Rome in November: Why It’s the Best Time & How to Pack Right

ByNausheen Farishta Updated on
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I spent more than a month living in Rome in November through mid-December a couple years ago and I wasn’t prepared for how amazing it would be. I’ve visited Rome SIX times, at various times of the year.

I’ve seen the Eternal City in its sweltering summer heat during the months of July and August. I’ve visited just as the seasons morphed into full-on summer. I once rang in the New Year in Italy and was there late December into January. Most recently, I visited Rome in September.

Of all my visits, the time I spent in Rome in November has been my absolute favorite. I’m not kidding, and in this post I’ll explain exactly why.

For more insights, watch my video on visiting Rome in November:

What is the Weather in Rome in November? 

bridge over a river, lined with fall foliage and leading to castel saint angelo in Rome

I really was not expecting the weather to be as lovely as it was when I arrived in Rome at the start of the second week of November. It was 70 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny with blue skies!

As the month progressed, there were some chillier days and some pretty hefty rain showers but overall I experienced many clear days and very comfortable temperatures. 

Of course, weather can be unpredictable so you should always check the forecast shortly before your trip. Also consider whether you’re visiting in the first or latter half of the month, and how that might influence the weather you get. 

Bright, sunlit narrow street flanked by charming Roman buildings with detailed facades. A few pedestrians and a man pushing a cart are captured walking along the cobblestone street. Shows a sunny day in Rome in November

In general, weather in Rome in November tends to be mild. There are some rainy days, but I rarely experienced instances when it rained the entire day.

It does get rainier toward the second half and end of November. Average temperatures for the month are between 45-62 degrees Fahrenheit.

For context, you should know that I’m originally from Chicago. I find Rome’s temperature in November to be quite pleasant and definitely on the milder side. Depending on where you call home, and the weather you’re used to, you may disagree!

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Packing Tips: What to Wear in Rome in November 

Even on the warmer days, it’s unlikely you’ll see locals wearing ‘summer clothes’ in November. So, if you care to blend in a bit, be mindful of that and leave your summer dresses at home. If not, you do you! It’s your vacation after all. 

back of woman with open green umbrella and open coat looking at colosseum in Rome
Actual image of my outfit in Rome in November

I always recommend packing a

  • Jeans – for me, these are a staple item. I always pack at least one pair in a lighter wash and one pair in a darker wash
  • Fleece-lined leggings – if you’re prone to feel cold easily, bring a pair of fleece-lined leggings. These can be worn on their own at times, or under jeans as an added layer of warmth
  • Tights with shorts or a skirt – this is purely optional, but every time I’m in Europe I regret not having this combination on hand when I see others wearing it. It seems like such a fun look!
  • Long-sleeve shirts – think casual button-downs or lightweight sweaters
  • Sweaters – some slightly thicker options as well for the chillier days, some dressier some more casual for ease of transition to different occasions or to go from day to evening. 
  • Waterproof jacket – I loved the fleece-lined one I brought along (pictured above) but it’s now out of stock. Here’s another pretty and practical coat to consider.
  • Waterproof ankle boots – find ones with great traction that are both stylish and comfortable for walking in all day long. The pair I brought along were my main shoe throughout the trip. Consider these – they’re waterproof and definitely made for walking.
  • Lightweight sneakers – whenever you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, it’s helpful to have at least two shoe options. I brought my Allbirds. But be warned, these are not ideal for rainy days – they get very slippery on the wet cobblestone streets of Rome! 
  • Umbrella – you can also leave yours at home and buy one there. When it rains, you’ll see street vendors selling umbrellas everywhere. Or, perhaps your hotel will have one you can borrow on rainy days

    • Tip: Make sure you have at least a couple pairs of walking shoes, in case one pair gets wet in the rain and needs time to dry.

    How Busy is Rome in November, and What’s Open? 

    people walking on a sidewalk in Rome alongside a main street with buildings lining both sides of the street, and wedding cake building visible in the distance

    Look, Rome is a very popular tourist destination. In my experience, it’s never completely uncrowded. I definitely still saw big throngs of people walking about, but they felt more scattered. 

    And of all the times I’ve been, November in Rome is when it’s least crowded.

    The area around the Trevi Fountain still filled up with people, but I was one of maybe 10 people there when I went between 7am-8am. In peak seasons, I’d probably need to go even earlier. 

    When I was in Rome last September, it didn’t seem to matter how early I went – the area was always crowded.

    The grand Trevi Fountain with intricate marble sculptures of mythological figures and horses surrounded by cascading water into the clear turquoise pool below. The majestic architecture stands tall under the bright blue sky.

    The nearby cafe where I’d grown accustomed to grabbing a cappuccino-to-go during my November living in Rome? Not even an option in September – long lines every time.

    In November, there was a line outside the Pantheon every day, but I simply went early one morning and the shorter line moved quickly. 

    As for what’s open, everything. Some popular attractions may have shorter hours for the season, but you should easily discover that when you go to book your tickets. 

    Unlike some smaller European cities I’ve visited off-season, the landmarks, shops and restaurants in Rome remain open. 

    Best Things to do in Rome in November 

    You can do all of the same things in Rome in November as you would in the summer, such as visiting the colosseum, exploring the Vatican, taking an Italian cooking class and more. But here are some November and fall-specific things to add to your itinerary:

    1. Admire fall foliage at Villa Borghese Gardens 

    Climb the Spanish Steps, veer left and find yourself in a beautiful park that’s completely free to stroll through. The Borghese Gardens deserve some focus in your Rome itinerary.

