Best (& Worst) Time Of The Year To Visit Italy 2024: Weather By Month

Are you hoping to visit Italy this year but need to know when to go? If so, you’ll love this guide. I’ve broken down Italy’s weather into a month-by-month guide and shared the best and worst time of the year to visit.

I’ve spent months in Italy and visited Tuscany, Piedmont, and Liguria, so I know a few things about Italy’s weather. Like all of Europe, it’s seasonal, which means you’ll get four distinct and predictable weather patterns, which is great if you’re planning a trip for a particular month.

Depending on your travel preferences, Italy can be an all-year travel destination. Don’t believe me? Keep reading for the best weather guide to Italy! 

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Uncover Italy’s Weather Month By Month And The Best & Worst Time To Visit For You!

In this post, we will cover the weather in Italy month by month in a detailed breakdown to help you plan your perfect holiday! I’ll also include topics:

• The best time of the year to visit Italy
• The worst time to visit Italy
• Our experience visiting Italy 
• The Geographic overview of Italy
• Festivals and carnivals in Italy are not to be missed!
• A seasonal packing list.

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When Is The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Italy?

This is such a relative question as it totally depends on your reasons for visiting Italy and what you want to get out of your holiday. It’s no good to visit the country during summer if you want to go skiing, and it’s no good to visit in winter if you want to see the beaches.

That said, the best time to visit Italy is often believed to be the summer period between June and August; however, this is no longer true. 

These days, most will agree that the shoulder months are the best time of the year to visit Italy. In particular, April and May before summer and September and October after summer are the best months for living in La Dolce Vita.

These shoulder months offer the most pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and, at times, more affordable accommodations and attractions. Although there will be some exceptions, you’re more likely to have an enjoyable holiday during these months away from the hordes of tourists and sweltering heat.

Keep in mind that there is still some rainfall during April and late September, especially in northern Italy; however, it isn’t enough to ruin your holiday. 

⭐ Pro tip >> North, central, and south Italy have slightly different weather patterns; therefore, depending on where you’re visiting, it can mean an extra month or so of warm weather (or cold weather).

Questions To Think About BEFORE Going

Even so, there are some questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the best time of the year to visit Italy for you. Answer these questions to get started:

• Which part of the country are you thinking of exploring?
• Are you okay with variable terrains?
• Does the presence of crowds bother you?
• Does high humidity have a negative impact on your comfort?
• Are you comfortable with cooler or warmer temperatures?
• Do you lean towards spending your time outdoors hiking, skiing, by the beach or diving into a new city experience?

Give these questions some thought, and once you’ve determined the answers, you’ll be on your way to discovering when the best and worst time to visit Italy is for you. 

What We Think Are The Best Months To Visit Italy

We think the best time to visit Italy is in April, May, September and October. These shoulder months see fewer crowds, and April, May and October are certainly more affordable. The weather is lovely for beach holidays if you’re heading to southern Italy, and the main cities aren’t as busy as they will be during the peak season.

Plus, if you don’t mind the cold, around the Christmas period in December can also be a lively time to visit. 

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What Is The Worst Time To Visit Italy?

In my opinion, the summer period, which is Italy’s peak season and falls from June to August, can be a terrible time to visit, depending on where you go; it’s just so crowded and hot. And probably January and February since I don’t like the cold!

If you don’t like cold and wet weather, January, February, and November might be the worst months to visit Italy since they are the coldest months. Similarly, you might want to stay away from December through to March as they are the wettest months.

Then again, if you’re travelling to Italy on a budget, hate crowds, are not fussed about the cold, and don’t want to visit the beaches, winter can be a perfect time to visit.

For us, the worst time of year to visit Italy is always July and August (and those two moody winter months). Italy’s peak season is the most expensive, with accommodations, transport, activities, and entertainment at their highest. 

The country also witnesses a significant increase in local and foreign tourism, and therefore, you’ll likely be queuing for hours, which we loathe. My final reason is that the once-comfortable summer temperatures have started soaring past the mid-30°Cs (95°F) and 40°Cs (104°F). 

