Planning a spring trip to Rome? The Eternal City is essentially a highlight reel of ancient ruins, cobblestone streets, and espresso breaks that turn into accidental hour-long people-watching sessions.
But spring in Rome can also be a little… unpredictable. One minute you’re basking in warm sunshine, the next you’re pulling on a light jacket and dodging a passing sprinkle.
To help you stay comfy, stylish, and ready for whatever the Roman weather gods throw your way, I’ve rounded up exactly what to wear in Rome in spring. Think layers, breathable fabrics, and the best walking shoes. Skip overstuffing your carry-on, let’s get packing!
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Plan Around Spring Weather in Rome
The weather in Rome in the spring generally ranges between the 40s and 60s (°F). March, April, and May tend to be slightly rainy, but not as much as early winter (the rainiest time in Rome).
The spring months can be busy in Rome; it is one of the most popular cities to visit in the world, and as the weather warms up, the crowds tend to grow. Easter is also a popular time to visit, making April a little busier in general.
Spring is still a great time to visit Rome as the weather is pleasant and the summer crowds aren’t yet in town. Pack layers of clothing so you can adjust from chilly mornings to warmer, sunnier afternoons, and bring a waterproof layer to keep exploring on rainy days.
What to Wear in Rome in April (March & May)
- Shirts (short sleeve & long sleeve to layer)
- Long Pants (one comfy pair, one more dressy)
- Shoes (sneakers and/or ankle boots)
- Jacket (rainproof and lightly lined)
- Cardigan (to layer with a shirt)
- Shawl or pashmina (to cover up in churches)
- Undergarments (Socks, underwear, and bras)
- Slippers or thick socks (for cold Italian floors)
- Pajamas (pants and short sleeves)
- Sunglasses (a hat can also be useful)
While you’re packing, remember…
Thrift travel essentials & clothes when you can.
See what you already have in your closet.
Ask a friend to borrow items for your trip.
1. Short Sleeve & Long Sleeve Tops
Layering is important when dressing for spring in Rome. Pack both short-sleeve & long-sleeve shirts to layer depending on the weather. Mornings often start chilly here in spring, requiring a jacket, and some spring days are t-shirt weather.
2. Long Pants
With temperatures getting as low as the 40s (°F), long pants are necessary to pack for spring in Rome. I recommend one casual pair, like joggers or jeans, and one more dressy pair, like canvas or khakis.
Jeans are absolutely fine to wear in Italy, nearly anywhere, but if you plan on going to a nicer restaurant or attending an event, make sure you have dressier pants as well.
3. Shoes
Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Rome. So much of the city is walkable, and there is so much to see and do that you won’t want to stop! Comfortable sneakers and/or waterproof ankle boots are great options for springtime in Rome.
4. Lined Waterproof Jacket
As spring in Rome can still be quite chilly, a trusty jacket is a must-have. The best type of jacket to bring with you this time of year is a waterproof and lined jacket. This way, you’ll stay warm and dry so you can keep exploring Rome even if it does start to drizzle.
5. Cardigan
Some days may be too warm for a lined rainjacket, but too cold for just a shirt. This is wear the cardigan comes in, the perfect layer to add over a shirt or under a jacket for even more warmth. A button-up cardigan can even be worn as a sweater, making it a versatile packing essential.
6. Shawl or Pashmina
Another handy item to have is a shawl, scarf, or pashmina. You can use one to cover up in churches, as many do require you to cover your shoulders and knees, or have it on hand for extra warmth.
7. Socks, Underwear, and Bras
Obviously, you don’t want to forget these, so pack enough for your trip. You can fairly easily wash undergarments while traveling, even if you just have a sink. Get some laundry detergent sheets for an ultra-light option.
8. Slippers or Thick Socks
Apartments and hotels often have tiled floors. A pair of travel slippers or thick socks can be nice to have when staying at your accommodation. Remember, March and April in Rome can be chilly!
9. Pajamas
The right pajamas are just as important, so you can sleep well and stay energized for more wandering around Rome. I recommend pajama pants and a short-sleeve shirt.
10. Sunglasses
Although spring in Rome can sometimes be rainy, you can get very sunny days too. Pack a pair of sunglasses in case, as squinting your way around Rome without sunnies won’t be very enjoyable. If you’re a hat person, a hat can also be useful.
