Spring is hands-down one of the best times to visit Rome. The weather is perfect (before the summer heat kicks in), the flowers are blooming, and the city just feels alive—without the full-on summer tourist crowds. Whether you’re strolling past ancient ruins, enjoying a scenic rooftop view, or catching a spring festival, Rome in spring is a time of year you must-visit. So, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your spring trip to Rome: weather, packing tips, and the 10 best things to do.
These are my favorite kinds of travel guides to write, and frankly, the ones that I often read to plan my own trips. They are guides that share personal experiences, things that are actually worth the hype (or not at all), and suggestions for things to include in your won trip planning. I’ve written detailed travel itineraries before and often struggle to not only encapsulate the essence of a trip, but really are the trips I take planned out day by day, hour by hour. If I think back on the trips I’ve enjoy the most, they were vacations my husband and I booked last-minute, trips where I chatted with locals to find the best things to do. So, this guide is intended to give you first hand experience from my time in Rome in April and May, along with things I personally loved to see.
Table of Contents
- Rome in Spring Weather
- How to Get Around Rome
- Rome Spring Travel Tips (Things You NEED to Know Before You Go)
- Holidays and Event to Plan Around in Spring in Rome
- The Best Things to do in Rome in Spring
- #15. Visit the Roseto Comunale (Rome’s Rose Garden)
- #14. Wander Through the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)
- #13. Stroll Through Trastevere
- #12. Explore the Vatican Museum (& the Gardens)
- #11. Check Out the Spanish Steps
- #10. Take a Day Trip to Tivoli
- #9. Walk the Roman Forum and the Colosseum at Golden Hour
- #8. Visit the Orange Blossom Festival at Sant’Eustachio
- #7. Visit Trevi Fountain
- #6. Watch the Spring Sunsets from a Rooftop Terrace
- #5. Ponte Sisto at Sunset
- #4. Piazza Navona
- #3. St. Peter’s Basicilia
- #2. Explore the Campo de’ Fiori Outdoor Market
- #1. Take a Slow Walk on Tiber Island
- What to Wear in Rome in Spring
Rome in Spring Weather
Spring in Rome runs from March to May, and the weather shifts from chilly mornings to sunny afternoons. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- March: Cool and fresh (50-65°F / 10-18°C), occasional rain, still a bit of a winter feel.
- April: Warmer days (55-70°F / 13-21°C), sunny afternoons, peak bloom season.
- May: Almost summer vibes (60-75°F / 15-24°C), longer daylight hours, perfect for sightseeing.
Travel Tip: It can still rain in March and April, so bring a light rain jacket or compact umbrella.
How to Get Around Rome
During my times in Rome I’ve almost exclusively walked, or taken the one-off taxi ride. The city is extmrely walkable and I personally like exploring that way. The buses are easy to navigate, as well as you’ll find scooters around (but I am not a fan of those). If you want, or think you might take public transport I suggest getting the Roma City Pass.
Rome Spring Travel Tips (Things You NEED to Know Before You Go)
- Cash | Most places simply prefer you use cash so I suggest you always have some on hand. At nicer restaurants you can pay in card, but for many smaller places, or off the beaten path things you will need cash.
- It could be incredibly busy | If you time your trip around the easter break you can expect LARGE crowds. I suggest heading there before or after Easter (see holidays below).
- Book in advance | Spring is a sweet spot for travel—popular spots like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Borghese Gallery sell out fast. Reserve tickets online ahead of time!
- Bring layers | Mornings and evenings can be chilly, but afternoons are warm. A light jacket or sweater is a lifesaver.
- Comfortable shoes are a must | The cobblestone streets are no joke. Go for stylish sneakers or comfy sandals (you’ll thank me later).
- Beware of May crowds | By late spring, Rome starts to feel busier—if you want a more relaxed vibe, visit in March or early April.
- Don’t try to do everything in one day | Rome is best enjoyed slowly—give yourself time to wander, stop for coffee, and just take it all in.
Holidays and Event to Plan Around in Spring in Rome
- Easter: Rome is one of the most popular places in the world to celebrate Easter, especially at St. Peter’s Basilica. If you’re visiting around this time:
- Expect large crowds at the Vatican, especially for the Papal Mass on Easter Sunday (free, but you need tickets!).
- Many restaurants and shops close on Easter Sunday & Monday (Pasquetta).
- Natale di Roma (Rome’s Birthday) – April 21 Rome celebrates its founding (753 BC!) with gladiator parades, fireworks over the Tiber, and free museum entries.
- May 1st (Labor Day – Festa dei Lavoratori) A national holiday—many businesses close, but there’s a huge free concert in Piazza San Giovanni. Expect transport & museum disruptions.
The Best Things to do in Rome in Spring
#15. Visit the Roseto Comunale (Rome’s Rose Garden)
This hidden gem near the Circus Maximus only opens in spring (April–June), and it’s stunning. Over 1,000 varieties of roses bloom here, with an amazing view of Palatine Hill in the background. It’s peaceful, romantic, and totally free!
#14. Wander Through the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)
One of the most underrated views in Rome. This quiet garden on Aventine Hill has blooming orange trees, spring flowers, and a postcard-perfect view of the city. Go for sunset—it’s magical.
