visit italy winter

All Destinations , Europe

15 incredible places to visit in italy in winter.

Winter in Italy might not bring sun-soaked beaches and fun boat trips, but there’s still plenty to enjoy in this cultural European country.

With beautiful scenery, ample history, plenty of culture and – of course – worldly renowned food, here’s a guide to spending the winter in Italy!

Things to do in winter in Italy

Granted, you probably won’t be sunbathing on a beach if you’re in Italy in cold weather! However, some of the southern destinations can still be warm during this time, so don’t think that you’ll be bundled up with coats, hats and scarves everywhere you go. Likewise, in the north, there are plenty of cold-weather activities to enjoy. 

Winter Sports

The winter season in northern Italy – and many other European winter destinations – is perhaps most synonymous with skiing. Ski season runs from mid-November until late March, and there are popular slopes all over the country.

Whether you fancy trying cross country skiing, snowshoeing or downhill skiing, the Italian Alps have plenty of options. I’ve personally been to Sestriere which is like a winter wonderland in the colder months! 

Exploring touristy places

It’s quite well known that it’s just not really worth visiting Venice at peak season. The city is constantly rammed full of tourists, and it can negatively impact local life and even the economy.

However, if you visit in winter, you’ll find much fewer tourists and you’ll be able to appreciate local businesses more. What’s more, prices for accommodation and many other things will be much lower!

You could even maximise seeing the touristy sites without the crowds by checking out the Around walking tours in Venice (or elsewhere in the city!).

Around offers self-guided walking tours by professional guides; you get the full tour, with all the information, with none of the restrictions of normal walking tours!

In the winter, the weather isn’t guaranteed to be as good, but it may well be worth it for how quiet it can be.

This is the same for tourist destinations throughout Northern Italy and the rest of the country, like the Amalfi Coast !

Eating tonnes of Italian food

It’s no secret that one of the best reasons to visit Italy is the food. You can find pizza and pasta all over the world, but the real authentic Italian dishes are often entirely different from what popular culture eats – and the best place for authentic food is, of course, Italy itself!

Italian food is just as delicious in the winter as in the summer, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste some seasonal dishes.

Here’s some of the vegan options in Venice!

Enjoy a traditional Christmas

Italy comes alive in the festive season. The Vatican City – which is a country completely surrounded by Italy – is the home of Catholicism, so nowhere is quite as traditional!

Italy celebrates Christmas for a month from the 8th December to the 6th January each year, and most major cities and small towns are awash with decorations and festive cheer.

Make sure you try a Vin Brûlé, which literally means ‘burnt wine’ (in French, but it is a traditional Italian drink!). 

Sun seeking

Yes, parts of Italy can be sunny in the winter! If you head to the far south, particularly anywhere further south than Naples, you’ll be able to enjoy much sunnier, warmer weather than many other European destinations.

While it may still be a bit too chilly to go sea swimming or spend all day sunbathing, you’ll be surprised at how pleasant the weather can be! 

You could even go on a road trip around Southern Italy – click here for more information!

Places to visit in winter in Italy

Cagliari, sardinia.

A lovely place to spend spring and summer months, Cagliari – the capital of Sardinia – is also one of the most charming places to visit in Italy in winter.

Cagliari enjoys mostly pleasant sunny days with an average daytime temperature of 15°C (though it does get occasional rain and wind, and cold fronts may bring temperature downs) throughout the winter months. 

But don’t think the city is quiet then! While most tourists will be gone, locals certainly enjoy the city, which has a thriving nightlife with a great restaurant scene and many bars. 

There are many interesting places to visit in Cagliari. The starting point of your visit should be the historic hilltop quarter of Castello, where you will find the fantastic museum of archaeology, Santa Maria Cathedral with the adjoint bell tower, the Vice Palazzo Regio, and the two watchtowers. That’s also where the Santa Croce terrace is located – it’s a prime spot to admire the sunset. 

