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Visiting Italy in April – Reasons to Go and What to Expect

italy in april

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Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Each region has its own flavor, from the extraordinary culture and architecture in Rome to the beautiful beaches dotted along the coastal areas. The country attracts visitors year-round; however, visiting Italy in April has many unique opportunities to look forward to.

April in Italy brings pleasant weather, colorful wildflowers in full bloom, and far fewer tourists than in the scorching summer months. This is the best time to visit Italy for sightseeing and outdoor activities, thanks to the welcoming mild temperatures.

April can get very busy during the Easter holidays, especially in famous places like Rome and the Vatican City. But the reasons to visit Italy in April ultimately outweigh the increased foot traffic that this national holiday brings.

This guide details the average temperatures you can expect across Italy’s region and all the festivals, celebrations, and parades taking place during this time. So keep reading if you’re planning on visiting Italy in April.

Weather in Italy in April

april in italy

Italy’s weather conditions vary from north to south. The weather in Northern Italy in April tends to be cooler, averaging between 40°F and 60°F (5°C and 16°C). This is the wettest region in Italy, as it experiences about 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, typically spread across eight to nine days.

Central Italy also experiences lovely spring temperatures across major cities like Rome and Florence. The average temperature ranges between 50°F and 65°F (10°C and 18°C), with about 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain scattered over eight days.

The weather in Southern Italy in April is much warmer than in the north. Average temperatures typically fluctuate between 55°F and 65°F (13°C and 18°C), accompanied by over 2.6 inches (68 mm) of April showers spread across six to eight days of the month.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the weather conditions and average temperature in Italy in April across its major cities and other destinations worth visiting.

  • Rome Weather in April: Drenched with sunny days and moderate temperatures ranging from lows of 48°F (9°C) to highs of 67°F (19°C), April is a wonderful month to visit Rome. The city gets a considerable amount of April showers, scattered throughout eight days. 
  • Florence Weather in April: With low temperatures of 46°F (8°C) and high temperatures of 67°F (19°C), Florence is an ideal April destination for sightseeing and admiring vibrant wildflowers. The city gets over 13 hours of daylight with rain over eight to nine days.
  • Venice Weather in April: Offering delightful weather, Venice in April boasts average temperatures ranging between 47°F (8°C) and 63°F (17°C). The city experiences about 13.5 hours of daily sunshine, with scattered showers pouring down over seven days. 
  • Tuscany Weather in April: Like Florence, other parts of Tuscany experience daytime highs of 66°F (18.8°C) and overnight lows of 46°F (8°C). The region gets about 13 hours of daylight, with occasional cloudy days and April showers throughout the month.
  • Amalfi Coast Weather in April: Boasting a pleasant Mediterranean climate, the Amalfi Coast is a fantastic place to visit in April. This coastal area typically gets average lows of 58°F (14°C) and highs of 67°F (19°C), with about 13 hours of daylight and sporadic rain.
  • Italian Lakes Weather in April: Ideal for boating and swimming, April is a good time to visit Italian lakes like Lake Como and Lake Garda. With temperatures ranging from 46°F (8°C) to 57°F (14°C), Lake Como gets about 5.8 inches (147 mm) of rain over 10 days. In contrast, Lake Garda experiences less rain at about 2.7 inches (69 mm) over eight days. Lake Garda’s daily temperatures range between 45°F and 64°F (7°C and 18°C).
  • Cinque Terre Weather in April: This month is a great time to visit Cinque Terre, but the weather is often unpredictable. Rainfall is sporadic, so bring a rain jacket for unexpected showers. Average lows hover around 51°F (11°C), and the highs can reach 63°F (17°C). 
  • Sicily Weather in April: This Mediterranean island is in the lowest part of Southern Italy. In April, temperatures are warmer, ranging between 59°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C). But as the month progresses, daily temperatures soar to average highs of 77°F (25°C).

