THE BEST TIME TO COME TO FLORENCE
When is the best time to come to Florence is a question I am often asked. I’ve lived in Florence for almost 2 years now and had often visited here during different months for 8 years prior to my move. I’ll explain some pros and cons during all seasons to help you to decide which best fits your desire.
SUMMER IN FLORENCE
It’s warm, so you don’t need any bulky coats. Ding! More room in the luggage to bring home treasures! July starts one of the sale seasons in Italy, which are offered only twice a year, in January and July, but the sales last for 2 months. Take advantage of it!
Think outdoor cafes and restaurants, the perfect places to sit, relax and people watch. However, the heat can be unbearable in the afternoon and ice is not offered without a request. Ask for ghiaccio!
Plus, longer daylight hours equals more time to explore to make the most of your time. However, think mosquitoes and they are abundant in Florence during the summer months. Bring or buy repellent!
People tend to come to Italy in the summer because the weather is warmer and most vacations are taken in summer. However, Italy, and especially Florence, is extremely crowded during the summer months. I mean so crowded that it can be difficult to walk down one of the many narrow streets without bumping into someone. I’m sure if you come in summer you will also encounter the many people you are walking behind who will make short, sudden stops to take a photo or who are lost walking with a map. This is to be expected!
Additionally, airfare is usually at an all time high during the summer months and there are long cue lines to see museums and even get a table at a restaurant. Make reservations in advance!
August in particular, is filled with tourists, and it is also the time Italians take vacations. Don’t expect all restaurants and shops to be open in August as most Italian businesses close down at or near August 15th, which is Ferrogosto. During this time, the owners enjoy at least a 2 week vacation to the seaside. This period is my least favorite in Florence, so if you are looking for full immersion into Italian culture, it won’t happen in August.
READ ABOUT FALL IN FLORENCE HERE
Ahhh, September… One of my favorite times in Italy! Businesses reopen, the owners and workers feel refreshed after their vacations and are extremely friendly. Everything starts to feel normal again if you are here year round.
Fall is a great season for wine festivals. Greve and Panzano are my favorites in September. There are also food festivals in Scandicci and Impruneta which I’d recommend.
The weather is a bit cooler, but mosquitos are still out, so repellent is still needed. It is extremely pleasant to sit at outdoor cafes and restaurants without the hot sun beating on you.
Airline prices tend to be a bit cheaper too and even some hotels and apartments lower their prices during this time of year.
READ ABOUT WINTER IN FLORENCE HERE
Winter is simply magic in Florence. Think Christmas lights and cheer! Florence puts on a major show during the holiday season and knows how to get dressed up! From December- January, Florence has amazing light shows shining on major sights such as Ponte Vecchio, Pitti Palace, Santo Spirito Church, etc. that are breathtaking to see.
Sure, you need a heavier coat and maybe can’t have dinner outside at every restaurant, but some restaurants have outdoor heating lamps if you want to sit in a piazza. However, these restaurants are usually tourist locations and not always the best for meals.
Coming from NY, I find the winter months much milder and quite easy to be outside walking around. Handling the cooler weather depends upon what you are used to and your tolerance level.
Crowds are less during winter, but during the week before Christmas and the week after, it is a bit crowded with mainly more Italians who come to visit from other areas.
Airline flights also tend to be cheaper except for the 2 weeks before and right after Christmas. Otherwise, this tends to be the least expensive time to book hotels or apartments.
Also, remember that sales season starts again in January, so it is a good time to get some deals during the next 2 months.
READ ABOUT SPRING IN FLORENCE HERE
Spring is also one of my favorite times in Italy. Flowers are starting to bloom and if you haven’t experienced wisteria or a field of sunflowers in Florence, it is a must!
Spring is thrilling because everyone rushes out and about with the excitement of the warmer weather. Outdoor cafes and restaurants are crowded again with everyone smiling and enjoying the moment.
The mornings may still be a bit chilly and a jacket is necessary, but during the afternoon, people are losing their layers of clothing.
March is often called marzo pazzo (crazy March) because one can’t count on the weather. I’ve encountered a lot of rain during this period and also very mild, dry weather. And… the mosquitos begin to surface, so be prepared!
The week before Easter tends to start high tourist season in Florence, which lasts through the summer. Get ready for the crowds!
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As you can see, each season offers something special in Florence. Florence is a very popular destination so you will always encounter crowds and festivals to enjoy year round. The right time of year depends upon your work schedule, temperature preference, budget, patience and what you want to see and do to make the most of your visit.
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