Italy in September shines with harvest season, golden light, and ideal weather. It’s perfect for wine tasting in Tuscany, savoring seasonal foods, hiking the Dolomites, or unwinding by the Italian Lakes. Read on to discover what makes this month so special.
You can also catch major events like the Venice Film Festival, the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monza, and open-air music festivals across Rome and Sardinia. Cultural celebrations such as the Regata Storica and traditional sagre (food festivals) bring towns and villages to life.
At the same time, cooler evenings make exploring cities like Florence, Verona, and Rome more comfortable.
Make the most of your visit to Italy in September by planning in advance. You can easily book train tickets or flights to Italy, depending on your route and preferences. For convenience, consider choosing from the top-rated travel packages in Italy that bundle stays and experiences.
If you're heading to scenic regions like Tuscany or the Dolomites, going on road trips or renting a car in Italy is a great way to explore at your own pace. These flexible options help tailor your Italy trip in September, whether you’re after festivals, food, or wide-open views.
Curious what makes this month so special? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about visiting Italy in September.
Weather in Italy in September
September brings a shift in rhythm across Italy. The intense summer heat begins to ease, the air feels fresher, and early autumn light softens the landscape. It’s ideal for outdoor sightseeing, lake escapes, hiking, or just soaking up Italy’s charm without the peak-season crowds or high humidity.
Compared to Italy in August, when temperatures and tourism peak together, September offers a more relaxed and comfortable experience almost everywhere.
Here’s what to expect about the weather in Italy during September:
- Average daytime temperature: 70 F to 85 F (21 C to 29 C), depending on region
- Average evening temperature: 58 F to 68 F (14 C to 20 C); light layers recommended
- Average sea temperature: 74 F to 78 F (23 C to 26 C), warm enough for swimming
- UV index: Moderate to high (5 to 7), sunscreen still needed
- Humidity: Lower than summer; more comfortable, especially inland
- Rainy days: 5 to 8 days of light, brief showers throughout the month (usually scattered)
- Daylight hours: 12 to 13 hours at the start of the month, about 11.5 by the end of September
- Sunset time: Around 19:30 (early September) to 19:00 (late September)
For those traveling in Italy’s specific regions, here’s what you can expect in September:
- Northern Italy (e.g., Verona, Lake Como, Dolomites): 65 F to 75 F (18 C to 24 C); cool mornings, occasional showers, early signs of fall foliage in the mountains. Great for hikes and lake visits early in the month.
- Central Italy (e.g., Rome, Florence, Tuscany): 72 F to 82 F (22 C to 28 C); dry and sunny, ideal for city sightseeing or exploring hill towns. Warm enough for outdoor dining and light clothing all day.
- Southern Italy and Islands (e.g., Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Sardinia): 78 F to 86 F (25 C to 30 C); late-summer warmth lingers. The sea stays warm, perfect for beach holidays. Slightly humid but far milder than August.
For the most up-to-date weather forecast closer to your travel date, visit the Italia Meteo’s official website.
Crowds and Costs in Italy in September
September strikes a sweet spot in Italy’s travel calendar. Locals return from their August holidays, and cities feel alive again with cultural events, markets, and performances. You’ll still see tour groups at popular landmarks. However, the lines are shorter, streets are calmer, and reservations are a little easier to manage (if you plan ahead).
Italy isn’t cheap in September, though. It’s still high season in many coastal and cultural hotspots, especially in the first half of the month. Prices for flights and hotels often remain high, especially in places like the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and Lake Como.
That said, you’ll find more flexibility and better deals as the month goes on, particularly in inland towns and less touristy regions.
If you're planning to visit iconic attractions or join group activities, book your tours and tickets in Italy in advance. The same goes for securing top-rated accommodations in Italy, especially if you’re eyeing boutique hotels or scenic stays along the Amalfi Coast. The best options often fill up several weeks ahead, even after summer.
Festivals and Events in Italy in September
September is one of the best times to experience local culture. The Italian September calendar is packed with a variety of events, from wine harvest celebrations to international sporting events. As the summer heat fades, piazzas fill with lantern parades, food fairs, music, and centuries-old traditions that bring locals and travelers together.
Here are the major festivals and events in Italy you shouldn’t miss in September!
