What September really feels like in Italy – from a local
Last updated on October 19th, 2026.
If you're looking for a month with warm weather, fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures, you'll love visiting Italy in September.
As a seasoned local, I can tell you firsthand that September is one of the best months to visit Italy. And if it's on your vacation radar, you're in the right place.
In this travel guide, I'll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Italy in September, including the best places to visit, the weather, where to go swimming and packing tips.
Jump to:
- Is September a good time to go to Italy?
- What is the weather like in Italy in September?
- When to travel to Italy in September
- Best places to visit in Italy in September
- Map: Where to go in Italy in September
- Festivals and events in Italy in September
- What to eat in Italy in September
- Can you go swimming in Italy in September?
- What to pack for Italy in September
- Getting around Italy in September
- Travel tips for visiting Italy in September
- FAQs
- Last words
- 💬 Comments
Is September a good time to go to Italy?
Without a doubt, yes.
While many would say that any month is a good time to visit Italy, September stands out for several reasons.
For one, it offers the ideal blend of favorable weather with fewer crowds. You get the sunshine without the heatwaves, beach weather without the chaos, and towns without the masses.
The last month of summer and the beginning of fall, Italy in September also brings a beautiful seasonal shift.
If you've been wondering whether September is a good time to go to Italy, consider this your definitive green light.
What is the weather like in Italy in September?
One of the main reasons Italy in September is so appealing is the weather.
It’s a month where the sticky summer heat finally begins to ease but the sun still shines every day.
Coastal breezes along the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and Sicily make the humidity more tolerable than in July or August.
Rainfall is minimal (at least from my own experience) and summer attire is ideal for much of the month.
Italy in September weather by region
| Region | Avg High (°C/°F) | Avg Low (°C/°F) | Rainy days |
| Northern Italy | 24–26°C/75–78°F | 13–15°C/55–59°F | 4–6 |
| Central Italy | 26–28°C/78–83°F | 15–17°C/59–63°F | 5–8 |
| Southern Italy | 28–30°C/82–86°F | 18–21°C/64–70°F | 3–6 |
| Islands (Sicily, Sardinia) | 28–31°C/82–88°F | 20–23°C/68–73°F | 2–5 |
Source: ISTAT and regional weather centers
Early September vs. late September Italy weather
Early September in Italy is an extension of summer.
Many regions across the country, particularly the southern parts, experience hot days and warm evenings. It’s an ideal time for a late Italian summer beach break.
Mid to late September sees a slow shift from summer to fall. Beaches empty out in the south, mostly filled with locals at this point. There’s an increased chance of rain, but warm, sunny days remain common.
Is it rainy in Italy in September?
In short, not really.
Compared to spring or late fall, September is relatively dry.
Showers might pop up but they’re usually short-lived and localized. Pack a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket for any eventuality.
Daylight and sunshine
There’s an average of 8 to 9 hours of daylight per day in Italy in September. Sunset is around 7.30pm in early September, closer to 7pm by the end of the month.
Weather in Italy in September: temperatures by popular destinations
| City | High | Low | Rainy days |
| Rome | 27°C/81°F | 16°C/60°F | 4–5 |
| Venice | 24°C/75°F | 15°C/59°F | 5 |
| Florence | 27°C/81°F | 16°C/60°F | 5–9 |
| Palermo (Sicily) | 28°C/82°F | 21°C/70°F | 3–5 |
| Amalfi Coast | 26°C/79°F | 20°C/68°F | 6–9 |
| Lake Como | 21°C/70°F | 15°C/59°F | 5–8 |
When to travel to Italy in September
Early September – warmer and busier, great for coastal destinations and swimming.
Mid-September – balanced weather with a slow transition to fall.
Late September – cooler evenings though still warm during the day.
Shoulder season savings
September is, for the most part, considered shoulder season, not just in Italy, but in many other countries.
It isn’t as cheap as traveling to Italy in November or February, but it’s more affordable than July and August.
What this (usually) means is:
- better prices and availability on accommodations compared to peak summer
- ideal weather for sightseeing
- more availability, and savings, on tours and experiences.