Other historic districts you should explore are:

• Stampace, where you’ll find the Roman Amphitheater and other Roman ruins
• the Botanic Gardens
• colourful Villanova
• La Marina, home to many small bars and restaurants

Make sure to head to  Poetto Beach , Cagliari’s main urban beach. It’s a lovely place for a walk, with a nice biking/ running/ skating lane. From there, you can access Molentargius Nature Reserve, where you can admire various bird species, including pink flamingos. 

For bird’s eye views of the city and of Poetto beach, hike up Sella del Diavolo promontory – you can reach it from Calamosca Beach, Cagliari’s second beach. Not far from there, another trail will take you to Fortino di Sant’Ignazio, a 17th century fortress from where you can enjoy views across the Gulf of Cagliari.

By Claudia Tavani from Strictly Sardinia

As one of the world’s most important historical sites, the excavated  ancient city of Pompeii  has millions of visits from tourists each year.

Most of these tourists visit during the European summer when the sun at the archaeological site can be intense. They also visit during the late morning and middle of the day, as many tour companies run day trips from the Amalfi Coast and Rome, as well as cruise ship shore excursions.

The crowds mean long queues to see frescoes in villas, for example, and for admission to individual sites and for food and drinks.

In winter, however, you can have many of the ruins of Pompeii to yourself! In addition, the public transport (trains and buses) to Pompeii is relatively quiet. At other times of the year, you need to get on at the very first station to get a seat on the Circumvesuviana line trains.

The archaeological site closes earlier in winter because the days are shorter (and Pompeii is closed December 25 and January 1). If you are doing a day trip from Rome, it’s worth noting that the beginning and end of your trip will be in darkness.

The weather is variable in winter, so choosing a day when the forecast is for sun and mild winds means that you will have wonderful weather for wandering through the ancient city without the crowds!

By Monique from Trip Anthropologist

Italy is a country known for its food, culture and of course, wine. It’s also a place where you can find some of the best beaches in the world.

Puglia, located in the south of Italy, is one of the most visited regions during the summer months, but it’s actually beautiful in the wintertime as well. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, great food and, of course, its historical sites. In winter, the beaches are empty, and the sea is still warm enough to swim in.

Puglia has many beautiful towns to explore , like Bari with its wonderful Borghi or ‘narrow’ streets, Alberobello with its unique Trulli homes and Lecce a Baroque masterpiece, Gallipoli with its beautiful beaches, and the city of Taranto, which is filled with history.

Puglia is one of the best places to go during winter. It’s warm but not too hot, and there are lots of things to do!

If you’re looking for something delicious to eat while you’re holidaying here, make sure to try some local delicacies like delicious wines from Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro grapes, lots of fresh seafood from the Adriatic sea, cheeses from Castel Del Monte and some other mouthwatering specialities.

By Ania from The Travelling Twins

Skiing or snowboarding in the Alps is on top of any list of ways to spend a winter holiday in Italy. Not a fan of winter sports? Don’t worry, Northern Italy still has you covered. Just head to  the Dolomites !

Book a place in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the main town in the region, and be ready to indulge. If you’re into sports, you can spend your days up and down the many ski resorts. Faloria, Pocol and Tofana are the closest to town, but there are 80 pistes with more than 75 miles of slopes (the Dolomiti Superski pass will give you access to all).

If you’re just interested in sightseeing, a stroll around town will give you gorgeous views of the mountains around – but if you want to get up close with the peaks, you can take the cable cars and gondolas, and grab a cup of coffee or mulled wine in the refugios while you watch the skiiers pass by.

If you want to get seriously pampered, go to one of the spas the town features and experience winter from a warm and comfortable environment. Or go to one of the many fantastic restaurants and do as the Italians do – enjoy one of the best cuisines and wine scenes in the world.

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

If you’re visiting Italy in winter, don’t overlook the northern gastronomic city of Bologna. Although winter can get quite chilly, there is very little snow, so getting around is as easy as summer. 

Even in winter, there are still many wonderful  things to see and do in Bologna , and it’s easy to enjoy the weather outside. This is because most of the historic city centre is covered by Bologna’s famous porticoes, which were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. On a winter’s night they are softly lit, quiet, and  oh so romantic .