LISTEN: To our podcast on Reasons to plan an Italy trip in Spring

Best Places to Visit in Italy in April

italy april temperatures

Now that you know what to expect regarding Italy’s weather in April, let’s unpack some of the best places to visit this month. Whether taking a solo trip or going on guided Italy tours, you’ll have a wonderful time exploring the country’s beautiful cities and smaller towns.

Each destination offers balmy weather throughout April, with occasional rainy days. However, you’ll have lots of daylight to check off top attractions on your Italian itinerary. Admire picture-perfect views and indulge in the best gelato while strolling charming streets.

Here’s an overview of the best places to visit in Italy in April:

Sicily in April

april italy weather

Sitting at the “toe” of Italy’s “boot”, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. The region is known for its rich history embodied by the ancient ruins, Greek temples, and Byzantine mosaics dotted across its landscapes. Sicily also boasts amazing sandy beaches and small towns to stroll through, but there’s no better time to travel to Sicily than in April.

Sicily in April gently transitions to a warmer climate. Daytime highs often hover around 64°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C), while evening lows range between 52°F and 59°F (11°C and 15°C). This opens up opportunities for sightseeing during the day, afternoon strolls, and al fresco dining.

When it comes to things to do in Sicily in April, you’ll have an array of activities to choose from, especially around the Easter holidays. The Holy Week in Sicily is characterized by processions, religious services, and rituals. In Trapani and Erice, the long weekend reaches its climax with The Procession of the Mysteries, a parade representing the death of Christ through sculptures.

Other Easter festivities you might want to attend include the Via Crucis in Marsala. This involves actors in historical costumes reenacting the Crucifixion, capturing dramatic moments like Jesus falling under the weight of the cross.

Another lively parade is the Festa dei Giudei, also known as the Feast of the Jews in San Fratello. This is where participants dressed in adorned red and yellow costumes recall when Jesus was condemned and led to Calvary.

Want to see more than just Easter parades and religious rites? How about you delve deeper into Sicily’s history at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime example of Greek art, architecture, and influence in the region.

Otherwise, Sicily’s pretty turquoise beaches offer a relaxing day under the sun, surrounded by rugged landscapes.

TIP: Check out the best places to visit in Sicily and add more landmarks to your itinerary. 

Umbria in April

best places to visit italy in april

Characterized by lush valleys and rolling green hills, Umbria in April explodes into a spring wonderland with colorful flower fields across the countryside. The region draws many tourists with its medieval hilltop towns and ancient wine and olive oil cultivation culture.

In early April, Umbria is still brisk, with daytime highs of 62°F (17°C) and overnight lows of 41°F (5°C). You’re guaranteed about 13 hours of daylight, so you’ll have enough time to marvel at Umbria’s springtime blooms through hiking or biking. Rainy days are standard, so bring a jacket.

April also brings many festivals and events, including those centered around Easter. Locally known as Pasquetta, Easter Monday is a bank holiday when many Italians take a break from everyday life to explore the countryside. People come together to share a meal on this day, and everyone brings a dish, often leftovers, including tramezzino, cotoletta, and rice salads.

Another national holiday to look forward to later in April is Anniversario della Liberazione or Liberation Day. This day commemorates the liberation of Italy from the Fascist regime and Nazi occupation after World War II. The Feast of Saint Mark, locally known as Festa di San Marco, falls on the same day, but more on that later.

Other excellent things to do in Umbria in April include visiting charming towns like Assisi to marvel at historic churches like the Saint Francis Basilica. In Perugia, you’ll enjoy guided walking tours through the Old Town, hot air balloon rides over the city, and culinary tours.

TIP: Get yourself an Umbria travel guide so you don’t miss out on its best attractions.

Tuscany in April

tuscany italy in april

Deeply rooted in the Renaissance, Tuscany is home to tightly packed medieval towns, verdant hills, and world-class vineyards. The region is abundant with historic art; the “David” statue by Michelangelo in the Accademia Gallery and works by Botticelli in the Uffizi Gallery are among the highlights of a Tuscany itinerary. And there’s no better time to visit Tuscany than in April.

