How to Plan the Perfect Rome Trip in April 2026: Weather Guide, Events Calendar, Expert Tips, and Must-See Attractions

April ranks as one of the absolute best months to visit Rome. The city awakens from winter’s slumber – park flowers burst into bloom, the cultural calendar fills with Easter festivities, and the mild weather creates perfect conditions for leisurely strolls through ancient ruins and charming piazzas. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for your April adventure in Italy’s capital – from weather patterns and packing essentials to must-see attractions and crowd-beating strategies that’ll help you experience Rome like a seasoned traveler.

Important heads-up: Rome gets incredibly busy during Easter week, with tourist numbers peaking significantly. Advance ticket reservations for the Colosseum and Vatican are absolutely essential – don’t risk showing up without them. The most congested areas during this period are the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. I strongly recommend planning a longer stay in Rome during this time – this gives you flexibility to visit major attractions during off-peak hours instead of getting stuck battling crowds at Italy’s most photographed landmarks.
For a comprehensive list of official sources regarding regulations and restrictions that might affect your travel plans, please check here.

What’s the Weather Like in Rome During April?

Rome’s April weather is delightfully mild, featuring comfortable temperatures and a mix of sunny and rainy days that create perfect conditions for exploring the city.
This time of year brings variable weather patterns, so you’ll need to pack versatile clothing options, but April ranks as one of the absolute best months for sightseeing since you won’t be battling Rome’s notoriously scorching summer heat. The pleasant temperatures make walking between attractions comfortable, and you can actually enjoy outdoor dining and extended exploration without wilting in the sun.
Average temperatures in Rome during April hover around 57°F (14°C), with pleasant highs reaching 68°F (20°C) during the day and cooler lows dropping to 46°F (8°C) in the evenings.
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Expect about 9 rainy days throughout April in Rome, so always carry a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket. If you get caught without rain gear, don’t worry – Roman showers are often brief, so you can easily duck into a café, church, or shop until it passes, then continue exploring the city’s incredible historical sites.

What to Wear in Rome During April?

April weather in Rome is famously unpredictable, with generally moderate temperatures that can shift dramatically throughout the day. Early mornings and evenings typically feel quite cool and require additional layers, while midday can warm up significantly.
>>> Here you can find my complete packing checklist for Rome in April <<<
Last year during April, we experienced several unexpectedly warm, sunny days that called for short sleeves and sunglasses, followed immediately by overcast days with gray skies and temperatures that demanded light jackets by evening. This kind of dramatic weather swing is completely normal for Roman springtime.
If You’re Traveling to Rome in April, It’s Essential to Have:

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes (ankle boots are ideal for navigating Rome’s cobblestones and puddles)
Socks and tights/leggings for layering options
Long pants (jeans or comfortable trousers work perfectly)
Long-sleeve shirts and blouses
Short-sleeve tops for warmer afternoon hours
Sweaters in various weights (both wool and lighter knits for flexible layering)
A winter coat if you’re from a warm climate, or a light waterproof jacket if you’re accustomed to cooler weather.

April 2026 brings several significant dates worth noting in Rome, as they can dramatically impact your sightseeing plans, tour availability, and accommodation costs. Most events occur during Holy Week (Settimana Santa), which reaches its climax with Easter Sunday on April 9th, 2026, creating both incredible cultural experiences and potential crowds at major attractions.
>>> See also: My guide to visiting Rome during Easter.<<<