Food and Wine Festivals in Italy in September
Italy in September is harvest season, and that means food and wine festivals take center stage. If you're looking for food-related Italy festivals in September, these culinary events offer the perfect way to taste the country's seasonal bounty and experience its regional traditions.
- Festa della Vendemmia – Held in various wine villages, this “Harvest Festival” includes grape stomping, local music, and farmers' markets. Most towns celebrate it during weekends in the second half of September.
- Expo Chianti Classico (Greve in Chianti, Tuscany) – A flagship wine festival held in early to mid-September, showcasing the best of the Chianti Classico region with guided tastings, cellar tours, and regional food.
- Tignale Truffle Festival (Lake Garda) – Kicking off truffle season, this late September event celebrates white and black truffles with cooking demos, truffle-themed menus, and local wines.
- Festival delle Sagre (Asti, Piedmont) – A massive gathering of over 40 villages celebrating their local specialties, from agnolotti to rabbit stew, served in a festive open-air setting. Usually held the second weekend of September.
- Bra Cheese Festival (Piedmont) – A biennial event in even-numbered years (next in 2026), but still worth noting for cheese lovers. It features international artisan producers and slow food tastings, typically in mid-September.
If your travel dates don’t line up with these September food and wine festivals in Italy, you can still enjoy the season’s best flavors through hands-on food experiences across the country.
Join a truffle hunt with lunch and wine tasting in San Gimignano. You can also learn to make fettuccine, ravioli, and tiramisu in Rome or visit a traditional cheese factory in Parma with tastings included.
Special International Events in Italy in September
From fashion runways to high-speed racing and global cinema, September is packed with international events that draw visitors from around the world. If you want to watch races in Italy in September or search for the best cultural showcases, these standout events may shape your itinerary.
- Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix (Monza) – This iconic race is held at the historic Autodromo Nazionale Monza, just outside Milan. Expect major road closures, full hotels, and a high-energy crowd of motorsport fans. Typically scheduled for early to mid-September.
- IRONMAN Italy Emilia-Romagna (Cervia) – A major full-distance triathlon and part of the global IRONMAN circuit, this event attracts elite athletes and sports tourists alike. Held in mid to late September, the Italy IRONMAN in September includes a marathon-length run and impacts regional traffic and hotel availability along the Adriatic coast.
- Venice International Film Festival – The oldest film festival in the world, held annually in early September on the Lido in Venice. It draws global celebrities, directors, and film enthusiasts. Hotels fill quickly, especially in central Venice and on Lido island.
- Women’s Fashion Week (Milan) – A highlight on the global fashion calendar, Milan Fashion Week usually starts in the third week of September. Expect a stylish buzz throughout the city, as well as higher prices and limited hotel availability near show venues.
- Genoa International Boat Show – Europe’s largest boat show typically takes place in the second half of September. From luxury yachts to cutting-edge marine tech, it draws maritime professionals and sea lovers to the Ligurian coast of Genoa.
If you're not attending one of these major Italian events in September, you can still enjoy experiences inspired by them.
Get an entry ticket to the Maranello Ferrari Museum and a professional F1 simulator to get a taste of Italian motorsport. Discover Italy’s design legacy through fashion tours in Milan. Go behind the scenes of iconic films with TV and movie tours in Italy. Or cruise the Ligurian coast on a full-day boat tour to Camogli, San Fruttuoso, and Portofino from Genoa.
Music Festivals in Italy in September
September marks the close of summer with open-air stages, beachside sets, and world-class performances. While not as packed as peak summer months, there’s still an exciting lineup of concerts in Italy in September, from electronic beats to orchestral gigs in dramatic venues.
- Decibel Open Air (Florence) – One of the biggest electronic music festivals in Italy, Decibel takes over Florence for a weekend of high-energy sets from global DJs. If you're into dance, techno, or house, it's a must-attend.
- Roma Summer Fest (Rome) – Held at the atmospheric Auditorium Parco della Musica, this summer-long series wraps up in early to mid-September. The lineup spans rock, jazz, pop, and classical, making it one of the most diverse Italy September concerts still active as the season transitions.
- SUNANDBASS (Sardinia) – A niche but world-renowned drum and bass festival set in the beach town of San Teodoro. It runs for a week in early September and blends music, community, and beach vibes. It’s a standout among gigs in Italy in September for fans of underground electronic music.
