Europe

Italy

Europe

Italy

Updated Mar 10, 2025
Italy

Overview

Italy captivates with its rich tapestry of history, art, and culture. From Rome's Colosseum to Venice's canals, iconic sights abound. Yet, the true magic lies in hidden gems like Tuscan hill towns and Sicilian fishing villages. Savor authentic pasta in Rome's Trastevere district or sip espresso at a Florentine café. Hike the Dolomites or relax on Amalfi's beaches. Italy's diverse regions offer unique experiences, from Milan's fashion scene to Naples' pizza perfection. Embrace la dolce vita and discover why Italy enchants travelers time and again.

Best time to visit. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds. Enjoy comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor dining. Summer brings heat and tourists, while winter is best for ski enthusiasts in the north.

Month
January55°F - 41°F
53°F - 38°F
Partly Cloudy7:30 am5:00 pm9 days
2.4 in
1 days
0.2 in
7 mph
February57°F - 42°F
55°F - 39°F
Partly Cloudy7:00 am5:40 pm8 days
2.2 in
1 days
0.1 in
7 mph
March62°F - 46°F
61°F - 43°F
Partly Cloudy6:20 am6:15 pm9 days
2.3 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
April68°F - 51°F
67°F - 49°F
Partly Cloudy5:30 am6:50 pm10 days
2.5 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
May75°F - 58°F
75°F - 57°F
Partly Cloudy4:50 am7:25 pm8 days
1.9 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
June82°F - 65°F
84°F - 65°F
Sunny4:35 am7:50 pm6 days
1.4 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
July88°F - 70°F
91°F - 71°F
Sunny4:50 am7:45 pm4 days
0.9 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
August87°F - 70°F
90°F - 71°F
Sunny5:20 am7:15 pm5 days
1.3 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
September81°F - 64°F
82°F - 64°F
Sunny5:55 am6:30 pm7 days
2.2 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
October72°F - 57°F
71°F - 55°F
Partly Cloudy6:30 am5:40 pm9 days
2.9 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
November63°F - 49°F
61°F - 46°F
Partly Cloudy7:05 am4:55 pm10 days
3.7 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
December56°F - 43°F
54°F - 40°F
Partly Cloudy7:30 am4:40 pm10 days
3.1 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph

NameDateDescription

Travel rating

Closure rating

Recommendation
New Year's DayJanuary 1Celebration of the new year with fireworks, parades, and family gatherings.
Avoid travel, most places closed.
EpiphanyJanuary 6Christian holiday commemorating the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus.
Limited services, but festive atmosphere.
Easter SundayVaries (March/April)Christian celebration of Jesus' resurrection with church services and family meals.
Many closures, religious observances.
Easter MondayDay after Easter SundayExtended Easter celebration with outdoor activities and picnics.
Some closures, but lively atmosphere.
Liberation DayApril 25Commemoration of Italy's liberation from Nazi occupation in World War II.
Patriotic events, some business closures.
Labor DayMay 1Celebration of workers' rights with parades and demonstrations.
Many closures, possible transportation issues.
Republic DayJune 2National holiday celebrating the birth of the Italian Republic with parades.
Patriotic events, some business closures.
Assumption DayAugust 15Catholic observance of the Virgin Mary's ascension to heaven.
Many closures, religious processions.
All Saints' DayNovember 1Catholic holiday honoring saints and deceased loved ones.
Some closures, solemn atmosphere.
Feast of the Immaculate ConceptionDecember 8Catholic celebration of Virgin Mary's conception without original sin.
Some closures, religious observances.
Christmas DayDecember 25Christian celebration of Jesus' birth with religious services and family gatherings.
Avoid travel, nearly everything closed.
St. Stephen's DayDecember 26Extension of Christmas celebrations honoring the first Christian martyr.
Limited services, festive atmosphere.

1
Italians take their food seriously. Don't ask for modifications to dishes or cut pasta with a knife. Respect local dining customs and enjoy meals as they're traditionally served.
2
Dress modestly when visiting churches. Cover shoulders and knees, and remove hats. Some popular sites may refuse entry if you're not dressed appropriately.
3
Learn basic Italian phrases like 'grazie' (thank you) and 'per favore' (please). Locals appreciate the effort, even if you're not fluent. It shows respect for their culture.
4
Embrace the Italian concept of 'la dolce vita' (the sweet life). Slow down, savor your meals, and enjoy leisurely strolls. Don't rush through experiences like locals don't.
5
Tipping isn't expected in Italy like in North America. Many restaurants include a service charge. If not, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
6
Be aware of 'coperto,' a per-person cover charge in restaurants. It's standard practice, not a tourist trap. It usually covers bread and table setting.
7
Avoid loud behavior in public, especially on public transport. Italians generally speak softly in public spaces and appreciate when tourists do the same.
8
Don't drink cappuccino after 11 AM. Italians consider it a breakfast drink. Opt for an espresso after meals instead to blend in with local customs.