Climate
Italy has a largely temperate climate with regional
variations. In summer the Northern parts of Italy are warm with
occasional rainfall, the central region is somewhat stifled by
humidity and the south scorches under the dry heat. In winter,
conditions in Milan, Turin and Venice are dominated by cold, damp
and fog and Tuscany's winter temperatures approach freezing, while
temperatures in the south of the country are more favourable
averaging 50-60ºF (10-20ºC). Most people visit Italy between June
and August, however the best time to visit is in Spring (April-May)
and Autumn (September-October) when the weather is good and the
tourists are few. The sea is warm enough for swimming between June
and September. Most Italians take their vacation in August and many
shops and restaurants are closed during this period. The ski season
runs between December and April and the best time to walk in the
Alps is between June and September.