Can’t attend a festival? You can still enjoy the season with live concerts in Rome or classical music shows in Venice set in historic venues.
Cultural and Heritage Festivals in Italy in September
Italy events in September showcase some of the country's richest traditions, bringing history, folklore, and community spirit to life. These experiences offer travelers a deeper sense of place through reenactments, parades, and time-honored traditions.
- Regata Storica (Venice) – Held on the Grand Canal during the first weekend of September, this historic regatta features elaborately decorated boats and rowers in 16th-century costume. It’s one of the most photogenic and iconic Italy festivals in September, combining sport, pageantry, and local pride.
- Palio di San Rocco (Figline Valdarno, Tuscany) – A lively medieval-style competition with games, flag-throwing, and costumed processions. This event honors Saint Rocco and typically runs in early to mid-September.
- Tocati Festival (Verona) – A UNESCO-recognized celebration of traditional street games from around the world. Verona’s historic center transforms into a giant open-air playground with interactive exhibits, folk performances, and food stalls. Usually held mid-September.
If you’re not visiting during the festival dates, you can still connect with tradition through family tours in Venice that bring local stories to life. Cultural tours in Vicenza are also great for those who want to experience the region’s historic elegance.
Religious Festivals in Italy in September
Faith and folklore come together in September with deeply rooted traditions that fill churches and streets across the country. These celebrations are especially meaningful in the regions where they're held, offering travelers a glimpse into Italy’s spiritual and community life.
- Feast of San Gennaro (Naples) – Celebrated on September 19, this is one of the most important religious Italian regional holidays in September, honoring Naples' patron saint. Locals gather for a solemn Mass and await the “miracle” of San Gennaro’s liquefying blood, followed by parades, fireworks, and food stalls.
- Festa della Rificolona (Florence) – Held on the evening of September 7, children carry colorful paper lanterns through Florence’s historic center in honor of the Virgin Mary’s birthday. It’s a charming tradition that lights up the city’s streets and piazzas.
- Volto Santo Festival (Lucca) – Taking place on September 13, this candlelit procession celebrates the Holy Face of Lucca, a wooden crucifix believed to have miraculous origins. Locals decorate the city with lights and flowers as thousands walk silently through the medieval center.
To deepen your experience, consider joining religious tours in Florence or religious tours in Naples. These guided visits provide insight into sacred sites, the stories behind local traditions, and the enduring spiritual heritage that’s woven through each city.
Best Places To Visit in Italy in September
September is one of the best times to explore Italy's top destinations, with warm days, fewer crowds, and seasonal experiences that bring each region to life. From coastal escapes to countryside gems, these places shine especially bright as summer fades into early autumn.
Here are the best places to visit in Italy in September.
Tuscany in September
With golden vineyards, harvest festivals, and cooler afternoons, September is often considered the best time to visit Tuscany. The grape harvest (vendemmia) is in full swing, ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking postcard-worthy countryside views without the summer heat.
Start your journey with a Tuscany day trip from Florence. This day trip includes stops in Siena, San Gimignano, and a traditional lunch at a local winery. For a slower pace, enjoy a wine tasting experience in San Gimignano, where you’ll sample regional wines alongside Tuscan specialties.
To simplify planning, browse travel packages in Tuscany that bundle together scenic routes, cultural highlights, and handpicked stays.
Venice in September
Mild weather, fewer tourists, and golden light reflecting off the canals make September arguably the best time to visit Venice. The summer crowds begin to thin, yet the city’s charm and cultural buzz remain in full swing, offering ideal conditions for city sightseeing tours in Venice.
Some of the most memorable things to do in Venice in September include gliding through the waterways on gondola cruises. The Grand Canal gondola ride with app commentary in Venice lets you explore the city at a relaxed pace while learning about its landmarks, bridges, and hidden corners.
You could also step into centuries of history with a reserved entry to the Doge’s Palace, one of Venice’s most iconic attractions. To make the most of your visit, it's best to book popular tours and tickets in Venice in advance, especially in early September when late summer travelers are still around.
Puglia in September
Puglia shines in September, when the intense summer heat eases and the beaches, hill towns, and olive groves feel more relaxed yet still alive with local color. It’s a great time to enjoy the region’s whitewashed villages, slow food culture, and Adriatic coastline without the peak-season crowds.