★ Read Next: How to Travel Italy by Train
Rome Spring Outfit Inspiration
Here are some ideas of what to wear in Rome in April (and even March and May!) Remember, these are just suggestions. You likely have most, if not everything, you need to complete a spring packing list for Rome.
As someone who has visited Italy, and specifically Rome, numerous times, I can tell you that trying to dress like the locals is fun, but not necessary. There are no strict fashion rules in Rome, other than most churches requiring shoulders and legs to be covered.
Are you exploring multiple cities on your Italian vacation? Here is the ultimate Italy spring packing list!
Women's Rome Outfit Idea for Spring
Men's Rome Outfit Idea for Spring
Non-Clothing Packing List for Rome in Spring
1. Portable Charger
One item I always, always travel with is a portable charger. This especially comes in handy when you’ll be out exploring for most of the day.
If you’re using your phone for directions, language help, photos, etc., it can run out of battery quickly, and you don’t want to end up stranded somewhere. Pack a portable charger to keep your phone charged for all-day exploring!
2. Toiletries
Don’t forget to pack your toiletries. I recommend bringing travel bottles of shampoo and conditioner (this is not commonly offered in hotels in Italy) and basic first aid. You may want to pack makeup and makeup remover, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hair ties, face wash, moisturizer (regular and with SPF), and deodorant.
If you use heated hair tools, ensure you have a reliable power converter to prevent overheating your hair or the tool. Alternatively, consider purchasing a hair tool specifically designed for use with European plugs.
3. RFID Passport & Card Covers
I use RFID blocking sleeves wherever I travel internationally, and even domestically in the United States. They are thin covers you can slide your credit cards and passport into to prevent your belongings from electronic theft.
Essentially, credit cards and passports contain RFID chips for scanning, and these covers block unwanted people from being able to scan them through your wallet, etc.
4. Universal Adapter
A very important item to pack for Rome is an international adapter. If you’re visiting Rome from outside of Italy, you’ll likely need a universal adapter.
This will allow you to charge your electronic devices throughout the country. You may also need a power converter for Italy if you plan on using heated hair tools or anything that heats up.
5. Umbrella
As it can be rainy in March, April, and May in Rome, it’s best to pack a compact travel umbrella as well as a rain jacket. Just pop it in your day bag, and you’ll be able to stay out even if it starts raining.
6. Day Backpack
A bag or backpack is essential for a fun day out in Rome. You’ll be able to carry all the essentials, like an umbrella, water bottle, pashmina, sunscreen, wallet, portable charger, and sunglasses.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Rome boasts an insane amount of public water fountains all across the city. The water continuously pours, is generally fairly cold, and is so fresh you won’t need to buy any disposable water bottles if you carry a reusable one!
8. Book or Kindle
If you’re a fellow reader, a book or a Kindle is essential for any travel day. Your flights and train rides will pass so much faster than without a book, and you’ll be able to tick off more of your reading list while exploring a new destination.
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European Carry-On Only Packing List
Eleven page detailed guide to help you prepare for your trip to Europe with a carry-on only. Includes packing map, gear recommendations, and capsule wardrobe idea.
Recap: Rome Packing List for Spring
- Short & long-sleeve shirts
- Long pants
- Sneakers and/or ankle boots)
- Lined rain jacket
- Cardigan
- Shawl or pashmina
- Undergarments
- Slippers or thick socks
- Pajamas
- Sunglasses
- Portable charger
- Universal Adapter/converter
- RFID covers
- Day bag
- Reusable water bottle
- Toiletries
- Umbrella
- Book or Kindle
★Read Next: Year-Round Rome Packing List
The weather in Rome in spring can be somewhat unpredictable; sometimes rainy, maye quite cold. Packing layers is the best way to stay comfortable while exploring Rome in April. This way you can adjust from cold mornings to rainy days or sunny afternoons.
Now you know what to wear in Rome in April, and throughout spring, you can get ready for the Italy trip of a lifetime! Don’t forget other packing essentials like a universal adapter, umbrella, and day bag. Check out what to do in Rome for first-time visitors and start wandering around the Eternal City!
