Italy is one of the most popular long-haul destinations from the US, so there are many routes and fares to compare. The right airport depends on whether you are going to Rome, Milan, Venice or the south.
Italy at a glance
- Main gateways: Rome Fiumicino (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP), Venice (VCE) and Naples (NAP).
- Busiest fare periods: June to August, Easter, and the Christmas to New Year period.
- Often better-value periods: November to March, outside the holidays.
- Climate: hot and busy in summer, mild and quieter in spring and autumn.
When to fly
Summer brings heat and crowds at the major sights, and fares to match. Spring and autumn give good weather with fewer visitors, and winter fares are the lowest outside the holidays, although some coastal places are quiet. Book Easter and Christmas as early as you can.
Routings and baggage
American, Delta, United and ITA Airways have flown non-stop from several US cities to Rome and Milan, with some seasonal service to Venice and Naples. Many travelers also connect through other European hubs. Basic economy fares on European flights often exclude checked bags, so compare fares with a bag included.
Airports and getting around
Rome’s airport has a direct train, the Leonardo Express, to Termini station, and Milan’s Malpensa has an express rail link to the city. Italy’s high-speed trains connect Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan and Naples, and booking ahead can be cheaper. Transport strikes happen from time to time, so check your travel day.
How to pay less on flights to Italy
- Travel off-peak. November to March outside the holidays is usually cheapest. June to August, Easter and Christmas are the busiest, and spring and autumn are a good balance.
- Compare the gateways. American, Delta, United and ITA Airways have flown non-stop from several US cities to Rome and Milan, with some seasonal service to Venice and Naples. Price each.
- Check the baggage. Basic economy on European flights often excludes checked bags, so compare fares with a bag included.
- Use the trains. A flight to Rome or Milan plus a high-speed train, booked ahead, can beat flying into a smaller airport.
For the general method, see how we find cheap flights. Send us your dates and a specialist compares the options for this route.
Before you go
Check passport validity and Italy’s current entry rules, including any European electronic travel authorization that has started, through official sources. Other health requirements are minimal, though travel health insurance is advisable. See the CDC page for Italy.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline routes, schedules, baggage rules and entry requirements change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Planning a trip? See our Italy flights page, our student travel and group travel pages, or send us your dates for a quote.
Questions, answered.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Italy?
Winter outside the Christmas and New Year weeks, roughly November to March, is usually cheapest. Spring and autumn are lovely and moderately priced. June to August and Easter are the busiest.
Are there non-stop flights from the US to Italy?
Yes. Several US airlines and ITA Airways have flown non-stop from many US cities to Rome, Milan and other Italian airports. Confirm the current routes when you book.
Do I need anything special to enter Italy?
Italy is in the Schengen area. Check the current entry rules for your passport, including any electronic travel authorization that has started, through official sources.
