Best Time to Visit Rome | Weather, Events, and Things to do
Rome is the third most visited city in Europe, thanks to its unique history. It welcomes visitors from around the world who are eager to see the city's magnificent monuments and ancient sites, as well as its acclaimed food and vibrant environment. You're guaranteed a grand time no matter when you visit the iconic city but if you're on the lookout for the best time to visit Rome, we have got you.
What's the Best Time to Visit Rome?
- Best Months for Staying Outdoors in Rome: Mid-March and April, September to early November
- Best Months for Sightseeing & Museum Hopping: April, June, September, and October
- Best Months for Honeymooners: April, May, October, and November
- Best Months for Budget Travelers: November, December, January, and February
- Best Months for Shopaholics: January and February
High Season
When: May to mid-September
What to Expect:
- Summer is the high season in Rome when temperatures are high and you'll likely be standing in long lines and walking a lot.
- Because there isn't much shade, you'll need plenty of sunscreen and drink.
- Since the days are long, you take advantage of everything the city has to offer.
Shoulder Season
When: March to early May and October to November
What to Expect:
- Since Rome is a popular tourist destination, visiting during the shoulder season doesn't mean you won't have to deal with crowds.
- The city will be somewhat less crowded than during the high season, and the weather will likely be pleasant for sightseeing.
- You shouldn’t expect to save on living and food costs since the rates are still higher than low season.
Low Season
When: November to Early March (except Christmas week)
What to Expect:
- This is the ideal time to visit because there are fewer people and you can get better hotel and flight deals.
- While it can get a little chilly in the winter and there are plenty of wet days, the temperature rarely drops below freezing.
- Expect reduced waiting lines at most of the tourist attractions.
Seasons in Rome
Spring
March - May
Average Temperature: 9 - 20°C
Spring is the most pleasant time of year to visit Rome. The days are generally warm enough to go sightseeing without a coat, and evenings, while cool enough to require a jacket, are still warm enough to sit outside and eat a meal 'al fresco.'
Travel Tips: Showers are expected. Bring a light raincoat and a tiny umbrella with you.
Summer
June - August
Average Temperature: 32 - 45°C
Summer in Rome, Italy lasts from June to August, with temperatures reaching as high as 45° C. June is the perfect month to visit Rome in summer because it is nice and not too scorching like the other two months.
Travel Tips: Take a day excursion to Santa Marinella, a lovely beach about an hour's drive north of the city.
Autumn
September - December
Average Temperature: 7 - 27°C
The pleasant fall weather in Rome is great for exploring the Holy City. The average temperature in October and November is a nice 20 degrees, making it T-shirt weather during the day. Rome takes on a whole different aspect and appeals when bathed in pleasant fall light.
Travel Tips: Enjoy the sunset from a vantage point such as Gianicolo Hill or the Pincio Terrace.
Winter
January - February
Average Temperature: 4 - 13°C
Visiting the Italian city during the winter months can be extremely rewarding. Rome in winter may well be the ultimate Italy holiday destination, with its multitude of cultural sights, the notable absence of people, active café and bar scene, and moderate climate that allows carefree sightseeing.
Travel Tips: Since Rome's winters can be unpredictable, it's a good idea to bring layers.
Recommended Attractions in Rome
Best Time to Visit Rome: Month on Month Guide
January
Average Temperatures: 3° - 12°C
During the month of January, Rome experiences a moderate winter. The days are warm, with an average temperature of 12°C, but the evenings are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 3°C. The frigid wind does not attract many tourists, and locals who are fatigued after the December festivities do not venture out as much, allowing you to explore the beautiful city in peace.
Things to do in Rome in January:
- Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
- Explore the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums
- Go on a neighborhood walk during the afternoon
- Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
Travel Tips: Because January is the off-season for travelers, airfare and accommodation prices are frequently lower. To get a better deal, plan ahead and book in advance.
Rome in January Guide
February
Average Temperature: 1° - 13°C
The climate in Rome is the Mediterranean all year, with warm to cold winters and hot, humid summers. February is one of the coldest months, with an average temperature of approximately 8°C, a low of around 1-3°C, and a high of around 11-13°C. The annual carnival takes place in February, and the Piazza del Popolo hosts a variety of events, including horse shows, races, dances, and costumed performances.
Things to do in Rome in February:
- Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Go for a guided tour of the Colosseum
- Head to Borghese Palace and Villa Borghese
- Head down to the Roman Catacombs
Travel Tips: While rain is not prevalent in February, there may be a few damp spells, so keep an umbrella or raincoat on hand at all times.