Climb the Asinelli Tower on the weekend for the best panoramic view of the city, or visit the University of Bologna — the oldest University in the Western world — with its 15th-century Archiginnasio amphitheatre.

Bologna is a working city that rarely feels overcrowded, but it is renowned the world over for its food. It’s easy to spend your days exploring the indoor food markets and trying the neighbourhood eateries, and a bowl of tortellini en brodo or plate of tagliatelle bolognese hits the spot on a chilly day.

You can even take a guided food tour or find a cafe near the Piazza Maggiore and hang out with locals over an espresso and pastry.

Bologna makes a unique and relaxing winter destination.

By Lori from Travlinmad

Syracuse  on Sicily’s east coast is a great destination for a wonderful Italian city break in the winter sunshine.

Located under an hour by car from Catania international airport, Syracuse is a small city but offers plenty of interesting attractions.

Its location in Sicily means that Syracuse is much warmer than many other European city destinations so while great weather isn’t guaranteed, it should be milder than much of Europe in wintertime.

The old town of Syracuse – Ortigia – is located on a small island. On a clear day, the surrounding sea is a wonderful sparkling blue and the white limestone Baroque buildings in the city are aglow.

Many of the streets are pedestrianised – perfect for exploring by foot. There’s a particularly lovely central square – Piazza del Duomo – which is perfect for a stroll or a coffee.

Surrounding much of the island is an attractive promenade – ideal for a winter stroll in the sunshine. At the tip of the island is Castello Maniace, looking out to sea. It’s an atmospheric spot where the waves of the Mediterranean lap against the 13th century stone walls.

Just outside the city centre is the impressive Archaeological Park where you’ll find the remains of both Ancient Greek and Roman amphitheatres along with an artificial cave shaped like an ear which has powerful acoustics – apparently, it was carved out by slaves whose captor enjoyed listening to their wails.

By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Cinque Terre

Located along the coast of Italy lie these five colourful villages that are a major tourist attraction in Italy. Cinque Terre, or 5T as it is popularly called, boasts of lush vineyards, colourful houses perched on cliffs overlooking the sparkling sea, mouthwatering gelatos and some adventurous trekking paths.

Usually these five villages are packed with tourists during the summer months, however, if you prefer a quiet time with less crowded streets then visiting the 5T in winter is the best.

While you can’t swim in the sea in the winter months, you can always opt for  trekking in the Cinque Terre  National Park (may be closed due to rains), exploring the 5 villages on foot, striking a conversation with the locals and learning about the history of the villages, visiting the churches in Corniglia or enjoying a cozy dinner at one of the restaurants. My personal favourite was Nessun Dorma at Manarola, delicious food with a breath-taking view of the sea.

Also, the hotel prices would be lower than the summer months, which is an added bonus! Be prepared to pack some winter gear and some waterproof jackets to save you from the rain.

Pro Tip: Restaurants and stores mostly shut down on Sundays, so make sure to store essentials in advance.

By Jess from Tourist to Travellers

One of the best places to visit in Italy in winter is the iconic city of Venice. Venice is often packed with tourists in the warmer months, but the narrow alleyways are empty in the cooler months. The elegantly decorated city is yours to explore.

At the center of the city is St. Mark’s Square, a great place to start exploring the city. You’ll find the Campanile di San Marco and Basilica di San Marco in the heart of the plaza.

Throughout the plaza (and in Venice as a whole) you’ll find small shops selling Italian coffee and hot chocolate to warm you. Get it in a to-go cup so you can enjoy a gondola ride throughout the city.

An added benefit of visiting in winter is that the prices of tourist attractions significantly decrease. For example, you can enjoy waterfront views of the city as you float by Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.

Once you’ve explored the city, grab a glass of locally sourced wine and enjoy some Cicchetti as you enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Venice.

Whether you visit in December for the holiday season, or celebrate Love at  Venice’s New Year celebration , or party in February at Carnival – Venice in the winter won’t disappoint! 

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Naples is the third-largest city in Italy, and one great thing about visiting during the winter is that you are guaranteed to find lower prices and much fewer tourists than the rest of the year.

Due to its southern location, it also has warmer weather than a lot of other Italian cities in winter!

