Italy in October: All You Need to Know

October is an ideal time to visit Italy. This is when the warmth of the summer sun still lingers in the air and you can breathe in the intoxicating smell of harvested crops as you wander through the countryside devoid of summer crowds.

The temperature in Italy during October can range anywhere from 13°C to 21°C in the central part of the country, while in Rome the average temperature is between 12°C to 22°C. You can expect the mercury to climb up to a comfortable 24°C in southern Italy in October. In contrast to this, the northern parts of the country are much cooler and humid with temperatures dropping as low as 7°C, while the upper limit in these areas is 18°C. Do expect a little bit of rain although it isn’t as rainy compared to summer and spring.

For a seasonal overview, take a look at our best time to visit Italy travel guide.

As October is not the high season in Italy, you can leisurely explore every nook and corner of the country without being distracted by noisy holidaymakers. One of the biggest perks of going on an Italian vacation in October is the attractive offers and deals offered by hotels and airlines. Besides all this, you will also get to try a variety of famous Italian dishes and wines during October as it is the harvest season in the country.

Below we have listed a few reasons that make a trip to Italy in October a perfect choice for travelers.

• Cheaper prices: It is highly likely that you will get excellent deals on airlines, accommodation, and tours if you visit Italy in October. Be it a wine-tasting tour in Umbria or a trip to the iconic Galleria dell ’Accademia, home to the statue of David, an Italian sojourn during this time of year will definitely save you some bucks.
• Fewer travelers: As October is not the peak season, you will encounter fewer tourists during your trip. Therefore, you will not be wasting your time in long queues or get overwhelmed by suffocating crowds. Enjoy a relaxing retreat as you tick dozens off your bucket list.
• Festivals in October: Head to Devil’s Bridge in Borgo a Mozzano, located in northern Tuscany, for a Halloween party that sees its streets bustle with spooky characters. If you are a movie lover, do not miss out on the Rome Film Festival. In case you love running, you can look forward to participating in the famous Venice Marathon as well as the Enzo Ferrari Memorial Marathon in Maranello during your October trip.
• Harvest season bounty: Autumn is the harvest season and natives hold numerous festivities dedicated to food, wine, and local produce. The Euro Chocolate Festival in Perugia as well as the White Truffle Festival in Alba are must-visits for foodies.
• Relaxing beach stays: With a long and stunning Mediterranean coastline, Italy is the ideal place for a beach holiday. However, it can get unbearably hot in some sandy strips during summer. Head to the country in October and you can kick back on golden sands without having to worry about sunburn and crowds.

Milan, Turin, Tuscany, Venice, Rome, Sicily, and Trieste are some of the best places to visit in Italy during October. Tour Turin and discover Milan, the country’s fashion capital, during a sightseeing tour and dine at an al fresco restaurant. Drive through the fairy tale scenery of Tuscany and saunter through the hamlet of Praiano. Dig into the history of the Romans while in the capital city and breathe in the smell of freshly-baked bread and creamy cheese in Campo de’Fiori. As October is also opera season, do not forget to visit Venice to catch some incredible shows.

If you want to relax on the pristine beaches of Basilicata or swim in Pantelleria, there is no time better than October, because these places can be too hot during summer. From cruising around Capri to gawking at the monuments of Florence and hiking the majestic Dolomites, there are countless things to do in Italy. For more insights, head to our guide on how many days to spend in Italy.

Italy’s temperature is somewhat cool in October, although it can get slightly warm during the daytime. Make sure that you pack warm and waterproof garments to withstand overnight chills or autumn showers before flying to the country. Also, remember to carry some light layers for daytime wear along with your sunglasses. Sweater, umbrellas, and a pair or two of water-resistant shoes are also highly recommended.

An Italian holiday in October is an excellent idea, as you can avoid the sweltering heat of summer and massive crowds that the country sees during the peak season. Italy’s weather in autumn is ideal for exploration, relaxation, and for indulging in a myriad of indoor and outdoor activities all of which can be built into a customized trip to Italy. Connect with our travel experts in the country for a customized itinerary.

You might also want to check out our tours to Italy in October.

Italy in September
Italy in November
Private tours in Italy
Group tours in Italy