I like heat, but holy moly, this is way too hot, even for me!

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Italy Geographic Overview

Italy is located in southern Europe and is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. It’s divided into three main regions: north, central, and south. All of these regions experience microclimates but still follow the traditional four-season pattern: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. 

The north is home to the Italian Alps and one of our favourite regions, Piedmont. It’s known for its cooler temperatures and snowy winters; the extreme north has a ski season and is a popular place to visit in Italy during winter. 

The central region, characterised by a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, includes Tuscany (another area we loved) and Umbria. The south, including Naples and Sicily, is well known for its hot, dry summers and mild winters. 

That said, winter brings a lot of rain throughout the country. Italy’s climate is heavily influenced by its location along the Mediterranean Sea. 

The sea acts as a moderator, helping to keep temperatures from getting too extreme. However, the country’s varied terrain also plays a role in determining its climate. The mountains in the north, for example, create cooler temperatures and more precipitation, while the flat plains in the south lead to hotter temperatures and drier weather.

In the end, Italy’s climate varies. You can enjoy skiing in the north if you prefer the colder weather or lounging on the beaches of the south for that sunkissed glow; either way, Italy has it all and is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

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Our Experience Visiting Italy

“How beautiful is sunset, when the glow of Heaven descends upon a land like thee, Thou Paradise of exiles, Italy!”

— PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY (1792-1822).

Jack and I have only been to Italy together once, although I visited a couple of times when I was a teenager. Since I don’t remember too much of those holidays, I’m going to focus on our most recent trip.

September, October & November

Our arrival in Italy was delayed by a couple of weeks since we decided to stay longer in France. The beauty of travelling in a campervan meant we could easily pick and choose when we left locations, and we were having the time of our lives in France’s Alsace region, sipping wine and hiking to castles.

PIEDMONT

Even so, we arrived in Piedmont by mid-September, having driven over the Swiss Alps along the Furka Pass and finally the Simplon Pass. Our first stop was the stunning Lake Maggiore, and it was spectacular!

After an initial few days of rain, it quickly became a favourite destination of ours. We were able to explore towns like Stresa and Verbania and even visit Lake Orta, famous for its medieval village of Orta San Giulio and the hidden gem of Omegna in the sunshine.

Late September in Piemont was, for the most part, sunny with blue skies. A few clouds were hovering above, but we only saw rainfall that one time when we arrived. 

The Valsesia Valley, further north into the foothills of the Monte Rosa mountain, was our final stop and featured the quaint towns of Varallo and Alagna Valsesia, a ski resort in winter. 

However, in autumn, we were blessed with fantastic weather, warm during the day and mild in the evenings. For this reason, I think September is one of the best times to visit Italy.

CINQUE TERRE

After two weeks in Piedmont, we moved to Cinque Terre. Now, in early October, we thought it would be void of the large crowds; however, we were so wrong! Although the weather was spectacular and still hot enough to swim, the villages were packed, with the exception of Monterosso al Mare.

TUSCANY

We stayed for three days on the Italian Riviera before heading to Tuscany in search of the best beaches on the Monte Argentario Peninsula. We found them alongside sweltering temperatures; early October along the Tuscan coast was still in the high 20s.

By mid-October, we were driving around the Tuscan countryside, and again, it was lovely and warm. Although evening temps had begun dropping and the weather was becoming more mild, it was still enjoyable. 

It wasn’t until we reached Florence at the very end of October that we saw the rain clouds roll in. It was a damp day, windy and muggy, hot and cold. It’s the kind of weather that makes you ask whether you should take a jacket or not. The umbrella came with us once, and another time, we were lugging around our coats because it turned into a warm and sunny afternoon.

LIGURIA

After Pisa, our last stop in Tuscany, we arrived in the northwest of Liguria and made the last few stops along the beautiful Italian Riviera. We visited the lively San Remo, captivating Dolceacqua, and quaint Pigna before beelining for our friend’s house in the Dordogne.