    You could rent a bike or a rowboat if you’re feeling more active, as well. But even walking through the gardens is a fun and relaxing experience. Doing so in November is even better, as you’ll be surrounded by the changing colors of autumn!  

    2. Try seasonal foods

    stewed artichoke atop toast on a plate, a dish you can try when visiting Rome in November

    Of course you’re going to indulge in all the foods that Italy and Rome are traditionally well known for already. And when you’re visiting Rome in November, you have the added benefits of access to some seasonal specialties. 

    I was both surprised and amused the first time I saw someone roasting chestnuts on a corner of a shopping street in Rome. Stewed artichokes, carciofi alla romana, are another seasonal offering. 

    I enjoyed delicious pumpkin ravioli at a restaurant called Sphaeristerium. You’ll also have access to panettone – a traditional Italian Christmas cake – at bakeries and in grocery stores.

    Rome has delicious food to offer year-round, and you won’t regret the chance to try some fall favorites while you’re there.

    3. Enjoy festival season 

    Several festivals take place during the month of November in Rome, so if you’re in the city at this time you should definitely take advantage!

    There’s the Roma Europa Festival, International Film Festival and Jazz Festival to name a few of the most prominent ones. Choose one based on your preferences and scheduled trip dates for a unique experience on your visit to Rome. 

    4. Join the locals to celebrate a national holiday 

    wedding cake building in Rome, Italy

    If you happen to be in Rome on November 4, why not join in on commemorating the Day of the Armed Forces? This occasion marks the end of Italy’s involvement in WW1.

    You’ll likely see aerial displays by the Italian army and other ceremonies taking place around the ‘wedding cake building,’ also known as the Vittoriano Monument. 

    5. Visit St. Cecilia’s church on Nov 22

    On the feast day of St. Cecilia, Nov 22, the Basilica of St. Cecilia honors her through different rites and rituals. If you’re in Rome on this day, pay your own respects with a visit or at least a passing-by as you explore the Trastevere neighborhood. 

    6. Watch the Christmas decorations go up

    Piazza featuring a large decorated Christmas tree surrounded by historical buildings under a bright blue sky. Cars and people are seen in the square, emphasizing the lively yet calm atmosphere.

    As you’re wandering around Rome in November, you’ll begin to see festive touches being added to the city.

    For days if not weeks, I watched them slowly erect the main Christmas tree in front of the ‘wedding cake’ building. It was so exciting to walk by one day and see it fully set up! I also noticed as holiday lights began to come on along the charming streets in the evening.

    Depending on how late in the month you’re visiting, chances are you’ll get to see another side to this city.

    7. Take a day trip

    Close-up of a classic Neapolitan Margherita pizza with a golden, slightly charred crust, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, rich tomato sauce, and fresh basil leaves. Served on a marble surface.

    Because you’ll be traveling in off-season, you’ll have a variety of day trips available to you on a whim. In peak season, it’s important to pre-plan and book all your train tickets, for example.

    In November, you’re more likely to find tickets on shorter notice. I took a day trip 8. Bask in the romance of the rain

    View of an outdoor café covered with transparent plastic sheets under yellow canopies during a rainy evening. Sparkling lights and cozy ambiance can be seen from the restaurant and street reflections on the wet pavement.

    Few people dream of a rainy vacation, but I have to say the downpours in Rome created some of my coziest memories.

    In the video above, you can see how the rain allowed us to slow down for midday prosecco and tartuffo at the Vatican Museums.

    Another evening, I sat in an outdoor area of a restaurant that was fully enclosed by thick plastic tarp during dinner.

    The rain poured down, and from our protected enclosure we looked out through the clear plastic to see blurry lights and slick cobblestones.

    There’s something very comfortable about devouring hot gnocchi as you listen to the pitter-patter of heavy rain on the plastic tarp keeping you dry.

    FAQ: Traveling to Rome in November

    Spanish Steps with less crowds in Rome in November

    As you decide whether it’s worth it to visit Rome in November, consider this recap: 

    Is it a good time to go to Rome in November?

    Of all of my trips to Rome so far, visiting in November has been my favorite experience. Yes, Rome in November is a great idea!

    Are tourist attractions open in Rome in November? 

    Yes, the tourist attractions, major landmarks, shops and restaurants will still be open in November. The Vatican Museums will be closed November 1, and aside from that will maintain its standard Sunday closures. 

    How many days is enough in Rome? 

    You could see all the main sights within 3 days in Rome, but I’d recommend staying a bit longer to allow yourself to enjoy the city at a slower pace. This helps you avoid exhaustion. Or, gives you a chance to add in a day trip to Naples!

    The majestic Pantheon with its grand portico and tall Corinthian columns standing on a wet, rainy square. Visitors with umbrellas are seen approaching the entrance under the overcast sky.

    Final Thoughts on What to Expect in Rome in November

    I absolutely adore traveling to Rome in November, and can highly recommend it based on the time I’ve spent there during the fall season.

    The weather is generally mild, the city is far less crowded than in summer and there are unique opportunities to enjoy in the form of seasonal foods and events. If you ask me, you really can’t go wrong.

    Nausheen is a solo female traveler who is passionate about travel as a way to increase self love and confidence. She focuses on slow travel and bouts of digital nomadism, and has experience living abroad across several continents. As a post-divorce, South Asian woman in her 30s Nausheen aims to empower fellow women of color in particular to live life on their own terms. She shares travel itineraries, tips and inspiration on her blog and social media channels.