Recently updated on March 21st, 2025 at 10:46 am
Have an Italy tour booked but wondering what to wear? From the north’s snow-capped Alps to the sun-drenched southern beaches of Sicily, Italy’s climate is anything but one-size-fits-all. Summers sizzle, winters actually get cold (yes, even in Rome!), and spring and fall offer that perfect in-between magic.
In this guide we’re unpacking what to pack and wear for each season in Italy, broken down for both women and men. Planning your Italian suitcase is fairly straightforward, but you need to consider the four seasons, and that the weather will vary from northern Italy to the south and across its 20 diverse regions. Plus, expect to clock up your steps on the cobblestone streets, so good footwear is essential. Let’s break it down, season by season.
1. Spring in Italy: what to pack
In spring, Italian weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Pack light layers like a stylish jacket, sweaters, and breathable tops for Italy’s unpredictable spring weather. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential for navigating those cobblestone streets, and don’t forget a small umbrella for unexpected showers!
What should a woman wear in spring in Italy?
- 1-2 lightweight jacket (trench coat, denim jacket, or blazer)
- 1 waterproof jacket or compact umbrella (for rainy days)
- 4-5 breathable tops (mix of long and short sleeve shirts)
- 1-2 dressy shirts (for evenings)
- 1-2 sweaters or cardigans (for layering)
- 2 pairs of jeans or trousers (comfortable and stylish)
- 1 midi skirt or dress (with tights for cooler days)
- 1 scarf (for warmth and style)
- Comfortable leather sneakers or stylish walking shoes
- Ankle boots or loafers (for dressier occasions)
- Sunglasses
- Crossbody bag
- Jewelry or accessories to mix up your look
What should a man wear in spring in Italy?
- 1 lightweight jacket (trench coat, blazer, or bomber)
- 1 waterproof jacket or compact umbrella (for rainy days)
- 3-4 breathable shirts (mix of long and short sleeves)
- 2 sweaters or lightweight pullovers (for layering)
- 2 pairs of well-fitted jeans or chinos (versatile and stylish)
- 1 pair of tailored trousers (for dressier occasions or evenings)
- 1 scarf (for warmth and Italian flair!)
- Comfortable leather sneakers or stylish walking shoes
- Loafers or dress shoes (for evenings or nice restaurants)
- Sunglasses
- Day bag (crossbody or messenger bag is more chic than a backpack)
- Watch
- Belt
Common question: Is it OK to wear jeans in Italy?
Yes! Italians wear jeans year-round, especially well-fitted or tailored, stylish ones in darker washes. Italian style is more dressy and the locals take pride in how they dress. Jeans are fine to wear, especially during the day – you’ll stand out more by wearing shorts outside the summer months. In the evening, you might prefer a more polished chino or dress pant for chic evenings in an Italian piazza.
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2. Summer in Italy: what to wear
Summer in Italy is hot, hot, hot – so you’ll want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Despite the heat, Italians still take pride in dressing well. The Italian dress code can be summed up as effortless elegance. When planning your outfits for Italy, opt for linen or cotton shirts, dresses, and skirts to stay cool.
Figuring out what to wear in Italy can be tricky – women can wear flowy dresses, midi skirts, or chic shorts, while guys should pack tailored shorts, polos, or button-up linen shirts if possible. When it comes to what to wear in Italy in summer you want to check your clothing labels – avoid heavy fabrics and anything with polyester!
Comfortable sandals or stylish sneakers are a must for city walking – flip-flops are only for the beach. A wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and SPF will top off any outfit. Avoid gym gear if you want to blend in.
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Italy summer packing list for women
- 2-3 lightweight dresses
- 3-5 breathable tops (cotton or linen)
- 2 pairs of shorts or skirts
- 1 pair of loose, lightweight trousers or linen pants
- 1 stylish swimsuit
- 1 light cardigan or shawl (for cool evenings or churches)
- Comfortable, stylish walking sandals
- Chic sneakers or espadrilles
- Flip-flops (for the beach/pool only)
- Packable beach towel (quick-dry is best)
- Wide-brim hat
- Sunglasses
- Crossbody bag
- Large tote bag (doubles as a beach bag)
- Jewelry or accessories to mix up your look
- Sunscreen
Italy summer packing list for men
- 3-4 lightweight, breathable button-up shirts (linen or cotton)
- 2 polo shirts or well-fitted T-shirts
- 2 pairs of tailored shorts
- 1 pair of lightweight linen or chino pants (for evenings)
- 1 swim trunks
- 1 light sweater or blazer (for cooler evenings or dressy outings)
- Comfortable, stylish sneakers
- Leather sandals or loafers
- Flip-flops (for the beach)
- Packable beach towel (quick-dry is best)
- Beach tote or small backpack
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
READ NEXT: The ultimate Italy packing list
3. Autumn in Italy: what to pack
Crisp mornings, sunny afternoons, and cozy layers. It’s fall in Italy, and you’ll fall in love while exploring the canals of Venice or late-season beach days in Sicily. This time of year is all about layers. Pack light sweaters, chic long-sleeve tops, and a smart, versatile jacket – a blazer or wool coat can work, depending on your trip.