How was the Italian weather in early November? Well, it threatened to rain more than once, but it never actually came. Instead, most days were overcast with splashes of sunshine. We actually had beautiful weather in Dolceacqua and were able to sit outside and catch the last of the sunshine.

Would We Recommend Visiting Italy In Autumn?

Italy in Autumn is 100% worth visiting, and I absolutely recommend visiting during this season. It’s perfect for avoiding crowds, getting better deals, and seeing the foliage in hues of yellows and oranges. Driving around Italy this time of year is dreamy. 

We were, in all honesty, genuinely blessed by the weather. We left Tuscany just in time to miss the floods, which would have stranded us in the countryside, and although the sky threatened to rain, it hardly ever came. 

Therefore, September and October are by far the best months of the year to visit Italy if you want to see fewer crowds, better prices, stunning landscapes and pleasant weather.

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Italy Weather By Month

Do you know which month you’re visiting Italy? Find out below if it’s a good time to go.

Italy In January

In January, Italy is in the middle of winter, and it’s cold and wet for the most part. Northern Italy, from Milan to the Alps, has a high chance of snowfall. For this reason, although January might be a low season for central and southern Italy, it’s usually busy in the northern ski resorts, which is reflected in the price. 

However, since January is one of the coldest and dampest months in Italy, with temperatures between 3°C-11°C (37°F-52°F), most of the regions south of the Alps attract fewer crowds. This means you’ll not only get a much better rate for accommodation and activities, but you’ll not have to queue to see famous attractions. 

Keep this in mind because if you don’t mind the cold, damp weather, January can be an affordable time to visit cities like Rome, Florence and Venice. 

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re planning a visit during the first half of January, the Christmas decorations will still be up, and the winter sales (Saldi) are in full swing. There’s also a celebration on January 6th – Epiphany – which makes a January visit to Italy all the more exciting.  

Italy In February

February is Italy’s least crowded month overall, so it’s perfect if you want to maximise your time visiting attractions. However, it’s also one of the coldest months, with average temperatures around 4°C-12°C (39°F-54°F), so it can get quite chilly.

Much like January, February is an affordable month to visit Italy unless you’re visiting the ski resorts in the north. It’s also the month of Carnivale in Venice and Viareggio, and the bizarre Battle of Oranges in Ivrea (a city near Turin) is quite an event. 

February sees the end of the winter sales. Although busier for a short period during the mid-February carnival, you’ll be able to explore Italy’s beauty without seeing too many tourists. South Italy warms up slightly, 6°C-14°C (43°F-57°F); however, it’s still going to be damp and gloomy all month throughout the majority of the country. 

Italy In March

It’s my birthday month and always an exciting time for me; although I’ve not been to Italy in March, it is a good time to visit. It’s the last of the cold snap, and with average temperatures between 1°C-16°C (34°F-61°F), depending on where you are (central and southern Italy), are relatively mild. 

It is still quite cold in the north, and you can get some snow, especially in the Dolomites; it’s the last month of the ski season. If you want to ski, March can be a good time to visit with fewer crowds; however, go in early March.

Central Italy is the warmest region in the country, but spring showers are still common. March is not the wettest month, although it is close behind. However, clearer skies and sunshine begin to appear at the end of March.

Throughout the country, there are fewer crowds than in the summer months, although it does start to pick up towards the end of the month as it’s coming into the shoulder season (April and May). However, it’s still an affordable time to visit, and cities like Naples can be great fun.

Italy In April

April in Italy is an exciting time to visit, with both Easter and Liberation Day celebrated. If you’re visiting during this period, keep in mind that it can get busy. As for the weather, April brings bright, sunny days for most of the country.

North Italy remains moderately wet and overcast but with mild temperatures. As for the rest, expect temperatures ranging between 9°C-20°C (48°F-68°F), less rainfall and pretty much sunny all day.

With this in mind, April is a great time to visit the islands and coastal towns such as the Amalfi Coast. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll be able to visit some beaches and popular museums without seeing crowds.

As a shoulder month, April does see a slight increase in prices, although not to the extent of the summer period. It’s, therefore, still an excellent time to visit Italy if you’re on a budget but not keen on cold weather.

