When to Visit Florence: Data, Sunshine and a Bit of Local Sass
Florence is always a good idea—but let’s be honest, some months are way better than others. We’ve combined the data (temperatures and crowd flow) with our experience as locals to help you choose when to come, why it matters, and what to expect from the city beyond the postcards.
High vs. Low Season (aka “When you’ll be queueing vs. strolling”)
High Season: June to August. June is a wonderful month—sunny, energetic, and still breathable. But from July onward, temperatures soar and museums become obstacle courses. The gelato melts faster than your patience. You'll get the sunshine you expect from a true Italian summer—but you'll be sharing it with about a million others.
Low Season: January to February. Quiet, cold, and a little melancholic—but perfect for museum marathons, truffle hunting, and living Florence like a local.
The Florence Sweet Spot: April–June & September–October
Spring: Think wisteria-covered courtyards, warm sun, and streets that aren’t (yet) packed with tour groups.
Early Fall: Post-summer calm, wine festivals, and golden light everywhere. Florence at its most cinematic.
The Data Speaks – Month by Month
April: 🌼 19°C avg. | Low crowds | Cherry blossoms in the gardens
May: 🌸 22°C avg. | Moderate crowds | Start of cultural season
June: ☀️ 26°C avg. | Busy, but still walkable
July–August: 🔥 Above 30°C | Peak crowds | Locals flee to the seaside
September: 🍇 24°C avg. | Cultural agenda full, crowds manageable
Local Tips for a Better Visit
Book early, especially for Uffizi, Duomo climb and Accademia.
Go early or late: Visit big sights before 10am or after 4pm—it’s how locals survive the wave.
Wander smart: Look for alternative locations (like Florence Factory shop), take a walk through the hills, or simply get lost in the backstreets far from the postcard crowd. Escape to Oltrarno or San Niccolò for, real cafés, and peace.
So when should you come to Florence? Spring and early fall. Florence is still Florence, but with fewer elbows. And if you’re brave (and wearing cashmere), January and February are your secret seasons.
