Are you planning on exploring Rome on foot this autumn? Strolling through Rome’s charismatic cobblestone streets and magnificent piazzas is an experience that excites the senses and tugs at your spirit. Every nook and corner of Rome conjures up an interesting tale, creating an aura of allure and historical significance. To make your experience all the richer and without missing key spots, we recommend the detailed walking maps of Rome you can find on this website. It’s a handy tool to let you chart out personalized routes or follow popular trails and discover the city’s numerous treasures. In this article, we particularly focus on what makes Rome a must-visit destination in the month of November.
In the heart of autumn, when the shades of summer gradually cascade into the falls, the eternal city, Rome, in its unabated charm, shines, and beckons like a timeless seductress. November in Rome promisingly offers a unique blend of mystique and vibrancy, perfect for intrepid explorers, culinary aficionados, and history buffs alike.
November’s weather in Rome sets the stage for an intimate exploration of the city. The average high and low temperatures pleasantly meander around 17°C (63°F) and 8°C (46°F), respectively. The weather starts to chill, but not as harsh as the upcoming winter. The city experiences an average of 9 rainy days throughout the month. The rain often adds a touch of romance to the city’s gorgeous autumn colors, and makes the cobbled streets look more appealing.
| Average high °C (°F) | Average low °C (°F) | Rainy days |
| 17°C (63°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 9 |
Roman Cuisine in November
Autumn produces the appetizing combination of the last summer crops and the first winter ones, bringing an extensive array of fresh, local produce to Rome’s restaurants and marketplaces. In November, hearty vegetable soups, porcini mushrooms, chestnuts, and truffles take center stage in Roman cuisine, delightfully gratifying the palates of the locals and visitors.
For sea-food lovers, November is the true haute season for the bony, yet delightfully tasty fish called ‘l’anguilla’ (eel). It is predominantly cooked ‘in carpione’, marinated in vinegar, and served as a cold dish. Don’t miss the opportunity to relish the quintessential Italian dish, ‘Carbonara’, a creamy pasta with a base made of eggs, cheese, bacon, and black pepper. Enjoy these soulful dishes in intimate trattorias or even better, the bustling esplanades overlooking the Tiber.
What to Wear in November and Packing List
A common question among travelers is: “What should I wear in Rome in November?” As the weather starts to chill, flexible and layered clothing becomes a good choice. Pack a light jacket or a warm cardigan to wear over shirts or blouses for colder evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must to navigate the beautifully uneven, quaint Roman streets and explore the city’s nooks and corners.
Bring along a classy dress or a nice shirt for going out at night, as Romans are quite fashionable. Don’t forget an umbrella or a water-resistant jacket, as November often promises a few showers. You might also want to have a decent hat or cap to keep you warm during the cooler breezes. Sunglasses and a good SPF cream should also make their way into your luggage to shield you from the low, but often bright, autumn sun.
Festivals and Holidays in November
Rome, being a city steeped in history, has plenty going on in November, adding to the magic in the air. The month starts with ‘All Saints Day’ on 1st November. It’s a national holiday, so expect some closures, but also commemorating services and processions. ‘Festa Della Madonna Della Salute’ on the 21st involves heartfelt religious processions and is well worth a watch.
Meanwhile, the ‘Roma Jazz Festival’ that runs throughout the month of November presents an excellent opportunity for music lovers to immerse into the Italian cultural scene. Would you fancy a taste of Rome’s 21st-century cultural life? Mark your calendar for ‘RomaEuropa Festival’, one of Italy’s largest annual performing arts events showcasing various forms of theater, dance, music, and art.
Is November a good time to visit Rome?
The resounding answer is yes. Even though Rome is a bit rainy in November, the empty streets, the vibrant festivals, the lingering charm in the air, wrapped in the season’s cooler climes and enthralling gastronomy scene, make it an exceptional time to visit. The beauty of Rome in November is that it exhibits an intricate coalescence of its rustic glory in a rather personal and quiet setting, offering more of its true self than any other busier months ever could.
