Rome in November: A Firsthand Account of Weather, What to Wear and Things to Do

ByNausheen Farishta
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Wondering what to expect from Rome in November? 

I spent a little over a month living in Rome in November and part of December and it surpassed my expectations. Now, I should share that I am generally in love with Rome.

But having previously visited the eternal city during July and August, I have vowed to avoid Rome in summer months! Instead, I am a huge proponent of a European fall over a European summer. 

My visit to Rome in November only helped me double down on this preference. Read on for details based on my experience on the weather in Rome in November, tips on what to pack and suggestions for things to do in Rome in fall. 

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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 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. 

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

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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

Here are my tips on what to pack, for you to use as a baseline: 

  • 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 everytime 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! You’ll be able to pick up tights at a Calzedonia shop if you’d like to just bring your favorite shorts or skirt to wear over it 
  • 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, it appears to be out of stock now but this will give you a sense as you explore similar options 
  • 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. 
  • 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

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 not crowded at all. I definitely still saw big throngs of people walking about, but they felt more scattered. 

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. 

There was a line outside the Pantheon every day, but I again 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 book your tickets. 

Unlike some smaller 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.

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

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. 

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 5 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!

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.