Italy in September: Weather Info & Best Places to Travel (2024)

Are you planning a trip to Italy in September?

September is one of the best months to visit Italy. The weather is amazing, the crowds have slowed down compared to peak summer season, and practically anywhere in Italy is perfect to visit in September, all the way from the Dolomites down to Sicily.

We have spent months traveling throughout Italy, and September is the month that we most-often visit Italy.

In this guide, we are sharing all you need to now about visiting Italy in September. This includes an overview of the best places to visit, the weather in September, holidays, and tips on how to pack for your trip.

Read on to learn what it’s like to spend September in Italy.

September Italy Weather

September weather in Italy is pleasant and mild making it a great time to go sightseeing in the cities, hiking in the mountains, and even relaxing at the beaches. Early September typically offers warm, sunny days, while the second half of the month brings in cooler temperatures with occasional rain and overcast skies.

Average Temperature in Italy in September

• Northern Italy: Average high temperatures between 76°F – 78°F (24°C – 26°C)
• Central Italy: Average high temperatures between 75°F – 80°F (24°C – 27°C)
• Southern Italy:Average high temperatures between 79°F – 83°F (26°C – 28°C)

Is September a rainy month in Italy?

September is still pretty dry compared to spring and late fall. Milan has an average rainfall of 1″ in September, Rome has 0.78″, and Florence has 1.08″ of rainfall.

We have been everywhere from Venice in northern Italy to Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy during the month of September. Over the years, regardless of where we are, we’ve found that it usually rains a few days on our September trip.

However, the storm is usually pretty quick and doesn’t last all day. Bring an umbrella and rain jacket just in case.

Here’s an overview of the weather throughout Italy in September:

Our Experience:

We have spent numerous Septembers in Italy, and it’s our favorite time to visit due to the incredible weather and the fall harvest.

Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Piedmont are all particularly beautiful in September because of the fall wine harvest. The major cities, from Venice down to Rome, are still quite busy, but the crowds aren’t as crazy as summer.

Advantages of Visiting Italy in September

• Mild weather: September offers a mix of warm sunny days and cooler evenings, ideal for sightseeing and planning outdoor activities.
• Shoulder season prices: While the prices are still fairly expensive in September, travel costs start to come down after the summer high season.
• Harvest season: September is when the grape harvest season begins. The vineyards are at their peak and you can even see some growers harvesting their crops. Tuscany, Piedmont, and the hills of Emilia-Romagna are particularly beautiful this time of year.
• Cultural Festivals: With the fall harvest comes many cultural events, plus wine and food festivals throughout Italy.

Disadvantages of Visiting Italy in September

• Variable weather: While overall a pleasant month, September can bring unpredictable weather, especially in the second half of the month. Plan for cooler evenings and some rain showers.
• Limited beach days: The beaches are wonderful visit during the first couple of weeks in September, but as the month progresses and it starts to cool down, it may not be ideal beach conditions.
• Still expensive: September is partly into shoulder season but still experiences high season prices. Plan for higher accommodation and overall travel expenses during this time.
• Crowded: Because of the ideal weather, September has become an increasingly popular month to visit Italy. Expect crowds everywhere, especially in the main cities, although the coastal destinations will not be as crowded as July and August.

15 Best Places to Visit in Italy in September

1. Venice in September

Venice is beautiful and vibrant in September. With the Venice Film Festival and the Venice Biennale (a major art festival) in 2024, there is a lot of excitement happening.

Unfortunately, there are still some lingering summer crowds in September, so expect busy sites and higher prices. Make sure to reserve skip-the-line tickets online in advance for major sites like the Doge’s Palace.

This is a great time of year to explore the islands, such as Burano and Murano, and to enjoy the long days before fall begins.

Venice Weather in September

Expect sunny weather during the day and chilly evenings. The average daytime temperatures are 75°F (24°C) and the lows are around 59°F (15°C). Some rain is expected, especially in late September.

Things to do in Venice in September

• Attend the Venice Biennale art exhibition that takes place around the city.
• Explore the islands – Murano, Burano, and the Lido.
• Take a gondola ride.
• Visit the main sites, such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and Doge’s Palace.
• Take a vaparetto ride along the Grand Canal.

