Unlike many European cities in which the weather is chilly year round, and unlike Israeli in which the weather is warm for most of the year, Milan really does have four distinct seasons. Every season has its own magic, and as tourists you should arrive fully prepared in terms of clothing, as packing the wrong items may cause distress during your trip. Below are some tips and information that will help you pack appropriately for every season.
First and foremost, rain is possible during all four seasons, so packing an umbrella is a must. Thunderstorm, lightning and sudden rain may surprise you even when you’re at a swimming pool in the middle of sunny summer day, and it’s actually quite fun! Umbrellas are sold everywhere in the city, so in case you forgot to bring one – no worries.
Winter
Winter usually lasts from November until mid-March. It can get very cold, with anywhere between ten and minus ten Celsius degrees. If you plan to walk around outside for several hours it is best to have on some warm clothes, even when the temperature is about +5c. Though Milan isn’t Antarctica, several hours outside in such weather can be very unpleasant, so it is best to have a few layers of clothing. Heating inside buildings, such as stores, cafes and hotels can be quite intense, so having the option to easily take off some of these layers can be beneficial.
We recommend packing a thermal top, a long sleeved shirt and a warm sweater. On top of that, a good coat, preferably a down coat or jacket that covers the body all the way down to your knees. For your lower body we suggest thermal bottoms or tights (especially those that don’t cover your feet, as they’re more comfortable), with warm trousers or a skirt (made of jeans, corduroy or wool) and warm socks (wool socks, thermal socks or two pairs of regular socks). In addition, we advise packing a warm hat (preferably with fleece lining) that covers your ears, a comfortable scarf and a pair of gloves. It is best to get a good pair of gloves that can keep your hands warm (those made of leather or designed for skiing). Packing these items for your winter break is essential, and you could definitely enjoy travelling in the winter as long as you dress well. For the most part, the weather in Milan isn’t very stormy, so you probably won’t have to deal with strong rain and wind, but only with an ongoing low temperature.
All of the abovementioned equipment can be easily purchased in Milan, if needed. If you don’t want to roam around the city’s many clothing stores, you can just head to one of the Decathlon stores, and quickly get all the equipment you need in affordable prices.
Spring
Spring usually lasts from mid-March to mid-May. The spring is a wonderful season for a visit in Milan. Temperatures are very convenient, between 10c at night and 25c during the day. In the beginning of the season, especially at night time and early morning it can get a little chilly. We recommend packing some long trousers or skirts, along with some tights, both long and short sleeved shirts, a light cotton sweater and a light jacket.
Summer
Summer usually lasts between May and September. Summers in Milan are very hot. Temperatures during the day rise up to around 30c, and for the few several years even passed 35c. And yet humidity is relatively low, though that may not help much. Air pollution is quite significant in Milan, and since the city is essentially located in a valley there aren’t many cool breezes. Clothing, therefore, should fit the warm weather, with short tops and sandals. Remember that Milan is a fashion capital, and even high temperatures are no excuse to dress poorly here, with extremely short shorts and tank tops…
Autumn
Autumn usually lasts between September and November. Autumn is a beautiful season in Milan, with lovely weather and beautiful fall. Temperatures are between 7c and 25c. Attire should resemble the one for spring time, with long trousers or skirts with thin tights, a long sleeved shirt a light sweater and a light coat. A light scarf can be joyfully added. This is the season for wearing all those fashionable items that are too light for winter yet too warm for summer, like some mid-length trousers with a cotton sweater and a pair of sandals, or rather a pair of shoes with ankle-length socks and a fashionable raincoat. Enjoy!
Arrivederci…
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