Italy Travel Essentials

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A woman walks the empty beach of Cefalu in the winter.

Sicily in Every Season: Best Time to Visit Sicily

Sicily's iconic beaches, historic palaces and cathedrals are best visited from May to June or September to October, when temperatures hover around 70ºF (21ºC). While the weather is ideal during these periods, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. Prices for accommodation drop and the tourist crowds thin out at other times of the year, making off-season travel a good option. Travel in November and December is highly recommended for these reasons.

A quiet moment by the beach in Cefalù, Sicily

Best Time of Year to Visit Italy

When should you go to Italy? Summer is very warm, especially in the south, along with plenty of tourists in pursuit of 'la dolce vita'. Hit the coast in late spring, early summer, or September when weather is warm and crowds are manageable. Autumn brings moderate temps throughout the country and beautiful foliage in Tuscany—this is also a quiet time of year in Rome and Florence, making it ideal for sightseeing.

Tuscany Off the Beaten Path: 7 Ways to Go Beyond Florence

It’s easy to fall into the Florence trap in Tuscany. While no one is denying the appeal of that most cultured of cities, Tuscany goes way beyond the obvious appeal of Pisa’s leaning tower, Siena’s Palio and popular hill towns like San Gimignano. Read on to find out how you can sidestep the crowds and find Tuscany's off-the-radar highlights.

A cobbled street in Rome's Jewish Ghetto

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Rome

There’s more to Rome than standing in line at the Colosseum and jostling up to the Spanish Steps. With a little insider knowledge (and a pair of decent walking shoes), you can see a totally different side of the Italian capital. See an Egyptian-inspired pyramid, take in the views from hidden hilltop gardens, and stroll through blissfully uncrowded neighborhoods brimming with markets and cafés.

Spoleto at sunset, with the medieval bridge of Ponte delle Torri and Rocca Albornoziana hilltop fortress

6 Places Most Travelers Miss in Italy (But Shouldn't)

So you’ve ticked off the Colosseum in Rome, boated the canals in Venice, and have come back for more. Bravo, as the Italians would say—there is a lot more to this country than the trophy sights, and enough little-known treasures to fill a lifetime of repeat visits. Get to know the Aeolian Islands, Saturnia, the hill towns of Umbria, and more.

Discover history, culture, and nature in Italy

How kimkim Trips Work in Italy

Italy is one of the most sought after destinations in the world for its history, romance, and (of course) incredible cuisine. Hit the classic stops or head off the beaten path—no matter which route you want to take, kimkim can create a perfectly unique experience.

7 Top Highlights of Italy: Classic Italian Sites & Tips for Beating the Crowds

From the cinematic coastline of Amalfi to the canals of Venice, Rome’s lavishly frescoed Sistine Chapel to Florence’s treasure-trove Uffizi Gallery, Italy's classic stops are worth visiting again and again. Read on for the inside scoop on seven Italian must-sees.

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