April in Tuscany welcomes warm temperatures ranging between 46°F and 66°F (8°C and 18.8°C). But the sea of spring flowers sprinkled across the lush countryside is the main allure. During this time, the rolling Tuscan hills and vineyards of Chianti are at their most beautiful, while food and wine tastings are the epitome of day trips from nearby large cities like Florence.

LISTEN: To our podcast on delicious Spring dishes to try in Tuscany

Tuscany comes to life during Easter. The weekend starts with Easter Mass and ends with a speckle of fireworks; this all happens on Easter Sunday. Most locals get together at Piazza Giacomo Matteotti in Greve, Chianti, for the Flight of the Colombina. 

This event entails a white ceramic dove that “flies” to the piazza from the Basilica of Santa Croce before returning to the church. The flight is said to bring good luck to the people for the year ahead.

After the Easter processions, take a day trip to Southern Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia region to admire one of the most spectacular views in the country. Alternatively, stroll through some of Florence’s lush grounds, like the Boboli Gardens, or visit famous Tuscan towns like Pisa and Siena.

TIP: Enjoy the off-season and explore scenic drives across the lush countryside. Via Chiantigiana from Florence to Siena dominates most Tuscany travel guides

Rome in April

april in rome italy

As the capital of Italy, the “Emerald City” attracts the most tourists in the country, especially in the high season. Rome draws in history and architecture enthusiasts looking to explore its landscapes. To avoid the crowds, you should consider visiting Rome in April.

Bringing mild days and fewer crowds, Rome in April experiences lovely temperatures ranging from 48°F to 67°F ( 9°C to 19°C), with about 13 hours of sunshine. This gives you enough time to explore Rome’s iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.

Numerous Easter events happen in Rome throughout the Holy Week. Easter Sunday begins with a morning mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and ends with the Urbi et Orbi. This signifies the papal address, a blessing the Pope gave to the city and the world.

Easter Monday hosts an afternoon service also held at St. Peter’s Basilica. April in Rome comes with other fun festivities outside the processions, including the city’s birthday. In the second half of April, Rome’s Rose Garden is open for quiet strolls through the grounds.

Other exciting things to do in Rome this month include marveling at the blooming azalea flowers on the Spanish Steps. April is also an excellent time to visit The Roman Forum with fewer tourists, and you can’t leave without visiting Palatine Hill and the Sistine Chapel.

Rome is a prime location to make your home base when you visit Italy in April. Read through the following blog posts to help you pick the best place to stay:

Festivities and Public Holidays in Italy in April

easter italy april temperatures

Most people visit Italy in April for the fewer crowds and shorter queues, but others (like you after reading this guide) also travel here for the incredible festivals and cultural events. The peak season may be the prime time for festivals. But April’s mild climate is more conducive for these outdoor activities as you’ll avoid attending the celebrations under the summer heat.

Keep in mind that some dates of holidays, like Good Friday and Easter, often change depending on the year. This may require you to adjust your itinerary accordingly. On that note, let’s look at the most popular celebrations, anniversaries, and feasts to attend in Italy in April.

