Rome's Weather

The weather in Rome Italy is almost always mild; winters are rarely cold, and snow is uncommon. December through February is the coldest period, with temperatures averaging around 55 °F (13 °C).

The best time to visit Rome is definitely from late April through mid-June. The temperatures are warm but not stifling, and the evenings are very pleasant, although during the evening, in late April and early May, you may need a light jacket. I particularly love Rome over the Easter period; you can read why here.

Another good month is September. In September, you'll find the weather to be pleasantly cool and a lot less humid, with plenty of wonderful sunny days. Most times, short sleeves will be fine during the day, while a light jacket or sweater will suffice for the evenings. The other good thing about September is that you'll find Rome to be far less crowded with tourists too.

Early October can also be pleasant, although it is a little less predictable from a weather point of view. You can be unlucky even in early October and get day after day of rain, but you can also be lucky and get glorious sunny days.

Everything you need to know about the top sights in Rome is here.

Unfortunately, the months when most people visit Rome are the months during which the weather is at its worst. These are the months of July and August, when not only is the weather stiflingly hot and humid, but the city is overrun with tourists.

August is particularly bad; most Romans have closed up and gone on vacation, and any authentic Roman atmosphere has almost entirely disappeared.

Late October and November too are best avoided; this is the period when most of Rome’s rainfall occurs and miserable rainy days are common.

To maximize your Roman adventure, plan your days around the weather. In hot summers, explore early mornings or evenings and take long, leisurely lunches indoors. In spring and autumn, enjoy outdoor dining and long walks through picturesque neighborhoods like Trastevere. Winter’s cooler weather makes it the best time to explore museums and churches without the crowds. Always pre-book tickets to popular attractions like the Colosseum or Vatican, and leave time for spontaneous discoveries—Rome’s charm often lies in its hidden corners and small piazzas.

Packing for Rome depends on the season, but versatility is key. In spring and autumn, bring layers like light jackets and comfortable shoes for walking. For summer, pack breathable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay cool. Winters are mild but damp, so a warm coat, scarf, and waterproof shoes are essential. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as Rome’s cobblestones and hilly streets demand it.

And don’t forget a day bag for essentials like water and a map!  Use backpacks that you can keep in front of you for your valuables, as pickpockets are an issue in Rome's touristy areas and on public transport.