Palm Sunday, April 2, 2023: The Sunday before Easter commemorates Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem. Churches celebrate by distributing small olive branches or palm leaves to Mass attendees, and you’ll witness beautiful processions throughout the city, especially around St. Peter’s Square where the Pope leads the main celebration.
Holy Thursday, April 6: This pivotal day before Easter holds deep significance for the Christian church, and Rome’s many spectacular churches mark the occasion by staying open late for visitors to see the “sepolcri” (symbolic tombs) as church altars are draped in purple vestments commemorating Jesus’s suffering and crucifixion. The “sepolcri” pilgrimage is a religious ritual, but given the stunning beauty of Rome’s churches, many non-religious locals and tourists participate as an incredible sightseeing opportunity to explore normally restricted areas and witness special decorations.
Friday, April 7: Good Friday (Venerdi’ Santo): Good Friday brings Rome’s most solemn and spectacular religious ceremonies, with the most important taking place near the Colosseum where the Pope leads the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) procession. This event is crucial to know about not only if you want to participate in this moving spiritual experience, but for very practical reasons: during the Via Crucis, access to the entire area becomes heavily restricted with major traffic diversions, which you must factor into your plans, especially if you’re staying nearby or have dinner reservations in the area!
Sunday, April 9: Easter Sunday is Rome’s biggest celebration of the year, but fortunately most attractions and tourist sites remain open on this day. However, public transportation may run on reduced holiday schedules, so plan extra travel time and consider walking to nearby attractions when possible.
Monday, April 10 (Easter Monday, Lunedi’ di Pasquetta): This national holiday traditionally sees Romans heading out on day trips to the countryside or nearby coastal towns. If you decide to join this exodus, be aware that return traffic to the city can be absolutely brutal in the evening. Whenever possible, choose trains over buses or rental cars for these excursions.
April 21, Natale di Roma, Rome’s Birthday: April 21st marks the legendary founding of Rome with city-wide celebrations, historical reenactments, and most importantly for visitors – free admission to many museums and archaeological sites that normally charge hefty entrance fees. You can read everything about Rome’s Birthday celebrations here.

The Best Things to Do in Rome During April

The absolute best activities in Rome during April combine must-see sightseeing with seasonal experiences like outdoor dining, spring shopping, and sampling fresh local cuisine that takes advantage of the mild weather. Here are my top recommendations:

Visit the Colosseum. The Colosseum is absolutely magnificent in April when the mild days create perfect conditions for exploring this ancient wonder. The views toward the Roman Forum under Rome’s brilliant spring sky are simply breathtaking. However, this is peak tourist season, so advance ticket reservations (ideally months or at least weeks ahead) are absolutely essential to avoid disappointment. There are numerous ticket options available for the Colosseum experience – from basic entry passes to guided tours, family packages, and special underground access to the arena floor and upper tiers.>>> For your convenience, I’ve compiled all the best Colosseum ticket options here <<<
Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. April offers ideal conditions for wandering through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill archaeological sites. The main Forum area becomes magical during this season – neither too hot nor too cold – and you truly feel like you’re strolling through Ancient Rome just as a local citizen would have, surrounded by towering temples and marble columns. Palatine Hill in April bursts with colorful wildflowers and lush green grass areas that provide a stunning backdrop to the impressive ruins of the Imperial Palace complex. Don’t miss the spectacular panoramic views of Circus Maximus spread out directly below the hill.
Tour the Vatican Museums and Vatican City. April can be a wonderful time to visit Vatican City and the world-famous Sistine Chapel, but be warned that visiting during Holy Week means dealing with almost unbearable crowds of pilgrims and tourists. Secure your tickets well in advance and read all our strategic Vatican visiting tips to minimize time spent in crushing crowds. April is also perfect for exploring the stunning Vatican Gardens: located behind St. Peter’s Basilica, these meticulously maintained gardens come alive in spring with vibrant flowers and fragrant blooms that create an oasis of tranquility. From April through October, the Vatican Museums offer special evening hours on select Fridays with dramatically reduced visitor numbers for a more intimate experience. Check the museum’s official website for specific dates and booking details.
Explore the Baths of Caracalla. The Baths of Caracalla are a massive ancient Roman thermal complex dating from the 3rd century CE and represent one of Rome’s most underrated yet spectacular attractions, especially during spring weather. This outdoor archaeological site becomes absolutely stunning in April when the dark green pine trees throughout the area create a dramatic contrast with the purple blooms of cascading wisteria vines. The mild temperatures make exploring the enormous complex comfortable, and you can truly appreciate the impressive scale of what was once the world’s most luxurious public bath house. >>> You can find our complete guide to visiting the Baths of Caracalla here.<<<
Witness the cherry blossoms in bloom. This might surprise many visitors, but Rome in April ranks among Italy’s best destinations for spectacular cherry blossom viewing! There are four prime locations throughout the city where you can experience a touch of Japanese beauty in the Eternal City, each perfect for different types of travelers. Families with children or anyone seeking beautiful picnic spots should head to EUR Laghetto Park or Rome’s Botanical Gardens, both offering expansive areas to relax among the pink blooms. Those who excel at advance planning shouldn’t miss the garden at the Japanese Cultural Institute in Rome, which opens only on specific dates but offers the most authentic and breathtaking cherry blossom experience in the city. >>> You can find our complete guide to cherry blossom viewing in Rome here.<<<
Discover Rome’s Famous Piazzas and Hidden Neighborhood Gems. Spring weather creates perfect conditions for exploring both Rome’s world-famous squares and its lesser-known treasures. I highly recommend visiting the iconic piazzas including Piazza Navona with its magnificent Bernini fountains, Piazza del Pantheon surrounding the ancient temple, Campo de’ Fiori’s vibrant morning market, and the legendary Trevi Fountain. But equally important – allow yourself to wander off the beaten tourist path to discover hidden neighborhood gems like the whimsical Art Nouveau architecture of Quartiere Coppedè, where fairytale buildings and secret courtyards await exploration.

