My Experience Visiting Rome in April: Weather, Packing, and More

If you like lush greenery, warm temperatures and can tolerate some rainy days then visiting Rome in April would be well worth it for you. I’ve been to Rome seven different times over the last couple decades, in all different times of year.

Most recently, I stayed in Rome from April 10 through May 8 and experienced a bit of the spring to summer transition there. Because I was in Rome for a whole month, I really got a feel for what Rome in April is actually like day to day.

So, let me tell you what to expect and how to prepare for April in Rome.

What is the Weather like in Rome in April?

Early morning to mid-morning were on the cooler side in April and even into early May. How quickly the temperature would start to really warm up depended on whether it was a cloudy day or not.

An elevated view overlooks the Roman Forum with the Colosseum visible in the distance beneath a dramatic overcast sky. Ancient ruins, historic churches, and archaeological remains stretch across the landscape, showcasing the heart of ancient Rome.

On cloudier days, things remained on the slightly cooler side until early afternoon. But when I say cooler, I don’t mean cold.

Let’s talk temperature: In the mornings, it was typically around 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit.

By early afternoon or midday, it was often in the mid-80s! Once the sun sets, it starts to cool down again but not drastically.

For the most part, I enjoyed clear blue skies and sunny days. But, some days were quite cloudy even into the first week of May.

Ancient brick walls, marble columns, and a large stone arch frame an archaeological site in central Rome. Bright sunlight streams into the scene, highlighting the textures of the centuries-old ruins.

If you’re visiting Rome in April, you may encounter some rain. On the one hand, the rain around this time of year adds to the lush beauty around the city. But on the other hand, sometimes it floods a bit!

While I myself was not in the city center during any rain storms, many tourists were and I saw the videos they posted about some flooding in the streets.

I experienced something similar when I visited Rome in November. But in my opinion, Rome in the rain is still very pretty, and the rain rarely lasts all day. Nor is it a daily occurrence.

So if you’re prepared with a bit of light rain gear, a couple pairs of shoes (in case one pair is soaked) and the patience to wait out storms in a bar then there’s no reason you can’t have a great visit in April.

What to Wear in Rome in April

One thing to know about the locals in Rome (and Italy in general) is that they tend to dress according to season, rather than weather. If you care about blending in a bit, you might leave the dresses and sandals behind this time of year.

A smiling person wearing sunglasses, a floral blouse, and a denim skirt stands beside a stone terrace overlooking the rooftops and gardens of Rome. The elevated viewpoint offers a sweeping cityscape beneath a dramatic, cloud-filled sky.

But of course, there’s no strict rule about this and you’ll also be in good company with fellow tourists so wear what you’re most comfortable in.

Here are some staple items you should pack for Rome in April:

Lightweight jacket

I had brought one denim jacket with me that I wore on repeat during the cooler mornings, but I wish I’d brought something a bit more chic instead, like one of these:

Scarf

The already cooler mornings can also be slightly windy. Personally, a scarf around my neck helped me feel more comfortable. You could even buy one there, as a practical souvenir.

Lightweight sweaters

These Quince sweaters in particular were my go-tos. They’re a quality fabric, great for layering and tie up nicely around the shoulders when you get too warm to wear it.

Breathable tops

Look for quality fabrics like 100% cotton or linen for your tees, blouses and long-sleeve tops. A simple, solid-colored tee can be dressed up on its own or easily layered. Collared shirts look put-together on their own or under a lightweight sweater.

Jeans

If you’re comfortable in jeans in your daily life then definitely bring at least one pair with you for easy daily wear. I brought one slightly thicker pair and one lighter one, in a couple different washes so that I could choose based on temperature and occasion.

Linen trousers

For hotter temperatures, linen trousers feel comfortable on and also look effortlessly polished.

Rain jacket

I’ve had this rain jacket since my 2021 trip to Costa Rica and I always bring it with me when I’m headed somewhere with a chance of rain. It packs up small, so it’s not a nuisance to bring with me as a just-in-case item.

A person wearing sunglasses and a green jacket looks toward a seagull perched on a stone wall with the Colosseum rising behind them. The overcast sky adds a dramatic backdrop to the iconic Roman landmark.