It is no secret that  Italy is known for Pizza  and Naples is the ultimate place to try an authentic Italian pizza – it’s where it originates from!

If you are visiting closer to the magical season of Christmas, Naples has a famous nativity street known as ‘Christmas Alley’. Here, you’ll find intricate nativity displays and Christmas decorations. There are more decorations and nativity displays dotted around the squares and churches.

By Dan from Urban Abroad

If snuggling up with a glass of bicerin, and traversing the Christmas markets against the backdrop of an Italian Royal Palace sounds like your kind of thing, then you will love  Turin  in the wintertime.

This beautiful city in Northern Italy is only an hour on the high-speed train from Milan, yet almost entirely free of English-speaking tourists. On a trip here, you can visit countless museums like the impressive Cinema Museum with a trip to the top of the Mole for a view over the whole city that takes in the Alps.

Or you could visit the Egyptian Museum which holds the largest collection of artifacts outside of Cairo.

There are also countless castles, palaces from the Savoy dynasty, market shopping (including the biggest open-air market in all of Europe at Porta Palazzo) and lots of good food and wine. It is the region of Barolo after all!

Wander down the oldest part of the city, the Quadrilatero, and make a beeline for Caffe Al Bicerin. Here you can enjoy the Torinese speciality drink of warm chocolate coffee topped with whipped cream.

The bar itself is beautiful, dating back to 1763, and if you’re very lucky, you might even get a dusting of beautiful snow outside as you relax in the warmth of the candlelight at Al Bicerin.

By Liv from Live Guine

The island of  Burano  resembles a box of Crayola crayons. Fishermen’s homes are painted yellow, green, rust, and blue. Some boast contrasting white windowsills and doorjambs. Behind the homes hang laundry. This Venetian island is the perfect winter city break.

Visit for a weekend getaway or simply for one day. It is a quick 40-minute trip from Venice via the vaporetti (water taxi). After disembarking, head straight to the town center and walk down the long street next to the canal.

Pose at the leaning bell tower next to the Chiesa di San Martino – Murano’s version of the Tower of Pisa. Next, stop at the lace shop to watch a lacemaking demonstration.

At the height of its fame, Burano ran a lacemaking school in the late 1800s. If there is room in your suitcase, you could buy a Murano lace item at one of the many shops.

In the afternoon, visit the Murano glass factory for a demonstration. I especially enjoyed watching the artisan create the island’s world-famous glass vases.

For lunch, book your reservation in advance at the Trattoria al Gatto Nero (Black Cat restaurant. Finally, I suggest you try to find the Mayor of Burano (a black cat). He might be hiding in an alley or under a bush. 

By Terri from Female Solo Trek

One of the cosiest spots to enjoy winter in Northern Italy is its fashion capital, Milan, known as ‘Milano’ in the local language.

Best visited during a long weekend to see all of the attractions on offer, Milan makes for the perfect city break and is especially worth visiting during the winter because there are fewer and smaller lines to see all of the city’s top attractions, monuments, and museums.

Some of the best things to do in Milan include: 

• enjoying Italy’s coffee scene in one of the city’s many cosy cafés
• going luxury shopping (or just window shopping) in the ornate covered shopping arcade of Shop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
• heading out of the city for a short excursion to go skiing in the nearby mountains!

Personally, one of my absolute favourite things to do when I visited Milan in late January was to head onto the Duomo di Milano rooftop terrace, which is easily one of the best-kept secrets of the city. Other  hidden gems of Milan  worth visiting include heading to the nearby charming medieval city of Bergamo and the trendy Navigli district.

Better-known places that are also well worth discovering include the interior of Milan’s cathedral and Bar Luce, designed by film director Wes Anderson.

By Sophie from Solo Sophie

Rome is a magical place to visit and you can skip the crowds if you plan your trip for winter. Go back in time and see some of the most famous Roman buildings, eat at some of the best restaurants in Italy, enjoy the comfortable temperatures and avoid having to wait in line for hours.

Located in the Southern part of Italy, Rome is extremely hot during summer. Just imagine strolling through the ancient ruins of the  Colosseum  or the Roman Forum without a trace of shade!