Spend time in Rome’s magnificent parks. Rome boasts incredible green spaces, and there’s no better season than spring to fully appreciate their beauty. Start with Villa Borghese, the city’s most famous park that houses the renowned Borghese Gallery, Rome’s charming small zoo, a peaceful lake for rowboat rentals, and excellent playgrounds for families. Some spectacular green spaces I absolutely love – but that rarely appear on most visitors’ itineraries – include Villa Torlonia (a stunning park featuring fascinating architecture, rotating art exhibitions, and an interactive children’s museum) and Rome’s hidden-in-plain-sight Botanical Garden tucked away in the heart of charming Trastevere. >>> You can find our curated list of favorite gardens and parks in Rome here<<<
Tour the spectacular Borghese Gallery. The Borghese Gallery ranks among Rome’s most breathtakingly beautiful art museums and represents an absolute must-visit destination for art enthusiasts of all levels. Located within the gorgeous Villa Borghese gardens – a massive patrician park in central Rome – the gallery showcases masterpieces by legendary artists including Bernini’s dynamic marble sculptures, Canova’s neoclassical works, and Raphael’s Renaissance paintings, creating a true feast for the eyes. I highly recommend planning your visit here strategically, then strolling through the surrounding gardens to treat yourself to a hot beverage with panoramic city views at Casina Valadier – an elegant panoramic restaurant and café overlooking the Pincio Terrace, which offers one of Rome’s most spectacular viewpoints. Advance ticket purchases for the gallery are absolutely mandatory due to limited capacity: you can reserve your tickets here.
Explore the historic Castel Sant’Angelo. Originally built as the mausoleum of Roman Emperor Hadrian, this cylindrical fortress later transformed into a medieval castle and papal stronghold, creating one of Rome’s most fascinating yet frequently underrated attractions. During spring, it becomes an absolute delight to explore, with its multiple terraces offering fantastic panoramic views across the city that feel even more magical in April’s gentle weather. The castle’s unique spiral ramp, luxurious papal apartments, and weapon collections tell centuries of Roman history in one incredible location. >>> You can read our complete guide to visiting Castel Sant’Angelo here <<<
Discover Nero’s incredible Domus Aurea (Golden House). The Domus Aurea represents Emperor Nero’s legendary palace complex and stands among Rome’s most intriguing yet unusual archaeological attractions. This 1st-century CE imperial palace was described by historians as the largest and most extravagant building ever constructed, covering vast areas of central Rome. The Domus offers a mind-blowing experience, though don’t expect a traditional castle or opulent palace setting! Immediately after Nero’s death, his successors deliberately buried the entire palace, and now ongoing archaeological excavations take place completely underground! Entering today means exploring a series of tunnels and chambers that once blazed with natural light, still preserving glimpses of their creator’s grandiose vision along with original frescoes and architectural details. This makes for a fantastic attraction to visit during cooler afternoons when you want to escape crowds and weather. >>> You can find my complete visit description and planning tips for your Domus Aurea experience here.<<<
Visit Rome’s enchanting Protestant Cemetery. One of the most breathtakingly beautiful and peaceful places you can explore in Rome during April is the Protestant Cemetery (also called the Non-Catholic Cemetery), a hidden gem that becomes absolutely magical in springtime. This small, exquisitely maintained monumental cemetery lies tucked behind Rome’s ancient Pyramid of Cestius (which itself deserves a visit as one of the city’s most unusual landmarks) and transforms into a paradise during spring months. Here you’ll discover gorgeous memorial monuments surrounded by lush greenery, towering cypress trees, and cascading purple wisteria branches that create a romantic canopy over the graves of famous figures including Italian communist leader Antonio Gramsci, writer Andrea Camilleri, and the Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. >>> Read my complete guide to the Protestant Cemetery in Rome here.<<<
Experience magical Roman spring sunsets. April’s mild evening temperatures make staying outdoors to watch the sunset in Rome an absolute pleasure, but you need to know the best vantage points to truly appreciate this daily spectacle! While Rome bathed in the golden-orange light of the setting sun looks stunning from anywhere, certain locations transform the Eternal City into pure magic during these evening hours. The key is finding elevated viewpoints away from crowds where you can watch the sun paint the ancient domes and ruins in warm, romantic light. Discover the top sunset viewing spots in Rome with our insider local guide.
Attend an opera or classical concert. Rome boasts an excellent opera and ballet program at the historic Teatro dell’Opera, with spring performances often featuring both classic and contemporary works. Music lovers should also explore the diverse programming at the modern Auditorium Parco della Musica, which hosts everything from symphony orchestras to world music concerts in stunning architectural surroundings.