2. Rome in September

We love visiting Rome in September! Yes, it’s busy and sites are crowded, but if you plan ahead, it can be an enjoyable experience.

To avoid the long lines, reserve your skip-the-line tickets for popular sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican. Try to visit the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Pantheon first thing in the morning before the crowds.

Tip: Stay up later and walk around the Trevi Fountain at night to see it lit up. We’ve done this multiple times and you can actually peacefully enjoy your experience instead of being pushed around by all the tourists trying to take a photo.

Rome Weather in September

The weather is still nice enough to enjoy outdoor dining, and it’s not unbearably hot like the summer season. September temperatures range from 81°F (27°C) highs and 60°F (16°C) lows.

Things to do in Rome in September

• Visit the ancient Roman sites, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon.
• See the Trevi Fountain.
• Visit Vatican City and see the Vatican museums.
• Climb the Spanish steps and enjoy the views from Pincian Hill.
• Wander around the Trastevere neighborhood.
• Eat at the Testaccio market, one of the best indoor food markets in Rome.

3. Florence in September

September in Florence is wonderful, albeit crowded. The temperatures are more mild, with some rainy days here and there, which is ideal for visiting the city’s museums and historical sites.

Like most of Italy in September, book tickets in advance, particularly for the Uffizi Galleries, Duomo, and Accademia Gallery. Lines are long and you will save a lot of time by reserving before your trip.

Florence Weather in September

Average temperatures range from 80°F (27°C) during the day and 60°F (16°C) in the evening. It has rained for at least a day every time we have visited Florence in September, so bring a rain jacket and umbrella just in case.

Things to do in Florence in September

• Explore the Duomo, baptistry, and bell tower.
• Visit the Uffizi Galleries.
• Wander across Ponte Vecchio.
• See Michelangelo’s “David” at the Accademia Gallery.
• Visit the Boboli Gardens.
• Take a walking food tour around the city.

4. Bologna & Emilia-Romagna in September

Bologna is one of Italy’s hidden gems and one of our most explored cities in Italy. We have spent months here, and the fall season, from September to November, is the best time to visit Bologna and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region.

Known for its delicious food, September is a great time to go enjoy wine tastings in the region, visit local food producers, enjoy handmade pasta, and visit some of the historical sites in Bologna.

Other than Bologna, there are so many beautiful towns in the region that are worth visiting this time of year. Here are a few places in Emilia-Romagna we recommend visiting:

• Parma – home to Parmigiano Reggiano and one of the most beautiful Duomo’s in the region.
• Modena – home to Balsamic Vinegar and the Ferrari Museum.
• Ravenna – home to the most beautiful Byzantine Mosaics that are a must-see.
• Dozza – a small village with an incredible wine shop and art painted on the buildings.
• Brisighella – a medieval village with gorgeous scenery and a lot of delicious olive oil and local wines

Bologna Weather in September

Bologna cools down in September and is much more bearable to visit compared to the summer months. Expect high temperatures of 79°F (26°C) and lows of 59°F (15°C).

Things to do in Bologna

• Go on a Bologna Food Tour.
• Climb the longest portico in the world to San Luca.
• Enjoy the views from the Asinelli Tower.
• Appreciate the medieval architecture in Piazza Maggiore.
• Explore the oldest university in the world.

5. Verona in September

Verona is one of the most charming cities in northern Italy and September is a fantastic time to visit. Whether you’re taking a day trip to Verona from Milan or Venice, or spending a few days here, there is a lot to see and do.

The famous Verona Opera Festival ends the first week of September, so you if you are there during this time, you’ll have the opportunity to attend an Opera in an ancient Roman theater. Additionally, on September 16th, the city celebrates Juliet’s birthday with costume parades and other festivities.

If you have the chance to spend a few days in Verona (we highly recommend!), there are plenty of fantastic day trips within an hour or so.

• Mantua
• Padua
• Vicenza
• Venice
• Lake Garda

Verona Weather in September

The average evening and daytime temperatures range from 58°F – 77°F (14°C – 25°C) in September. Plan for potential rain in the weather forecast and bring a light jacket for the evenings.

