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Many treasures of Renaissance art and architecture may be found in ​Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany province. The Duomo, a cathedral with a terracotta-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi and a bell tower designed by Giotto, is one of the city's most prominent attractions. The city also has various museums and art galleries, like the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti, and continues to have an impact on art, culture, and politics. If you’re planning to visit the stunning city, you need to visit at the right time. Read on to discover the best time to visit Florence.

What's the Best Time to Visit Florence?

best time to visit Florence

Best Months for Staying Outdoors in Florence: April and May

Best Months for Sightseeing & Museum Hopping: April, May, September, and October

Best Months for Honeymooners: April, May, September, and October

Best Months for Budget Travellers: August, December, January, and February

Best Months for Shopaholics: July and August

best time to visit Florence- High Seasons

High Season

When: **mid-May to July, September

What to Expect:

  • Summer is the busiest tourist season in Florence, except for August, when most Italians go on vacation.
  • Airfares and hotel rates are at their peak between mid-May and July, as well as until September.
  • The weather will most likely be hot, and the crowds will be thick.
best time to visit Florence- shoulder season

Shoulder Season

When: March to mid-May, October, and November

What to Expect:

  • Many people believe the shoulder season, notably March, April, and October, to be the greatest time to visit Florence.
  • The throngs of tourists have either not arrived or are starting to dwindle.
  • This is the time of year when the weather is usually pleasant.
best time to visit Florence- low season

Low Season

When: **August and December to February

What to Expect:

  • Florence's low season is usually winter but the weather doesn’t get too harsh.
  • Expect fewer crowds and better lodging and airfare deals during the winter.
  • Prepare for fog and rain during a winter visit, which means colder temperatures.

Seasons in Florence

best time to visit Florence- low season

Spring

March - May

Average Temperatures: 5 - 24°C

Spring arrives in Florence, with the weather becoming warmer, the days becoming longer, and the skies becoming brighter. It's a beautiful time of year to visit the iconic Italian Renaissance Gardens of Boboli and Bardini. The spring season runs from April to May, and while it is peak tourist season, it is still one of the greatest times to visit Florence.

Tips: Given the pleasant weather, this is the perfect time to stroll around beautiful Florence

Best Time to visit Florence - Summer

Summer 

June - August

Average Temperatures: 16 - 32°C

Florence has a torrid summer, with temperatures reaching record highs in July and August. International travelers come in during school vacations, making these the biggest holiday months. These are the finest months to get a gelato and stroll around hot Florence's cobblestone streets. Numerous summer events focused on dance, music, and art are also held in the city.

Tips: Apply sunscreen liberally before stepping out, especially if you visit in July and August

Best Time to visit Florence- Autumn

Autumn 

September - December

Average Temperatures: 6 - 27°C

The months of September and October are some of the best for visiting Florence. It's a welcome relief from the summer heat, with occasional showers. The changing colors of the leaves on the trees in the town's parks, avenues, and streets, as well as the glittering reflections in the Arno River, all make a visit to Florence at this time of year worthwhile.

Tips: Autumn is the harvest season for wine. Visit a vineyard and drink world-class Tuscan wines if you have the opportunity.

Best Time to visit Florence- Winter

Winter 

January - February

Average Temperatures: 22 - 12°C

Florence in the winter is your go-to location if you don't like snow. Although it seldom snows in the city, when it does, it is usually light snow that quickly turns to rain. The temperatures do not drop below freezing, and with proper clothes, you can have a pleasant time. Florence is one of the best locations to visit during Christmas because of its markets, festivities, and decorations, making it one of the best places to visit during the holiday season.

Tips: Rainy winter weather is the perfect excuse to spend the day in the wonderful museums of Florence.

Recommended Attractions in Florence

Best Time to Visit Florence - Uffizi Gallery

1. Uffizi Gallery

from €30
Best Time to Visit Florence - Duomo

2. Duomo

from €52
Best Time to Visit Florence - Accademia Gallery

3. Accademia Gallery

from €20
Best Time to Visit Florence - Boboli Gardens

4. Boboli Gardens

from €16
Best Time to Visit Florence - Palazzo Pitti

5. Palazzo Pitti

from €24
Best Time to Visit Florence - Museo del Bargello

6. Museo del Bargello

from €18.50
Best Time to Visit Florence - Medici Chapel

7. Medici Chapel

from €15

Best Time to Visit Florence: Month on Month Guide

Best Time to Visit Florence - January

January

Average Temperature: 2 - 11°C

January is the coldest month in Florence, with fog and rain, but it's unlikely to be so cold that you'll require a heavy winter coat. It's also the off-season for tourists, but the festivities in Florence aren't over yet! The Epiphany, also known as Befana, is a large celebration commemorating the Three Wise Men's gifts, with the main ceremony taking place at Piazza Duomo.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: Dress in layers, with a waterproof jacket as the final layer, as well as a cap and gloves.