Indulge in spring shopping. April marks the season when Rome’s shop windows literally “bloom” with new collections and spring fashion displays. If you’re in a shopping mood, make sure to dedicate time exploring Rome’s main shopping streets – from luxury boutiques along Via del Corso to artisan workshops in Trastevere – to discover the latest Italian fashion trends as they debut.
Join a Rome food tour with local tastings. This represents the perfect way to combine sightseeing in Italy’s capital with discovering authentic flavors and hidden culinary gems that most tourists never experience. These are the food tours worth considering:
1. Rome street food tour with local guide and traditional tastings
2. Evening Trastevere food tour with local specialties
3. Rome espresso, gelato, and tiramisu tasting tour, perfect for the warm season!
During this season, I highly recommend trying these Roman specialties:
1. Carbonara, Gricia, and Pasta Amatriciana – essential any time of year, but especially beloved during Easter celebrations!
2. Abbacchio scottadito (grilled lamb chops) – a traditional Easter dish that’s at its seasonal peak
3. Pizza Pasqualina – an Easter specialty that’s actually a savory pie filled with vegetables and eggs rather than traditional pizza
4. Seasonal vegetables, particularly fresh asparagus and wild chicory that appear in spring markets
5. Supplì – crispy fried rice balls with molten mozzarella centers, perfect for mild weather street eating
6. Eggs – both fresh ones in pasta dishes and elaborate chocolate versions for Easter celebrations
7. Colomba – the traditional Easter cake topped with crunchy almond glaze that rivals panettone
Discover Caravaggio’s masterpieces in Roman churches and museums. Caravaggio spent crucial years in Rome, and you can still view many of his revolutionary masterpieces throughout the Eternal City today. If you’re passionate about his dramatic chiaroscuro technique and emotionally intense religious scenes, exploring the city through his artwork creates a fantastic way to experience Rome’s artistic heritage. April weather makes this particularly special since comfortable temperatures are perfect for walking between churches and spending time admiring art in naturally lit spaces. You’ll encounter his works in intimate church settings where they were originally intended to be viewed, creating a more authentic experience than typical museum visits. >>> You can learn exactly where to see Caravaggio’s works in Rome here.<<<
Explore Rome’s magnificent churches. Church visiting ranks among the absolute best activities in Rome year-round, but becomes especially delightful (and convenient!) during April’s occasional rainy days when you need beautiful indoor spaces to explore. Some of my personal favorites that I highly recommend include Santa Prassede (featuring stunning Byzantine mosaics), San Luigi dei Francesi (housing Caravaggio’s St. Matthew cycle), Santa Maria della Vittoria (showcasing Bernini’s ecstatic Ecstasy of St. Teresa), San Pietro in Vincoli (home to Michelangelo’s powerful Moses sculpture), and Santa Sabina (an early Christian basilica with remarkable simplicity), but honestly, whenever you spot a church in Rome, peek inside because there’s an excellent chance it contains artistic treasures worth discovering! >>> Here you can find my curated list of the ten best churches in Rome. <<< As mentioned earlier, during the pre-Easter period, Roman churches drape their chapels in purple vestments as preparation for Easter celebrations. Visitors are warmly welcomed, but remember this represents a sacred time for the Christian community, so pay special attention to appropriate dress codes and be respectful of any ongoing religious ceremonies you might encounter.
Take a day trip to Ostia Antica. Ostia Antica served as ancient Rome’s bustling port city and now represents one of Italy’s most spectacular yet undervisited archaeological sites. Located just outside central Rome and easily accessible by public transport, Ostia Antica often gets compared to Pompeii and truly resembles it with remarkably preserved ancient theaters, shops, apartment buildings, bath complexes, and intricate floor mosaics that provide incredible insights into daily Roman life. The site feels less crowded than Rome’s central attractions, making it perfect for peaceful exploration.
Embark on day trips beyond the city. April’s pleasant weather creates ideal conditions for exploring the beautiful Lazio region surrounding Rome. Some of my absolute favorites during this season include trips to the volcanic lakes of Bracciano and Martignano (perfect for lakeside walks and outdoor dining) or to the natural thermal springs of Saturnia in southern Tuscany, both easily accessible by car for those who enjoy driving through Italian countryside. If you prefer not to drive, several excellent day trip destinations are reachable by train from Rome. I especially recommend Orvieto (a stunning hilltop medieval town with incredible cathedral architecture), Sperlonga (a charming coastal town with dramatic clifftop views), and Gaeta (featuring ancient Roman ruins and beautiful beaches). The latter two destinations boast gorgeous sandy beaches and represent wonderful options for travelers wanting to spend a day by the Mediterranean Sea, especially as April temperatures begin warming up. You can find our complete recommendations for the best day trips from Rome here

