Recommended time of year to visit Venice, Florence and Rome?

Ruth... I would opt for May if possible. The weather when I was there in May was fabulous and there were fewer tourists then when I have been in June or July, but everything is still busy...you won't be the only one there.

Thanks, Terry!
I was wondering . . . did you go there in early, middle or late May? Ruth

We have been twice in early June and it tends to be very warm! I'd opt for May.

We've been to Italy twice in May and had decent weather the first time (some rain) and outstanding weather the second time. We plan on always going in May in the future. The crowds aren't quite as large then either.

in general May is better but weather is unpredictable. May should be less crowded but Italy has become popular year round so it will still be busy with tourists
I'd choose May if given the option but if I could only do June, I'd do June

Ruth, Travelling in May will also be good. I've been there in April and May, and on those occasions the weather was great. The one exception was last year, as the weather in both Rome and Tuscany was unusually rainy and "chilly" part of the time (there were some beautiful sunny days as well). In my experience it will still be somewhat crowded, as that's still in the "spring shoulder season". The weather should be good (but not too hot), although of course there are never any guarantees with the weather. Happy travels!

We love going in the very beginning of May - for great weather and fewer crowds.

The second half of April through the first half of May has worked very well for us. We particularly liked Lake Como at that time.