Visiting Rome during winter will offer you the chance to be more connected to the local life while saving on accommodation and other activities. Temperatures rarely drop below 5 degrees during winter, and snow is very rare.

Another great reason for planning your trip to Rome during winter are all the unique events you can be part of and try, such as:

• the Christmas Market and Rome decorated with bright lights
• seasonal concerts
• winter delicacies
• and much more!

By Ingrid   from Ingrid Zen Moments

Lake Como is often overlooked as an Italian winter destination, however, this magical lake is even more romantic during the colder months!

Being the 3rd largest lake in Italy, Lake Como never freezes, so even though you may not get to enjoy the balmy summer temperatures, you can still bask in the peaceful atmosphere of the low season. 

While winter probably isn’t the best time to visit Italy if you are hoping to spot celebrities like George Clooney , the backdrop of snow sprinkled mountains against colourful quaint towns make up for it!

One of the biggest advantages of visiting the incredible lake during the winter months is that the crowds have dispersed and the  top Lake Como hotels  often have significantly discounted rates. 

Being under an hour’s drive from Milan, Lake Como is the perfect city escape for those needing a breath of fresh air.

Don’t think that because it’s winter, the only thing to do is relax with a glass of wine; the mountains surrounding Lake Como offer visitors the chance to ski and snowboard in one of the most picturesque settings in the area!  

By Yulia from Miss Tourist

There are so many amazing places to enjoy in Italy in winter – whether you are after sun or snow, you’ll love a trip to this country in December, January or February!

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Italy in Winter: Everything You Need to Know for the Perfect Italy Winter Trip

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2024

Are you planning a winter trip to Italy, but aren’t sure what to expect? Then this is the guide for you! In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about visiting Italy in winter.

Being Italian, I have spent my fair amount of winters in Italy, and can confidently say it’s a great off-the-beaten track decision.

When visiting Italy in winter you won’t get the picture perfect idyllic Italian summer experience, but you can get something better!

While not exactly being a winter sun destination, Italy has a milder winter compared to many other European countries.

And from a tourist point of view, it also means less crowds. You can see all the main attractions in Italy, with less people around and for a cheaper price.

Piazza del Duomo in Milan at Christmas, with Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Milan Cathedral behind it

Italy also offers a huge variety of destinations, which can suit different type of winter trips. Some travellers might want to hit the slopes of the Italian Alps, whilst others might want to enjoy the winter sun in Sicily.

Regardless of how you picture your Italian winter trip, you’ll need the information listed in this guide to help you make the most of it! In this guide I have included all the most important information to visit Italy in winter.

Including what weather to expect in different parts of the country, what to pack for winter in Italy, the best destinations to visit in Italy in winter, what holidays to plan for and much more.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and plan the perfect Italy winter trip!

• 1.1 Weather in Italy in December 
• 1.2 January weather in Italy
• 1.3 Weather in Italy in February
• 2 Holidays to expect in italy in winter
• 3 What to pack for Italy in winter
• 4.1 Rome & Milano
• 4.2 Trentino & the Alps
• 4.4 Puglia, Amalfi Coast & Matera
• 4.5 Tuscany
• 4.6 Sicily 
• 5 Is winter a good time to visit italy?

The beautiful facade of the Trevi fountain in Rome

Weather in Italy in winter

First things first, what kind of weather can you expect to find in Italy in winter? Despite summer in Italy being known for its hot climate, Italy can get very chilly throughout winter.  

It might be easy to imagine this blissful Mediterranean peninsula and its islands being a land of perpetual sun and turquoise seas, but that’s not the case in winter. It also depends on where in Italy you plan on going.

When you visit the north of Italy in winter you can expect to find rain, wind, cold temperatures and sometimes even snow.

The south of the country is a bit more clement, but is still far from the European winter sun destinations you might hit for a tanning beach holiday.

Enjoying the views from Ghiacciaio Presena with my friends Laura and Ramis, on our first Italy ski trip together

Weather in Italy in December 

There’s a huge difference between the south and north, for example between  Rome and  Cinque Terre , but generally speaking December throughout Italy is usually cold.

