The BEST Time to Visit Rome! [December 2024]

Planning a trip to Rome, the Eternal City, is an exciting venture. The world’s best pizza, pasta, wine, cheese and gelato – plus famous historical landmarks you remember from the history books like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel – not to mention the shopping, nightlife and the non-stop energy. What’s not to love? 

But it can also be a bit stressful when deciding the best time to visit Rome. There’s, of course, the weather to consider, but there are also tourist crowds, prices and events that factor into the decision-making process.

Below we’ll dive into all of this helpful information with a breakdown of seasons, weather conditions and events by month. We’ll share the best time to visit Rome, keeping in mind that you must decide what you want to do and what you want to see – and under which conditions –  in order to make the final selection that will deliver your dream Roman adventure!

When is the best time of year to visit Rome?

Depending on what’s included in your travel wishlist, any time could be the best time to visit Rome! For the longest days, the warmest weather and the largest number of events taking place in the city – summer is the peak period. But attractions are also the most crowded and possible July through August summer heatwaves may be too uncomfortable for those who aren’t used to hot, humid conditions.

Considering overall conditions like weather and tourist crowds, the best time of year to visit Rome are the shoulder seasons: early Fall and late Spring. The weather is warm and overall-sunny with tourists present –  but not at their peak – making it an ideal time to be outdoors and touring popular sites.

What months are the best time to visit Rome?

If your preference is to find warmth and sunshine while avoiding the intense heat – and the peak of tourist season – of the summer months, May and September are the best time to visit Rome. The average high in both months stays in a pleasant 75-80℉ (24-27℃) range with infrequent rain. 

If you prefer cooler, crisp autumn air with the possibility of showers, but still plenty of sunny days, October – especially in the earlier part – is an excellent month to visit Rome. It’s also nice to get more of the city to yourself as the bulk of tourists has dispersed!

Besides weather and tourists, you should take into consideration local events, so let’s take a look by month.

Rome Weather in January

January is one of Rome’s coldest months with an average low temperature of 38℉ (3℃) and high of 53℉ (12℃). You can expect cloudy skies and short days, but it’s not unheard of to find some sunny days too! Nighttime temperatures get particularly chilly and sometimes drop below freezing.

Rome Events in January

• The Epiphany (January 6)
  • This holy day, La Festa dell’ Epifania, is an important one in predominantly-Catholic Rome as it marks the Twelfth Night of Christmas and the celebration of Jesus Christ’s baptism. If you’re up for the crowds, experience the Vatican City in full glory as a medieval-clad procession takes symbolic gifts to the Pope who then conducts a mass at the historic St. Peter’s Basilica. On this same day, Italians recognize the day of La Befana, the good witch, and is a traditional gift-giving day for children. For an especially unique souvenir item, you can grab your own La Befana witch doll at the Christmas market!
• Saint Anthony’s Day (January 17)
  • A not-so-well-known – but very important celebration for Romans – takes place every year at the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate. This is a special feast day that commemorates domestic animals, butchers, gravediggers and basketmakers. In the piazza in front of St. Peter’s Square a large exhibition of livestock – cows, horses, chickens, sheep – is put on display for the public. The Archpriest conducts the “Blessing of the Beasts” to the delight of farmers and fellow animal lovers!

Need more specifics? Find out where to stay in Rome based on what you want to do there!

 

Rome Weather in February

January weather conditions continue through February. It’s cold for Rome – though considered mild winter weather in comparison to other European cities – with temperatures staying in the 38℉ (3℃) to 55℉ (13℃) range. You’ll likely find a mix of cold, occasionally rainy, and cloudy days scattered with sunshine.

Rome Events in February

• Carnavale (date varies)
  • These 8 days of festivities, when Italians celebrate Mardi Gras, are the most happening in Rome in February. It starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday with the exact dates coordinating with the Vatican’s calendar. Lent means 40 days of fasting for Catholics, so the days leading up to that point are party time! The event kicks off with a parade along Via del Corso featuring elaborate masquerade masks and costumes. Events take place in all of Rome’s biggest piazzas, and you can be sure to find plenty of entertainment anywhere you go!
• Valentine’s Day (February 14)
  • Now celebrated throughout the world, this day is actually one of special significance to Romans. San Valentino was a Roman priest who secretly married Christians in Rome in the 3rd century and was martyred on the now-recognized February 14th. You can take advantage of some great 2-for-1 museum entries and special menus at many restaurants – whether you have a sweetheart or not!

