Italy Weather in November

The weather in Italy in November embraces the country with a quieter ambiance and a touch of nostalgia. As the fall leaves fall gracefully, the country embraces its traditions and prepares for the vacation season. From exploring the ancient ruins of Rome to participating in the olive harvest in Umbria, November invites visitors to experience Italy's cultural heritage in a slower, more contemplative way. As the weather turns, visitors can delight in the cozy warmth of Italian trattorias and discover the other side of cities like Turin and Naples as the crowds disappear.

What is the weather like in Italy in November?

The weather in Italy in November takes a gradual turn towards cooler temperatures and shifting atmospheric patterns. November signals the advent of the late fall with a windier and sometimes wetter climate. The further north you go, the milder daytime temperatures tend to be.

While the days gradually grow shorter, November still offers a reasonable amount of daylight, with approximately 4 to 6 hours of sunshine per day. However, it's essential to prepare for more frequent rainfall this month, especially in the northern and central regions.

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Italy itineraries.

Is Italy warm in November?

In the northern parts of Italy, such as Milan and Venice, November brings cooler weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C). In central areas like Florence and Rome, milder temperatures prevail, averaging between 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C).

The southern regions, including Sicily and Naples, maintain a relatively milder climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C).

The days become shorter in November, with an average of about 4 to 6 hours of sunshine per day. While daylight diminishes, the diverse landscapes of Italy continue to captivate with their fall charm.

Rough Guides Tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Italy throughout the year.

Uffizi art gallery in Florence, Tuscany, Italy

Uffizi art gallery in Florence, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

Is November a good time to visit Italy?

The weather in Italy in November provides an opportune time to explore the country. Not only is the cultural calendar still abuzz with events like The Bologna Jazz Festival, but museums like the Uffizi in Florence also offer half-price admission when compared with March to October.

While the weather in Italy may see an increase in rainfall, it also unveils the beauty of fall colors, transforming the landscapes of Tuscany, Umbria, and Piedmont into a captivating canvas of red, orange, and gold.

Now is the time to visit Gran Paradiso National Park for dramatic sightings of its 3500 ibex during the mating season in November and December. This is when you may see pairs of males fighting it out for a female. You might also spy golden eagles nesting.

Alba hosts the world-famous White Truffle Fair in November and the Mount Etna ski season starts around this time, too. Weather permitting. Do note that it is also a legal requirement to have snow tires or chains in your car between mid-November and mid-April when traveling on highways; you will incur a hefty fine if you’re not suitably equipped.

If you're visiting Venice, be prepared for the acqua alta, the winter flooding caused by a combination of seasonal tides, fluctuations in atmospheric pressure in the Adriatic and persistent southeasterly winds.

Always a feature of Venetian life, it has got worse in recent years. If the siren sounds, you can expect a serious flood in three to four hours’ time. The tidal barrier built to protect the city has already saved the city on several occasions since opening in 2020.

The world-class wines and truffles waiting to be discovered on this tailor-made Piedmont Discovery. The capital city Turin is a cultural center with a picture-perfect skyline. Afterwards, continue to the countryside around Alba, with wine tastings, cooking classes and enjoying the mountains and nature.

Average rainfall in Italy in November

As Italy undergoes a climatic shift in November and begins to welcome winter, varying levels of rainfall across its regions. November downpours have been known to impact travel plans, especially Venice which, along with Milan, sees slightly higher rainfall averages, ranging from 1.97 to 3.94 inches (50 mm to 100 mm).

Central regions, including Florence and Rome, experience moderate rainfall, averaging between 1.57 to 3.15 inches (40 mm to 80 mm). Southern parts, like Sicily and Naples, receive relatively lower rainfall amounts, typically between 1.57 to 2.36 inches (40 mm to 60 mm).

Although November is not the wettest month in Italy, travelers should be prepared for occasional showers, especially in the northern and central areas. The Mediterranean climate of the southern regions offers a more temperate environment, with a lesser chance of prolonged downpours. Pack accordingly.

mount-etna-shutterstock_405035131

Mount Etna © Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Italy in November

Whether religious, traditional or cultural, there are literally thousands of festivals in Italy and sometimes the best are those that you come across unexpectedly in smaller towns. Some of the highlights for November are listed below:

  • Olive oil festivals (all Nov) The olive harvest happens in November across many regions of Italy with plenty of destinations holding celebrations.
  • Saint Martin's Day (La Festa di San Martino; Nov 11) Saint Martin's Day is particularly observed in Tuscany and other wine-producing regions. The day marks the end of the agricultural year, and it is celebrated with food and wine tastings.
  • White Truffle Fair, Alba (all Nov) This part of Piedmont is famous for its truffles and the fair in Alba celebrates this prized culinary delicacy with exhibitions, auctions, and tasting events.

Plan your trip with our Italy itineraries

Our Italy itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

  • Italy itinerary 5 days: A quick trip to Italy’s must-see spots, usually focused on one or two iconic cities. Perfect if you want a taste of Italy’s famous art, history, and cuisine.
  • Italy itinerary 7 days: A week in Italy allows you to experience both city life and a bit of countryside charm. You’ll have time to explore major sights and get a feel for Italy’s local culture.
  • Italy itinerary 10 days: Ten days offers a good balance between Italy’s cities and scenic regions. You can enjoy both bustling urban highlights and quieter rural areas at a comfortable pace.
  • Italy itinerary 14 days: With two weeks, you can take a deeper dive into Italy’s diverse regions. This itinerary covers a variety of landscapes, from historic towns to rolling vineyards and coastal views.
  • Amalfi coast itinerary: A dedicated trip to Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast, known for its cliffside villages and stunning sea views. Perfect for leisurely days exploring charming towns and relaxing by the water.
  • Tuscany itinerary: Explore the heart of Tuscany, famous for its medieval towns, vineyards, and Renaissance art. Ideal for wine tasting, scenic drives, and soaking up Italy’s countryside beauty.
  • North Italy itinerary: A journey through northern Italy’s rich culture, lakes, and mountains. Expect elegant cities, picturesque lake towns, and a taste of Italy’s alpine regions.
  • South Italy itinerary: Discover the unique character of southern Italy, from ancient ruins to sun-drenched beaches. This itinerary captures the laid-back vibe and rich traditions of Italy’s south.

Still thinking about where to vacation in November? Read the Rough Guide about the best places to travel in November and choose the right one for you.

Ties Lagraauw

written by
Ties Lagraauw

updated 26.08.2024

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl, Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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