The best time to visit Italy is during the off-peak travel season, especially from April through June and September through October, when the weather is comfortable, prices are lower and there a fewer tourists. During the peak season (July and August) the temperatures can get high, throngs of tourists pack and crowd certain areas (especially the Roman Forum in Rome and the Accademia Gallery in Florence) and prices can be driven up in shops and restaurants. If possible, be as flexible as possible with your travel dates (flying on Monday through Thursday is ideal), flying just a few days earlier or later can increase your chances of finding the cheapest flights possible.