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Wondering what to wear on your Italian vacation this summer? Your favorite Europe travel expert has rounded up all of her must-have items for Italy to have you looking perfect, feeling comfortable, and enjoying every second of your time in Italy. So come with me as we discuss what to wear in Italy in the summer!
Packing for a trip to Italy in September?
Looking for the best time to visit Italy? There's no better time to explore Europe than early September through late October, when the jam-packed summer months give way to easier days, cooler evenings, lighter crowds, all while everything is still fully open and functioning. Imagine being able to walk into a tourist attraction in the heart of Rome with little to no line? Unimaginable in July. Very possible in September.
Sipping a spritz overlooking the Duomo, strolling the Spanish steps, exploring the Roman Forum...a trip to Italy is a collection of magical experiences. But you're here, not to hear me wax poetic about Italy, but to discuss the best attire to wear on these adventures. Well, you're in luck! Packing for Fall in Italy will be easy, once you're perused these tips. A light jacket, your most comfortable shoes, and a purse that zips, and you're on your way. I've rounded up my perfect packing tips for Fall in Italy! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being here. There's nothing I love more than helping Americans prepare for a trip to Europe, whether it's your first trip, or your first trip to a specific destination. When you're done learning about what to pack for Italy in September, I hope you'll take some time to explore the many, many, free resources I've created for Americans curious about exploring 'across the pond.' Frequently Asked Questions about Packing for September in ItalyWhat's the weather like in Italy in September?
In a word...perfect. Fall in Italy is a break from the exhausting heat, with cooler temperatures, a slight breeze, plenty of sunshine, and very little rain. On our most recent 10-day trip to Italy in September, we had no rain at all and honestly perfectly weather every single day. As far as average temperatures, in northern Italy, you can expect 76/61, with an average of 5 days of rain in the month. In Rome, 81/60, with the same rain changes, and basically the same if you're venturing down to the Amalfi Coast.
Do I need a jacket for Fall in Italy?
Yes. I would bring a light jacket (read: very light jacket), in the event of rainy days and cooler nights. As it's not as hot in Europe as it is in the US, Europeans are also more likely to wear jackets in their day-to-day. So, I tend to bring at least one, to make my outfit feel "finished."
When is the best time of year to visit Italy?
Any time September to November is my ideal time to visit Italy! It's always a popular destination, but outside the height of tourist season, you'll still get sunny days for plenty of exploring, complemented by cooler temperatures and far fewer crowds. So you're in luck!
What do Italians wear in the Fall?
As I've mentioned, Europeans dress more formally than we do here in the United States. Italian style in large cities is probably more "European" and less "flamboyant" than American stereotypes of Italy may have you imagining. Neutral colors, clean lines, chino pants, light jackets, and light dresses are all perfect for September in Italy.
Will I encounter dress codes in Italy?
Yes. It is almost certain that during your time exploring Italy this Fall you will encounter at least one destination, often churches and other affiliated religious sites, with a posted dress code. Religious buildings will often have posted dress codes requesting general modesty, including covered shoulders, no low necklines, and sometimes no short shorts.
In addition to an actual dress code, Italian culture, like almost every European country, is more traditional and formal than American culture. You may even see dress codes in high-end restaurants. Those usually rule out jeans (sometimes just distressed jeans), sneakers ("trainers"), and sweats, so be sure you have plenty of non-denim, non-logo attire, and proper shoes, if you'll be visiting a nice restaurant during your time in Italy. What NOT to Wear in Italy in September
The Ultimate Italian Packing Guide for September {2024}Your most comfortable walking shoes
There's nothing more essential to a successful trip to Italy than ensuring that you have the best shoes for exploring. And when I say exploring, I mean taking 20,000 steps/day, everyday, for as long as you're there. Oh and on bumpy streets, often cobblestone, and uneven sidewalks. Seriously. THE BEST SHOES.
FAQ: Can I wear flip-flops in Italy in September?
Legally...yes. Practically...no. First of all, it's not that hot in the Fall, so you'll be perfectly fine in normal shoes. And secondly, you really do need supportive shoes for all of your walking. I'd hate for you to miss out on discovering parts of the Roman Forum because you've worn unsupportive footwear.
FAQ: Can I wear sneakers in Italy in September?
Absolutely! A few years ago, an entire section of this post, nay, of the entire blog, would have been dedicated to me lecturing you about how you'll look like a tourist if you wear sneakers in Italy. But sneakers have conquered Europe like they've conquered the U.S. Just be sure your sneakers are low-profile, clean lines, clean and fresh, and not the shoes you wear to mow the grass or workout. And you must, must, must bring at least one pair of non-sneaker shoes. As we've discussed, you may encounter a dress code forbidding sneakers/"trainers"/"tennis shoes" most likely at a nice restaurant or theater.
now to specifics...