Rome in February Guide
March
Average Temperature: 9° - 12°C
In March, a typical day might be anything from lovely to cool. The temperature averages approximately 9°C at the beginning of the month and rises to 12°C by the close of the month. The blooming of vibrant red poppies, deep purple wisteria, and exquisite pink azaleas transforms Rome in March into a visual and sensory haven. March has a smaller crowd than normal, giving you a better overall experience.
Things to do in Rome in March:
- Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
- Embark on a food tour of local Roman cuisine
- Go for a night tour of the Colosseum
- Participate in St. Patrick's Day celebrations
Travel Tips: March has roughly eight hours of sunshine per day, so eat well and stay hydrated to get the most of your trip.
Rome in March Guide
April
Average Temperature: 8° - 12°C
As April begins, the weather finally transitions to full-fledged spring, complete with flowering roses, wisteria, azaleas, and poppies. During the first week of the month, the temperature averages 12°C. April is a unique month in Rome because it is the city's birthday, which is celebrated on April 21st with great pomp. The month also brings shorter lines and less crowded viewing areas.
Things to do in Rome in April:
- Visit Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
- Spend a day exploring the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
- Explore Borghese Palace and Villa Borghese
- Embark on a segway tour of Rome
Travel Tips: While the Colosseum remains open on Easter, it is only open until noon on Good Friday due to Pope's Via Crucis. On Easter Sunday and Monday, the Vatican museums are closed.
Rome in April Guide
May
Average Temperature: 13° - 24°C
May begins with pleasant weather and gradually warms up as the month progresses. The average temperature is roughly 20 degrees Celsius, with daily highs of 24 degrees Celsius and lows of 13 degrees Celsius. The warm blue sky during the day, lengthy hours of sunshine, and chilly, crisp nights await tourists in May. Throughout the month, events such as Primo Maggio, Open House Roma, and the Rome Outdoor Festival are held, among others.
Things to do in Rome in May:
- Visit Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon
- Go for a guided tour of Vatican City
- Experience ancient Rome at the Colosseum
- Head out for a day trip to Pompeii
Travel Tips: While May is not the busiest month, it nevertheless attracts a sizable number of visitors. To avoid the long lines at the ticket windows, get your tickets and passes in advance.
Rome in May Guide
June
Average Temperature: 20° - 29°C
In June, you can enjoy approximately 13 hours of daylight per day in Rome, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 29 degrees Celsius. Rome is crowded and bustling throughout the summer, with the high season beginning in June. Beginning on June 2 with the Roman Republic Day, a number of additional festivals, including music festivals, will take place throughout the month.
Things to do in Rome in June:
- Visit the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
- Embark on a guided tour of the Roman Catacombs
- Spend an afternoon at Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese
- Experience the famed Angels and Demons tour
Travel Tips: Gelatos that are especially vivid in color could be a sign that they are fake. Avoid going for them.
Rome in June Guide
July
Average Temperature: 19° - 31°C
The average high temperature in Rome in July is 31°C, while the average low temperature is 19°C. Local piazzas and trattorias, as well as events like the Festa dei Noantri, provide a chance to learn about Roman culture. Shop at the summer sale, enroll in cooking classes, or ride your bike around town. There is something for everyone, from international rock festivals to film festivals, from orchestras in the gardens to art displays along the Tiber!
Things to do in Rome in July:
- Spend half a day at Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
- Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
- Visit Borghese Gallery and Borghese Gardens
- Attend Opera at the Baths of Caracalla
Travel Tips: The flipside of July's heat is that the nights are usually pleasant, making eating outside a delight.
Rome in July Guide
August
Average Temperature: 19° - 31°C
August is one of Rome's hottest months, with average daytime temperatures reaching 31°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to 19°C. The brilliant azure skies of August in Rome provide the ideal backdrop for the city's ruins and architecture. In August, Rome hosts a number of local summer festivals, including the Festa Della Madonna Della Neve and Ferragosto, ensuring a grand time for all visitors.
Things to do in Rome in August:
- Embark on a Walk On Walk Off Rome tour
- Go on a day trip to Naples and Pompeii
- Visit the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
- Attend the Festa della Madonna Della Neve on 5th Aug
Travel Tips: Because of the tourist rush, you should make reservations at the restaurants you want to visit and keep in mind that most of them don't open for supper until after 8 pm.
September
Average Temperature: 16° - 27°C
The month of September in Rome encompasses the last few weeks of summer and the first few weeks of autumn. While September is still technically a summer month, the weather changes significantly with the nights becoming cooler. As the school holidays come to an end in September, tourist traffic in Rome begins to dwindle. This means you don't want to wait too long at most tourist attractions or pay extra for accommodation.