For a deep dive into the region’s highlights, consider the 8-day grand tour of Puglia’s wonders, which covers cultural landmarks, coastlines, and countryside. If you prefer a more active and immersive approach, the 8-day walking and culinary tour in Puglia combines scenic routes with traditional cuisine.
Short on time? The Castles of Puglia day trip from Bari is an excellent way to explore the region’s medieval heritage in a single day.
Sicily in September
September is one of the best times to experience Sicily’s diverse landscapes, cultural depth, and rich culinary scene. The weather remains warm but more comfortable than August. That makes it ideal for exploring ancient ruins, seaside towns, and volcanic terrain without the intense heat or heavy crowds.
Start with a curated 8-day small-group tour of Sicily’s highlights for a balanced mix of history, nature, and guided insight. Food lovers can savor the island’s bounty with a dedicated Sicily food and wine itinerary, featuring regional flavors and authentic experiences.
For more flexibility, consider a 4-day self-drive road trip from Catania to Taormina, complete with a planned route and suggested stops. You’ll find a range of travel packages in Sicily that make planning easy while offering a mix of relaxation and discovery.
Amalfi Coast in September
September is a fantastic time to explore the Amalfi Coast, when the heat begins to soften, the sea remains warm, and the summer crowds start to thin. Coastal villages remain lively, yet with more space to appreciate the region’s beauty.
Here are the top spots to visit in the Amalfi Coast in September:
Amalfi – The namesake town offers seafront charm, medieval alleys, and the striking Duomo di Amalfi. Strolling its historic streets and visiting the cathedral rank among the top things to do in Amalfi, especially with the more relaxed vibe September brings.
Positano – Famous for its steep streets, pastel buildings, and cliffside views, Positano remains one of Italy’s most photographed villages.
Ravello – A peaceful hilltop town known for its panoramic gardens and music legacy. Don’t miss Villa Cimbrone or Villa Rufolo.
Sorrento – Although not technically on the Amalfi Coast, it’s often used as a base for exploring the area due to its excellent transport links and lively old town.
Praiano and Atrani – Smaller, less touristy villages with authentic coastal life and fewer crowds in September.
To explore multiple towns in one go, try a full-day tour from Naples to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. Or, if you're based farther north, the Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Positano day trip from Rome combines coastal beauty with ancient history in one unforgettable itinerary.
Florence in September
With golden light softening the rooftops and cooler evenings setting in, Florence in September feels timeless and alive. It’s often called the best time to visit Florence, when summer heat fades but the city’s art, history, and culture remain at their peak.
Some of the most memorable things to do in Florence in September include exploring its Renaissance past through immersive storytelling. You can experience that on the Renaissance and Medici Tales tour with a storyteller in Venice.
Alternatively, explore the city and all its offerings with a small-group tour of Florence including the Uffizi and Accademia galleries. For a unique perspective, admire Florence from the rooftops, which offer sweeping views of the city.
September may not bring the intense crowds of August, but Florence remains a popular destination during this time. To avoid missing out, book your tours and tickets in Florence in advance. Especially so for guided walks, museum entries, and rooftop experiences that fill up quickly even in early autumn.
Rome in September
With golden light falling on ancient ruins and milder temperatures setting the pace, September is often called the best time to visit Rome. The crowds ease just enough to make exploring more enjoyable, yet the city’s buzz and grandeur never fade. It's an excellent time to experience the best things to do in Rome, from archaeological wonders to scenic bike rides.
Start with the essentials on a guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Here, you’ll walk through the heart of Ancient Rome with expert insights and priority access. Then step inside one of the city’s greatest architectural achievements with the Pantheon timeless marvel guided tour in Rome.
For something more active, the Appian Way Catacombs and Roman Aqueducts e-bike tour in Rome offers a fresh view of the city’s outskirts and hidden relics. To simplify your trip, consider browsing curated travel packages in Rome that combine iconic sites, local guides, and thoughtful planning.
Verona in September
With warm days, mellow light, and a full cultural calendar, September is one of the best times to visit Verona. The romantic city slows down just enough after summer, making it easier to enjoy the atmosphere, flavors, and stories that define this northern gem. From Roman history to local wines, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do in Verona.