April in Rome with Kids – What to See

These are the experiences I most highly recommend for families with kids:

The Colosseum – see here for my expert tips on visiting the Colosseum with children. Kids absolutely love imagining gladiator battles and learning about ancient Roman entertainment, especially with the mild April weather making the outdoor exploration comfortable. Don’t forget to include the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill in your visit – these areas offer plenty of space for children to explore while learning about daily life in ancient Rome!
Castel Sant’Angelo: see detailed description above – children particularly enjoy exploring the castle’s spiral ramp, weapon displays, and panoramic terraces with spectacular city views

Villa Borghese (Villa Borghese Gardens): This expansive park offers the perfect family day out with a beautiful lake for rowboat rentals, excellent playgrounds for different age groups, bike and go-kart rentals for active kids, plus multiple cafés and restaurants for family meals. April’s pleasant weather makes this ideal for picnics and outdoor activities. Find our complete guide to Villa Borghese here.
Domus Aurea especially for children aged 9 and older who can truly appreciate the fascinating stories and history connected to Nero’s legendary underground palace
Visit Explora, Rome’s Interactive Children’s Museum. Explora ranks as Rome’s premier children’s museum and probably my kids’ absolute favorite destination in the entire city. During April, this becomes an incredibly convenient option for rainy days or whenever the weather doesn’t seem suitable for extended hours outdoors in parks. The museum features hands-on exhibits designed for different age groups, covering everything from science and technology to daily life skills through engaging, interactive play.
Hunt for chocolate Easter eggs throughout the city. Rome doesn’t have extensive Easter traditions specifically focused on children, with one delightful exception: Easter for kids revolves entirely around chocolate eggs! You can find them everywhere throughout the city in various sizes, price ranges, and quality levels – from simple supermarket versions to elaborate artisanal creations. You can purchase them at any supermarket or specialty delicatessen, with price and quality varying accordingly, making this a fun Easter tradition that kids absolutely love.
Participate in hands-on art classes. Indoor activities can be absolute lifesavers in Rome during April’s occasional rainy days, and we absolutely loved the art workshop we took with the wonderful instructors at Arte al Sole. We chose their mosaic-making class, which proved perfect for children who enjoy working with their hands and creating something tangible to take home. The art center is conveniently located near the Botanical Garden, which looks absolutely stunning during this season (and young children enter for free).
Enroll in a family pizza-making class. For an authentic, hands-on Roman experience, I highly recommend joining a pizza-making class designed for families. A few years ago, our family participated in a fantastic session and had an absolute blast learning traditional techniques. The family pizza-making class concluded with eating our own delicious creations and provided a fun way to spend a morning together while dining out and acquiring new practical cooking skills that kids can use back home!

I hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you and provided valuable insights for planning your perfect spring trip to Rome during April’s delightful weather!
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