Things to do in Rome in September:
- Explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica
- Go on the Trastevere Neighborhood Walk
- Visit the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
- Participate in the Arts and Crafts Fair
Travel Tips: Attend the Sagra dell'Uva, a grape harvest festival that draws the entire city to Constantine's Basilica.
October
Average Temperature: 18° - 23°C
With an average temperature of 18°C and highs of 23°C, Rome in October is comfortable enough to walk around during the day. With the greenery and rocky architecture offering the city a lovely, old-school vibe, the warm tones of autumn bring out the most beautiful aspect of Rome. October also happens to be peak tourist season in Rome, so expect to see a lot of people visiting the city's big attractions.
Things to do in Rome in October:
- Attend the RomaEuropa Festival
- Embark on the fantastic Angels & Demons Tour
- Go on a guided tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
- Spend a day at the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica
Travel Tips: To avoid paying admission, visit the museums of Rome on a Sunday, but arrive early to avoid the midday crowd.
November
Average Temperature: 14° - 18°C
Visitors looking for a relatively cool climate can find it in Rome in November. During the day, the average temperature is between 14 and 18 degrees. November in Rome is a fantastic time to visit if you want to experience a quieter, more serene period without the burden of crowds. This month also sees a slew of new events, whether they're related to music, art, or religion.
Things to do in Rome in November:
- Attend the Rome International Film Festival
- Explore the Roman Catacombs
- Visit Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
- Opt for a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
Travel Tips: November is a terrific time to sample new and seasonal dishes in Rome with vegetables like artichokes, pumpkins, and onions being available in abundance.
Rome in November Guide
December
Average Temperature: 7° - 12°C
December in Rome is chilly, with rain showers sprinkled throughout the month. The average temperature begins at 10 degrees Celsius and descends to 7 degrees Celsius by the end of the month. Due to the low season, many airlines and hotels drastically reduced their fares. Rome joins the rest of the world in celebrating the end of the year. In December, a visit to Rome means marveling at the sight of the city of love decked out in festive lights.
Things to do in Rome in December:
- Walk around the city witnessing Nativity displays
- Go for an exciting Legends and Ghosts Tour
- Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill with a guided tour
- Visit St. Peter’s Basilica
Travel Tips: The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are closed to the public 2 hours before closing time.
Rome in December GuideHacks & Tips to Visit Rome
- Download the Rome Metro App: This app will help you navigate the Rome Metro system, which can be confusing if you're not familiar with it.
- Get a Roma Pass: The Roma Pass is a great way to save money on attractions and transportation in Rome. It includes unlimited rides on the metro and buses, as well as discounts at many museums and attractions.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Rome is a very walkable city, but there are also a lot of cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Bring Water: Rome can be very hot in the summer, so it's important to stay hydrated. There are plenty of water fountains around the city where you can fill up your bottle for free.
- Be Careful of Pickpockets: Unfortunately, pickpocketing is common in tourist areas in Rome. Be sure to keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings.
- Visit the Vatican Museums Early: The Vatican Museums are one of the most popular attractions in Rome, so they can get very crowded. If possible, visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.
- Watch Out for Scams: There are many scams in Rome, so it's important to be aware of them. For example, beware of people offering to clean your shoes or asking for money for taking a photo with you.
Know More About the Best Time to Visit Rome
The months of April and June, as well as September and October, are ideal for a trip to Rome.
Rome's high season begins with the arrival of summer from May through mid-September
July is the hottest month in Rome with an average temperature of 25°C followed by the beginning of August.
Rome's coldest months are January and February.
November is the wettest month in Rome, with an average rainfall of 3.7 inches.
Spring, especially mid-March, and April is a great time to go sightseeing in Rome.
If you want to avoid the crowds, the winter months of January and February are the best time to visit Rome.
Travel during the winter months to get the best rates, or stay during the middle of the week to get the best deals.
Anytime between May and September is the best time to go swimming at the beach in Rome.
You can visit the Colosseum at night, walk along shaded paths filled with pine trees while admiring the views of Rome, and more.
You can go ice skating in Castel Sant'Angelo, visit the Indoor Market in Testaccio, and picnic at the Villa Borghese.
You can walk around the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, view the Pentecost petal shower at the Pantheon, and visit the Vatican Gardens.
You can take more time at each attraction thanks to the reduced crowd, go on a walk around the beautiful Roman neighborhood, and enjoy Halloween celebrations.
The best time to visit Rome with kids is September and October when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are reduced.
The best time to visit Rome for shopping is early January to mid-February.
The best time to visit Rome while traveling solo is from mid-March to May and mid-September to November.
the best time to visit Rome for couples is anytime in April, May, October, and November.