For Italy in September, I would recommend packing three pairs of shoes:
Lightweight pants for Fall in Italy
Alright, now that we've thoroughly exhausted shoes for your September trip to Italy, let's move onto pants.
FAQ: Can I wear jeans in Italy in the Fall?
Yes! A nice, tailored, clean, non-distressed pair of jeans will serve you well during your time in Europe. Added bonus - you can wear them multiple times. I might go with a cropped or ankle cut, since the weather is still a little warm in September in Italy.
Be sure to bring at least one pair of non-denim pants or a dress for dinners. While you can wear nice, dressed-up jeans for dinner, occasionally you will find them forbidden in the dress code. FAQ: Can I wear shorts in Italy in the Fall?
I would bring a pair of longer shorts, if you get some unexpectedly toasty weather. I personally tend to opt for a casual dress for touring on hotter days, but if you'd prefer shorts, go for it. I would avoid denim shorts, workout shorts, and anything too "short." European women wear longer, chino-style shorts.
A note on athleisure in Italy...
While "athleisure" is all the rage here in the States, the same is not the case in Europe. European women do not wear yoga pants and sports bras under a tiny jacket with a baseball cap to run their errands. Absolutely no judgement on athleisure here (I am a fully-fledged tennis skirt aficionado), but leave the full athletic outfits at home if you want to fit in in Italy. A few example of how you can incorporate your athleisure clothes into your Italy outfits: clean, neutral sneakers are fine, you can dress up dark joggers or travel pants, you could wear leggings as pants if you have a longer top. A windbreaker for a coat would be fine.
Just some ideas! Comfortable dresses
As I mentioned, I tend to prefer a casual dress to shorts for hotter days. But even if you don't want them for tourism days, be sure to include a few comfortable dresses for dinners and evenings in Italy. Italians eat dinner so late that you will absolutely have time to change, and will likely want to after a day of walking, before you go out for dinner at 8 PM.
Casual shirts
You'll want to include lightweight tops for autumn in Italy. I'd include mostly cotton tops. It will still be pretty warm, so while I might include a light sweater for London or Paris, I might just bring a wrap or cardigan for Italy, if you think you might get chilly.
a note on pickpockets and common sense tourist safety
One of the realities of being a tourist in Europe is taking reasonable precautions against pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas that cater to tourists. The height of summer in the heart of Rome is notorious for pickpocket and tourist-scamming schemes. Luckily for you, as temperatures cool off and crowds thin out, the scammers and pickpockets do tend to move onto other areas as well. That said, always be thoughtful and smart. Don't talk to strangers. Pretend you don't understand them, even if they're speaking English, and just keep walking. As we'll discuss, bring the right purse. Enjoy your trip and don't worry. But just be smart.
The Best Purses for Fall in Italy
The right purse for Fall in Italy is lightweight, small, hands-free, and, most importantly, closes fully. As I've just discussed, the last attribute, closing fully, is essential. I don't want to scare you, but you wouldn't walk around Times Square with a giant tote bag hanging open either. So be sure your purse zips fully and keep it closed while you're out exploring.
Your purse should be small, and you should carry as little as possible. Just the absolute essentials. The fewer items the better. For me, that's credit cards, my ID (NOT passport- leave that in the safe), a small amount of cash, my phone, and some hand sanitizer. For me, the ideal purse is a small, leather crossbody bag, like this Le Foulonne from Longchamp. Fanny packs (without logos), worn crossbody are also acceptable. Personally, I advise again travel backpacks, unless there's a real reason you need to carry so many items with you. In addition to being heavy and uncomfortable, you'll stand out as a tourist, and, most annoyingly, you may have to either check it in the coat check or wear it on your front in museums and historic sites. FAQ: Should I bring a hat to Italy in September?
I would! An easy straw hat is great choice for an early fall/September trip. It won't be as hot as summer, but when you're outside all day in the sun on warm days during the hottest hours of the day, you may want to keep the sun off your face! That said, remember my strictures on athleisure. European women DO NOT wear baseball caps. Do not wear a baseball cap during your time in Italy, if you want to fit in.
Pro Tip: Finish the Outfit
While we're on the topic of accessories, it's worth remembering that European women look fabulous, in part because they always 'finish the outfit' - add a jacket, belt, hat, or scarf.
.Looking for even more helpful tips about how to dress like a local in Europe? Check out the full post: 8+ Easy Tips to Dress Like a Local in Europe {2024} Complete Packing List for Italy in September
Thanks for Stopping By!
I so appreciate you letting me help you plan your trip to Europe. I know you'll have a phenomenal time, as we always do. While you're here, I sincerely hope you'll also take some time to explore the many free resources I've created over my many years of blogging for Americans planning trips to Europe.
Bon voyage!
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