You can swap versatile sneakers for comfortable walking boots. In autumn it’s fun to dress up your outfits for Italy with different scarves – they add personality, warmth and a touch of Italian elegance. Don’t skip packing a rain jacket or compact umbrella for any surprise autumn showers. And be sure to pack sunglasses too. This season is all about smart, stylish layers that can handle whatever Italy throws at you.
Italy fall packing list for women
- 2–3 lightweight jackets (trench coat, denim jacket, or blazer)
- 4-5 breathable tops (cotton or linen, ideally for layering)
- 1-2 dressy shirts (for evenings)
- 2–3 sweaters or cardigans (for cooler mornings and evenings)
- 2 pairs of jeans or trousers (comfortable and chic)
- 1 skirt or dress (with tights)
- 1-2 midi or maxi dress (perfect for a spring afternoon out)
- 1 lightweight scarf
- Comfortable stylish walking shoes or sneakers
- Ankle boots (for evenings or cooler days)
- Ballet flats, loafers or heels (for a polished look)
- Sunglasses
- Crossbody bag
- Hat
- Compact umbrella (spring showers are common)
Italy fall packing list for men
Clothing:
- 2 lightweight jackets (blazer, bomber, denim or leather jacket)
- 2 sweaters or pullovers (wool or cashmere are warmest for layering)
- 4-5 long-sleeve shirts
- 2-3 t-shirts
- 2 pairs of chinos or well-fitted jeans (versatile and comfortable)
- 1 pair of tailored trousers (for more formal occasions)
- 1 cozy scarf
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Dress shoes (for dinners or fancier occasions)
- Sunglasses
- Day bag
- Hat
- Compact umbrella (autumn showers are common)
4. Winter in Italy: what to wear
Winter in Italy can be chilly, especially in the north – but the cooler months bring a different charm. If you’re traveling to Italy this time of year, pack a warm wool coat or down jacket to handle the cold – especially if you’re visiting northern cities like Milan or Venice.
Layering is key in winter – think cozy sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and even thermal tops. Warm accessories are essential to feel comfortable – don’t forget to pack scarves, hats, and gloves. Arrive in Italy prepared for both sun and rain!
Italy winter packing list for women
- 1 warm coat (wool coat, down jacket, or puffer jacket)
- 2-3 cozy sweaters (wool or cashmere are best)
- 4-5 long-sleeve shirts or turtlenecks
- 2 tank tops or thermal layers
- 2 pairs of jeans or trousers
- 1 dress or skirt
- 1 pair of thermal leggings or tights
- 1 or 2 warm scarves
- Warm boots (comfortable for walking, ideally waterproof for rain or snow)
- Sneakers (for warmer days or indoor activities)
- 3-5 pairs of warm or wooly socks
- Winter hat (beanie or beret)
- Gloves
- Sunglasses (yes, still pack sunglasses!)
- Crossbody bag
- Compact umbrella
Italy winter packing list for men
- 1 warm, stylish coat (wool coat, down jacket, or puffer jacket)
- 2-3 cozy sweaters (wool or cashmere are best)
- 4-5 long-sleeve shirts or turtlenecks
- 2 thermal shirts (to layer on the coldest days)
- 2 pairs of jeans or trousers
- 1 pair of thermal leggings (for extra warmth)
- 1-2 scarves
- Warm boots (comfortable for walking, ideally waterproof for rain or snow)
- Sneakers (for indoor activities or milder days)
- 3-5 pairs of warm or wooly socks
- Winter hat (beanie or beret)
- Gloves
- Sunglasses (yes, still pack sunglasses!)
- Day bag
- Compact umbrella
What’s missing from these Italy packing lists?
To avoid repeating ourselves, we excluded a few things from these seasonal packing lists. We hope we don’t have to tell you pack underwear, but just in case – add this short list of essentials to your bag.
- Undergarments (enough socks, underwear, and bras for the trip)
- Sleepwear or pajamas
- Workout gear (if you plan on hitting the gym or doing any active tours)
- Reusable water bottle
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, etc.)
- Medications (if needed)
- Small first-aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, etc.)
- Power bank (you’ll take lots of photos!)
- Camera
- Chargers
- Passport
- Travel documents
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That’s our guide covering what to wear in Italy in every season. Let us know in the comments if you found this useful…