Visiting Rome during the off-season, which spans from November to March, offers a refreshingly different experience compared to the crowded summer months. The off-season brings fewer crowds and lower prices, giving visitors a much more relaxed experience. We’ve personally enjoyed our times in Rome during the colder months, and would highly recommend it for those who prefer to avoid the crowds and travel responsibly to Europe. Here are seven compelling reasons why you should consider booking your trip to Rome during the off-season, including information on what to expect in terms of weather.
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1. Fewer Tourists
The most immediate benefit of visiting Rome in the off-season is the significant drop in tourist numbers. You’ll start to notice the drop in tourists during the shoulder seasons April-May and September-October. A significant additional drop occurs typically in November. Other than the Christmas holidays, tourist numbers in Rome are typically lower through March.
Iconic sites like the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Spanish Steps are far less crowded. This means you can take your time to appreciate the beauty and historical significance of these places without the pressure of large crowds.
TIP: keep in mind that visitors can walk on the Spanish Steps, but may be fined for sitting on the steps. The latest fines are 400 Euros (quite an expensive photo).
2. Milder Weather
While summer in Rome can be overwhelmingly hot, the off-season offers milder weather, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. With temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), visitors typically find it comfortable to wander through Rome’s beautiful streets, charming neighborhoods, and open-air markets.
A few important things to keep in mind:
- November is the rainiest month of the year in Rome, followed by October and December. Be sure to pack a raincoat and/or umbrella. There are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy in Rome. Note that quite a few of the pictures included here were taken in November. There are plenty of sunny days too.
- Check the weather forecast for the specific month you are planning to visit and pack accordingly. Be sure to bring along a jacket, hat, and gloves for the winter months.
- The days are shorter than in summer, though Rome at night is a wonderful place to explore.
3. Lower Prices
Traveling to Rome during the off-season can be significantly cheaper. From airfare and accommodations to dining out, you’ll find better deals and discounts as businesses compete for fewer tourists. This makes the off-season ideal for travelers on a budget or those looking for luxury without the hefty price tag.
What is the Cheapest Season to Go to Rome?
The least expensive months to travel to Rome are the months December to February. March-April and October-November are also known to have lower prices for accommodations. Keep in mind that the holidays in December through the 1st week in January typically have a higher price point. Early December typically has lower prices and access to the holiday markets that are so fun to enjoy.
Flight Deals
Visiting Rome in the off season often means some very low airfare deals, especially when compared to the high season. Some of our top tips for getting these great flight deals:
- Start searching for flights early (when possible).
- Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights, setting up price alerts.
- Be flexible with your airports, including nearby airports in your search. Rome has 2 airports (CIA and FCO). While FCO is further from the city, it frequently has lower airfares.
- Be flexible with your travel dates to yield lower prices. Flying on holidays such as Thanksgiving Day itself often results in cheaper fares. Flying mid-week can often be less expensive than weekends, but explore all options.
- Cross check prices directly on the airline’s site to be sure you are getting the lowest possible fare. Additionally, sign up for airline newsletters and follow airlines on social media can provide access to flash sales or exclusive discounts that are not widely advertised.
Hotel Deals
Room rates overall drop during the off-season. For those using points to book rooms, the number of points also drops frequently, though this depends on the individual program being used.
Take advantage of Booking.com’s Late Escape Deals, which lets travelers save 15% or more on stays from September 4, 2024 to January 7, 2025. Search for deals on rooms or vacation rentals on Booking.com below:
4. Authentic Experiences
With fewer tourists around, you’ll get a more authentic feel of the city. Restaurants and cafes are less likely to be packed, and you’ll have a better chance of interacting with locals. This is a fantastic opportunity to discover the local lifestyle and enjoy Rome as the Romans do. Consider signing up for cooking classes or food and wine tours, both delicious ways to connect with locals in Rome. Alternatively, join locals in attending symphonies, operas, and plays.
5. Cultural Events and Festivals
The off-season in Rome is rich with cultural events and festivals. In December, enjoy the Christmas markets and the streets lit up for the holidays. Enjoy Christmas and Nw Year’s holiday concerts to bring in the new year. In February, join in the vibrant Carnival celebrations. Don’t miss a chance to visit unique art exhibitions that are less likely to tour internationally. There’s always something happening that provides a deeper insight into Italian culture.
Visitors from the U.S. and Canada can often find traditional Thanksgiving dinners being held in Rome. Consider visiting the L’Uliveto restaurant, which offers a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria. This is also a great place to stay for your visit in Rome.
