Rome is a European city but it has a very Mediterranean type of climate. So here you will experience hot summers and cool but not frigid winters. The transition seasons in Rome will also make for great weather, so really, there isn’t a ‘best’ time to visit Rome. Your trip’s timing must then depend on what kind of activities you would like to pursue and what season you like best. If you are coming shopping then it is January or July, while if you want to experience Roman Christmas or Easter, then December and April respectively. 

Here’s a little seasonal calendar for you.

Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Rome, because not only is it a time of mild weather and nascent sunshine, there is a quietness that you wont find in summer or even festive winter. April is one of the most glorious months in Rome, as the skies are clear blue and weather warm, 12°C being the low and 20°C being the high by month end. This month is also the month of Easter Festival and since the Vatican is located inside Rome, you can only imagine the fanfare that this Christian festival draws.

Summer is the official peak season for all of Europe, and by association, crowds do spill into Rome too. We wouldn’t say it is not a great time, but Rome is hot during summers, unlike other European destinations. The temperature goes up to 31°C in the peak of July, while there is hardly any rainfall. The sunshine is nice and feels lovely on the skin as you explore in the mornings, but afternoons are hot and legit siesta time. August is stifling and unbearable, the heat almost oppressive. But this is also the season to enjoy tons of gelato at every other shop, drink water from the wells and fountains (yes, they are certified to be potable and also contain special natural minerals), and chill at sundown in nice cafes. 

Shopping may not be the best experienced at this time because most locals close their shops and leave for August.

Autumns in Rome are as good as spring to visit, with milder temperatures and lesser crowds. The only slight drawback is the propensity of rainfall. It is a relatively wet season and October is quite rainy. So outdoors are not always open for exploration. Winter rains leave November chilly and by the middle of the month you will need your woollens.

It hardly ever snows in Rome, once a couple of years at the most. Yet, the time between January and February is chilling, freezing to the bones. Rains are most common and that makes the atmosphere wetter and colder. The weather is also unpredictable and therefore this is not a good time to visit, unless you want to experience Roman Christmas and enjoy the nights, music and festive cheer of the city.