You’ve been waiting your whole life to visit Italy, and you want it to be as perfect as possible- not too hot, not too crowded. Italy’s most popular cities will have at least some crowds all year long, but, if you’re able to wait until just after the summer, Italy in September is significantly less crowded – and less hot! The summer vacationers who have gone home, fall is approaching, and it is one of the best places to visit in September. Don’t worry, though, it’s still warm enough to enjoy Italy’s fabulous beaches!
Best Places to Visit in Italy in September
Here we go – to maximize your time in Italy in September, we’ve narrowed down a list of the best places for you to visit.
- Rome
- Venice
- Florence
- Cinque Terre
- Milan
- Verona
Popular itinerary in Italy:
Rome in September
Start your trip in Italy’s eternal capital and the former capital of the Roman Empire. With ancient monuments, Renaissance statues, and medieval churches around every corner, walking through Rome is like walking through history. It is also known for its wealth of incredible dining options, as well as excellent nightlife. Visiting Italy in September, with a stop in Rome to soak up the charm and see the sites, means you’ll get the perfect shot of you tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain without too many people in the background.
The Canals of Venice
Venice, known to be one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world, is one of the best places in Italy to visit in September with temperatures ranging in the 70’s Fahrenheit and thinner crowds. Stroll along the canals of Venice, explore the wealth of historic churches and world-class museums, and make sure to visit the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica.
Florence Tourist Attractions
A must for art and architecture enthusiasts, Florence is one of Italy’s most important Renaissance architectural centers. It is also home to some remarkable museums, where visitors can admire the iconic Italian artwork that they know from books. September is a great time for a visit to Florence – the weather is pleasant, and you can also enjoy the popular Rificolona Festival with its hundreds of colorful paper lanterns, which takes place at the beginning of the month.
Cinque Terre
Made up of five small fishing villages, Cinque Terre looks like it came straight out of a postcard. Walk along the cliff-side path that weaves through these colorful villages, breathing in the fresh sea air and admiring the view of the colorful villages below for a truly picturesque once in a lifetime experience. Visiting Italy in September, including the Cinque Terre, means your hike along these breathtaking routes won’t be oppressively hot, and it won’t be too crowded!
Things to do in Milan
A more fast-paced Italian city, Milan attracts people with its high-fashion boutiques and majestic Gothic architecture. Milan is one of Italy’s great places, and, in September, in addition to the pleasant weather, you’re more likely to get a great, unobstructed view of Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” painting, which is housed in Milan’s Santa Maria delle Grazie!
Romance in Verona
One of the most famous couples in literary history called Verona “home.” Explore the city that inspired Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” You can even go and see Juliet’s iconic balcony. Don’t miss the Verona Arena, the huge 1st century Roman amphitheater, and try to experience one of its famous concerts or opera performances.
Best of Palermo
The capital of the island of Sicily, Palermo offers a completely unique Italian experience. Palermo is home to some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, including the Palermo Cathedral and the Palermo Archaeological Museum. It is among the best places in Italy to visit in September – the temperatures and sea are still warm, but many of the tourists have left. It’s a great time for walking, cycling, and even diving. And, don’t forget, Sicily is known for its incredible food and wine!
Naples and Pompeii
With stunning beaches, historic gems, and incredible food, Naples is an incredible city in its own right. It is also the perfect base for exploring nearby Pompeii, the wealthy ancient city which had been completely buried under a layer of volcanic ash from the 1st century until the 18th when it was discovered, frozen in time.
Cagliari
Sardinia’s historic capital by the sea, Cagliari’s rich past is evident in its remarkably preserved architecture. With Roman ruins, ancient architecture, and museums boasting prehistoric artifacts, this city is a trip through time. It isn’t stuck in the past, though. Visitors enjoy gorgeous beaches, an abundance of charming cafes, and great nightlife. If you are flexible, you’ll find that Cagliari is one of the best places to visit in September- it is calmer, and the sea and temperatures are warm enough for the beach but also conducive to walking, cycling, and diving.
Bari
With a preserved Old Town and a developing modern area, Bari is the perfect blend of Italy’s past and future. Get lost in the winding streets of the Old Town, where you will encounter the local population simply sitting and hanging out outside of their homes. Make sure to taste the incredible pasta, handmade by local residents. Soak in the local culture and history, take a walk down to the busy port, and simply enjoy traditional Italian life in this authentic town. Bari is truly one of Italy’s best places to visit!
Read More about Italy:
10 Most Romantic Small Towns In Italy: Created By YOU with our Italy Trip Planner