Italy In May

For me, May (and September into early October) is the best time to visit Italy. The first time I visited Italy was on a family holiday in May, and it was superb; however, I would recommend an early May vacation.

May falls into the pre-summer shoulder season and has temperatures between 11°C and 24°C (52°F-75°F), depending on where you are in the country. These temperatures do bring in some crowds and slightly higher prices, so it’s not the most affordable time to visit, but it’s also not the most expensive!

The whole country, including the previously gloomy north, will be sunny with blue skies, and with longer days, it will feel more like summer. Rainfall will be moderately less, and if you want to visit the southern beaches without hordes of tourists, May is a good time. 

⭐ Pro tip >> Keep in mind the evening temperatures can drop and become chilly and windy, so pack appropriate clothing for both summer and cooler evenings/mornings. That said, afternoons are warm and comfy and perfect for enjoying sunsets.

Another reason May is one of the best times of the year to visit Italy is the blooms. As the flowers show their petals, you’ll notice bursts of colour throughout the country.

Italy In June

June signals the start of summer in Italy, and although it means perfect Italian weather, it also means hordes of tourists, busy attractions, and crowded activities. 

The temperatures average between 13°C-30°C (55°F-86°F), so sunny, lovely and warm in most of the country. The peak season also means prices for accommodations and attractions will have increased; if you’re planning to visit during this month, I suggest booking ahead to avoid disappointment.

June celebrates several festivals, which makes it even more crowded, especially in cities such as Rome. Republic Day, the Summer Solstice, and the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul are worth watching out for if you don’t mind crowds.

⭐ Pro tip >> North Italy is the only region that can still feel a little chilly at night, so be sure to pack some warmer layers. Otherwise, with little rainfall, northern and central Italy will be a dry, warm, and bright month to visit. Southern Italy, on the other hand, is starting to become too hot.

Italy In July

Between the start of the summer holidays and the peak of the summer season, July in Italy is a crowded, sweltering destination. With a few exceptions, mainly in the quieter northern regions, Italy has turned into a tourist hotspot. 

The days in central and southern Italy are hot, dry and very long, with clear, blue skies. However, it’s worth knowing that northern Italy can have the occasional showers, although it’s still the hottest month of the year, and there isn’t enough rain to dampen the sunshine.

You can expect average temperatures between 19°C-32°C (66°F-90°F), which can quickly become uncomfortable, especially around the compacted cities. 

Italy has recently experienced extreme summers, with temperatures quickly reaching the high-30s°C to 40s°C (104 °F) and above. These temperatures are hazardous and can be life-threatening. Bear this in mind when planning your trip to Italy. 

Personally, I think July is one of the worst times to visit Italy; it’s crowded and expensive, and since the weather is now unpredictable, you’re not guaranteed an enjoyable holiday. 

Italy In August

August in Italy is well and truly into the peak season, and you’ll find it’s the most popular time for Italian families to be vacationing. This just adds to the numbers, and overall, August is the most crowded and most expensive month in Italy, which, in my opinion, makes it one of the worst months to visit.

As expected, the temperatures are high, remaining between 19 °C and 32 °C (66°F and 90°F). The month brings hot and dry weather to central and southern Italy, but in the northern region, you’ll witness some afternoon showers.

For central Italy, August is the hottest month of the year and barely experiences any rainfall. Southern Italy is also very dry, and the evenings in both parts won’t provide much respite from the heat either. 

As mentioned above, Italy experienced a heatwave during the summer of 2023, with temperatures reaching above the mid-40s°C (113°F).

As expected, prices are at their highest, and it’s very hard to find a deal. In fact, it’s essential to pre-book all accommodations and activities, such as a visit to Florence’s Duomo or Rome’s Coliseum, as they will be booked out.

Italy In September

September is a lovely month to visit Italy because temperatures begin to drop and local tourism dies down. Weather-wise, it’s still busy in the popular cities and towns, but the crowds start dispersing, especially towards the end of the month.