Best Time to Visit - February

February

Average Temperature: 3- 12°C

In February, the weather begins warming up, resulting in slightly less precipitation. While the average high temperature remains at 12°C, the low temperature rises to 4°C, and just 49mm of rain falls on average over eight days. The month's highlight is the Carnival, which is one of the best in Europe and lasts two weeks. It's also a classical music and opera season, with performances at the Teatro Verde and the Opera del Duomo.

Things to do: 

  • Go for a Florence Segway guided tour
  • Explore ​Palazzo Pitti
  • Embark on a day trip to Chianti
  • Head to Fortezza Antiquaria

Travel Tips: As February isn't the busiest month, you can visit all of Florence's museums at your leisure.

Best Time to Visit - March

March

Average Temperature: **5 - 16°C

The weather remains warm through March, with the average high reaching 15°C and the low reaching 6°C. While the amount of precipitation increases significantly, it usually comes in the form of fog or mist. The flowers are in full bloom, and during Festa Della Donna, locals honor the women in their lives by offering yellow mimosa flowers.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: If you're visiting around the second half of March, you might want to bring a few items for the warmer weather.

Best Time to Visit - April

April

Average Temperature: 8 - 19°C

The weather in April in Florence might be a little variable, but it's more likely to be sunny than rainy. With a peak temperature of roughly 19°C, it will be much warmer now. Florence is getting ready for Holy Week, Easter, and Liberation Day celebrations. With marathons like Vivicitta and Eco-marathon, as well as the Florence Bike Festival, April is a great month to get outside.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: Attend the International Handicrafts Fair to purchase genuine Florentine handicrafts.

Best Time to Visit - May

May

Average Temperature: 8 - 19°C

May is a fantastic month to visit Florence, with temperatures up to 5 degrees higher than last month. It will most certainly feel like summer on most days, with many more bright sunny days than dreary ones. The blossoming of Irises at the Iris Garden is one of the most anticipated occasions. Spending time at Florence's parks, such as the Giardino Bardini, Boboli Gardens, and Parco Delle Cascine is a fantastic option.

Things to do: 

  • Visit ​Duomo Florence
  • Explore Siena Cathedral
  • Discover Fortezza da Basso
  • Day trip to Chianti

Travel Tips: In May, join the locals in commemorating Labour Day and Giorno Della Mamma.

Florence in May Guide
Best Time To Visit - June

June

Average Temperature: 16 - 29°C

Summer is already in full swing, and Florence can get rather hot; with an average high of about 28°C. It can go into the low 30s on occasion, so if you're going this month, make sure you're prepared to stay cool. The Italian Republic Day is the centerpiece of the month, with parades, celebrations, and patriotic fervor. The Festa Di San Giovanni and the wine-tasting extravaganza Mostra Del Chianti are two more exciting events.

Things to do: 

  • Explore ​Accademia Gallery
  • Day trip to Siena
  • Go for the Florence Segway guided tour
  • Attend Festa Di San Giovanni

Travel Tips: To avoid the long lines at attractions in Florence in June, it is a good idea to purchase skip-the-line tickets.

Florence in June Guide
Best Time to Visit - July

July

Average Temperature: 18 - 32°C

In Florence, July is one of the warmest months of the year. There are seldom clouds to impede the sun's rays, and afternoons routinely reach maximum temperatures of 31°C or more. Because the days are long, it's preferable to spend the scorching afternoons inside the city's stunning cathedrals and art galleries, such as the Uffizi and Galleria dell'Accademia, and explore the city in the mornings and evenings.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: Visit Florence's rooftop bars for a memorable experience while also being less crowded during this season.

Florence in July Guide
Best Time to Visit - August

August

Average Temperature: 18 - 31°C

In August, when most Florentines move elsewhere to avoid the blazing heat, it's equally as hot or somewhat hotter. The midday high averages 31°C and can reach 40°C on rare occasions. Many businesses, including some shops and restaurants, close for at least part of August, making the streets less busy for visitors. The city's magnificent galleries and museums provide a haven, while evenings are filled with cultural outdoor activities such as Estate Fiesolana.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: Since Bilancino Lake is less busy than other beaches, you can rent paddle boats or canoes.

Florence in August Guide
Best Time To Visit - September

September

Average Temperature: 15 - 27°C

The pleasant summer weather continues in early September, with temperatures beginning to cool slightly. The average high drops to 27°C, with a slight rise in the possibility of rain. It's the best time of year to go on simple day trips from Florence, particularly to Tuscany during Vendemmia, or wine harvest season. Day trips from Florence are also possible to Siena, Chianti, Cinque Terre, and Pisa.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: It's best to visit indoor attractions like museums and art galleries in the afternoons to avoid the searing heat of the sun.

