The best time to visit Rome is during the two shoulder seasons in the spring and the early fall. During these periods, the crowds that pack the Eternal City at the height of the summer season tend to thin out.
Temperatures also tend to be moderate, with highs of around 70℉ (21℃)—ideal for walking tours and Vespa rides.
Winters in Rome seldom see snow, but days tend to be overcast and often on the slightly chilly side. Summer, although peak season, can be extremely hot—a time to indulge in refreshing gelato or a long lunch in the shade of a sidewalk trattoria.
Visiting Rome by Season
Summer
Colosseum
Summer is the high season in the Italian capital. Since Rome is the European Union’s second-most visited city after Paris, that can mean considerable crowds at popular Roman landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain.
In August, many Italians leave the city and take their own holidays. At the height of summer in July and August, average temperature highs are around 89℉ (32℃ ) but can easily climb higher.
Pace yourself if you’re sightseeing in summer. Carry water and take plenty of breaks.
Fall
Autumn is lovely in the Eternal City, with mild temperatures and sunny days. Rome is one of the best places to visit in Europe in September and October.
As an added bonus, wild game, foraged mushrooms, and fresh truffles make an appearance on trattoria menus around this time.
Read: What to Eat in Rome
Winter
Winters in Rome are relatively mild, with temperature highs of around 54℉ (12℃ ) in January. In December, the streets light up with colorful Christmas decorations and festive holiday markets. Winter can be a great time to visit if you’re focused on culture, as many of the top things to see are not weather dependent.
Spring
Spring is arguably the best time to go to Rome, with sun-drenched afternoons and pleasantly moderate temperatures. Expect a few showers in April, which mostly taper off in May. Note that because of the presence of the Vatican, Easter and the surrounding days always draw a considerable number of visitors.
Vatican
When Is Rainy Season?
Rainy season in Rome falls roughly from September through May. November is the wettest month, with an average of roughly four inches (100mm) of rainfall. Even then, many days are dry and as long as you pack an umbrella, precipitation shouldn’t impede many plans.
When Is High Season?
High season in Rome runs from June to August, or approximately for the duration of the European summer holidays. Plan your visit in advance, as many galleries and museums in Rome are best booked ahead.
Piazza Navona
When Is Shoulder Season?
Rome has two shoulder seasons in the spring and the fall. Since both are cooler and less busy than the summer, they make for terrific times to visit.
When Is Low Season?
Low season in Rome is usually in the winter months from around January through March. During this time, chillier, slightly damp days keep the number of visitors down.
Tiber River
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