The climate in Italy is very diverse. Some parts of the peninsula enjoy the typical Mediterranean climate which is characterized by warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters, however the climate in other regions can be vastly different. The difference in temperature can be seen mainly between the north and south during the winter months and yet there is less of a difference during summer.

Because of its proximity to the Alps, northern Italy is the coolest region of the country. This is particularly the case in areas that border Switzerland and Austria. In Milan for example, temperatures can range from 25 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit during winter. Throughout the year, rain is a common occurrence even during midsummer when the temperature can rise up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, it can be very humid throughout the summer.

On the other hand, central Italy can be more temperate throughout the year. This region that spans from Bologna to Rome can still experience cold winters but the temperature almost always stays above freezing. There is considerably less rain and the summer months are much drier, therefore the humidity in the region is significantly less. The temperature during summer varies between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The southern region of Italy which ranges from Naples down to the very “toe” of the boot-shaped peninsula is even warmer still. Temperatures range from 50 degrees Fahrenheit during winter and plays around the mid-70s in the summer. Despite the relative heat, this area is far from dry with high humidity levels during the middle of the year although summer temperatures remain within a comfortable range due the sea breezes around the area.

As for the island of Sardinia which is located across from Central Italy, it remains humid throughout the year but has very little annual rainfall and virtually none during the summer months. The temperature in the island is rather mild and rarely goes below the mid-40s in the winter and ranging from 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit in midsummer. The cool sea breeze that surrounds the island also helps prevent extreme heat and keeps the temperature at a comfortable level even during the hottest months of summer.

As for the southern most region of Italy which is the island of Sicily, the weather is largely similar to that of Sardinia. However, Sicily is known to be generally more humid that its counterpart. Similarly, since it also an island, the heat of summer is mitigated by the cool breeze that come in from the sea.

Before you plan your travel itinerary, it will be best to keep yourself informed about the climate in Italy. Since the temperature in Italy can vary widely, the information provided will help you decide which time of year will be best for a visit.