Things to do in Verona

• Visit the city’s main sites, such as the Roman Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, and Juliet’s Balcony.
• Enjoy the views from the top of Torre dei Lamberti and Castel San Pietro.
• Visit Verona’s 4 churches.
• Wander through the beautiful Giusti Gardens.

6. Milan in September

Milan is great to visit anytime of the year, but September is exceptionally beautiful. The city comes back to life after the August holidays, and there is plenty to keep you busy both indoors and outdoors.

Milan Fashion Week takes place during the middle of the month. We suggest you avoid visiting during this week as accommodation prices are much higher due to the influx in visitors.

September is busy, so book your tickets for the Milan Duomo and The Last Supper in advance to avoid waiting in the long lines.

Milan Weather in September

September temperatures are perfect for sightseeing with daytime highs of 78°F (26°C) and evening lows of 59°F (15°C). You may experience a rainy day here or there, but overall, the weather should be pretty nice this month.

Things to do in Milan

• See The Last Supper by Leonardo DaVinci.
• Visit the Duomo and get tickets to climb to the roof.
• Shop at the Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II.
• Enjoy aperitivo by the Navigli Canals.
• Visit the stunning Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore.

7. Tuscany in September

One of our favorite places to visit in Italy in September is Tuscany. The countryside is absolutely magical from the rolling hills in the Val d’Orcia to the ripe vineyards in Chianti.

This is an ideal time to visit local vineyards and enjoy wine tastings during the fall harvest season. We recommend taking an e-bike tour or a wine tasting tour with an expert local guide.

Additionally, September’s incredible weather makes for a great time to road trip around the Tuscan villages. From small villages like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Volterra to larger ones like Lucca and Siena, you could spend days exploring the Tuscan countryside.

September’s mild weather in Tuscany is also a great excuse to head to one of Tuscany’s natural hot springs, such as Saturnia Hot Springs.

Tuscany Weather in September

The weather in Tuscany varies depending on where you are in the region. Located in central Tuscany, Siena’s average temperatures range from 79°F (26°C) in the daytime and 59°F (15°C) at night.

8. Turin & Piedmont in September

Located at the base of the Italian Alps, Turin is a wonderful city that is still fairly unknown to foreigners. With its baroque buildings, elegant cafes, historic museums, and incredible cuisine, September is a wonderful time to explore the capital city of the Piedmont region.

Turin is the home of Italian chocolate, so it’s best to take yourself on a chocolate tour to taste some of the local specialties. Make sure to taste some Gianduja chocolate, a soft chocolate mixed with hazelnuts, and grab a Bicerin drink made with espresso, chocolate, and cream.

Turin Weather in September

September brings pleasant weather in Turin with daytime averages of 69°F (21°C) and evening averages of 58°F (14°C). You will want to pack a jacket and pants, as this northern city is much cooler than the southern regions.

Things to do in Turin

• Visit the oldest Egyptian Museum in the world – Museo Egizio.
• Enjoy the view of the city and the alps from the Basilica of Superga.
• Wander around the Piazza San Carlo.
• Visit the Mole Antonelliana and the Cinema Museum.

9. Puglia in September

September is an ideal time to visit Puglia. You avoid the August crowds and still get to enjoy some of that summer sun down south.

While the weather is still warm enough to swim in the Adriatic the first few weeks of September, it starts to cool down later in the month. With so many unique small towns to explore and local culture to experience, there is plenty to keep you busy Puglia throughout the month.

Puglia weather in September

With temperatures ranging from 62°F – 79°F (17°C – 26°C) in Puglia, September is an ideal month to enjoy the last of the beach days and go sightseeing around the region.

Things to do in Puglia

• Enjoy the sandy beaches.
• Visit historic towns, such as Locorotondo, Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, and Alberobello.
• Taste some fresh seafood.

10. Sicily in September

With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, Sicily in September is a wonderful time to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and ancient sights.

The weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beaches, but without all of the summer tourists. Additionally, prices are usually lower in September compared to July and August.

