Thursday, June 2, 2016

The Best Time to Go to Italy

Best Time to Go to Italy

Ciao, bella! Ready for the ultimate Mediterranean getaway? From Milan to Sicily, Italy is one of the best destinations on the planet.

With its fascinating history, breathtaking natural beauty, delicious food, and endless entertainment options, Italy is the place to be 365 days a year.

Whether you lounge on the beach in Cala Mariolu, explore the Christmas market of Aosta Valley, or wander through the ruins of Rome, you can have an Italian dream vacation at any time of year.

Here’s tips on the best time to go to Italy!

Positano

Summer in Italy

  • Months: June – August

La dolce vita is in full swing during the sizzling months of summer. Festivals are everywhere and there’s always a reason to party.

Join the locals in celebrating the national Italian holiday Festa della Repubblica on June 2 or watch the fireworks on August 15 while you partake in Ferragosto, another one of Italy’s biggest celebrations.

While there is ample opportunity for fun in the sun, summer is also peak tourism time in Italy. In August, many Italians go away on holiday to the mountains and countryside, so if it’s your dream to sit in a quint cafĂ© surrounded by locals, pick another time of year.

During the peak months, you’re more likely to rub shoulders with one of your own compatriots.

Highlights: Festa della Repubblica & Ferragosto

Amalfi Coast Restaurant

Autumn in Italy

  • Months: September – November

While summers can be scorching in Italy, the fall months are gorgeous. Even in the northernmost areas, you’ll often find afternoon temperatures in the 70s and 80s through September.

While tourist favorites like Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Amalfi coast often stay crowded into October, you will find fewer travelers throughout the country as the season goes on.

Local food and wine festivals called sagres are everywhere in the fall. Celebrate your love of chocolate, wine, truffles, and chestnuts like a proper Italian. On your way, be sure to explore the countryside to take in the stunning fall colors in the vineyards starting in the middle of October going through November.

Highlights: Food & Wine

Venice Canals

Winter in Italy

  • Months: December – March

Crowds are at a minimum in the winter so you can explore museums and galleries to your heart’s content. The theatre and opera season is in full swing so it’s really the peak time of year to take in Italian culture.

Beginning the first week of December, you can also start shopping Christmas markets around the country.

In the mood for a ski getaway? Unlike France and Switzerland, Italy is known for its chill ski resorts. While a serious competitive attitude prevails at many Europeans ski resorts, places like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Madonna di Campiglio, and Cervinia are perfect for skiers who are looking for a little fun in the snow.

Highlights: Christmas Markets & Skiing

Amalfi Coast

Spring in Italy

  • Months: April – May

Italy is at its vibrant best during the spring. With flowers coming into bloom, every stall and street corner is filled with gorgeous displays. You can beat the summer rush of tourists while enjoying all the colors and sunshine of April and May.

And have I mentioned how much I love Italian spring food? The cuisine is very seasonal here so even if you were just at the fall food fests, you can eat your way through the country once again. Go pick wild strawberries in the hills outside Rome then travel to the countryside to sample this season’s grapes.

Highlights: Grapes!

The Yacht Week Italy

Time Stands Still Here

Did you know that people in Sardinia have some of the longest life expectancies in the world? Just 120 miles off the coast of mainland Italy, people are living to well over 100 years old. Once you go there, you will see why.

The area abounds with fresh food, perfect walking weather, and a laid-back approach to life. Anywhere, anytime in Italy, you can feel this sense of timelessness that will make you feel like you never want to leave!

READ NEXT: How to Travel Italy on a Budget

 

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The Best Time to Go to Italy is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



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