When to go to Italy
Every month has its Italy. Here is what to expect, and where to go, all year round.
January
Ski season in the Alps and Dolomites, quiet art cities and low prices. Carnival preparations begin.
February
Carnival in Venice and Viareggio, almond blossom in Sicily, snow in the mountains.
March
Spring arrives in the south: Sicily, Puglia and the Amalfi Coast wake up. Easter may fall at the end of the month.
April
Perfect for art cities and the countryside: Tuscany, Umbria and Rome in bloom, Easter processions across the country.
May
One of the best months: warm days, long evenings, the sea starts to be swimmable in the south and the islands.
June
Early summer: ideal for the coast and the islands before the August crowds, hiking season opens in the Alps.
July
Hot and lively: beaches, open-air festivals, opera at the Arena of Verona. Mountains are a cool escape.
August
Italians are on holiday, especially around Ferragosto on the 15th: busy beaches and higher prices, quiet cities.
September
Many travellers' favourite: warm sea, harvest festivals, fewer crowds. Perfect everywhere.
October
Grape and olive harvest, truffle fairs in Piedmont, golden colours in the vineyards. Still mild in the south.
November
The quietest month: rain in many regions, but great for cities, museums and food festivals.
December
Christmas markets in South Tyrol and Trentino, nativity scenes in Naples, skiing starts mid-month.