Sicily Weather in September

Daytime temperatures in September get up to 81°F (27°C) and evening temperatures around 70°F (21°C). There is a slight change of rain, as Palermo sees an average rainfall of 1.29″ in September.

Things to do in Sicily

• Visit Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Cefalu and the island’s other main cities.
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches.
• Explore the Aeolian islands just off the coast of Sicily.
• Hike to the top of Mount Etna.

11. Cinque Terre in September

Cinque Terre is beautiful in September. With sunny days and warm weather, you can still hang out at the beach or go swimming in the Mediterranean.

Unfortunately, the summer crowds are still alive and well in September. Expect busy trains, long lines, and crowded hiking trails.

We suggest spending at least one night in Cinque Terre, so you can beat the crowds in the morning and stay out later after all of the day trippers have left.

Cinque Terre Weather in Spetember

With mild days around 75°F (24°C) and cooler evenings around 59°F (15°C), this weather is perfect for sightseeing and hiking around these charming seaside villages.

Things to do in Cinque Terre

• Enjoy the beach in Monterosso al Mare.
• Hike the Vernazza to Corniglia trail.
• Experience the sunset in Manarola.
• Take in the views in Riomaggiore.
• Go swimming in Vernazza or Manarola.

12. Amalfi Coast in September

Even though September is technically the start of the shoulder season in Italy, you will still experience summer crowds along the Amalfi Coast this time of year. With that being said, the weather is fantastic this time of year and it’s a great time to explore this beautiful region in southern Italy.

Prices are still high in September, so book your accommodation and travel arrangements well in advance.

Amalfi Coast Weather in September

The days are still quite warm in September and the evenings cool down nicely. Expect daytime highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 69°F (21°C).

Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

• Take a boat ride to Capri and explore the island for a day or two.
• Enjoy the beaches in Positano.
• Get a lemon and orange granita.
• Hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), one of the most popular trails.
• Explore other towns, such as Ravello, Sorrento, and Atrani.

13. Umbria in September

Umbria is one of the best places in Italy to enjoy untouched nature and authentic Italian culture. This lesser known region is much quieter than it’s neighboring region, Tuscany, but still has so much to offer.

Take a road trip through many of the region’s towns, such as Assisi, Orvieto, Spello, and Perugia. Or spend a few days relaxing at an agriturismo near Lake Trasimeno, one of the region’s gems.

Umbria Weather in August

In September, Umbria experiences highs of 78°F (26°C) and lows of 58°F (14°C). Perfect fall temperatures for exploring Italy.

Things to do in Umbria in August

• Explore Lake Trasimeno and Isola Maggiore.
• Visit Assisi, Orvieto, Spoleto, and Perugia.
• Go biking or hiking around the hills.
• Check out Marmore Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe.

14. Italian Lakes in September

September is a lovely time to explore the Italian lakes up north. On Lake Como, you can take a ferry around to the charming, colorful towns, such as Bellagio and Menaggio.

This time of year is perfect for hiking around Lake Garda, particularly to Punta Larici for beautiful views overlooking the mountains and the lake.

Enjoy the Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto (botanical gardens) on Lake Maggiore, and take a boat ride to its islands – Isola Madre and Isola Bella

Weather in August

Expect daytime temperatures in the low to mid 70’s (Fahrenheit), or 20’s (Celsius) and evenings to cool down to the 50’s, or 10’s (Celsius).

15. Dolomites in September

The Dolomites are one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the entire world, and September is a fantastic time to visit. Not only is the weather lovely for hiking but the August crowds have died down, which makes it a more affordable and convenient time to visit.

Dolomites Weather in September

In September, the weather in the Dolomites is usually mild fall weather. With highs of 76°F (24°C) and lows of 55°F (13°C), this weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

Things to do in the Dolomites

• Take the cable car to Seceda and hike around this beautiful ridge line.
• Visit Lago di Braies, an incredible crystal-clear lake.
• Hike around the Tre Cime di Lavarado.
• Enjoy the views of the Cinque Torri (5 peaks).
• Take in the stunning views of the churches in the Val di Funes. Our favorite place to watch the sunset is from the hillside overlooking the Church of St. Magdalena in this valley.
• Explore mountain villages in South Tyrol and other regions.