Start your visit with a small-group guided walking tour in Verona with Arena tickets. The Verona Arena is an ancient Roman amphitheater, and one of the best-preserved in Italy. For a more active way to see the city, try the Verona highlights and hidden gems bike tour.
If you’re a food lover, the small-group food and wine walking tour in Verona is the perfect way to sample regional flavors and learn about local traditions.
To make the most of your time, book your tours and tickets in Verona in advance. Especially so if you’re visiting during popular event weekends or want a deeper experience of Verona’s rich heritage.
Sardinia in September
Sardinia in September is a sweet spot when summer warmth lingers, but the peak crowds have gone. This is when the island breathes again, offering its beaches, villages, and rugged landscapes with a little more calm and a lot more charm. It’s widely seen as one of the best times to visit Sardinia, especially for travelers seeking a balance of relaxation and discovery.
Swim in clear turquoise waters at Cala Brandinchi, wander the medieval lanes of Alghero, or take a boat to the La Maddalena archipelago. Inland, you’ll find nuraghe (stone tower) ruins and hearty mountain food that feels a world away from the coast.
For a smoother experience, consider exploring the travel packages in Sardinia that bundle handpicked stays and local experiences throughout the island.
Best Things To Do in Italy in September
September is one of the most rewarding times to explore the many attractions in Italy. The air is cooler, the landscapes shift into early autumn color, and the pace of travel becomes more relaxed. From wine tasting to coastal escapes, these things to do in Italy in September make the most of the season.
Go Wine Tasting During Harvest Season in September
September is one of the most exciting times to explore Italy’s wine country, as the annual La Vendemmia (grape harvest) transforms the countryside into a hive of activity.
Rows of vines are heavy with ripened grapes, and the early signs of autumn add a golden glow to the hills. It’s the perfect month to experience wineries at their liveliest and taste freshly pressed vintages alongside celebrated labels.
In Tuscany’s Chianti region, the harvest season highlights the rich character of Sangiovese grapes. These are the backbone of Chianti Classico wines, known for their bright acidity, cherry notes, and aging potential.
Head out on a Chianti wineries tour with wine tasting from Florence, visiting traditional estates and enjoying pairings with local meats and cheeses. Prefer to stay in the city? The Florence sunset walking tour with wine and food tasting lets you sample regional reds and white wines at curated stops around Florence, all while soaking in golden-hour views.
Enjoy Seasonal Italian Foods in September
September is a flavorful month in Italy, bridging summer’s end and autumn’s arrival with some of the country’s most anticipated harvests. Markets, trattorias (casual dining), and home kitchens all come alive with seasonal ingredients that define early fall cooking.
Expect menus to feature earthy mushrooms like porcini, rich truffles, freshly picked figs, and the first of the season’s chestnuts and grapes. It’s also a prime time for dishes using late-summer zucchini, tomatoes, and eggplants.
Regional specialties shine during this period. In the north, creamy risottos often come topped with mushrooms or truffle shavings. Central Italy leans into rustic pastas and rich sauces, while the south highlights fig-based desserts and grape must in traditional sweets. Even local festivals and street food stalls join in with seasonal treats.
To get a true taste of September, join the Bologna food tour from a local perspective and discover authentic bites in Italy’s culinary capital. In Rome, the food and wine tour with sunset walking in the Prati District pairs beautiful city views with memorable flavors.
You can also explore Tuscan cuisine through the Taste the Flavors of Florence food tour for seasonal dishes rooted in regional tradition.
Hike the Dolomites While the Weather Holds in September
With cooler temperatures and clear skies, Italy’s Dolomites in September are at their most inviting for outdoor adventures. The summer crowds thin out, leaving behind quiet trails, golden light, and breathtaking alpine views.
Early autumn brings mild days perfect for hiking and exploring the jagged peaks, green valleys, and charming mountain villages that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so iconic.
If you're staying in Venice, the Dolomite Mountains and Cortina semi-private day trip from Venice offers a scenic and convenient way to experience the highlights without overnight stays. For added flexibility, the Dolomites and Prosecco self-drive tour combines breathtaking mountain beauty with a taste of Veneto's renowned sparkling wine country.
And if you're after a unique thrill, the paragliding adventure in the Dolomites gives you a bird’s-eye view of the landscape during this stunning season.