#13. Stroll Through Trastevere
Trastevere is always charming, but in spring, it’s pure perfection. The ivy-covered buildings, colorful flowers, and lively piazzas make it the best spot for an afternoon walk. This charming neighborhood is full of winding cobblestone streets, cute cafes, and incredible food. A few restaurants you should check out are:
- Ristorante Sete Oche in Altalena: If it’s a nice day you must sit outside and marvel at the buildings and a street that will make you feel like you are in a movie. Their goat cheese and walnut salad is amazing, along with their Bucatini alla Amatriciana.
- Da Nina a Trastevere: If Sete Oche is full, walk over to Da Nina (or the other way around), for another fabulous meal of local pastas, wines, and pistachio lasagna.
#12. Explore the Vatican Museum (& the Gardens)
The Vatican is a must, but here’s the deal: it gets packed. Go first thing in the morning to avoid the worst of the crowds. If you can, book a tour that includes the Vatican Gardens. Most people only visit the Vatican Museums, but the Vatican Gardens are a springtime dream. They’re lush, peaceful, and filled with blooming flowers, fountains, and citrus trees. You’ll need to book a guided tour in advance!
Traveling Tip: After the Vatican you’ll probably be exhausted, and in need of a pick me up. So, I suggest heading over to the famous tiramisu shop, Two Sizes. I’ve included it in the map above! They serve 5 different flavors of tiramisu, in two sizes (hence the name), and it’s fabulous! Try the pistachio and traditional.
#11. Check Out the Spanish Steps
In the Spring the Spanish Steps are covered in bright pink azalea flowers from April to May. Get there early in the morning for the best photos before the crowds roll in.
#10. Take a Day Trip to Tivoli
Need a break from the city? Tivoli is an easy day trip (just 40 minutes away by train) and has two incredible spring spots: Villa d’Este (famous for its fountains and gardens) and Villa Adriana (an ancient Roman retreat). Both are breathtaking.
#9. Walk the Roman Forum and the Colosseum at Golden Hour
Instead of braving the midday crowds, go to the Roman Forum in the late afternoon. The ruins glow in the evening light, and it’s way more enjoyable than trying to power through in the heat. This is another spot you need to reserve your tickets ahead of time.
#8. Visit the Orange Blossom Festival at Sant’Eustachio
In mid-April, the tiny church of Sant’Eustachio celebrates the Festa degli Agrumi, dedicated to orange blossoms. It’s a small but unique experience with citrus-infused treats and drinks.
#7. Visit Trevi Fountain
No trip to Rome would be complete without visiting one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, the Trevi Fountain. Be warned though – it’s CROWDED. I’ve been told heading there early, around 6am is the best chance to beat to crowds, but that’s up to you. Here’s a peak of what it looks like mid-day, during Easter vacation.
#6. Watch the Spring Sunsets from a Rooftop Terrace
Rome’s rooftops come alive in spring. Grab an aperitivo, soak in the golden light. A few spots to check out:
- Zuma Rome (if you want sushi + rooftop vibes)
- Terrazza Borromini (overlooks Piazza Navona)
- Hotel Minerva Rooftop (panoramic city views)
#5. Ponte Sisto at Sunset
There’s something about standing on Ponte Sisto at golden hour, watching the sky turn pink over the Tiber River. It’s peaceful, cinematic, and honestly? One of the best free experiences in the city. Bring a drink, sit on the bridge, and soak it all in.
#4. Piazza Navona
This is one of Rome’s most iconic plazas, and for good reason. Street performers, fountains, and the general buzz of people make it a great place to start an evening stroll. From here, walk to Campo de’ Fiori, grab a drink, and enjoy the vibe.
#3. St. Peter’s Basicilia
This is actually something I haven’t seen (the inside of) due to immense crowds. It is the world’s largest church and the heart of Vatican City. It’s free to enter, but the lines can be downright crazy. I really have no tips other than get there early, or book a skip-the-line tour!A few highlights include:
- Michelangelo’s Pietà – A breathtaking marble sculpture.
- Climb to the Dome – Stunning panoramic views of Rome.
- St. Peter’s Square – Iconic for Papal audiences and Easter Mass.
#2. Explore the Campo de’ Fiori Outdoor Market
Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, this bustling market is such a fun place to walk through. They sell fresh produce, flowers, and spices—it’s one of those spots where you really feel like you’re in Rome. Do note, there isn’t anything to eat here, as in no food vendors, so planned to eat before or after you go. Also, they are not open Sundays. Check out more info here!
#1. Take a Slow Walk on Tiber Island
Tiber Island is one of those places that doesn’t feel real—it’s literally a tiny island in the middle of the river, connected by two old bridges. It’s the perfect place for a quiet break in the middle of sightseeing. In spring, the surrounding trees and flowers make it extra pretty.
What to Wear in Rome in Spring
Shop My Spring Travel Wardrobe
Rome in the spring is truly something special, and these spots are just a starting point for your own adventure. Whether you’re sipping espresso at a sidewalk cafe, indulging in the best carbonara of your life, or strolling through blooming gardens, Rome in the spring has a way of making every moment feel magical. Enjoy your trip!.
Now tell me—are you planning a spring trip to Rome? Let me know in the comments!
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