Trying to plan a trip around my kids (22 & 21) schedule. It would have us going in either early March (7-14) or early May (9-16) - short trip either way as older child only has so much vacation. I know the weather would be better in May, but do the crowds outweigh the weather?
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11926 posts
Depends on exactly where you are going but March is usually quite nice in the major areas, that is Venice, Florence, Rome. My experience is that it strikes a nice balance between slightly lighter crowds and is nice spring weather where a light jacket is enough. Could it rain? Of course. Never any guarantees about that but it is not a cold time of year.
Easter is in April so no worries about that next year.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks, this will be our first trip to Italy, so we know we are going to do a couple of days in Rome and are still trying to decide where else we will go, thinking maybe Venice or Florence. Probably the most rural we might do is a day trip from Rome during our trip.
Posted by
San Diego, California
6184 posts
The days are still shorter in March, the gardens not in full bloom, and there's usually more rain in March. However, the weather is increasingly unpredictable in recent years. My experiences for March trips have been that each day can be quite different- one day spring, one day grey, wet winter weather. My personal choice is early May. Also, check the dates of Easter and the major Italian holidays.
Regarding Venice, we stay in the Cannaregio area, so crowds are never an issue there, just charming back canals and atmosphere.
Have a wonderful trip making family memories. Safe travels!
Posted by
5666 posts
If visiting cities and museums, then March would be fine for me. If wanting nature/rural time, then May for sure!