Italy is renowned for its generally favourable climatic conditions, due mainly to the warm waters of the Mediterranean sea. However, mountainous areas, particularly around the Alps in the north, can suffer severe, long winters, allowing a thriving skiing industry to have developed.

Land close to the Apennines, the backbone of mountains running down the peninsula of Italy, can have snow during the winter months. Other areas that are protected by hills and mountains, such as Liguria in the north west, enjoy a mild climate all year round.

Indeed, most of the rest of Italy has a pleasant climate with long, hot summers and mild winters - go to the Amalfi coast in December and you'll be surprised to see lemons and oranges still on the trees, shrubs still in flower; Sicily, meanwhile, is becoming an increasingly popular winter sun destination.

Generally, the hottest month is July (where temperatures can reach 30°C/86°F); the coldest month is January; the wettest month is November, with an average rainfall of 129mm; while the driest month is July, with an average rainfall of 15mm.

°Fahrenheit = 32.0 + 1.8 x °Celcius

Italy is at its best in spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). During these seasons, the scenery is beautiful, the temperatures are pleasant and there are relatively few crowds. Try to avoid August, as this is the time that most Italians take their vacations, and many shops and businesses are closed as a result.

The main season is spring, summer and autumn, especially because the landscape at that time of the year is very beautiful. For going sightseeing the summer months are sometimes too hot and the museums and cities are overcrowded. For sightseeing tours the winter month could be contemplated.

Each of Italy's major cities has its own enticing character. Rome is about grandeur, history and haste. Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a masterpiece of studied elegance. Venice is ethereal and mysterious. Milan has powerhouse pace. The countryside is from paintings or dreams.