Not yet booked? Take a look at our favorite hotels in Rome!

 

Rome Weather in March

The warmth and sunshine continue to inch their way up as it gets into March and closer to Spring. The weather is mild, but it’s not quite time to leave behind the jacket and sweater! You’ll find an average low of 41℉ (5℃) to 59℉ (15℃) with a mix of clouds and sunshine.

Rome Events in March

• International Women’s Day (March 8)
  • Known lovingly in Italian as festa della donna, this March day is a good one to be a woman in Rome! Many museums and cultural venus offer free or discounted price admission. You’ll notice that beautiful yellow mimosas become a common sight in the city, as this is the flower typically gifted to women by those who appreciate them most.  
• Festa of Santa Francesca Romana (March 9)
  • Romans – and their automobiles – look to this day as the “Blessing of the Cars” day! Santa Francesca is the patron saint of automotive drivers, and devout Catholics drive to the Roman Piazzale del Colosseo to have their vehicles blessed. If the farmers’ animals get a blessing, why shouldn’t the automobiles, right? 
• St. Patrick’s Day (March 17)
  • Ok, so St. Patty’s day isn’t exactly an Italian celebration, but that doesn’t mean that festivities can’t be found! If you’d like to enjoy a pint of Guinness and some music, head over to one of Rome’s Irish pubs and enjoy some of Rome’s friendly Irish expats.

Do you have an open schedule? Figure the best things to do in Rome before you visit!

 

Rome Weather in April

Spring is in the air as April’s blooming flowers and sunnier, warmer conditions take over Rome. Not being too hot or too cold – and with the tourist rush not yet in full effect – it’s a good time to visit Rome. Sunny and cloudy days have an average low is 46℉ (8℃) and an average high of 64℉ (18℃). 

Rome Events in April

• Easter and Holy Week (April, sometimes March)
  • Easter – and the week leading up to it – is a busy time in Rome. It’s because of this week that part of April is considered high tourist season! The Vatican City gets packed as masses form for the Pope’s Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday mass in St. Peter’s Square. Good Friday service in the Colosseum is pretty unforgettable too!
• The Founding of Rome (April 21st weekend)
  • If you’re lucky enough to be in Rome in April, be sure to wish it a “Happy birthday!” Rome’s birthday celebration includes live concerts, a parade, and special gladiator exhibitions and fireworks show at the Colosseum.

• The Festival of Spring (April thru June)
  • This multi-month annual event kicks off in April and features hundreds of events that take advantage of the blooming outdoors. See the Spanish Steps decorated with a colorful sea of azaleas and enjoy one of the many concerts, sporting events and more that take place at nearby venues.

Want to go deeper? These great museums in Rome are perfect for learning a little more.

 

Rome Weather in May

Sunny, warm and longer days arrive! And with peak tourist season just around the corner, many consider May to be the best time to visit Rome. The pleasant 53℉ (12℃) to 73℉ (23℃) temperatures provide the ideal conditions to enjoy all of Rome’s plentiful outdoor sights and events!

Rome Events in May

• Primo Maggio (May 1)
  • This is Labor Day in Italy and a national holiday that has many places closed for business. But a massive concert in Piazza San Giovanni brings the city to life with performances that start early in the afternoon and don’t stop until midnight!
• Open House Roma (first or second weekend of May)
  • Many private and public buildings throughout the city – that usually are closed off to visitors – open up their doors with free entry and tours. Architecture and history lovers should take advantage of this special opportunity to see inside a number of ancient, modern and historical Fascist-era buildings. Reservations are required, as this happens only one weekend a year. 

Interested in Rome? Read up on the history of Rome!

 

Rome Weather in June

Warm weather and an increasing influx of tourists mark the month of June in Rome. You’ll find mostly sunny skies and summer heat that hasn’t reached its peak yet, making for more comfortable conditions. Enjoy average daylight of 15 hours and temperatures ranging from 60℉ (15℃) to 80℉ (27℃).