6. Easier Access to Popular Attractions
Without the long queues typical of peak tourist season, you can save time and stress. Visiting museums, galleries, and archaeological sites becomes a more leisurely and enjoyable experience. This easier access also often allows for a more thorough exploration of places that might otherwise be rushed through during peak times.
This also provides visitors with more flexibility. Look at the weather forecast for the days of your visit before booking tickets to an attraction (with much less chance of them selling out).
7. Beautiful Scenery for Photography
Rome’s off-season is characterized by dramatic skies and softer light, perfect for photography. With fewer people and more atmospheric weather conditions, you can capture stunning photos of Rome’s historic streets and landmarks without the clutter of crowds. New to Rome? Consider taking a photo tour to some of the top sights. It can be a fun way to explore the city with a knowledgeable local guide.
Rome Off-Season Wrap-Up
Visiting Rome during the off-season not only offers practical advantages but also a different perspective of the Eternal City. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy the city at a leisurely pace, and experience the timeless beauty of Rome without the chaos of peak tourist season. Yes, the days are a bit shorter and the weather less predictable. For those who enjoy avoiding the crowds while still seeing the incredible historic and architectural sights in Rome, it is worth that trade-off! Find more inspiration for off-season travel in Europe here!
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Travel Resources
We recommend booking through our preferred travel booking sites below.
Air Travel | SkyScanner |
Lodging | Booking.com, VRBO.com, Expedia.com, Hostelworld |
Tours and Activities | Viator.com, GetYourGuide.com |
Car rentals | Discovercars.com |
Travel insurance | Squaremouth |
Bike and scooter rentals | BikeBookings.com |
Train tickets | Trainline, RailEurope |
Bus tickets | Flixbus, Busbud |
[…] You’ll find fewer people at places like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Trevi Fountain14. Plus, hotels are cheaper, so you can see Rome’s ancient sights without spending a […]
I live in Rome and I totally agree with your points. I prefer Rome during off season for its fewer crowds and the weather. Summers here are pretty brutal! I always escape Rome during summers for this.
Such a helpful post! Will definitely help with my planning.
What a great resource! I love visiting places in the off-season!
There are so many great reaons. I have been to Rome in the heart of summer and next time I would definitely visit in off season
It’s definitely worth a try off season, we found it much more relaxing and fun!
We love off-season travel! We’ve also visited Rome in the off-season a few times and it is the only way to go!
I’ve travelled through Europe in all the seasons and the off-season is a great time as there are Christmas celebrations as well as cheaper prices. And I even love the cold weather with the snow.
I agree–cities with holiday markets and lights and a bit of snow are great to visit!
I totally advocate for traveling during the off season whenever possible – fewer tourists, cheaper accommodation, yes please!
Thanks!
A few years ago, I visited Rome in December, and it was an amazing experience. While it’s not my favorite destination for European Christmas markets, the city was still beautiful, and exploring it with fewer tourists was a great bonus
Glad to hear it, I agree!
As if I needed another reason to visit Rome! I do love visiting in the shoulder/off-season for fewer crowds. I wouldn’t have thought about researching festivals though. Rome at Christmas time sounds pretty magical.
November/December are amazing times to visit Rome (from my perspective), as long as you factor in the colder and sometimes rainy weather.
Rome is such a beautiful city and you’re absolutely right on to recommend traveling during off-season as it can be sooooo crowded during other times. Thanks for all the tips!
Thank you for the feedback!
Hug fan of visiting Rome in the off season! It’s soooo much more enjoyable being there in more favourable temps and less crowds. Can’t argue with any of these reasons!
Glad you’ve enjoyed Rome in the off season too!
Visiting Rome in the quieter season sounds like a perfect time for exploring some of the more sites.
I went to Rome this august and it was exactly as you described (super crowded and hot!). now i can´t wait to visit Rome in the off-season!
Hope you have a chance to return when it’s less crowded.
Rome used to be my favourite city but a pre-COVID trip in October 2016 ruined it for me – it was so super busy! I would definitely go in the off season, once I visited in January, it was the best trip ever, sunshine, about 25C, not busy but all attractions open. A return is due but I have been really put off by the crazy accommodation prices, so I might try for winter again.
I think winter is the way to go at this point if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. It’s such a wonderful city to visit but for me at least, only without the crowds.
I am all about that low and shoulder season travel. Rome looks like a great place for it for all the reasons you listed. Better weather and better deals!
Thanks for the feedback!
I spent new years there a few years back and it was great! Didn’t mind the rain – I’m a winter gal anyway… Totally recommend!
Thanks!
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