Climate and monthly weather forecast
Vatican City

Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is located within the city of Rome, Italy. It covers an area of 44 hectares (110 acres) and features a landscape dotted with unique structures of immense historical and religious significance.

The climate of this microstate aligns with the "hot summer Mediterranean" or "Csa" classification under the Köppen climate system. This means that the city state experiences temperate weather throughout the year, with cooler winters and notably hot, dry summers. Average temperatures stay above 0°C (32°F) during the coolest months and often exceed 22°C (71.6°F) during the summer months. Rainfall is generally less than 30mm (1.18") in the warmest months, making summers in Vatican City quite dry.

The optimal time to visit Vatican City usually falls within spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These months are favored for their relatively mild temperatures, ranging between 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), making outdoor exploration comfortable. The lesser likelihood of rain during these periods also allows for uninterrupted visits to the city's famous outdoor attractions such as St. Peter's Square. Lower crowds during these periods add to the allure, offering a more tranquil exploration of Vatican City.

The height of summer, from late June to August, can be quite challenging for visitors due to high temperatures that often exceed 30°C (86°F). Additionally, the city experiences dry conditions during this time, making outdoor activities potentially uncomfortable. On the other hand, the winter months of December to February can be quite cold with temperatures falling to 3°C (37.4°F) to 7°C (44.6°F). These periods also see higher rainfall, which may disrupt outdoor plans.

Spring, spanning from March to June, sees gradually warming weather with daily highs ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation levels drop significantly from the winter months, averaging 30mm (1.18") to 40mm (1.57") per month. This period provides ideal conditions for strolling through St. Peter's Square or admiring the meticulously maintained Vatican Gardens.

Summers, from June to September, in Vatican City are typically hot and dry, with the average temperature frequently exceeding 30°C (86°F). July and August are the driest months, with precipitation levels dropping below 20mm (0.79"). Despite the heat, tourists continue to flock to the city, attracted by its wealth of historical and cultural offerings.

Autumn in Vatican City, from September to November, is characterized by gradually cooling temperatures, ranging from 25°C (77°F) in September to 15°C (59°F) in November. Rainfall begins to increase in October and November, with monthly averages rising to 80mm (3.15"). Despite the rain, the fall foliage provides a beautiful backdrop to the city's landmarks.

Winter in Vatican City spans from December to February. Temperatures during this time can fall to as low as 3°C (37.4°F) and rarely exceed 13°C (55.4°F). The city sees its highest rainfall during these months, averaging 90mm (3.54") to 100mm (3.94") per month. However, the festive decorations during the holiday season add a unique charm, making a winter visit to Vatican City a memorable experience despite the cold and rain.

January is the coldest month in Vatican City, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 3°C (37.4°F) to 13°C (55.4°F). This period often witnesses the lowest temperature of the year, with occasional dips below freezing. Compared to December, January sees a slight decrease in temperatures but is similar in terms of overall weather conditions. Precipitation is quite significant during this month, averaging between 70mm (2.76") to 80mm (3.15"), making it one of the rainiest months of the year. Weather in January »

The weather in February experiences a subtle shift towards spring as the month progresses. The average temperatures in Vatican City during this time of year range from a low of 4°C (39.2°F) to a high of 14°C (57.2°F), marking a slight increase from January. Similar to January, February remains one of the colder months. Weather in February »

March marks the beginning of spring in Vatican City. During this month, the average temperatures range from 6°C (42.8°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). The city begins to warm up noticeably compared to February, especially towards the end of the month. Weather in March »

April ushers in the full bloom of spring in Vatican City. The average temperatures in April range from a mild 9°C (48.2°F) to a warmer 20°C (68°F). Compared to March, April experiences a significant warming trend, particularly towards the end of the month, making it one of the warmer months in the first half of the year. The city witnesses a further reduction in rainfall during April, with an average precipitation of 40mm (1.57") to 50mm (1.97"). Weather in April »

May in Vatican City is characterized by the full arrival of warmer temperatures and the transition towards summer. The average temperatures during this month vary from a comfortable 13°C (55.4°F) to a higher 24°C (75.2°F). Compared to April, May sees a substantial increase in temperatures, particularly during daytime hours. Precipitation in May drops slightly compared to April, averaging 30mm (1.18") to 40mm (1.57"). Weather in May »

June in Vatican City marks the onset of summer, bringing with it warmer temperatures and long sunny days. The average temperatures during this month fluctuate between 17°C (62.6°F) and 29°C (84.2°F). Compared to May, the city experiences a noticeable increase in temperatures, particularly in the afternoons. June sees a significant reduction in rainfall, with an average precipitation of approximately 20mm (0.79") to 30mm (1.18"). Weather in June »

July is typically the hottest month of the year in Vatican City. The average temperatures during this month can vary from around 20°C (68°F) to a peak of 31°C (87.8°F). The city experiences a further increase in temperatures from June, particularly during the midday and early afternoon hours. Rainfall in July is minimal, with an average precipitation of about 15mm (0.59") to 20mm (0.79"). Weather in July »

August in Vatican City continues the summer season with persistently high temperatures. The average temperatures during this month range from 19°C (66.2°F) to 30°C (86°F). Compared to July, the city experiences similar temperatures, though late August may start to see a slight dip, signalling the gradual transition towards autumn. Rainfall in August is still quite low but slightly higher than July, with an average precipitation of about 25mm (0.98") to 35mm (1.38"). Weather in August »

September in Vatican City signals the start of autumn, with a gradual decrease in temperatures from the summer highs. The average temperatures during this month fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). Compared to August, the city experiences a noticeable cooling trend, especially towards the end of September. September sees a moderate increase in rainfall compared to August, with an average precipitation of about 50mm (1.97") to 60mm (2.36"). Weather in September »

October continues the autumn season in Vatican City, with temperatures further decreasing from September. The average temperatures during this month range from 11°C (51.8°F) to 20°C (68°F). The city experiences a marked drop in temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. Rainfall in October increases significantly compared to September, with an average precipitation of about 80mm (3.15") to 90mm (3.54"). Weather in October »

November in Vatican City marks a clear transition towards winter, with a further decrease in temperatures. The average temperatures during this month fluctuate between 7°C (44.6°F) and 15°C (59°F). Compared to October, the city experiences a substantial drop in temperatures, especially in the late afternoons and evenings. November sees a continuation of the increased rainfall from October, with an average precipitation of about 90mm (3.54") to 100mm (3.94"). Weather in November »

December in Vatican City marks the start of winter, bringing cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. The average temperatures during this month range from 4°C (39.2°F) to 13°C (55.4°F). Compared to November, the city experiences further reduction in temperatures, making it one of the coldest months of the year. December sees a slight decrease in rainfall compared to November, with an average precipitation of about 70mm (2.76") to 80mm (3.15"). Weather in December »