On our last road trip, we reached Italy in mid-September after spending two weeks in France’s Alsace region, so we know first-hand what the weather is like. 

We began in the northern region of Piedmont, where few tourists remained. We had a wonderful time, with many sites to ourselves. Although there was a bit of rain in the mountains during September, we also witnessed sunny, bright days.  

With this in mind, early September onwards is one of the best times to visit Italy, especially if you want to see the northern territories or even head south to the beaches, which is best from mid-September onwards to avoid crowds. 

The average temperature for this month ranges between 14°C-27°C (57°F-81°F), so it is still lovely and warm but no longer sweltering. It’s worth mentioning that the rates for accommodations and entertainment are still relatively high as foreign tourism continues.

Italy In October

We spent most of October driving around Tuscany, and overall, it was a fantastic time to visit. It’s harvest time, and there are plenty of food and drink festivals to enjoy. Since it’s the middle of autumn, the trees have started changing colours. Personally, I think October is a beautiful month to visit Italy.

The average temperature is around 12°C-21°C (54°F-70°F), although it’s a few degrees warmer in the southern parts of Italy. Sicily is worth a visit during this month if you want almost-empty beaches and lower prices.

Accommodations and activities see a price drop, although even in October, you’ll need to book the main attractions ahead of time. We got caught out in Florence and weren’t able to climb the Duomo because it was fully booked. Instead, we went up the Bell Tower, which I think was just as good.

Northern Italy begins to get wetter and cooler, so perhaps not the best time to visit this region, but the Italian Rivera is still sunny on most days. We hiked in Cinque Terre in early October, which was lovely, but the villages were still too busy. Head there towards mid-October, and you’ll hopefully experience fewer crowds.

P.S. October is an Italian shoulder month.

Italy In November

November brought a noticeable change in weather for us. Up until the first week, we had missed all rainfall and witnessed lovely, bright, sunny skies. However, November is characterised by wet, overcast days throughout the country – which we certainly saw!

Therefore, November isn’t the best time to visit Italy and probably one of the worst months unless you don’t mind rainy, gloomy days. That said, it can be a good time to visit if you’re travelling on a budget since it’s the start of the low season, so prices drop significantly. 

On a more positive note, and with the exception of year-round destinations like Rome and Venice, there are hardly any tourists around, and it’s not too cold if you wrap up, either, with average temperatures between 8°C-16°C (46°F-61°F). 

⭐ Pro tip >> For city breaks, where you’ll be spending most of your time inside and as long as you pack an umbrella, November can be an okay time to visit, but it’s not the best time.

Italy In December

December is an exciting month in Italy. Since it’s in the middle of winter, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a terrible time to visit. However, December isn’t as wet as November, and if the northern regions experience early snowfall, it can signal the start of the snow season. 

That said, it is still plenty wet and freezing. Average temperatures are between 1°C-15°C (34°F-59°F), with northern Italy experiencing the coldest snaps. Central Italy is overcast and unpleasant, while southern Italy doesn’t fare much better, although the temperatures are milder.

The good thing is the lead-up to Christmas, which is celebrated throughout the country with massive celebrations, light displays and entertainment. December is also one of the most affordable times to visit Italy (unless you’re skiing), as prices are at their all-time low. 

Tourist numbers are also meagre except for the week before Christmas, so if you want to visit the museums, get a feel for local life, and don’t plan to be outside for long periods, December can be a great month to visit Italy’s top attractions.

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Italian Festivals & Public Holidays

• Epiphany and Befana: January 6th 
• Saldi (winter sales): January/February (dates vary) 
• Carnevale (Carnival): February (dates vary) 
• Holy Week and Easter: March/April (dates vary) 
• Liberation Day: April 25th 
• Labor Day/May Day: May 1st 
• Republic Day: June 2nd 
• Palio di Siena: July 2nd and August 16th 
• Verona Opera Festival: June-September (dates vary) 
• Saldi (summer sales): July/August (dates vary) 
• Ferragosto: August 15th 
• Bologna Potato Festival (Sagre): October (dates vary) 
• Venice Film Festival: August/September (dates vary) 
• Milan Fashion Week: September (dates vary) 
• Sagra (Local Food Festival): Dates and locations vary 
• All Saints Day: November 1st 
• The Feast of Immaculate Conception: December 8th 
• Christmas: December 25th
• New Year/Eve: 31st December and 1st January

What To Pack For Italy?