Relax by the Tranquil Italian Lakes in September
September is the perfect time to slow down by Italy’s lakes. The high-summer rush fades, but the weather remains pleasant, warm enough for outdoor dining, boat rides, and even the occasional swim.
For travelers looking for peaceful scenery and elegant escapes, beach holidays in Italy in September don’t just mean the coast. The lakes offer a quieter alternative with dramatic mountain backdrops and charming lakeside villages. It’s no wonder the Italian September beach experience often includes these serene spots.
Here are some of the top Italian lakes to visit in September:
Lake Como – A timeless favorite, where you can take ferries between stylish towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Or enjoy lakeside promenades under the lingering summer sun. For a guided experience, consider Lake Como and Bellagio by bus and private boat tour from Milan.
Lake Garda – Italy’s largest lake has a perfect mix of beach-like shores, water sports, and mountain views. The southern towns, such as Sirmione and Desenzano, remain lively in early fall.
Lake Maggiore – Known for its grand villas and the Borromean Islands, this northern gem is quieter in September, with lovely gardens and lakeside cafes still in bloom.
Lake Orta – Often overlooked but incredibly charming, Orta is ideal for those seeking a more secluded and romantic lakeside atmosphere.
Lake Iseo – A lesser-known destination bordered by hills and vineyards, offering hiking, wine tasting, and laid-back villages like Lovere and Sulzano.
If you're looking to experience more than one lake on a single itinerary, try a curated multi-day tour. The 7-day Northern Lakes and Dolomites tour from Milan includes scenic stops at iconic lakes and alpine backdrops. Meanwhile, the 4-day Northern Lakes tour from Milan lets you discover Lake Garda, Como, and Orta, complete with expert guidance and well-planned stays.
Cruise Italy’s Coast and Islands in September
With warm waters and golden light, September is an excellent time to explore Italy by boat. The summer heat begins to fade, but it’s still perfect for enjoying breezy afternoons and stunning sea views. Many travelers look forward to Italy cruises in September, when ports are less crowded and the atmosphere is more relaxed.
One of the best parts of cruising in September is the autumn light. The sunsets in Italy in September are especially beautiful. It casts a warm glow over the sea and shoreline, perfect for evening boat rides.
For a classic lagoon experience, the Burano, Torcello, and Murano boat tour with glassblowing from Venice is a relaxing way to see Venice’s iconic islands. If you're headed to Lake Garda, the 25-minute boat cruise around the Sirmione Peninsula offers peaceful views of castles, beaches, and lakefront villas in late summer light.
Take a Day Trip to the Vatican City in September
September is a great time to visit Vatican City, when temperatures are more comfortable, and the summer crowds begin to ease. It’s an ideal window for exploring world-famous landmarks like the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica without the peak-season rush.
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel entrance ticket is a solid option for DIY travelers. However, if you want deeper context and reserved priority access, consider the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour from Rome. It’s one of the most popular guided day trips in Vatican City.
Whichever you choose, it's best to book your tours and tickets in Vatican City early, as this destination remains one of the most in-demand places to visit in Italy year-round.
What To Pack and Wear in Italy in September
Packing for Italy in September is all about layering and versatility. The weather is generally pleasant. It’s warm during the day and cooler in the mornings and evenings. So, your choices should reflect that mix.
Here's a practical Italy in September packing list to help you feel comfortable and well-dressed across cities, the countryside, and the coast:
Light layers – T-shirts, blouses, and long-sleeve tops that you can easily mix and match
A light jacket or cardigan – Perfect for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in the northern region
Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for navigating cobblestone streets and long sightseeing days
Breathable dresses or trousers –Ideal for warm afternoons, especially in the southern regions
Smart casual outfits – Great for dinners or visits to upscale places
A lightweight scarf or shawl – Useful for church visits or breezy evenings
Swimwear and a cover-up – For beach stops or hotel pools
Sun protection – Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle for daytime outings
When it comes to dressing for Italy in September, think polished but practical. Locals lean toward neutral tones and classic silhouettes. So, aim for outfits that are comfortable but don’t scream “tourist.” And don’t worry, jeans in Italy in September are perfectly fine as long as they’re paired well.
By packing with flexibility in mind, you'll be prepared for everything from walking tours and vineyard visits to sunset cruises and museum days.