Umbrella

Full disclosure, I chose not to bring an umbrella with me on this trip. I put all my faith in my raincoat instead, and it worked out fine for me. But, I wasn’t in full tourist mode at all times.

I spent some days inside working and was able to plan around the rain, since I was there for a full month. Your plans might benefit from an umbrella.

But if you’re not sure, you can always buy one in Rome if needed (or probably borrow one from your hotel).

Comfortable shoes

This is a non-negotiable. Get a great pair of walking shoes with good traction and ankle support. For example, yes to something like these.

No to these.

Don’t just go for the cutest new pair that someone else swears they were able to walk for 20k steps in. Do your own try-ons and research.

Everyone’s feet are different, so if there’s a shoe you know works for you then stick with it.

Eveningwear

You don’t need anything super formal or fancy (unless your specific itinerary requires it).

But if you’re planning on some nice dinners out at a fancier restaurant or a rooftop bar then your daytime tourist fit might fall short.

Have at least one dressier pair of shoes with you, and either a dress, skirt or dressier pant.

Swimsuit

I rarely recommend taking a day trip from Rome because there is so much to see in the eternal city that your Rome itinerary is likely already full as it is.

But, if you happen to have extra time (think, more than 3 or 4 days dedicated to Rome) or if you’ve already seen the major sites on a previous visit then you could have yourself a beach day.

Make your way to either Ostia beach or Santa Marinela by train from Rome.

A broad Roman intersection features a tall palm tree, historic apartment buildings, and light traffic under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. Cars, scooters, and pedestrians move through the neighborhood, highlighting everyday life in the city.

Logistically speaking, if you’re staying centrally in the city then you might make at least a couple of outfit changes during the day.

Especially if you’re an early riser facing slightly cooler temperatures, you’d likely be more comfortable in pants and sweaters. During the hottest part of the afternoon, you could change into a dress.

On this particular trip, I was not staying in the city center but in the more local neighborhood of San Giovanni. Which meant I faced a 20-45ish minute commute into the city center each time.

I therefore stuck to layers, and never once wore the dress I’d packed (nor the sandals).

Bright pink azaleas in terracotta pots cascade down the Spanish Steps, leading up to the twin bell towers of Trinità dei Monti. The clear blue sky and blooming flowers create a vibrant springtime scene.

How are the crowds in April in Rome?

If you’re imagining that April in Rome is off-season, it’s not. Maybe it once was, but no longer. The truth is, Rome is almost always busy with crowds as one of the world’s most popular tourist cities.

But while there are some times of year that see fewer crowds, April is not one of them. You can expect Rome to be bustling with crowds in April and especially into May.

What this means for you is you should book things like your visit to the Colosseum, Vatican Museums and Borghese Gallery well in advance.

A historic building in Rome is almost entirely covered in lush green ivy, with dark green shutters opened along several windows. The vine-covered façade lines a quiet cobblestone street, creating a striking contrast between nature and classic architecture.

Things to do in Rome in April

While there are amazing things to do in Rome year-round, there are also some unique experiences that are April-specific.

You could plan to celebrate Easter there, at the start of the month. Or to participate in the citywide celebrations for Rome’s birthday on April 21.

April 25 is Rome’s Liberation Day, often with a parade and some sort of commemorative activity in the city center.

If you happen to be visiting toward the end of the month, May 1 is Worker’s Day which you may see celebrated with a free outdoor concert.

Fresh purple-green artichokes are stacked in a large white basket and arranged on platters at an outdoor market stall. The display sits on a white tablecloth with a parked car and city buildings in the background.

From a foodie perspective, be sure to try some artichokes and strawberries (including strawberry gelato) as they’ll both be in season.

Video: Rome in April

Final thoughts: Is it worth going to Italy in April?

Having spent the months of April into May in Rome myself I can confidently recommend it. The weather is more than manageable, the city is in full bloom and there are some fun city celebrations to participate in.

As long as you book your must-do activities in advance and pack well, you’re sure to have a great experience in Rome in April. But for an added guarantee, be sure to read up on some tourist mistakes to avoid before you go!