Why Spring is a Great Time to Visit Italy
One of the most frequently asked questions I am asked is “when is the best time to go to Italy?” And, the other is “what will the weather be like?” With the changing weather patterns we have experienced over the last number of years the best I can do is offer you my best general advice. But I do have my favorite times of the year, and spring is one of them (March to May). So in this article I share with you as to why spring is a great time to visit Italy.
I am seeing more and more clients requesting to book their custom guided journey in the spring months, and for good reason. In addition to fewer crowds in Italy’s top sights (especially true in March and early April), hotel rates are more reasonable, it’s easier to get tickets to must-see sights, guides and other hospitality professionals are rested from the winter respite and ready to welcome the new season.
Beat the crowds and meet the locals
Visiting Italy in early Spring is the perfect opportunity to get in and soak up Italy’s best. Sure, the streets won’t be empty in cities like Rome or Venice, but you will certainly be able to move with greater ease if you choose to visit during shoulder season instead of the popular summer months. Springtime in Italy is a delightful season, offering mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. March and April are the “shoulder season,” that sweet spot when the weather’s good and the crowds haven’t yet come in droves.
That said, it depends on exactly when you’re coming and when Easter falls, as the holiday usually marks the beginning of high season. And anytime schools are off, you can expect more families to be traveling. Make sure to double-check opening times of sites around Easter, and know that many shops and restaurants tend to be closed on Easter Monday, as well as on April 25 (Liberation Day). Outside of Easter, though, most destinations, especially in March, are much less crowded than they’ll be in June through September
Some destinations in Italy are very seasonal and essentially close down between November and Easter (generally between late March and mid-April). Though you can visit spots like the Amalfi Coast and Capri, Puglia’s Salento peninsula, and the Ligurian coastline from Porto Venere to Portofino in March, most of the larger hotels and many restaurants and shops will still be closed. If you are a traveler wishing to experience these places when they are not overflowing with people, it can be done. But set your expectations and don’t arrive looking for experiences like the ferry operating or full-day boat tours for example.
For all of these reasons, for most travelers, I recommend March and April, as two of the best months to visit Italy.
What to wear for a spring trip to Italy
If you’re planning an Italy trip in spring, you’ll need to pack for more unpredictable weather than winter or summer. Temperatures start to warm up in spring, going from the late teens to mid-twenties, although it’s still advisable to wear layers in case of colder spells.
Visiting Italy in March
Italy in March promises warmer weather and fewer tourists. As winter fades, the temperatures in Italy start to rise, creating an inviting atmosphere for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and historic cities. This month marks the beginning of spring, with blooming flowers adding vibrant colors to the already picturesque scenery. The month is characterized by milder temperatures and moderate rainfall, with nature awakening across the country, making it a fresh and scenic time to visit.
In Northern Italy, temperatures range from 41°F to 55°F (5°C to 13°C). The region experiences an average of 10-12 rainy days, gradually emerging from the winter chill. Snowfall becomes less common, giving way to blooming landscapes.
Central Italy enjoys mild temperatures between 46°F and 59°F (8°C and 15°C) with about 8-10 rainy days in March. The central region witnesses the budding of early spring, with green hillsides and blossoming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Southern Italy in March brings temperatures ranging from 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C), with an average of 6-8 rainy days. Spring in the south is warm and drier than the winter months.
Visiting Italy in April
April is a wonderful time to visit Italy. Temperatures are pleasant and comfortable, with wildflowers blooming across the countryside. Everything is now open for business after the winter months, and regular ferries and hiking trails along the Cinque Terre and Ligurian Coast start to pick up business. There can be the odd shower, and temperatures are likely to be cooler and more changeable in the north, however, this shouldn’t dissuade you. Chances are you will need to pack both sunglasses and a rain jacket, no matter where you decide to go.
Average temperatures:
The weather in Northern Italy in April tends to be cooler, averaging between 40°F and 60°F (5°C and 16°C). This is the wettest region in Italy, as it experiences about 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, typically spread across eight to nine days.
Central Italy also experiences lovely spring temperatures across major cities like Rome and Florence. The average temperature ranges between 50°F and 65°F (10°C and 18°C), with about 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain scattered over eight days.
Southern Italy in April is much warmer than in the north. Average temperatures typically fluctuate between 55°F and 65°F (13°C and 18°C), accompanied by over 2.6 inches (68 mm) of April showers spread across six to eight days of the month.
Events & Festivals 2025:
- April 26, Friulanos celebrate their “Fieste de Patrie dal Friûl”, a cherished celebration which marks the founding of the esteemed Patriarchate of Friuli. The flag of Friuli is the 7th oldest European flag, as the patriacal state of Aquileia was a sovereign vassal state of the Holy Roman Empire from 1077 to 1420. The flag of Friuli originated in “Patria del Friuli”, the patriarchal state of Aquileia (also referred to as the patriarchal state of Friuli). The patriarchal state of Aquileia was a sovereign vassal state of the Holy Roman Empire and ruled from 1077 to 1420. The patriarchal state also ruled over the territories of Istria, Cadore, Carinthia, Carniola, and Styria for various periods of time.
- April 12 to 15, Vinitaly in Verona: One of the most important dates in the calendar for wine lovers, this annual Verona-based fair draws producers, and buyers from around the world for several days of talks, tastings, and workshops.
