Italy Weather in September

September lures late-season travelers to Italy with a captivating blend of lingering summer warmth and the turning of the leaves as fall arrives. As the summer crowds recede, this transitional month offers a perfect opportunity to explore Italy with far fewer people. From strolling through Tuscany's vineyards during grape harvest season to indulging in the colorful festivals of Sicily and hitting the beach, September beckons visitors to savor a more authentic side to Italy without the peak tourist rush. Make sure to read all our tips and tricks about the weather in Italy in September.

What is the weather like in Italy in September?

The weather in Italy in September provides pleasant temperatures as it transitions from summer to fall.

Average temperatures in the north drop to between 64°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It's generally mild and comfortable in cities like Milan and Venice with occasional rain showers.

Rome and Florence average 68°F to 81°F (20°C to 27°C) in September. It's still warm during the day, but the mornings and evenings can be cooler. There may be the odd downpour but overall it's a relatively dry month.

Southern Italy remains warm by comparison, hitting around 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C). Thanks to the summer sun, the sea is still enjoyable for swimming. The weather remains mostly sunny.

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.

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Apple Kullathida/Shutterstock

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Shutterstock

Is Italy warm in September?

While it marks the transition from summer to fall, September still offers pleasant and warm weather across much of the country. In northern Italy, including cities like Milan and Venice, September temperatures range from mild to warm.

Average highs can range from 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C), while average lows range from 54°F to 63°F (12°C to 17°C). The weather is generally comfortable for outdoor activities, and evenings may start to feel slightly cooler.

In central Italy, which includes cities like Rome and Florence, September is still warm during the day but with cooler mornings and evenings. Average highs range from 73°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C), while average lows range from 57°F to 63°F (14°C to 17°C). It's a great time to explore the cities, visit historical sites, and enjoy outdoor dining.

Southern Italy, including destinations like Naples and Sicily, experiences warm temperatures in September.

Average highs range from 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C), with average lows from 63°F to 70°F (17°C and 21°C). The weather remains mostly sunny and enjoyable, making it ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities.

Additionally, some regions in mountainous areas of Italy may have cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country.

Rough Guides tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Italy

alba-piedmont-shutterstock_76281769

Alba, Piedmont© Shutterstock

Is September a good time to visit Italy?

The weather in Italy in september makes a great month to visit Italy. It offers pleasant weather across Italy. The temperatures are still warm, but not as hot as the peak summer months. It's a comfortable time for hiking, exploring larger cities, and heading out into the countryside for a road trip.

September is outside the peak tourist season, which means you can expect fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

It’s also harvest season in Italy, particularly in the wine regions. This can be a great time to visit vineyards and attend wine festivals

During the shoulder season, there are more affordable prices for accommodations, flights, and tours. September is a great time to take advantage of better deals and availability.

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 September

Rainfall patterns can vary in September but for a transition month from summer to fall, Italy remains relatively dry.

Milan and Venice receive moderate rainfall, averaging 3.1 inches (79 mm) in Milan and 3 inches (76 mm) in Venice.

In central Italy, September remains a relatively dry month. Rome sees an average rainfall of about 1.1 inches (29 mm), while Florence receives around 2.2 inches (57 mm).

Southern Italy has less rain still. Naples receives an average rainfall of approximately 1.6 inches (41 mm), while Sicily sees around 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rainfall.

Rough Guides tip: Find even more ideas for your fall adventure with our guide to the best places to travel in September.

Asciano with Val d'Orcia © Shutterstock

Asciano with Val d'Orcia © Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Italy in September

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 September are listed below:

  • Venice La Regata di Venezia (first Sun). The annual trial of strength for the city’s gondoliers and other expert rowers; it starts with a procession of historic craft along the Canal Grande.
  • Venice Film Festivals (early Sept). The world’s oldest International Film Festival.
  • Naples Festa di San Gennaro (Sept 19). Festival for the city’s patron saint with crowds gathering in the cathedral to witness the liquefaction of San Gennaro’s blood.

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.
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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