Traveling to Italy during the spring and summer is very popular. Many Italian attractions are open during this period, allowing the casual visitor time to explore major sites. Much of Italy has a hot but not humid climate during this period. Women should pack walking shorts in a lightweight fabric such as cotton or linen. Add lightweight shirts with short sleeves. Use a hat to help provide shade if you are going out in the hot afternoon sun. If you are touring the southern coastal region you can swim in warm waters of either coast. Italy has numerous topless beaches so you can bring a simple swimsuit bottom if you want. Add a more formal dress for touring museums and churches. Many Italian churches require women to dress modestly, meaning skirts to at least the knee and sleeves that cover the top part of your arms. Men should pack shorts and lightweight tops, as well. Men should also add in a pair of lightweight pants and a shirt that covers the top part of their arms if they are part of a tour group visiting Italian churches. Men may wear very short swim trunks that cover only their buttocks when bathing on many Italian beaches.
Touring Italy during the fall and winter offers many pleasures. Northern Italian cities see cooler weather and even snowfall, so pack accordingly when touring. Both genders should bring a warm jacket, long pants, gloves and a hat. If you are touring Northern Italy bring a pair of snow boots, as well. Travelers to the south should bring along a light jacket and pair of waterproof boots.
No matter when you're touring Italy you will want a good pair of walking shoes. Travel in Venice is by boat or on foot. Cars are not allowed. Expect to spend time walking around the city. Rome has a well-developed system of public transportation and taxis but also has steep hills. Attractions such as the Spanish Steps are filled with stairs. The Trevi Fountain is at the bottom of a hill. Amalfi coast towns are largely perched above a series of cliffs. Make sure that your shoes fit properly and are designed for walking long distances. Bring a pair of good sunglasses, as well. The Italian sun can be quite intense even in the winter.