Best places to visit in Italy in September
There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to the 'best places' to visit in Italy in September. Almost everywhere is ideal and there’s a destination to suit every traveler type.
If you’re looking for inspiration to help plan your September Italy trip, the following ideas should help.
Rome
With kids back to school and the heatwave season over, the Eternal City begins to breathe again after the August break.
Temperatures of around 81°F (27°C) during the day and 60°F (16°C) at night make sightseeing a pleasant experience.
Top things to do in Rome in September include:
- Booking skip-the-line tickets to see the Colosseum and Roman Forum
- Exploring the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
- Going for an early evening walk from Piazza Navona to Campo de’ Fiori with a gelato in hand
- Browsing the goods, and dining at one of the eateries, inside Testaccio Market (Mercato di Testaccio).
Florence and Tuscany
Like Rome, Florence becomes more comfortable with the warm, but not sweltering, weather that September brings.
It's an ideal time for exploring the best of the city's outdoor attractions like the piazzas and gardens.
In case of rain, the museums in Florence are ideal for escaping any showers while admiring the artwork.
Around the rest of Tuscany, September is the month of the vendemmia. The grape harvest sees many towns host wine festivals set against the backdrop of the picturesque Tuscan countryside.
Some of the best Florence attractions include:
- the striking Duomo (cathedral) (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore). Some tours include the option to climb the dome and bell tower
- The Uffizi and Accademia Galleries. Book reserve entry tickets for the Uffizi and Accademia to view masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli
- Piazza della Signoria. See some of Florence’s most historic buildings including Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace) and sculptures at the Loggia dei Lanzi
- Boboli Gardens. Make the most of the September weather by visiting the beautiful Tuscan gardens.
What to do in Tuscany in September
- Stop by the Expo Chianti Classico event in Greve di Chianti. Taking place in mid-September, it’s your chance to sample local wines, olive oil and typical products while enjoying cultural events.
- Explore the Val d'Orcia – travel to smaller towns like Montepulciano and Pienza to see iconic Tuscan architecture in the golden September light.
- Make the most of the warm temperatures by visiting a thermal spring in Tuscany like Bagno Vignoni or Saturnia.
Venice
September is one of my favorite months to be in Venice. With the oppressive heat — and the large summer crowds — gone, the city is more navigable.
While it's less busy than the summer months it’s still wise to book attractions and transport in advance. Get skip-the-line tickets for popular sights like St. Mark’s Basilica and reserved entry tickets for Doge’s Palace.
Daytime temperatures hover around 75°F (24°C) during the day though it can get warmer. At night, temperatures dip to around 15°C/59°F.
Top things to do in Venice in September
- See celebrities at the Venice Film Festival (early September) on Lido di Venezia.
- Watch the Historical Regatta of Venice (Regata Storica di Venezia). The annual boat race takes place on the first Sunday of September.
- Relax on a Venice gondola ride at sunset. The September light hits differently, especially along the Grand Canal.
Amalfi Coast
If I'd to choose a time to visit the Amalfi Coast, it’d be September. It’s still warm enough for swimming (82°F (28°C)), but much less crowded than July and August.
Allocate a few days to comfortably visit several towns around the region. We spent 4 days on the Amalfi Coast and saw plenty on our trip at a relaxed pace.
Another option is joining a day trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast or from Naples; a good choice if you’re working with a limited timeframe.
Some options to consider on the Amalfi Coast in September:
- Spend 1 day in Sorrento. The pretty coastal town has a charming town center, marina and beach
- Explore Positano. Stroll through the town, visit its church and relax on the beach
- Book a boat trip to see Capri and the Blue Grotto
- Hike the scenic Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods). Italy September temperatures are ideal for tackling this scenic trail above the cliffs.
Cinque Terre
Like Venice, Cinque Terre is busy most of the year.
But, in September, the atmosphere is slightly more relaxed and the temperatures more comfortable reaching around 75°F (24°C) during the day.
