drchris

We are planning a trip to Italy next year and would like suggestions as to the best time to go. We hope to visit Venice, Florence, Lucca, Sienna, the Cinque Terre, and maybe the northern lakes. We live in a hot climate and would like to be there when it is not hot. We also love seeing flowers in bloom. We enjoy traveling when places are less crowded, but openings and hours are not too limited and towns do not seem to be "shut down." We can travel any time of year. Suggestions?

michele_d

Last year we spent the month of October in Italy, starting in Venice, then the CT, Lucca, Tuscany, Pompeii and Rome. We had great weather. A little cool in the mornings, then very pleasant during the day. No crowds, no flowers either, but still beautiful.

ellenem

The end of April through May is a great time to experience the gardens at the villas on Lake Como, with all the azaleas, rhododendrons, wisteria, and other plantings in bloom.

mamcalice

For weather, May and late September are my favorite times of the year to visit Italy. May has the advantage of flowers and longer days. September is often drier and sunnier. Italy is always a bit crowded during nice weather but May and September/early October are not nearly as crowded as the summer. You have a lovely itinerary and all of what you plan to see won't be shut down at those times.

bobthenavigator

I suggest May---later May if possible.
The flowers are a primary reason, but also longer days.

Here is a Venice sneak preview:
http://tripwow.tripadvisor.com/tripw...3-3c54-f932?lb