Rome Events in June

• Festa della Repubblica (June 2)
  • This is Italy’s Independence Day, when the country celebrates becoming a republic after World War II in 1946. Experience true Italian patriotism at the big parade on Via dei Fiori Imperiale and watch streaks of red, white and green line the sky with the Italian Air Force’s spectacular flyover.
• Feast of San Giovanni (June 23 & 24)
  • Celebrate with the locals at this important festival with two days of food, dancing, music and a fireworks show in the piazza in front of the San Giovanni church in Laterano.

• Saint Peter and Saint Paul Day (June 29)

  • The celebration of two of Catholicism’s most important saints brings a not-to-miss sight of flower art displays, as over 1 million flowers are skillfully arranged on the pavement in gorgeous designs at St. Peter’s Square. A special mass is also held at St. Peter’s Basilica, and the day’s festivities close with a fireworks spectacle.

Want to go deeper? Take a cool tour in Rome to learn more than you could on your own!

 

Rome Weather in July

In July, Rome temperatures – and tourist levels – reach their peak! Days are long with mostly sunny days and cooler nights with daily temperatures averaging between 64℉ (18℃) to 86℉ (30℃). But be ready for muggy days that can reach over 100℉ (38℃). Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Rome Events in July

• Lungo il Tevere (summer months)
  • The banks of Rome’s Tiber River are primed for the celebration of summer with rows of hip pop-up restaurants, food stalls, outdoor bars, arts and craft sellers and live music. There’s no better way to enjoy a warm Roman night under the stars!
• Opera Nights at the Bath of Caracalla (summer months)
  • If experiencing a true Italian opera performance in one of the most beautiful and romantic outdoor settings in the world is on your bucket list, now’s your chance! The ancient ruins are lit and staged for the Teatro dell’ Opera di Roma opera series that takes place only in summer. Tickets consistently sell out, so book ahead.
• Rock in Roma (summer months)
  • This popular summer concert series features chart-topping musical talent locally and from overseas. Legendary greats like the Rolling Stones are included on their list of past acts! 

Rome Weather in August

• You’ll find fewer locals in Rome as the Romans head to the coast for their summer holiday and to escape the heat and humidity. The average high is 87℉ (30℃) with an average low of 64℉ (18℃). High humidity makes it feel hotter though, and temperatures can exceed 100℉ (38℃). This is generally the hottest month in Rome. 

Rome Events in August

• Ferragosto (August 15)
  • This national holiday falls on the Day of the Assumption and is technically one day, however, it marks the time when most Italians take their 2 to 3-week (sometimes longer) summer holiday. It’s not unlikely to see “chiuso per ferie” (closed for the holiday) signs posted on business fronts. If you have your heart set on dining at a specific restaurant or visiting a particular locale, first confirm whether or not they stay open in August!
• L’Isola del Cinema (summer months)
  • You can count on a unique and pleasurable experience at Rome’s well attended open-air movie screenings held annually on Tiber Island. Their program features classic and contemporary movies of varying genres from local Italian to international films.

Rome Weather in September

As the intense heat and tourist crowds begin tapering down and locals return to the city, September can be the best time to visit Rome. Temperatures drop to a mild and bearable range of 60℉ (15℃) to 80℉ (27℃). As the month continues, temperatures continue to drop and the chance of showers increases with an average of almost 3 inches (73mm) of rain.

Rome Events in September

• Soccer/Football at the Stadio Olimpico (starts September)
  • Depending on where you’re from and what you call it – soccer, football, futbol or calcio in Italian, you’ll be sure to have a blast attending a game at the famous stadium for the start of the season. Romans are especially passionate with the availability of two local teams: AS Roma and SS Lazio. 
• RomaEuropa Festival (starts late September)
  • A beautiful festival of arts that takes place around various venues across the city. The program includes art installations and performances of dance, music, film and theater. 
• Taste of Roma (3rd weekend in September)
  • If one of your top reasons for visiting Rome is for the food (for which we don’t blame you!), you’ll want to check out this 4-day culinary festival dedicated to the best of Italian food. You’ll get the chance to sample dishes from Rome’s best chefs, watch demonstrations and even take Italian food cooking classes!