Cost to Visit Italy in September

Is Italy expensive in September? Yes, overall, prices for accommodation and transportation are still high in September.

Certain beach destinations, such as Sicily and Puglia, will see a decrease in prices. However, the major cities, such as Rome, Florence, and Venice are very busy and pricey during the month of September.

We suggest booking well in advance to secure your hotels, rental cars, and flights at better rates.

Holidays & Festivals in September

September is a busy month of sagra in Italy, which are local food and wine festivals. Look out for any festivals happening in your Italy trip itinerary.

For example, in Emilia Romagna, there is a tortellino festival and in Lombardy there is a Gorgonzola festival, both celebrating these coveted local foods.

Here are some of the other major holidays and festivals in Italy in September:

• Regatta Storica: The historical regatta in Venice takes place on the first Sunday in September and is a boat race between the neighborhoods in Venice dating back to the 13th century.
• Festa della Rificolona: The Festival of Paper Lanterns in Florence celebrates the birth of the Virgin Mary. The celebration usually takes place around September 6th to 8th.
• Chianti Wine Festival: On the 2nd weekend of September, the streets of Greve in Chianti transform into a wine festival with over 40 local wine producers. You can enjoy tastings and samplings of some of Chianti’s most beloved wines.
• Volto Santo Festival: An important religious festival in Lucca, where the entire town is lit up by candlelight.
• Feast of San Gennaro: On September 19th, Naples celebrates the city’s patron saint with huge festivities across the city. Plan for closures across the city.

What to wear in Italy in September?

Wondering what to pack for your September trip to Italy? The days are warm and the nights are chilly, so it can be a bit tricky packing for this time of year. Here are a few of our recommendations:

• Pack for summer weather: During the day, it can get pretty hot in central and southern Italy. Bring lightweight and breathable clothing for sightseeing and activities during the day.
• Pack for cooler evenings: Bring a light jacket or cardigan and some pants for the evenings.
• Pack for rain: You may experience rain in September, so it’s best to be prepared. Bring a rain jacket and umbrella.
• Bring comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot in Italy. Bring your most comfortable walking shoes.

Getting around Italy in September

Whether you rent a car, take the train, or take a flight, Italy is easy to travel around. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your way around:

• Train travel in Italy: Taking the train is one of the best and most convenient ways to get around for your trip to Italy. Book your tickets online in advance via Trenitalia.com, the official website for booking train tickets. Download the app for the easiest use. For high-speed trains, try to reserve your tickets at least 3-weeks ahead of time for the best prices.
• Renting a car in Italy: Taking a road trip through Italy in June is a great idea! Especially because the countryside will be beautiful and green. We have rented a car more times than we can count in Italy and it’s one of the best ways to explore some of the more hidden gems in Italy. Rent your car through Discover Cars, our go-to rental car site for Europe, to get the best prices.
• Traveling by air in Italy: There are plenty of airports to get you around Italy. If you’re planning to visit the north (Venice or Milan) and south (Sicily or Puglia) part of Italy on the same trip, then flying is the quickest way to get around.

Travel Tips for visiting Italy in September

• Book advance tickets: For popular attractions, reserve tickets online to avoid long lines, as September is still a busy month for travel in Italy.
• Reserve travel: Book hotels, flights, rental cars, and high-speed train tickets well in advance to get the best prices and options.
• Pack layers: Fall weather in Italy is usually sunny and nice; however, you may still get some rain. Pack for rain and cooler evenings.
• Reserve restaurants: Reserve restaurants at least a couple of days in advance for popular spots In the major cities.
• Check for festivals: Research local festivals and events happening in September to experience Italy’s rich cultural offerings.
• Visit the Vineyards: September is a great time for wine tours, particularly in Piedmont and Tuscany, during the grape harvest.
• Explore beyond major cities: The cities are busy in September, get out to some of the msaller towns and countryside areas.

September in Italy: Frequently Asked Questions

More Information for your Trip to Italy

• Italy in April
• Italy in May
• Italy in June
• Italy in July
• Italy in August
• Italy in October
• Italy in November
• Italy in December