Plan Your Early Fall Trip To Italy in September
Italy in September delivers the best of both summer and fall, with warm but manageable weather, long daylight hours, and a full calendar of festivals and outdoor adventures. It’s a great time to explore every corner of the country, from the vineyards of Tuscany and the peaks of the Dolomites to the beaches of Sardinia and the streets of Rome.
With so many incredible things to do in Italy, this shoulder season rewards early planners with better availability, richer local experiences, and fewer extreme crowds.
If you’re considering extending your journey into autumn, check out what to expect in Italy in November for crisp days and festive charm. Prefer cooler weather and fewer tourists? You might also love Italy in May for its blooming landscapes and relaxed pace.
FAQs About Traveling To Italy in September
Is September a good month to go to Italy?
Yes, September is one of the best months to visit Italy. The summer crowds start to thin, but the weather remains pleasantly warm across most of the country. It’s also a month full of seasonal events, wine harvests, food festivals, and ideal conditions for sightseeing and coastal visits.
From the historic cities of Tuscany and Rome to beach holidays on the Amalfi Coast or Sardinia, September offers the perfect blend of good weather, cultural activities, and fewer tourists.
Is Italy still warm in September?
Yes, Italy is still warm in September, especially in the southern regions like Sicily, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast. Average daytime temperatures in Italy in September range from 70 F to 85 F (21 C to 29 C), with the warmest weather in early September.
The sea is also comfortably warm for swimming, making it a great time for beach holidays. Even in northern areas like Lake Como or the Dolomites, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Is September expensive in Italy?
Yes, September can be moderately expensive in Italy, especially in popular destinations like Rome, Venice, or the Amalfi Coast, as it's still part of the high travel season. Prices for accommodations, flights, and tours tend to stay elevated in the first half of the month but gradually ease toward late September.
To get the best deals, it's smart to book top-rated accommodations and tours in advance, particularly for major cities and coastal spots.
Where is it hot in Italy in September?
In September, southern Italy remains the hottest part of the country. Regions like Sicily, Puglia, and Calabria regularly see daytime temperatures above 80 F (27 C), especially in early September. Coastal destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and Sardinia also stay warm, offering plenty of sun for beachgoers.
Can I wear white in Italy in September?
Yes, you can absolutely wear white in Italy in September. The weather is still warm and sunny in many parts of the country, especially in the south, so light and breathable clothing is ideal. White is not only acceptable but also common in Italy in September, particularly in coastal and southern regions.
Just pair your white pieces with practical layers like a light jacket, especially for cooler mornings or evenings in the north. It’s a stylish and comfortable choice that suits Italy’s early autumn fashion well.
What is in season in September in Italy?
September in Italy brings a delicious shift in seasonal produce and traditions. It’s peak time for grapes (especially during the wine harvest, or vendemmia), along with figs, apples, plums, chestnuts, and porcini mushrooms. In some regions, early truffles also start appearing. On the coast, fresh seafood remains abundant.
Can you swim in Italy in September?
Yes, swimming in Italy in September is ideal. The sea temperatures remain warm, especially along the coasts of southern Italy, Sardinia, Sicily, and the Amalfi Coast, where water averages around 73 F to 77 F (23 C to 25 C). Even in the Italian Lakes and parts of central Italy, conditions are usually still pleasant for a dip.
Many travelers actually find September ideal for beach and swimming holidays. The crowds begin to thin, the sun isn’t as intense, and the sea still holds the warmth of summer. Just note that by late September, especially in the north, nights can feel cooler, and some beach clubs may begin to close for the season.
When is sunset in Italy in September?
Sunset times in Italy during September gradually shift as the days shorten with the arrival of autumn. In early September, the sun typically sets around 19:30, while by the end of the month, sunset is closer to 19:00.
Expect slightly later sunsets in the south (like Sicily or Puglia) and slightly earlier ones in the north (like Milan or Venice). The golden light around sunset in September also makes it a fantastic time for photography and scenic evening strolls.
Is it better to visit Italy in September or October?
It depends on your travel style. September is ideal if you want longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and a lively mix of festivals and events still in full swing. It's great for beach days, swimming, and enjoying the tail end of summer crowds.
October, on the other hand, is quieter and cooler, perfect for autumn scenery, harvest season foods, and lower prices. Both months are fantastic, but September offers a more summery feel while October leans into fall charm.