Italy has four seasons, and it’s important to pack appropriate clothing for each season, such as light and breathable fabrics for summer, a waterproof jacket for autumn, warm layers for winter, and a light jacket or sweater for spring.

You’ll also need comfortable walking shoes, which are always a good choice no matter the season, especially if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing.

WINTER MONTHS

January, February, and December are the coldest months in Italy. They are also pretty wet, so if you’re planning a trip during these months, it’s essential to pack plenty of wet-weather clothing and warm items. 

You’ll need to layer up to keep warm, so keep this in mind when packing. If you plan to go skiing, It’s best to take your own clothing, but it’s possible to rent.

SPRING MONTHS

March, April and May are the spring months, but they vary considerably depending on where you are in the country. March is still quite chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings; however, by May, the weather has warmed up. 

There is still a lot of rain, especially in early spring, so some wet-weather gear is worth packing. Yet, you won’t need it by May.

SUMMER MONTHS

June, July, and August are the hottest months of the year in Italy. The weather is dry and hot, with little chance of showers, so pack light, breathable materials.

The mornings can still be a little breezy if you’re in the north; otherwise, you’ll need to pack for the long, hot days.

AUTUMN MONTHS

September through November are the Autumn months, and from what we experienced, it is still warm during September and the start of October. However, the weather changes in November, and you’ll need to pack some warmer layers. 

The evenings up in the north of Italy can also be a little chilly, so make sure you pack appropriately.

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Does Italy Have Seasons?

Yes, Italy has seasons. In general, Italy experiences four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn.

• The Winter period is from December to February and is characterised by cold temperatures and snow in the North. 
• Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful time to visit Italy, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. 
• Summer runs through June, July and August; it’s the peak season, with hot temperatures and high humidity. 
• Autumn, from September to November, is a popular time to visit Italy. It is characterised by cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s also when the country harvests fruits (grapes), and the foliage turns to reds, yellows, and oranges.

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Italy Weather By Month FAQs

What Is The “Off Season” In Italy?
Italy’s off-season is from November to March. During this time, the weather is wet and cold; however, accommodations, activities and transport are also at their most affordable. Therefore, the off-season could be a good time to visit Italy if you’re on a budget.

What Month Does Everything Close In Italy?
During the off-season, which includes November, December, January, and February, most of the shops in the summer locations are closed for the season. The main cities remain open throughout the year, although you may find restaurants and local shops with short opening times.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To Italy?
November, January, and February are the cheapest months to visit Italy. Prices (and crowds) can increase during the festive period, but early December is also an affordable time to visit.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Coastal Towns In Italy?
The best time to visit the coastal towns in Italy is between April and September. This period includes late spring, summer, and early autumn. Depending on where you visit in Italy, the warm weather lasts longer. For example, Sicily’s coastal towns can be visited into October.

When Are The Best Times For Wine Tours In Italy?
The best time for wine tours in Italy is during the harvesting months (September and October), when the grapes are ready for picking. If you want to visit the vineyards, it’s best to go before the harvest; however, for the year’s wines, after harvest is best. During harvest, there are local wine and food festivals throughout the regions.

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In Summary: Best & Worst Time Of The Year To Visit Italy

As always, I want to leave you with a few final thoughts about the best and worst times of the year to visit Italy. We loved Italy and driving around the country made the whole expereince even more amazing.

There really isn’t a bad time to visit, as it depends on your preferences. Even a visit during November or February, which I’ve designated the worst months to visit Italy, offers something, such as no crowds and affordable prices.

That said, evidently, I think there are better months to visit Italy, and for me, May, September and October are the best. Whenever you decide to visit Italy we hope you have a wonderful time and enjoy your trip.