One thing to note: rain can hit suddenly here in September. Keep an eye on the forecast and have an indoor backup plan, like a visit to nearby Genoa.
Best activities to do in Cinque Terre
- Try one of the hiking trails: Vernazza to Corniglia or Manarola to Riomaggiore are some of the most popular Cinque Terre hikes
- Book a cruise to Riomaggiore and Monterosso
- Relax on the beaches of Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza
Sicily
As someone who has spent plenty of autumns in Sicily, I can confidently say it’s a great month to visit.
Daytime temperatures in Sicily can still reach up to 88°F (31°C) in September. Though hot, Sicily in September is noticeably cooler than the numbers you'd see in July and August.
Some experiences in Sicily in September worth trying out:
- a 2-day city tour of Palermo – the weather is more pleasant for exploring the Sicilian capital city
- a self-drive or join a tour of Mount Etna. Italy in September is a good period to see Sicily’s active volcano
- relaxing on the beach at Cefalù or at the Zingaro Nature Reserve (Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro)
- a road trip around the Val di Noto to see Sicilian Baroque towns like Noto, Ragusa and Modica
- island hopping around the Aeolian Islands. See the largest island of Lipari on a day trip or try a hike on Stromboli at sunset.
Puglia
Back on the mainland, Puglia is another southern region that’s a hot destination in Italy in September.
Its coast is swimmable into late September and its baroque towns are slightly cooler and calmer too.
Some of the best towns to see in Puglia include:
- Alberobello – the pretty town is home to the famous Trulli houses.
- Lecce – the charming town with the nickname, 'Florence of the South' should tell you everything you need to know
- Polignano a Mare – popular for its beaches and sea views
- Ostuni and Locorotondo – whitewashed towns with views of olive groves and vineyards.
Emilia-Romagna
If a food-themed Italy trip in September sounds appealing, look no further than Emilia Romagna.
Fun foodie experiences to try
- Bologna – plan a self-guided tasting tour of some of the best restaurants in Bologna or try a Bologna food tour
- Modena – sample aged balsamic vinegar in Modena’s center and book ahead for the Michelin-star Osteria Francescana
- Parma – indulge in authentic Parmigiano Reggiano in the center or join a cheese factory tour
- Visit the town of Castelfranco Emilia in the beginning of September to experience the Tortellini Festival (Sagra del Tortellino).
Umbria
Tuscany’s quieter, but equally beautiful, sibling is one of my favorite regions to see at any time of year.
And in September, the warm weather makes the perfect accompaniment for exploring its medieval towns.
Top places to see in Umbria
- Assisi – stroll through the town and visit the majestic St. Francis of Assisi church.
- Orvieto – built on volcanic stone, with an impressive gothic cathedral and striking scenery (see 1 day in Orvieto)
- Perugia – Umbria's captial, with a historic center, delicious chocolate and gorgeous architecture
- Lake Trasimeno (Lago Trasimeno): stroll the lakefront promenade and visit one or two lake towns
- Spello – a historic Italian borgo in splendid Umbrian style
The Italian lakes
One of the most relaxing ways to experience Italy in September is by visiting one of its major lakes.
Situated in northern Italy, Lake Garda, Como and Maggiore make ideal late summer getaways.
The weather’s warm enough to enjoy an Italian lake boat tour and it’ll be far less busy without the summer crowds.
What to see on the Italian lakes
- The towns of Bellagio, Varenna and Tremezzo on Lake Como
- One or two towns on Lake Garda. Italy’s largest lake is huge, and you'll need more than one day in Lake Garda to see it all
- 2 days on Lake Maggiore visiting the serene Borromean Islands
⏩️ Read: What to do in Lake Como: a resident's honest guide
The Dolomites
Despite its northern location, the Dolomites can get very warm in early September.
Blue skies, sunshine and plenty of green space — without the summer’s peak crowds — make it an ideal Italy vacation.