  • 1st of April — April Fool’s Day: Locally called “Pesce d’Aprile”, meaning April Fish, the day is marked by practical jokes, pranks, and hoaxes like sticking a paper fish on someone’s back. This is a secular holiday, so most businesses will be open.
  • Early to mid-April — Easter in April: Good Friday is not a national holiday. Instead, it’s a day of mourning the death of Christ, so it is not observed. Expect business as usual; banks, shops, and restaurants operate for normal hours. Easter Sunday is about bonding with family; expect some closures outside the main tourist zones. Likewise, Easter Monday (Pasquetta) is observed with some closures except for the visitor hotspots. This is a day for feasting with loved ones.
  • 14th – 17th of April —  Vinitaly in Verona: Dating back to 1967, Vinitaly is the world’s first and largest wine and spirits festival. The fair sees hordes of producers, buyers, and wine lovers descend on the Northern Italy city of Verona for days of networking. Enthusiasts get to taste and critique the best wines from Italy and the globe, the festival also hosts seminars to learn more about the history and cultivation of wine.
  • 21st of April — Natale di Roma (Rome’s Birthday): According to legend, Rome was founded on this day in 753 B.C., after Romulus defeated his brother Remus to control Palatine Hill and surrounding areas. Celebrations feature historical re-enactments, costumed parades, fireworks, and even gladiator fights in the Circus Maximus. 
  • 24th – 28th of April — Artichoke Festival: Hosted in the small village of Chiusure, just outside of Pienza in Tuscany, this fair honors the local artichokes coming into season. The festival welcomes tourists keen to taste fried artichokes and other delicacies, with live music and exhibitions on display.
  • 25th of April — Anniversario della Liberazione (Liberation Day): Commemorating Italy’s liberty from Fascism and Nazism, most cities like Milan and Rome hold political rallies, marches, and parades. It’s not uncommon to hear the song “Bella Ciao” at these events, the de facto anthem of the country’s resistance movement. Expect closures for some businesses outside of the main tourist zones.
  • 25th of April — Feast of Saint Mark in Venice: Known as the Rosebud Festival, this day celebrates the city’s patron saint, St. Mark. Men honor this day by giving a single rosebud to women they adore. Events to look out for include boat races or regattas, Saint Mark’s Basilica ceremonies, and concerts in Saint Mark’s Square. This day experiences a few business closures, so check the official websites before visiting.

What to Wear in Italy in April

packing for april italy weather

How you pack can make or break your trip to Italy, especially if you’re visiting in April. While the weather is usually tepid, afternoon or evening showers are common, so the temperature can change quickly. Prepare for these rapid changes by reading up on how to pack for Italy, specifically for the month of April.

Springtime in Italy typically requires you to wear layers of clothing. This assists you in keeping warm during April showers, and they also act as a barrier against the sun. Bring a rain jacket and umbrella for those downpours— although these usually pass quickly.

Here’s a brief list of items you should add to your packing list when visiting Italy in April:

  • SPF sunscreen — Although April isn’t extremely hot, you’ll need sunscreen for beachdays, sightseeing or wandering around the city.
  • Comfy walking shoes — The most beautiful cities in Italy are mostly walkable, so you’ll be trekking about to or from the nearest monuments. Having comfortable shoes helps you avoid sore feet (and blisters) at the end of the day.
  • Lightweight clothing — Pack breathable shirts, blouses, dresses, and pants. These will keep you well-ventilated during the warmer hours of the day.
  • Windbreaker/rain jacket — A light jacket should be worn over your lightweight clothing; this prepares you for unexpected showers, and you can easily take it off.
  • Bathing suit — While some waters (especially in Italy’s northern lakes) are still not swimming-friendly yet, beaches along the Mediterranean are ready for a splash about.
  • Umbrella — If you’re going on an excursion where less clothing would be appropriate, bring an umbrella in case the clouds gather for a downpour.

Is April a Good Time to Visit Italy?

best places to visit italy in april

Yes, April is a pleasant time to visit Italy. Falling in the shoulder season, this month experiences fewer crowds at landmarks and temperate weather ideal for going on popular hiking trails.

The northern regions are typically cooler than those in southern and central Italy. In comparison, coastal areas along the Mediterranean Sea are ideal for beach days and sun lounging. A great thing about visiting Italy in April is that the Vatican museums are open for night visitations, allowing you to explore art and history after the sun has gone down.

So, whether you’re looking for shorter queues at famous monuments or merely for celebrations of a patron saint or cultural events, there’s no better time to visit Italy than in April.

TIP: If you can’t travel in April, visiting Italy in May is your next best bet!

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