Rome, the Eternal City, is one of the most iconic destinations in the world. With its ancient ruins and its vibrant piazzas, there's always something to explore.
But when is the best time to visit Rome to make the most of your trip? If you're a history enthusiast , food lover, or just in it for the gelato, the timing of your visit can make a huge difference in the experience.
In this guide, we'll explore the best times to visit Rome based on weather, crowds, and things to do. So, grab your passport, and let's dive into the best time to visit Rome!
Spring in Rome: best time for sightseeing
Spring in Villa Borghese
Spring is one of the best times to visit Rome, especially if you’re a fan of walking tours, photography, and outdoor activities. The temperatures are perfect for exploring Rome’s ancient sites without the scorching summer heat. Plus, the crowds are still manageable, making it easier to take in the sights.
📅 When: March–May
🚨 Expect: Manageable crowds, but it can get busy around Easter and during May holidays.
🌤️ Weather: Mild and sunny, with a few rainy days.
Things to do in Rome during Spring
1. Explore Villa Borghese when flowers bloom
Villa Borghese in Rome
Spring is when Villa Borghese shines. The park is full of flowers, and the weather is perfect for walking or cycling around. You can enjoy the beauty of nature with the Borghese Gallery and Gardens Tour, where you'll see amazing art and a beautiful garden. It’s a great place to escape the city buzz and enjoy the mild weather before the summer heat arrives.
2. Visit the Colosseum before summer crowds hit
Exploring the Colosseum in Rome | Photo Credits: Jovan Vasiljević on Pexels
Spring is a great time to visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum. The weather is cool, making it way easier to explore these huge ancient sites. You won’t have to fight huge crowds or sweat in the summer sun. It’s the perfect time to learn about the Romans without waiting forever in line.
3. Explore Trastevere’s streets
Yummy food tour in Trastevere, Rome
Trastevere is one of Rome’s coolest neighborhoods. In spring, it’s full of life but not too crowded. You can wander down its charming alleys, grab a bite to eat, and just soak in the vibe. The best way to really experience it is by taking a Trastevere food tour. You’ll try some delicious local dishes and get to explore one of the most fun neighborhoods in Rome.
Autumn in Rome: Best time for food and events
Tiber river in autumn | Photo Credits: Krzysztof Golik on Wikimedia
Autumn is another fantastic time to visit Rome, especially if you're a foodie or culture enthusiast. The weather is still warm early on, but it becomes much more comfortable as the months progress. Plus, autumn in Rome is harvest season, so you’ll find markets filled with fresh produce!
📅 When: September–November
🚨 Expect: Fewer crowds than summer, especially by November.
🌤️ Weather: Warm early autumn, but cooler by November.
Things to do in Rome during Autumn
1. Visit Campo de’ Fiori for seasonal produce
Porchetteria in Rome, Italy
Autumn is all about fresh, local ingredients, and Campo de’ Fiori is where you’ll find the best of them. From sweet grapes to earthy mushrooms and chestnuts, the market is packed with tasty fall treats.
If you’re a foodie, join a Campo de’ Fiori Street food tour to sample the best of Roman street food made with seasonal ingredients. You’ll get a real taste of Rome's autumn flavors.
2. Celebrate Ottobrata Romana at Piazza Navona
Ottobrata Romana festival at Piazza Navona
October in Rome is special because of the Ottobrata Romana festival. It’s a celebration of the fall harvest, and Piazza Navona is the perfect place to enjoy it. You’ll find food, wine, and street performances as the weather gets cooler.
It’s the perfect way to spend a chill day in Rome, enjoying some seasonal dishes while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
3. Experience the Rome Film Festival
Rome Film Festival at auditorium parco della musica | Photo Credits: Allesio Maeffis on Flickr
Autumn in Rome also means the Rome Film Festival, a must-see if you’re a movie lover. This event brings filmmakers and fans from around the world, making the city feel even more alive.
It’s a great break from the usual sightseeing if you want to experience Rome's artistic side. From films to art, you’ll get a taste of something totally different.
Winter in Rome: best time for budget travel
Winter in Rome, Italy | Photo Credits: Blackcat on Wikimedia
Winter is a quieter time in Rome, and if you want to visit on a budget, this is the time to go. Hotel prices drop, and the crowds thin out, so you can enjoy the city’s landmarks without the long lines. The weather can be chilly, but it's not freezing, and the indoor attractions are perfect for winter days.
📅 When: December–February
🚨 Expect: Lower hotel prices and shorter lines at attractions (except around Christmas and New Year).
🌤️ Weather: Cooler weather, with a few chilly day
Things to do in Rome during Winter
1. Warm up at Rome's museums
Borghese Gallery paintings
Winter in Rome is perfect for hitting up the city’s indoor spots like the Borghese Gallery. The cooler weather makes it much more comfortable to walk around and take in the art. With fewer crowds, you can appreciate the masterpieces by Caravaggio and Bernini without feeling rushed. If you love art, don’t miss a Borghese Gallery tour, it’s one of the best museums in the city.
Want to visit more museums? It’s smart to book the Klook Pass Rome, where you’ll get access to more than 30 top attractions, including the Borghese Gallery, the Pantheon, and the Vatican Museums, all for one discounted price. Make the most of your time in the city, hopping between all the must-see museums without breaking the bank!
2. Take a cooking class in Rome
Pasta making class in Rome
Winter is all about comfort food, so why not learn to cook like a Roman? A Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class is the perfect way to spend a cold day in Rome. You’ll get hands-on experience making classic Italian dishes, and the warm kitchen will feel extra cozy. Plus, you get to eat what you make, which is always a win.
3. Shop the winter sales
Designer shopping in Rome | Photo Credits: Alexandra Maria on Pexels
If you love shopping, winter is the best time to score deals. From January onwards, Rome’s stores go on sale, and you can snag designer clothes for way cheaper than usual. You can also head to Castel Romano Designer Outlet, where the discounts are even bigger.
With the cooler weather, it’s the perfect time to shop comfortably without sweating. Whether you’re after a new jacket or some stylish shoes, the winter sales are your chance to score a bargain.
FAQs about the best time to visit Rome
What is the best month to go to Rome?
The best months to visit are in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). The weather is comfortable, the crowds are smaller than in summer, and it’s perfect for sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful flowers, while fall offers tasty seasonal food and fewer tourists.
Which is the cheapest month to visit Rome?
Winter (December-February) is usually the cheapest time to visit. Hotel prices drop, and flights are more affordable. Just be ready for cooler weather, but you’ll save money and avoid big crowds.
What is the rainiest month in Rome?
November tends to be the rainiest month. Expect occasional showers, so bring an umbrella and jacket. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty to see and do indoors, like visiting museums.
What's the coldest month in Rome, Italy?
January is the coldest month. While it’s chillier, it’s still mild compared to other European cities, with daytime temps usually around 10°C (50°F). It’s also less crowded, so it’s a good time for a quieter trip.
When not to visit Rome?
The summer months (June-August) can be very hot and crowded, especially around tourist sites. If you want to avoid the heat and long lines, spring or fall are way better.
Find your best time to visit Rome!
Rome is a city for all seasons. If you want to enjoy the warm sun in spring, dive into the local food scene in fall, or explore cultural gems without the crowds in winter, there’s no bad time to visit.
So, pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to make memories in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