Best outdoor attractions in the Dolomites:
- Lago di Braies (Braies Lake) – rent a boat and cross one of the Dolomites' most beautiful lakes
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo – try one of the most popular hikes in this mountain range
- Alpe di Siusi – explore the high-altitude meadow, home to towns like Ortisei and one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites
- Cortina d’Ampezzo – a pretty town lined with shops, cafes and restaurants surrounded by a striking mountain backdrop
Map: Where to go in Italy in September
To help bring this guide to life, I've mapped out every destination covered above.
From Rome and Florence to Sicily, the Dolomites, and everywhere in between.
Use it to see how these regions relate to each other geographically, especially if you're combining more than one area into a single September trip.
Festivals and events in Italy in September
September in Italy is more than a period of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It’s also a month filled with cultural, religious and food-centric celebrations.
If you’re interested in attending a festival, these tips will come in handy.
- Plan early – book accommodations in festival towns in advance
- Go local – smaller festivals often have fewer tourists than the larger, better-known ones.
- Check local tourist websites. The region, or city/municipality’s website will typically list lesser-known events
Food, wine and harvest festivals (vendemmia)
Expo Chianti Classico
Join in the festivities at the Expo Chianti Classico wine festival in Greve in Chianti (Tuscany) . The event gathers Chianti wine producers and local vendors in the town square.
Festa della Vendemmia
Beyond Greve in Chianti, other towns in Tuscany also hold their own harvest celebrations, typically featuring wine tastings, food stalls and live music. Places worth noting include:
- Panzano in Chianti
- Mancino
- Scansano
- Impruneta
National Gorgonzola Festival
Held every year in its namesake town of Gorgonzola (Lombardy), the event combines cheese tastings with exhibitions, workshops and concerts.
Festa della Cipolla di Cannara (Cannara Onion Festival, Umbria)
Sample one of the region’s most traditional foodstuffs, the Cannara onion. Named after its town, the festival celebrates the local product typically in the first week of September.
Historical and religious festivals
Regata Storica di Venezia
Enjoy a day of gondola races, parades and plenty of colorful costumes at the Regata Storica di Venezia.
Held on the first Sunday of September , the historical regatta is the highlight of the city’s rowing calendar.
Festa della Rificolona
The Paper Lantern Festival (Festa della Rificolona) takes place in the Piazza SS. Annunziata Florence every September 7.
Honoring the Virgin Mary's birthday, children parade through the city with glowing handmade lanterns. Local farmers also come to sell their products on market day, typically September 6 to 7.
Festa di Santa Croce
See the streets of Lucca (Tuscany) light up to celebrate the Holy Face (Volto Santo) of Christ relic.
Taking place from September 13 to 14th, it’s a beautiful scene filled with candlelight, processions and choral music.
Festa di San Gennaro
One of the most religious events in Naples, the Feast of San Gennaro honors the city’s patron saint.
Thousands gather at the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta hoping to witness the miracle of the saint's blood liquefying. Held every September 19th, it's an event that’s said to bring good fortune.
Film festivals
Venice International Film Festival
Taking place from late August into early September , Lido di Venezia hosts the oldest film festival in the world. It's a chance to see international celebrities, critics and filmmakers.
Local food events (sagre)
Whether you’re visiting Italy in September or in another period, don’t miss the chance to attend a sagre.
While many sagre tend to be food festivals celebrating a single product, think baccalà or mushrooms, others are more general community get-togethers.
I’ve been to several sagre and I can attest they’re good fun. You don’t need to spend a whole afternoon or evening there but it’s worth going if there’s one nearby.
What to eat in Italy in September
September isn't just a great month for weather, it's one of the best times of year to eat well in Italy.
The vendemmia (grape harvest) dominates the conversation, but there's more happening in kitchens and markets across the country this month.
My own favorite September food memory is eating ripe fichi d'India (prickly pears) in Sicily. It’s when they're in season and at their sweetest.
We usually buy them for next to nothing at our local grocer in our town, paying around €2 for 1kg. Compare that to touristy Cefalù, where the same amount cost us €6.
It’s a good reminder that shopping like a local, even just outside the main tourist centers, makes a real difference.
