UV Index in Rome, Italy

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Being aware of the UV Index in Rome, Italy is essential for both locals and visitors alike, as it plays a crucial role in protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding the UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn, but also contributes significantly to long-term skin health. With Rome's Mediterranean climate showcasing plenty of sunshine throughout the year, the risk of high UV exposure is notable, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when levels reach peaks of 8. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beauty of this historic city while safeguarding your well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Rome

The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear and vigorous pattern of intensity. As the sun rises at 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, indicating minimal risk. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, still in the low range, but things escalate quickly; by 09:00, it reaches 3. The sun's power peaks astonishingly at 12:00, hitting a maximum of 8, which signifies a high risk for unprotected skin. This intense exposure persists until 14:00, before gradually tapering off through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 7, then diminishes further to 5 at 16:00, and continues to decline into the evening hours, settling back down to 1 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities during the midday hours should take care to protect themselves from the sun’s powerful rays!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:008very high15 min
13:008very high15 min
14:008very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rome

As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, significantly impacting the risk of skin damage from sun exposure. January through March presents moderate UV levels (Index 3-5), with a burn time ranging from 30 minutes to 30 minutes. However, as we move into April, the index rises sharply to 7, marking the beginning of higher risk. The months of May through August see peak UV levels, reaching 10 in June and July, characterized as very high with burn times as short as 15 minutes. September experiences a decrease back to 7, remain a high-risk month, while October and November see moderate levels again. December is the safest, with a low index of 2 and a burn time extended to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should strategically protect themselves, especially during the high-risk months of April through September, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rome, Italy

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Rome. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34578101097532
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Rome, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Rome UV Index with Other Italy Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rome compares to other major locations across Italy. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Rome's solar exposure compared to other cities in Italy. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Milan UVI235689986532
Turin UVI2367810997532
Rome34578101097542
Naples UVI34679101098642
Palermo UVI35689101098743