Depending on where you are, you can expect snow, and there are often rainy days. There’s not much in the way of long, sunny days, so you’ll want to come prepared to wrap up warm against the elements.

December is a great time of year if you want to see what Italy looks like during the holiday season around Christmas.

The huge Christmas tree of Piazza del Duomo with Milan Cathedral behind it

January weather in Italy

On average, January is the coldest month of the year in Italy. That means you can expect low temperatures across the board, with many rainy days and – in some places – snow.

There won’t be many crowds, so if you’re not a fan of sharing sights with lots of tourists, it’s a good time of year to come. But it’s definitely not the nicest weather-wise!

Weather in Italy in February

Things start to warm up (a little bit) in February. It’s a changeable month, with sunnier, milder days towards the end of the month, but temperatures can still be very low throughout February.

And snow can still fall – especially in mountainous regions (it’s a popular time for skiing trips). In short, you’ll still need your winter clothes when visiting Italy in February.

Sunset over the perched colourful houses of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, Italy

Holidays to expect in italy in winter

Despite being a cold time of year, there are many festivals throughout the late autumn and winter periods that make Italy an interesting place to visit in this chillier time of year.  

In early November, for example, there’s Giorno dei Santi – otherwise known as All Saints Day. The day before, known as Dei Morti, falls on 31st October and basically matches up with Halloween celebrations abroad.

Don’t expect many full-on American-style Halloween festivities, but do expect plenty of seasonal food and other religious observances.

Next up is, obviously, Christmas. It’s a magical time of year anywhere in the world, and even more so if you’re heading to Italy for Christmas .

Wherever you are in Italy, you can expect to find Christmas trees, lights and decorations everywhere, but especially so in the big cities like Milan and Rome .

The Christmas tree and lights in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Milan

Christmas in Italy runs pretty much all the way to Epifania on 6th January (also a national holiday).

Epifania is a good witch that brings candy to good children and coal to bad children, and marks the end of the Christmas festive period in Italy.

Carnival is a big deal, too. This occurs usually at the end of February, maybe the beginning of March, depending on when Easter falls that year.

Expect great food and amazing costumes, especially if you plan to visit the Carnival of Venice . These are the holiday you’ll need to plan your trip around when visiting Italy in winter.

If you visit Italy on these holidays you’ll probably need to book accommodation in advance (some may be more expensive), and be aware that on public holidays some services and amenities may be closed.

Wandering along the canals of Navigli in Milano, Italy, by night

What to pack for Italy in winter

Packing is essential for making sure you have a good time in Italy in winter. Bringing along the wrong wardrobe will just not cut it! 

It’s a good idea to bring plenty of layers. That way you can stay warm when you’re outside, but strip off a layer or two when you head indoors where there’s heating.

And with rainy weather expected throughout the country, bringing along a raincoat and an umbrella is a good idea. 

A good pair of shoes , ideally with some level of waterproofing, will help for when you’re strolling around sightseeing or shopping. And even though it’s not summer, keeping hydrated is still important!

For that reason, bring along a refillable water bottle and refill at places like the nasoni (public drinking fountains) in Rome . Not only does this save money, but it saves on plastic too.

For more useful packing tips, make sure to check out my Italy packing list and my travel essentials !

Enjoying the view from the peak of Monte San Primo in Lake Como, Italy

Best places to visit in italy in winter

After having gone over some key information about visiting Italy in winter, it’s time to dive into what the best destinations to visit in Italy are, with some average temperatures you can expect to find in each place.

Rome & Milano

Average high: 13°C (55.4°F)

Average low: 3°C (37.4°F)

Rainy days average: 7

Italy’s two largest cities are great places to visit during the winter season.

The beautiful Trevi fountain in Rome

I always suggest visiting Rome and Milan in winter , since you can still do all the same activities you would in summer, but with less people around and for a cheaper price tag.

Rome is packed full with incredible museums and historic sights, and with fewer tourists this time of year, you’ll have the city to yourself to explore on cold winter days.

