Your Ultimate Guide to Italy in October 2025: Festivals, Food, and Travel
October in Italy is frequently cited as one of the best times to visit. It’s a “shoulder month,” offering a more relaxed experience than the peak summer season, but with its own set of considerations. The month is defined by a delightful blend of autumn charm and lingering summer warmth, along with a rich tapestry of festivals and events that are deeply intertwined with the country’s autumnal culture, weather, and culinary traditions. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect, from regional weather variations to the most vibrant cultural happenings.
Weather and Packing: A Regional Breakdown
The weather in October varies significantly across the country, making strategic, layered packing essential for a successful trip.
Northern Italy (Milan, Venice): Expect cooler, crisper fall weather with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 16°C (45°F to 60°F). This region has a higher probability of rain, so a stylish, waterproof trench coat and waterproof shoes are highly recommended.
Central Italy (Rome, Florence, Tuscany): The weather here is generally milder, with temperatures between 13°C and 21°C (55°F to 70°F). Afternoons can be sunny and warm, while mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler. Rome, in particular, is known for the “Ottobrata Romana,” a phenomenon characterized by incredible sunsets.
Southern Italy (Amalfi Coast, Sicily): This region remains comfortably warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C (60°F to 75°F). This climate is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, which would be too strenuous in the summer heat. You might even get to use comfortable sandals on warmer afternoons.
The Heart of October: A Packed Calendar of Events
Italy’s October’s calendar is vibrant and packed with events that go beyond traditional sightseeing.
Food Festivals (Sagre): This is the quintessential month for food festivals celebrating the autumn harvest. The Fiera Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco di Alba (International White Truffle Fair) is a major draw in Piedmont, running from early October. Another highlight is the Eurochocolate International Chocolate Exhibition in Perugia, which attracts nearly a million visitors annually. Other festivals celebrate chestnuts, mushrooms, grapes, and olives across the country.
Art and Exhibitions: Milan is a key destination for art lovers, with major retrospectives on surrealist Leonora Carrington and modernist Man Ray. Rome hosts Rome Art Week from October 20-26, a citywide celebration of contemporary art with free exhibitions and open studios.
Comics, Film, and Games: The end of October features Lucca Comic and Games, the largest convention of its kind in Europe. Rome hosts both Romics (October 2-5) and the Rome Film Festival (October 15-26), a major cultural event with international premieres.
Historical and Religious Events: The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is celebrated nationwide on October 4, with profound ceremonies in the town of Assisi. In Melfi, Basilicata, the Medieval Days and Falconry Feast takes place from October 25-27, transforming the town with historical parades.
Practical Travel and Etiquette Tips
To ensure a smooth trip, understanding local customs and planning ahead is crucial.
Crowds: While October is a shoulder month, popular cities like Rome can still be exceptionally busy. Major festivals will create local crowding, and finding parking in Alba during the truffle fair can be “impossible”. It is essential to book tickets for major attractions and dinner reservations in advance.
Dining: Italians dine late, with most restaurants not opening before 7:30 PM. Dinner is a slow-paced experience, and you must ask for the bill (il conto) when you are ready to leave. A small cover charge, called a coperto, is standard.
Transportation: A car is essential for exploring rural areas, but the public transport system is reliable, particularly the trains between major cities. Be aware that occasional strikes (sciopero) can affect public transport, so it is advisable to check for announced strikes on official websites.
Dress Code: To avoid looking like a tourist, opt for “smart and put together” clothing rather than overly casual gym wear or flip-flops. When visiting churches, you must cover your shoulders and knees. A lightweight scarf or shawl is an easy way to ensure you are appropriately dressed.
Image credits:
Image by B.S. GÜLEŞAN
