Shoulder Season in Italy: Does it Really Exist?
It seems Italy has a narrow shoulder season.
I have visited Italy several times during what can be considered its shoulder season: the period between the country’s peak season and offseason. For most of Europe, the shoulder season encompasses spring and autumn, while summer serves as peak season and winter is the offseason. I have traveled to Sicily in late May and to Rome, Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast in late September.
There are more crowds than you might expect at these locations during spring and autumn. In fact, we found ourselves "shoulder to shoulder” (pun intended) with other tourists in Positano in late September. It’s no surprise, since Italy consistently ranks at the top of most travelers' wish lists.
Most people choose to travel during the shoulder season for several reasons. Obviously, fewer crowds mean easier access to various things: attractions, restaurant reservations, beaches, roads and parking. Speaking of beaches, if part of your vacation plan involves lounging in the sand by the sea, you’ll want to consider the weather. In mid to late September, the weather remains quite summery for most of Italy. Similarly, late May in Sicily is favorable, although some northern regions of Italy may experience less favorable weather during that time of year.
Another advantage of traveling to Italy during the shoulder season is the increased availability of hotels and more attractive pricing. While this may not be as favorable as the off-season in winter, you will notice slightly lower prices in spring and autumn. Many hotels in Italy close for winter to take care of renovations or maintenance. What better time to visit a hotel than just after it has undergone a winter refresh?
One tricky aspect is flights to Italy from the U.S. during the early shoulder season. Some carriers suspend routes during off-peak times, which could reduce convenient flight options. For instance, from Boston, most direct flights to Rome are halted in winter and do not resume until April. This is not the case at every airport; some will be affected more than others. Overall though, the price advantage holds true for flights as well. The cost just about doubles for flights in summer.
If you're truly looking to skip the large crowds and get better value for your money in Italy, I recommend traveling before mid-May or after October 1st. While it may not be beach weather, it's still quite comfortable to enjoy the stunning outdoors in one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe!
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