Seasonal produce to look out for in September
- Fichi d'India (prickly pears): in season and at their sweetest in Sicily this month
- Uva (grapes): fresh off the vine, and the star of the month's wine festivals
- Fichi (figs): at their sweetest in early-to-mid September
- Funghi porcini (porcini mushrooms): the start of mushroom season, especially in central and northern Italy
- Castagne (chestnuts): beginning to appear toward the end of the month
- Melanzane (eggplant) and peperoni (peppers): still at their peak from the summer growing season
Dishes worth seeking out
- Anything with fresh porcini: risotto, tagliatelle, or simply sautéed with garlic and parsley
- Parmigiana di melanzane (eggplant Parmesan), still very much in season
- Early-harvest olive oil tastings, especially in Tuscany and Umbria, ahead of the main harvest in November
- Grape-based desserts and schiacciata con l'uva. This Tuscan flatbread is studded with whole grapes, traditionally made during harvest season
Can you go swimming in Italy in September?
September, especially the first half of the month, often feels like an extension of summer.
And if you’re dreaming of a late beach vacation in Italy, September is probably your last opportunity before autumn weather arrives.
Sea temperatures in Italy in September
By early September, the Mediterranean Sea still holds onto the warmth of summer, with bathing temperatures ranging from 73°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C).
Even as the month winds down, the sea often remains inviting especially around sunny spots like Sicily, Sardinia and Puglia.
Best places to swim in Italy September
Sicily
Cefalù, San Vito Lo Capo and Mondello are still buzzing with locals enjoying the last days of the season. With fewer tourists around, it's a great time to make the most of peaceful beach time.
Sardinia
White sands and turquoise waters remain irresistible in places like Costa Smeralda and Cala Goloritzé. September is ideal for enjoying Sardinia’s beaches without the high-season prices.
Puglia
Polignano a Mare and Torre dell’Orso are ideal for an Italian beach break in Puglia in September.
Amalfi Coast
Soak up the last days of summer on the beaches of Positano and on the island of Capri.
Cinque Terre
Monterosso al Mare is your go-to for sandy shores, while Vernazza and Manarola better suit cliffside swims. After mid-September, cooler nights bring cooler sea temperatures too.
Elba Island (Tuscany)
Elba offers a tranquil beach getaway in September. Relax on scenic beaches like Spiaggia di Fetovaia and Cavoli and get in one last swim before the season ends.
Average sea temperatures in Italy
| Destination | Sea temperatures (°C/°F) | Best swimming period |
| Amalfi Coast | 24°C/75°F | Until mid to late September |
| Cinque Terre | 23°C/73°F | Early to mid September |
| Sardinia | 25°C/77°F | July to September |
| Sicily | 26°C/79°F | July to September |
| Puglia (Adriatic) | 24°C/75°F | Until late Sept |
| Elba Island | 23°C/73°F | Until mid Sept |
Source: ISTAT and regional weather centers
Other swimming/bathing spots in Italy
Aside from the beaches, several natural springs and lakes are perfect for a September dip.
- Saturnia hot springs (Tuscany) – soak in thermal waterfalls, no entry fee
- Isola Maggiore (Lake Trasimeno) – paddle or swim in Umbria’s serene lake
- Lago di Garda – enjoy a refreshing plunge in Italy’s largest lake
Tips for swimming in Italy in September
- Aim to go between noon and 3pm for the warmest conditions.
- Check local closures. Some beach clubs (lido) may begin closing after mid-September.
- Look for Blue Flag beaches. These beaches are certified for cleanliness and eco standards meaning they’re good for safe swimming.
What to pack for Italy in September
When packing for a trip to Italy in September your bag will likely include both summer and autumn clothing.
While there’s no need for a heavy coat, a light jacket and large shawl will fare well in late September.
The same goes for layered clothing and a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. Good walking shoes are a must as is weather-appropriate gear if visiting the mountains or further north.
See my guide to what to wear in Italy (as a local) for more insider tips.
Italy packing tips for cities and countryside
- Smart jeans, t-shirts and light knitwear work well for city excursions.
- Linen clothing is breathable in warm weather and is casual but looks chic.
- Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
- Avoid wearing flip-flops around the city or town centers; save them for the beach. See 'What not to do in Italy: 27 common mistakes'.
- Leave athletic wear for the gym.
- Wear closed-toe shoes when visiting vineyards.
What to packing for Italy for the beach and islands
- Swimwear (if visiting Italy in early September)
- Flip-flops
- Beach cover-ups, towel and beach bag
- Water shoes for rocky beaches (common on the Amalfi Coast and beaches in Sicily).
Packing for the mountains and Dolomites in Italy
- A warm fleece or insulated (waterproof) jacket
- Hiking boots or trail shoes
- Light base layers
- Gloves and a beanie (if heading to higher elevations)
Italy packing for families with kids
- Easy layers for kids (t-shirts, zip-up hoodies)
- Swimwear for beach days or pools
- Small backpack for kids to carry their own snacks or travel games
- Rain gear and closed shoes for outdoor activities
Other things to pack for Italy in September
- A compact umbrella or thin waterproof jacket. Showers are rare but possible, especially in the mountains and far north.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap. Useful for sunny midday excursions for the city and for beach vacations.
- EU plug adapter
Getting around Italy in September
September has mild weather and long daylight hours (8 to 9 hours of sunshine most days).
It makes it one of the easiest months to get around the country, whichever way you choose to travel.
By car
September is an excellent month for a road trip.
Cooler temperatures make long drives more comfortable, and daylight lasts well into the evening for scenic routes. If an Italy road trip is on the cards, make sure to rent a car early for the best price.
See my guide to renting a car in Italy for more tips. It's something which matters more in September than you'd expect, given it's still a popular month.
By train
Italy's train network is well-suited to September travel, especially for routes between major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice.
Booking train tickets for high-speed routes, like Rome to Florence, can sometimes be cheaper when bought in advance.
See: How to take trains in Italy
⏩️ 10 days in Italy by train: a resident's itinerary
By boat
Coastal and island regions are well-served in September, with ferry schedules still running near full summer frequency.
It’s a great month for boat trips to the Aeolian Islands, along the Amalfi Coast, or around the Italian lakes.
On foot
With the worst of the summer heat behind you, September is one of the best months for walking-heavy exploration.
City sightseeing, coastal trails like the Sentiero degli Dei, or day hikes in the Dolomites, all become more comfortable without the risk of midday heat exhaustion.
Travel tips for visiting Italy in September
Even though September is technically shoulder season, it’s still a popular month.
This is especially true among European and American travelers looking to avoid the August crush.
Because of this it’s essential to book several things in advance.
Accommodation
Reserve hotels, especially in cities and coastal areas at least 5 to 8 weeks in advance.
Attractions
Major landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and Doge's Palace require timed entry: Book early online to skip long queues.
Download useful apps
There are several Italy travel apps that will help you navigate your trip, including:
- Omio (good for planning multi-modal trips)
- Get your Guide (booking tours), and
- Holafly (unlimited eSIM for using in Italy and other countries)
Have cash on hand
While paying by cards is accepted in most places around Italy, carrying cash is still useful. Carry euros for smaller purchases like a coffee or a gelato.
Be aware of rules and surroundings
Don’t eat or drink on the Spanish Steps in Rome; you just might incur a fine.
Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in larger cities like Venice, which are rife with some of the biggest scams in Italy.
FAQs
Yes. September is one of the best times to visit. You’ll enjoy warm days, cooler evenings and fewer crowds (especially after mid-month). It's the perfect blend of the energy of summer mixed in with the calm of fall. 
Yes, especially in the south. Sicily, Puglia and the Amalfi Coast reach 81 to 86°F (27 to 30°C), while Rome, Florence and Venice sit around 75 to 81°F (24 to 27°C) . Evenings cool down but days stay ideal for the beach and sightseeing.
The south and the islands stay warmest. Sicily, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast can still reach 82 to 88°F (28 to 31°C), while northern regions like the Dolomites and the lakes are noticeably cooler.