- April 6, Pasquetta, the day after Easter–aka Pasquetta or “Little Easter” in Italian–is a national holiday in Italy, and great for Italians, who get the day off work! This is a classic day to meet up with friends post-Easter and head outside to enjoy the new spring weather. Most families will use this time to enjoy food leftover from the Easter celebrations and festivities. While you’ll find that most sites and museums are open, to celebrate like the locals we suggest preparing a picnic and joining the rest of Italy outside in a nearby park.
- April 21, Italy’s capital celebrates the anniversary of its founding on April 21st every year (legend has it that the first king of Rome, Romulus, ploughed the city’s boundaries on April 21st 753 BC). This year, celebrations for the Eternal City’s 2,777th birthday will focus on one of the Roman Empire’s biggest infrastructural achievements: a Europe-wide, 400,000-kilometre network of paved roads.
- April 25, Venice enjoys the Festa di San Marco. One tradition associated with St Mark’s festival was the Festival of the Blooming Rose, symbolizing love, and romance. The custom of giving a rose bud (bocolo) to a loved one is still practiced today.
Visiting Italy in May
Known as the month of the rose, May is a beautiful time to experience Italy. It’s warm but not too hot, and still early enough to avoid the crowds of summer visitors. Gardens across the country are at their peak. Whether you’re visiting historical cities like Rome or Florence or exploring the countryside, it’s a fantastic time to be outside. Temperatures are reliably pleasant at this time of year. There may be the odd shower in the north and central regions, but otherwise, it’s sunny during the day, with lovely blue skies.
Average temperatures:
In southern Italy, the average temperature ranges between 60°F and 75°F (16°C and 24°C), making it the warmest area. Central Italy is pleasantly warm, between 55°F and 70°F (13°C and 21°C). Then, northern Italy is the coolest, with an average temperature between 50°F and 70°F (10°C and 21°C).
Events & Festivals 2026:
- May 01, Labor Day
- April 13 to May 10, Assisi celebrates Calendimaggio, a medieval and renaissance festival with entertainment like concerts, theater and dance shows, and processions through the beautifully decorated town.
- May 8 to May 10, Sagra del Pesce in Camogli. The fishing town of Camogli adds its own quirky touch to the scene: a giant frying pan, with a four-metre diameter. Every second Sunday of May, tons of fish cooked in the giant padella are handed out for free to locals and visitors, in what has been known since the 1950s as one of the most famous sagre in Italy. The Saint Fortunate procession is held the night before, culminating in fireworks and spectacular bonfires. While fish inevitably takes centre stage, other regional specialities to try out include pesto and focaccia, as well as the very local Camogliesi pastries.
- May 16, Sagra del Limone, Monterosso, Cinque Terre (lemon festival)
- May 17, La Cavalcata Sarda, Sardinia: To mark the beginning of spring, Sardinia holds one of its biggest events in Sassari with the Cavalcata Sarda, or Sardinian Horse Race on the second last Sunday of May. Participants dressed in traditional costumes parade through town on horseback, before meeting on a race track at the edge of town for horse races and stunts. Held annually since 1899, the festival marks the day when King Umberto I of Italy visited the city to unveil the Piazza d’Italia. Today, the two-day event is proof of the Sardinian’s pride in their history, culture, and island.
- Giro d’Italia, May 8 to 31, The Grande Partenza of the 108th edition of the Giro d’Italia is expected to take place on Friday 6 May 2025 on a place that’s yet to be announced. Rumours has it that the 1st stage will take place in Tirana, Albania, before the 2nd and 3rd stage would also be played out in the Balkan country. After crossing the Adriatic Sea by ship, the restart would take place from Puglia, possibly Bari or Brindisi. The Giro is set to end in Rome on Sunday 1 June.
- May 9 to November 22, Venice’s International Art Exhibition. The title of the Biennale Architettura 2025 is Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective. Explaining his choice Carlo Ratti said that «the title of the International Architecture Exhibition is usually announced both in English and in Italian. In 2025 it will be condensed into a single word for both languages via the common Latin precedent: intelligens. The title Intelligens is linked to the modern term “intelligence,” but it also evokes a wider set of associated meanings. In fact, the final syllable, “gens” is Latin for “people”. A new, fictional root emerges, suggesting a future of intelligence that is inclusive, multiple, and imaginative beyond today’s limiting focus on AI.» This is Europe’s most prestigious International Exposition of Modern Art, taking place in odd-numbered years only. More than 50 nations take part, with art displayed in permanent pavilions in the Public Gardens and elsewhere about town. Many great modern artists have been discovered at this world-famous show.
- May 17, in Venice, the Festa della Sensa, celebrated on Ascension Day, marks Venice’s ‘Wedding to the Sea’. Boats abound with a huge regatta and traditional rowing races, culminating with a symbolic union where the mayor tosses a gold ring into the water.
Spring food in Italy
Italian food is seasonal. Certain types of produce grow at only certain times of year, so restaurants that respect the seasons, and the local food culture, will only serve those ingredients in that given season. One of the biggest perks to a spring trip, especially as the season moves through late April into May, is the abundance of seasonal produce and other specialties that begin to fill the market stalls and restaurant menus.
In Rome, artichokes reign supreme in spring, but you’ll also find fava beans, zucchini flowers, and spring peas. Don’t forget friend zucchini flowers, stuffed with fresh ricotta or mozzarella and anchovies. Travel further south to feast on beans, garlic, lemons, strawberries, and cherries. In the north, white asparagus (my favorite), leeks, and beets are favored, along with spring greens and fresh cheeses.
Do you want to Experience Italy like a local with locals?
This is how you can do it. Audrey helps you make your vacation truly memorable by offering small group journeys and custom guided journeys.
