Bruno Nick - Fodors the Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples

In April, May, and early June, southern Italy is at its bestthe weather is generally pleasant and flowers are in bloom. Easter is a busy time for most tourist destinations; if youre traveling then, have lodging reserved in advance. In May the sea water is warm enough for swimming and beaches are uncrowded.

Temperatures can be torrid in summer. The archaeological sites swarm with visitors, and the islands and Amalfi Coast resorts are crowded. If you seek a beach, keep in mind that during August all of Italy flocks to the shores.

From late September through early November youll find gentle, warm weather, and acres of beach space; swimming temperatures last through October. Watch the clock, however, as the days get shorter. At most archaeological sites youre rounded up two hours before sunsetbut by then most crowds have departed, so afternoon is still a good time to see Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Early winter is relatively mild, but later in the season cold fronts can arrive and stay for days. In resort destinations, many hotels, restaurants, and other facilities close from November until around Easter.

Major gateways to Italy are Romes Aeroporto Leonardo da Vinci, better known as Fiumicino (FCO), and Milans Aeroporto Malpensa (MXP). To fly into most other Italian cities you need to make connections at Fiumicino and Malpensa or another European airport.

Located just 8 km (5 miles) outside Naples, Aeroporto Capodichino (NAP) serves the Campania region. It handles domestic and international flights, including several flights daily between Naples and Rome (45 minutes). In Rome you can also take the airport train to Termini station and catch a train to Naples. It typically takes about an hour to get from the airport to the station, and the fastest train from Rome to Naples takes around 70 minutes.

Italys airports are not known for being new, fun, or efficient. Security measures, including random baggage inspection and bomb-sniffing dogs, may seem daunting, but they dont pose any problems for the average traveler.

In summer stick with light clothing, but toss in a sweater in case of cool evenings, especially if youre headed for the islands. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock are essential. In winter, bring a coat, gloves, hat, and scarf. Winter weather is milder than in the northern and central United States, but central heating isnt always reliable. Bring comfortable walking shoes in any season.