Not typically. Rainfall is lower than in spring or late autumn. The Dolomites see more evening showers, while southern regions like Naples, Sicily and Puglia get brief showers usually followed by sunshine.
It depends on your style. Tuscany is good for wine harvests, Sicily and Sardinia for end-of-summer beaches, Rome and Florence for cooler city breaks and the Dolomites for outdoor activities.
Yes, especially in the first 2 to 3 weeks. The sea remains warm, with water temperatures ranging from 73°F to 79° (23°C to 26°C) in Sardinia, Sicily, Amalfi Coast and Puglia.
It depends on location. Cities like Rome and Florence still see tour groups and queues, coastal spots like Positano and Cefalù are quieter than August (though weekends are busier), and regions like Umbria, Piedmont, and Molise stay quiet and affordable.
Daytime: t-shirts, linen, sundresses and walking shoes (plus a shawl for churches). Evenings: a light jacket or cardigan. Beach: swimsuit, flip-flops, sunhat and sunscreen.
It's vendemmia (grape harvest) season, plus the start of porcini mushroom season and fresh figs. In Sicily, don't miss fichi d'India (prickly pears); sweetest this time of the year.
Yes. Most attractions, restaurants and museums run full schedules, though some beach clubs (lido) and seasonal activities may close by late September.
Last words
What are your thoughts on visiting Italy in September? Is it a month you’d consider traveling to Italy? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.
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I love that September offers great weather without the summer crowds. Your tips on what to pack and where to go make it so much easier to plan.
Thank you, I'm glad you found it helpful!
Will definitely keep this in mind. Late September, when it's a bit cooler, sounds better for me.
It is nice to know that it's not yet crowded during this time.
It's a great time of year to visit!
The climate sounds perfect in September. We'll have to wait until the kids leave school before we can holiday there.
I understand that, it's not easy for everyone.
We have visited Italy in Spring earlier. It would be nice to revisit in September and see lesser crowds. The weather looks perfect in September. We still have to visit the Dolomites, Cinque Terre and Sicily. Visiting Tuscany again would be nice too. Thanks for the tips.
You're welcome I hope you come in September; they're good months to visit those destinations
Late September and October are my absolute favorite months to explore Italy—the perfect mix of lingering summer warmth and early autumn charm. I couldn’t agree more with your take on September being one of the best times to visit! Fewer crowds, golden light, and ideal temperatures for both city strolls and coastal escapes—what more could a traveler ask for? This guide is packed with useful insights, especially for planning beach breaks or sightseeing without the summer chaos.
I'm glad you agree on that, they are two of my favorites too!
September is definitely a time we would recommend visiting Italy. We love it when the crowds get smaller but the weather is still great. Better prices are always a bonus too! The Italian lakes region is definitely still on our list to visit. Good to know September would be a good month for this. And we definitely still have the Dolomite region on our wish list. Good options to think about for September in Italy. So much great planning details here!
Thank you Linda I'm so glad you found it useful! It's really a great month to visit
When I last visited Italy, in the heart of the summer, it was SO WARM! It's great to have a breakdown of the tempatures and hear about a time when there isn't so many people
It gets very hot here! I'm glad you found it useful 🙂
My husband said last night that he's desperate to take me to Italy. He fancies doing the Amalfi coast. Thanks for the inspiration.
What a lovely husband! Amalfi is lovely in September
In my opinion, September is the best month to visit Italy. We've been traveling to Italy in September for over 10 years and love it for all the reasons you mentioned. The weather, the cost, the crowd, etc...
I completely agree with you, it's a great month!
I will add Italy to my list for September. Thank you for sharing all this information with us.
It is my pleasure
I will add Italy to my list for September. Thank you for sharing all this information with us.
You are welcome
September would have been our wedding anniversary, we had always talked on visiting Italy so may look at booking to go with my daughter for a few days to get away as this sound a great time to travel
It would be a wonderful way to remember your spouse. I hope you consider visiting one day.
September sounds like the perfect time for me, specifically, to visit Italy. I can't take the sticky summer humidity, but I don't want my trip to be dreary, either.
It really is the best month, and with fewer crowds too 🙂