If you’re dreaming about sunny beaches, ancient cities, fine food, and rich culture, Italy and Greece are the perfect places to visit. But a key question remains: What is the best time to visit Italy and Greece?
The best time to visit Italy and Greece is during spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). These months offer the ideal combination of pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and relaxed elegance. Your perfect timing may vary slightly depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- What each season offers
- When to expect rain
- High, low, and shoulder seasons
- Local cultural highlights
Let’s explore each season in more detail.
Visiting Italy & Greece by Season
Spring (April to June)
Spring is a charming season to visit both Italy and Greece. Nature is in bloom, temperatures are pleasant, and top attractions feel accessible and relaxed.
Why it’s a great time to go:
- Gentle, sunny weather
- Less crowded historic sites and galleries
- Blossoming gardens and scenic drives
- Perfect for wine tasting and cultural strolls
Italy in Spring: Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are more enjoyable without peak-season crowds. Coastal areas such as the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are peaceful yet fully open.
Greece in Spring: Athens, Crete, and the Peloponnese are wonderful this time of year. Archaeological sites are easy to explore, and boutique hotels offer attentive service.
Special Touch: Orthodox Easter celebrations bring a beautiful sense of tradition, especially in rural villages and smaller towns.
Summer (July and August)
Summer is the busiest time of year. While it’s lively, the intense heat and crowds may take away from a relaxed, refined experience.
What to expect:
- High temperatures (often above 35°C)
- Tour groups and cruise ship crowds
- Premium pricing on accommodations
Italy in Summer: Cities can feel overly warm. Many locals leave in August. Coastal resorts are full, but not always restful.
Greece in Summer: Popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos are very crowded. For a quieter summer escape, consider Sifnos, Naxos, or the Peloponnese.
Recommended if you:
- Prefer full access to seasonal luxury services
- Choose high-end accommodations with private experiences and concierge services
- Are visiting regions with cooler climates, like the Italian Alps or northern Greece
Autumn (September to October)
Autumn offers elegance, comfort, and color. It’s a favorite time for seasoned travelers who value balance.
Why travel in autumn:
- Warm days and crisp evenings
- Fewer crowds at major sights
- Ideal time for vineyard visits and harvest festivals
- The sea remains warm through September
Italy in Autumn: The harvest season makes regions like Tuscany and Umbria ideal. You can visit wineries, join truffle hunts, or enjoy cooking classes.
Greece in Autumn: The islands are quieter and more authentic. It’s a great time for cultural excursions, scenic walks, and sunset dinners without rush.
Winter (November to March)
Winter is low season, but perfect for travelers who prefer a peaceful, cultural escape with a local touch.
What to expect:
- Cooler temperatures and shorter days
- Lower hotel rates and smaller crowds
- Excellent access to museums and indoor attractions
Italy in Winter: Visit cities like Milan, Florence, or Rome for arts, shopping, and fine dining. Northern Italy offers top-tier ski resorts with luxury chalets.
Greece in Winter: Athens remains vibrant. Island life slows, but Crete and Rhodes still have boutique options. It’s a time for quiet luxury and deep cultural experiences.
Best for:
- Lovers of classical art and architecture
- Travelers seeking authentic cuisine and calm
- Luxury spa or wellness retreats
When Is Rainy Season in Italy and Greece?
Italy:
- Most rain falls in October and November, especially in northern cities and lakes.
- Southern regions tend to be drier, especially in spring.
Greece:
- Rain peaks between December and February, mostly in western and island regions.
Good to know: Rain showers are often short and light. They rarely disrupt a well-planned itinerary.
When Is High Season in Italy and Greece?
High season = July and August
- Most popular tourist period
- Full access to luxury services, but with less privacy
- Best to book private tours and accommodations far in advance
Not ideal for travelers seeking space, calm, and exclusivity.
When Is Shoulder Season in Italy and Greece?
Shoulder season = April to June and September to October
- Refined pace, fewer crowds
- Excellent for villa stays, cultural touring, and scenic drives
- Better attention at fine restaurants and boutique hotels
Highly recommended for luxury travelers over 45.
When Is Low Season in Italy and Greece?
Low season = November to March
- Tranquil cities and historic towns
- Clear access to museums and exhibitions
- Many luxury accommodations offer winter specials
Ideal for:
- Culture-focused travelers
- Romantic getaways with cozy atmospheres
- Slow travel with personalized attention
3 More Questions People Ask
1. When Are the Best Local Festivals?
Local festivals are part of the charm and offer deep cultural insights.
Italy:
- Carnevale (February): Stunning costumes and parades, best in Venice and Verona
- Harvest festivals (September/October): Wine, olives, truffles — all with refined tastings and private tours
Greece:
- Greek Easter (March/April): A deeply meaningful event, especially in the Cyclades
- Athens Epidaurus Festival (June–August): Classical theater under the stars
2. When’s the Best Weather?
For mild, sunny days with a breeze:
- Italy: May, early June, and September
- Greece: Late May and all of September
Why?
- Pleasant temperatures (20–28°C)
- Beautiful light for photography and painting
- Fewer crowds at top restaurants and sights
3. When Are Flights and Hotels Cheapest?
Best value travel = November to March
While luxury travelers might prioritize comfort over price, this period offers:
- Quiet five-star stays
- Personalized service
- Spa and wellness specials
Tip: Avoid late December unless you enjoy holiday events. January and February are more peaceful.
What Kind of Trip Do You Want?
Here’s a quick guide tailored for 45+ luxury travelers:
| Travel Style | Ideal Months |
|---|---|
| Art, history, and culture | April – June, September – October |
| Wine and gourmet travel | September – October |
| Relaxation by the sea | May – June, September |
| Scenic drives and countryside | April – June, October |
| Wellness and spa retreats | November – March |
| Festive atmosphere | December |
Final Tip: May or September Are Gold
If you’re still deciding, choose May or September. These months combine:
- Ideal weather
- Warm hospitality
- Beautiful landscapes
- Easy access to top-tier experiences
Summary: The Best Time to visit Italy and Greece
There’s no single answer for every traveler. But if you’re seeking comfort, culture, and charm — away from crowds and chaos — spring and early autumn are your perfect seasons.
Whether it’s enjoying a private wine tasting in Tuscany or watching the sunset over the Aegean from a luxury suite, planning around the seasons ensures a seamless, elegant experience.
Would you like help curating a high-end itinerary? I’d be happy to assist in planning something unforgettable, tailored to your pace and preferences.
