aggiegirl

When would be the best time to visit Italy in any of the months from November through April? I want to avoid crowds, have reasonable weather, and have most things open. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. Rome and Venice are on the top of the to do list.

mebe

I've been to Rome in early November. The weather was warm, with one day of light rain. There were crowds, but nothing overwhelming. And everything was open. A few sites were covered in scaffolding, which was a bummer.

metinmadrid

I would recommend February or March based on your criteria. April will likely have the best weather but more tourists.

From late October through December, there is the greatest risk of acqua alta (high water - flooding) in Venice. November is the rainiest month. I was there in early November a few years ago - it poured, there was acqua alta, and it was bit of a soggy mess. Still beautiful, but very wet!

We went to Rome once in February (over Valentine's Day) and it was a great time to go. Few tourists, no lines to see major attractions, cold but not unbearable. Plus, there are plenty of cafes to pop into for a coffee or a hot chocolate when you need to warm up.

Zerlina

On the other hand, I was in Venice in November 2006 for two weeks: one evening of light drizzle, no acqua alta.

I think all bets are off about predicting weather anywhere in the world.

Jean

Check the lunar calendar. Acqua alta is partially caused by high tides at the full moon. It's less likely to occur the week before and after a new moon.

Nonconformist

If you want to avoid crowds you'll want to make sure your visit to Venice doesn't coincide with the Carnival (the run-up to Mardi Gras). Next year (2008) I understand the dates are 25 Jan-5 Feb. Easter itself in Rome is probably best avoided too.

I'd go for April myself, for the best chance of reasonable weather.

aggiegirl

Thanks for the replies!