When to Visit Rome?
Choosing the right time to visit Rome is crucial for making the most of your stay in the Eternal City. Each season offers its own unique charm: from the mild and blooming temperatures of spring, to the sunny days of summer, to the calmer atmosphere of autumn and winter.
Depending on your heat tolerance, your preference for quiet or bustling visits, and your sensitivity to bad weather, it’s important to select the period that best suits you. This article is designed to provide you with all the necessary information, month by month, to help you plan the perfect Rome trip, according to your criteria.
- What is the climate in Rome according to the seasons?
- What is the best time to visit Rome?
- Visiting Rome in Spring (March to May)
- Exploring Rome in Summer (June to August)
- Autumn in Rome (September to November)
- **Roman Winter (December to February)**
- Are there any special events or holidays in Rome depending on the season?
- Is it too hot in summer to visit Rome?
- What is the off-season for tourism in Rome?
- When can you find the best prices for a stay in Rome?
- Is Rome crowded with tourists during certain times of the year?
- Are there periods to avoid visiting Rome?
- Which nationalities are most represented among visitors to Rome?
What is the climate in Rome according to the seasons?
View our infographic for all months of the year showing the travel conditions in Rome: what the climate is like on the spot, what the tourist crowds are like, etc.
This will give you all the information you need to choose the best time for your trip.
What is the best time to visit Rome?
Visiting Rome in Spring (March to May)
Spring in Rome is synonymous with rebirth. With pleasant temperatures, it’s the ideal time to explore enchanting green spaces such as the gardens of the Villa Borghese. Take advantage of the less crowded streets to discover hidden wonders without the tourist rush.
Exploring Rome in Summer (June to August)
Roman summer means sunny days and vibrant evenings, the perfect setting to experience the Dolce Vita. Don’t miss the cultural events that transform the city into an open-air stage. And for an unparalleled experience, witness a sunset over the Colosseum, an unforgettable spectacle.
Autumn in Rome (September to November)
Autumn paints the city in golden hues, offering picturesque panoramas around every corner. It’s a blessed time for strolls along the Tiber and to savour typical Roman dishes, comforting and seasonal, that will delight your senses.
**Roman Winter (December to February)**
Enjoy the **Christmas festivities**, which transform Rome into a winter wonderland! Attractions like the Trevi Fountain are **less crowded**, allowing you to fully appreciate them. A warm chocolate drink at a local cafe could be the highlight of your discovery days.
Are there any special events or holidays in Rome depending on the season?
We detail all of this in our article dedicated to Events and Special Festivals in Rome.
In 2025, don’t miss the Jubilee in Rome. This exceptional event only happens every 25 years!
Is it too hot in summer to visit Rome?
Visiting Rome in the summer can be hot, with temperatures often around 30-35°C in July and August. However, it remains doable if you plan your day well. Mornings and evenings are more pleasant for exploring the city. During the hottest hours, it is advisable to rest in the shade, visit air-conditioned museums or enjoy a good ice cream (gelato). Roman fountains located in many places in the city also offer a pleasant break. Although summer attracts many tourists, the city remains vibrant and rich in events, which can make a summer trip quite enjoyable.
However, if you have the option to travel in May-June or September-October, the temperatures will undoubtedly be more pleasant.
What is the off-season for tourism in Rome?
The off-season for tourism in Rome runs from November to February, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s holidays. During this period, the city is less crowded, allowing you to visit iconic sites without the usual long queues. Temperatures are cooler, ranging between 4°C and 13°C, but Rome retains its charm with its quiet streets and welcoming cafes. Hotel and flight prices are also lower, making this period ideal for those looking to discover Rome at a more relaxed and economical pace.
To get around Rome, Google Maps is a valuable ally. But why not go even further? Discover our interactive tourist map of Rome, designed to accompany you at all times. It will allow you to quickly identify the must-see sights around you and access detailed information about each place: its history, anecdotes, and our best tips to make the most of it.
When can you find the best prices for a stay in Rome?
The best prices for a stay in Rome are generally found during the off-season, from November to February, with the exception of the holiday season. Hotel and flight prices are more affordable, and many attractions offer discounts. Traveling mid-week or booking in advance can also help save money.
Is Rome crowded with tourists during certain times of the year?
Yes, Rome is particularly crowded during the summer months, from June to August, as well as around Easter and Christmas. These periods attract millions of visitors, making major attractions very crowded.
Are there periods to avoid visiting Rome?
The summer months, especially July and August, can be avoided if you fear intense heat and large crowds. Furthermore, the periods around Easter and Christmas see significant tourist traffic. If you want a quiet experience, opt for the months of November to March, avoiding major holidays.
Which nationalities are most represented among visitors to Rome?
The most represented nationalities among Rome’s visitors vary depending on the time of year. In general, European tourists are dominant, including the French, Germans, Spanish, and British. Americans are also very present, and to a lesser extent, Japanese, Chinese, and South Korean visitors.
Reliable and recent statistics on this topic are difficult to find. However, we have reliable data on Rome’s tourists in 2017. Below is the number of tourists who arrived in Rome in 2017 by country:
- United States: 2,144,000 arrivals
- Japan: 1,039,000 arrivals
- United Kingdom: 1,031,000 arrivals
- Germany: 1,026,000 arrivals
- Spain: 1,023,000 arrivals
- France: 1,017,000 arrivals
- South Korea: 1,015,000 arrivals
- China: 1,012,000 arrivals
- Australia: 1,009,000 arrivals
- Canada: 1,007,000 arrivals
Source: Statista
Rome isn’t just a destination, it’s a life experience, a treasure trove of moments and sensations. No matter the season you choose, the Eternal City holds unique adventures in store for you.
Have you already had the pleasure of visiting this magnificent city? Or are you planning to visit it soon? Share your experience in the comments section below. This will benefit all travelers.
So, why wait any longer? Start planning your Roman getaway now and let yourself be enchanted by the unparalleled atmosphere of this legendary city. To help you, consult our Advisor Itineraries and our interactive map of the city of Rome.