Rome Weather in October

Fall settles over Rome with the arrival of cooler but still warm days and crisp nights, autumn-hued foliage and a continuing decline of tourists. For those who don’t mind possible scattered rain shower, October can also be considered the best to visit Rome. The average daytime high hovers at a pleasant 71℉ (22℃) with evening lows in the mid-50s℉ (11℃).

October Events in October

• Festa del Cinema di Roma (late October)
  • A definitely worthwhile 10-day event for movie buffs! Complete with a red carpet and screening rooms, the Auditorium Parco della Musica hosts a bulk of the program, but events are held at various venues throughout the city. Highlights include movie screenings, tributes, panels and masterclasses
• Halloween (late October)
  • Though not a traditionally-celebrated holiday in Italy, Halloween is gaining popularity with young people. So if you’re set on wearing a costume during your Roman holidays, not to worry! You can find Halloween events taking place around the city or attend a late-night costume party at one of Rome’s hot dance clubs.

Rome Weather in November

November days in Rome can be warm, but be prepared for a mix of clouds, increasing rain and cold nights. November is Rome’s wettest month with an average of 4 ½ inches (114mm) of rain. Most events move indoors as temperatures continue cooling down with an average range of 44℉ (7℃) to 60℉ (16℃).

Rome Events in November

• All Saints Day (November 1)
  • Italians take this national holiday to remember loved ones who have passed away by taking flowers to cemeteries and graves. To take part, you can find a special mass at churches throughout Rome in remembrance of the deceased or take this day to visit major sites like the Colosseum that remain open.
• La Parade Moderne (early-mid November)
  • It’s not very common to see a parade full of people dressed as modern art! The creative costumes are based on famous works from the likes of Ernst, Munch, Magritte and more. Head over to to the Testaccio Market and see it for yourself – plus it’s free!

Rome Weather in December

December is a cold and wet time in Rome. The days are short and mostly cloudy. Average temperatures range from a chillier 40℉ (4℃) to 55℉ (13℃) with frequent nighttime frost and levels that may reach below freezing. For the Christmas holiday in Rome, you’ll need to bundle up!

Rome Events in December

• Christmas Markets (starting the first weekend of December)
  • One of the best parts of visiting Rome in December is the number of festive Christmas markets that pop up in Piazza Navona. Browse through numerous stalls of holiday decorations, handmade gift items and special sweet treats. Stay warm by enjoying a cup of hot mulled wine or vin chaud as you stroll along and soak in all the holiday cheer!
• Christmas Eve at the Vatican (December 24)
  • It may go without saying that the Christmas season is a special one in Vatican City. One of the highlights is the unveiling of the life-size nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square. If you’re willing to join the masses, it’s quite a sight to behold!
• New Year’s Eve Celebrations (December 31)
  • As can be expected, you can find awesome ways to ring in the new year in Rome. Keep it mellow and intimate by making a reservation at one of the trattorias offering special New Year’s menus or join the crowds at the city’s biggest party in the Piazza del Popolo. If you’re up for a night of outdoor music, dancing, fireworks, and a communal countdown, this is the place to be!

 

What is the best time to visit Rome weather-wise? 

Luckily, Rome’s weather is mild and fairly warm most of the year. Except for a few months, almost any time is a good time to plan your Roman holiday. But the best time to visit Rome weather-wise is in late Spring (mid-April through May), June and early fall (September and October).

Scattered showers are possible in late Spring and early Fall, but overall, but you’ll find plenty of sunshine to enjoy the outdoors with some of Rome’s most comfortable temperatures in the 70s℉ (20s℃) range. May, June and September are especially lovely as the warmth is pleasant – without being too hot – and rain is minimal.

 

Final thoughts on the best time of year to visit Rome

Luckily, no matter when you decide to book your trip to Rome, the City of Lights will live up to its hype! Whether you go when it’s warm and sunny to visit some of Rome’s many historically famous landmarks, or you go when it’s cloudy and rainy to tour world-famous museums, Rome’s magic is omnipresent! Take in as much of the culture as possible by experiencing local events and traditions firsthand. Embrace it all, and don’t be afraid to do as the Romans do!

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