Florence in September Guide
Best Time to Visit - October

October

Average Temperature: 11 - 21°C

Autumn brings cooler weather and fewer people. October is an excellent month to visit Florence since the weather is still pleasant early in the month and the parks and woodlands are transformed by the gorgeous foliage of autumn. It's the perfect time to go exploring in the countryside and take advantage of the cool weather! Some of the festivals in the countryside you can experience include Marradi, Vicchio, and Impruneta.

Things to do:

  • Day trip to Cinque Terre
  • Florence Segway guided tour
  • Visit Accademia Gallery
  • Tour ​Duomo Florence

Travel Tips: As October is Italy's harvest season, you'll be able to sample a variety of intriguing seasonal dishes

Florence in October Guide
Best Time to Visit - November

November

Average Temperature: 6 - 15°C

The wettest month of the year, November, brings back grey, rainy days to Florence, with average precipitation reaching 102mm over 15 days. The maximum temperature is a chilly 15°C, ideal for wearing a sweater. You can expect short lines at tourist destinations such as the Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Accademia Gallery. Enjoy as well as unhurried meals in restaurants featuring seasonal specialties such as freshly pressed olive oil and white truffles are available.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: Pay a visit to the city's ice skating rink in the Arno River winter park!

Florence in November Guide
Best Time to Visit - December

December

Average Temperature: 3 - 11°C

In December, the average high temperature drops 4 degrees to 11°C, and the low temperature drops to a chilly 4°C. Because the days are short, you should get up early and get out of the house before the sunsets. Christmas events, ranging from Christmas markets in Piazza Santissima Annunziata to visiting the Christmas tree and nativity scene presentations in Piazza del Duomo, are the highlights of visiting Florence in December.

Things to do: 

Travel Tips: Winter clothing, such as a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots, should be packed now.

Florence in December Guide

Hacks & Tricks to Visit Florence

  • You'll get the greatest bang for your buck and the chance to travel without the crowds during the chilly low season, which runs from November to March. Accommodation costs might be as much as 50% less than in the high season.
  • Millions of tourists visit Florence each year, putting a strain on the city's livability. Clean up after yourself, and avoid sitting with your food on random steps.
  • Many smaller pubs and shops still don't take credit cards or demand a fee to use them. It's better and much easier to have a small sum of money.
  • Step out of Florence and discover the beautiful heart of Tuscany, which is filled with historic villages and old vineyards, and olive groves.
  • Take a food tour and enjoy a gourmet feast as you slowly dine your way from one establishment to the next.
  • The further you walk away from the historic district, the less expensive items become. Staying in a less-traveled suburb or off-the-beaten-path neighborhood and commuting to the city center will save you a lot of money.

Know More About the Best Time to Visit Florence

What is the best time to visit Florence?

The best time to visit ​Florence is between May and September when the weather is mild, bringing art festivals, open-air restaurants, and beautiful sunshine.

When is the High Season in Florence?

The high season in ​Florence is from mid-May to July and September.

What are the hottest months in Florence?

The hottest month of the year in ​Florence in July.

What are the coldest months in Florence?

The coldest month in Florence in January.

When does it rain the most in Florence?

It rains the most in November in Florence.

What is the best time to go sightseeing in Florence?

The best time to go sight-seeing in Florence is April and May or September and October

When is Florence less crowded?

Florence is less crowded in November, February, and March.

Which time of the year can I get the budget deals in Florence?

You can get budget deals in Florence in August, December, January, and February.

What is the best time to go swimming at the beach in Florence?

You can swim at the beach in Florence in May but note that the temperature can be as low as 15.5°C.

What can I do in Florence in Summer?

You can visit ​Uffizi Gallery, ​Duomo Florence, and eat gelato in the evening in Florence in summer.

What can I do in Florence in Winter?

You can visit the many palaces in the city, visit ​Accademia Gallery, and enjoy authentic Tuscan winter food in Florence in winter.

What can I do in Florence in Spring?

You can spend a day at La Citè, attend the Gelato Festival, and enjoy a picnic at Le Cascine Park in Florence in spring.

What can I do in Florence in Autumn?

You can go for a day trip to Tuscany, visit the famous theatres of the city, and visit beaches like Marina di Pisa in Florence in autumn.

What is the best time to visit Florence with the kids?

The best time to visit Florence with kids is May and September.

What is the best time to visit Florence for couples?

The best time to visit Florence for couples is April, May, September, and October.

What is the best time to visit Florence while traveling solo?

The best time to visit Florence while traveling solo is from April to October.

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