for non-believers. The Pope will lead an Easter Mass on Sunday followed by an appearance on the central balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica to deliver a blessing “to the city and to the world,” known in Italian as Urbi et Orbi.

Rome Events in April

• Week of Culture – Typically held in mid-April, though the exact dates usually aren’t released until just before the event. Throughout this time, national museums and archeological sites offer complimentary admission and some locations not normally accessible to the public may be open. In Rome, this usually includes the National Roman Museum and the Capitoline Museums, among numerous others.
• Rome’s Birthday – On April 21, which is considered Rome’s founding date in 753 BC, the city celebrates the establishment of the Eternal City by Romulus. Rome’s various historical sites and many museums allow free admission on this day. There are special concerts on Piazza del Campidoglio, a parade, historical reenactments at the Circus Maximus where chariot races once occurred, and fireworks over the Tiber River. Most events generally take place during the weekend nearest to April 21st.
• Liberation Day – This national holiday celebrated across Italy means many tourist attractions, shops, museums and restaurants will be closed. It commemorates the day in 1945 when partisans rose up and overthrew Mussolini and the Germans, bringing an end to World War II. Concerts, political rallies and parades occur in various towns, though Rome hosts most events, such as the “Historical Path of Liberation,” a reenactment in Persian-Nuccitelli Square incorporating actors and historians.

Rome Events in May

• International Workers’ Day – The beginning of May witnesses International Workers’ Day on May 1, also known as Labour Day. Throughout the country including Rome, this national holiday is commemorated which hosts a free rock concert on Piazza San Giovanni, the very well known Concerto del Primo Maggio (1st of May Concert) featuring many prominent bands and songwriters that starts in the early afternoon and continues until around midnight.
• Open House Roma – On the first weekend of May there are free guided tours of buildings and architecture studios in the city (reservations required).
• Italian Open Tennis Championship – The Internazionali BNL d’Italia, also known as the Italian Open, is held in early to mid-May each year at the tennis courts of the Stadio Olimpico. The nine-day competition typically draws many top tennis stars using it to prepare for the French Open.

Rome Events in June

• Festa della Repubblica – Country Day is a significant national holiday held on June second yearly, comparable to Independence Day in different nations. It recalls the country turning into a Republic in 1946 after the finish of World War II. An extraordinary parade happens along the Via dei Fori Imperiali. Afterward, there is melodic in the Quirinale Gardens.
• Festival of Saint John – Celebrated on June 24th, the Feast of Saint John the Baptist honors his birth, with much of the festivities centered around the white Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano bearing his name. During daylight hours, the San Giovanni neighborhood teems with locals dining on snails, porchetta (herb-infused roasted pork) and other regional specialties served from stalls in front of the basilica. After dark, the plaza is beautifully illuminated by torches, while concerts and fireworks also take place.
• Saints Peter and Paul Day – This religious holiday held on June 29, honors two of Catholicism’s most important saints. Special masses are held at Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican and San Paolo Fuori Le Mura.
• Gay Village Festival – This celebration occurs over roughly six weeks starting in the middle of June. It attracts all residents of Rome and offers music, dance parties, theatrical performances and a film festival.

Rome Events in July

• Expo Tevere – Occurring from early- to mid-July, this extensive arts and handicrafts fair takes place along the banks of the Tiber River from Ponte Sant’Angelo to Ponte Cavour. It features stalls selling artisanal foods like olive oils and vinegars as well as wines and a variety of unique goods, perfect for those hoping to find an authentic, unique gift to bring home.
• Alto Roma Fashion Week – This biannual fashion week is hosted each year in early to mid-July and includes numerous fashion shows and exhibits open to the public. It offers the chance to take in all the action on the catwalk, check out the upcoming winter’s haute couture, enjoy art displays and even brush elbows with up-and-coming designers.
• The Festa dei Noantri festival celebrates Santa Maria del Carmine and the working class heritage of the Trastevere neighborhood. Locals pass around the statue of the Madonna of Mount Carmel, adorned with handmade garments, from church to church accompanied by musicians and pilgrims. Held in one of Rome`s lively nightlife areas, expect plenty of food, wine, dancing, and an impressive fireworks display concluding the event.

Rome Events in August

• Caracalla Theater Festival – Summer nights at the Theater under the Stars at the Baths of Caracalla run from late July through early August. The performances take place where Ancient Rome`s cultural hub and lively gathering place once stood. Now, after centuries, the ruins have reinvented themselves as an improvised open-air stage welcoming thousands of locals and visitors each summer.
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• Ferragosto – The traditional August 15 holiday commemorating the Assumption of Mary into Heaven marks the start of many Italians` summer vacations. While most museums, attractions, and downtown shops remain open, many other businesses close for the day. Locals frequently travel to coastal or mountain areas, though those staying in cities may participate in dance and musical festivals that fill squares with live performances of diverse dance styles in different locations.

Rome Events in September

Everything is gluten free, and I would strongly advise trying a cachapa if you`ve never had one before. You can get arepas elsewhere in London, but this was the only place we found cachapas, which are among our favorites.

• The Notte Bianca Festival – Occurring in mid-September, this event stages a variety of concerts, dancing, art, and theatrical performances, with many shops, galleries, and museums remaining open through the night. Nearly every music genre is represented, and it even includes magicians and circus performers as well as several stalls selling all sorts of items.
• Festivals of Arts and Antiques – There are a number of artisan and handicraft exhibitions held in Rome during the month of September for those seeking quality artworks, antiquities or Italian handicrafts. The antiques fair along Via dei Coronari starts in mid-September and lasts the entire month, while an art display along Via Margutta, one of Rome’s most scenic streets renowned for its collection of trendsetting art studios, takes place around the same time. During the last week of September, Via dell’Orso near Piazza Navona, hosts a handicrafts fair.

Rome Events in October

• RomaEuropa Festival – Each fall, Rome plays host to this festival sometimes called the Festival of Modernity. The most prestigious art and music festival in the city, it takes place throughout the month of October and November with a variety of music concerts at the Auditorium and in the main theatres and squares of Rome.
• International Film Festival of Rome – Taking place during the second half of October (sometimes into November) at the Auditorium Parco della Musica, the International Film Festival is a true red carpet event, showcasing a variety of international premieres, documentaries, exhibitions, live shows and concerts. It attracts of bevy of A-list stars, like Susan Sarandon and Martin Scorcese, along with local celebrities such as Monica Belluci.
• Halloween – Though Halloween isn`t an Italian holiday, it`s become increasingly popular recently, particularly among young adults. Many nightclubs in the city host Halloween costume parties, giving a chance to dress up and go dancing.

Rome Events in November

• November 1 is a public holiday in Italy when people reminisce about departed loved ones by visiting cemeteries and graves. Many Romans go to churches and some even take trips to Rome’s catacombs.
• The Rome Jazz Festival – This jazz musical celebration takes place throughout the second half of November and includes performances from Italian and international artists that occur at the Auditorium Parco della Musica.
• Feast of Saint Cecilia – Honoring the patron saint of all musicians, the Feast of Saint Cecilia is an all-day event on November 22, held in Trastevere’s Basilica Santa Cecilia as well as the Catacombs of San Callisto, featuring plenty of live music and mouth-watering cuisine.

Rome Events in December

• Holiday Markets – Rome’s Christmas Markets open in early December and run through January 6. The famous Piazza Navona market is a favorite with its stalls selling handmade gifts, children’s toys, nativity crafts and delicious Italian holiday treats.
• Feast of the Immaculate Virgin – On this December eighth commemorative occasion signifying the Immaculate Conception, the Pope celebrates an act of worship at the Spanish Steps, directing a procession from the Vatican to Piazza di Spagna where he presents a garland on the statue of the Virgin Mary. He then continues to conduct mass at the church of Santa Maria Maggiore.
• Santa Lucia Day – The feast day of Saint Lucia, December 13th, includes a procession from Castel Sant’Angelo to Saint Peter’s Square.
• Christmas Eve/Christmas – The evening before Christmas as well as Christmas Day are frequently spent surrounded by family, exploring Christmas markets and viewing completed nativity exhibits which now include the baby Jesus. In Saint Peter’s Square, the nativity display is unveiled at this time. Numerous individuals also attend midnight mass at Saint Peter’s Basilica, the second largest church in Christianity, where the Pope conveys his speech directly to a massive crowd as well as across the world, broadcasting to over forty nations.
• Festa di San Silvestro/New Year’s Eve – December 31st in Rome brings hundreds of festivities that take place throughout the night, with all the city’s magnificent churches and old piazzas donning spectacular decoration. Piazza del Popolo holds the largest public celebration, featuring music, dancing and fireworks to ring in the new year.

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