And if you come around the Christmas period, you’ll be treated to a great atmosphere. Plus, it’s less expensive than visiting Rome in summer or spring .

Especially if you want to stay in one of those cool hotels near the Colosseum or Pantheon , or those luxurious Rome AirBnbs , it will be much cheaper to do so! Rome by night tours will also be less busy.

READ MORE: DISCOVER HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY OR THREE DAYS IN ROME !

The Colosseum in Rome at sunset

Sunset over the rooftops of Rome

Average high: 7°C (44.6°F)

Average low: 2°C (35.6°F)

Rainy days average: 5

The same goes for Milan . Although not chock full of the same ancient sites as Rome , Milan still packs a punch and is an enchanting city in the winter months.

As well as chic shopping opportunities and stylish hotels , Milan oozes culture – attending the opera here, one of the oldest in the world, is an amazing wintry event.

There’s also ice skating and Christmas markets to enjoy in Milan , too.

From Milan you can also go on a day trip to Lake Como . This famous Italian lake is very popular in summer, but in winter you’ll be able to enjoy your Lake Como itinerary and boat tours without the crowds!

Piazza del Duomo in Milan, Italy

Sunset over Milan from the rooftop of the Duomo, Italy

Trentino & the Alps

Average high: 8°C (46.4°F)

Average low: 4°C (39.2°F)

Rainy days average: 2

For those who like winter sports and getting cosy at the apres-ski, then Trentino (or the Alps in general) is where you should be heading.

The city of Trento, capital of the region Trentino , is also packed full of history and culture, with art museums and plenty of restaurants to indulge in.

Hitting the slopes here means swinging by renowned ski resorts such as Madonna di Campiglio – and you don’t have to be an expert to make the most of the powder.

There will be plenty of chances for you to embark on a ski or snowboard lesson at many of the Italian Alps’ ski resorts .

This region is all about enjoying the mountain air, getting into the great outdoors, but also getting warm and snuggly over a long meal after you’ve been skiing – or heading to a spa to soak in a hot tub.

Skiing at the top of Ghiacciaio Presena close to Passo del Tonale

Skiing in Courmayer

Average low: 1°C (33.8°F)

Venice in winter may not be the place of sunny piazzas and glistening canals that you’d get in summer, but Venice in winter is a beautiful place to spend your time.

For one thing, during winter you won’t get the extreme summer heat, which is a big plus – and the crowds that go with it also won’t be there. Being less touristy really helps, as visiting major sights will mean almost no queues.

Our gondola ride took us close to Rialto Bridge

Sunset in Venice, Italy, a popular Mediterranean cruise destination

However if you are interested in visiting with the crowds, then you should plan your trip to Venice to coincide with Carnival. Here it’s all about elaborate masks, dressing up and hitting the streets to admire the spectacle.

Another spectacle is the acqua alta or high tide. This usually occurs in late November and sees Venice’s piazzas and streets flooded by seawater.

Though inconvenient, it does look cool. Places that do get flooded have raised pedestrian walkways so you can still access the city.  

Even if it is a bit chilly during winter in Venice, it’s nothing a few good warm layers of clothing won’t cure.

You’ll love walking around Piazza San Marco and other iconic sights – they look as breath-taking as ever bathed in crisp winter sun.

Exploring the side streets, canals and bridges of Venice, Italy

Puglia, Amalfi Coast & Matera

Rainy days average: 4

If you’re looking for winter sun, then any one of these coastal destinations will do the job for you. Puglia in winter is fairly mild, though it’s not exactly beach weather, and is great for a winter getaway.

The quaint streets in this region’s towns make for a great place to explore – particularly over Christmas, when they’re fabulously decked out with decorations; local markets and live music make Puglia even more special at this time of year, too.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 7 DAYS IN ITALY |

The famous trulli of Alberobello in Puglia – Photo by Holly Farrier on Scopio

Amalfi Coast

Average high: 14°C (57.2°F)

Average low: 9°C (48.2°F)

Rainy days average: 3

The Amalfi Coast may be better known for the sun-drenched days of summer that many tourists spend here, but this iconic destination is still a gem in winter.

One thing to note is that, because of rough seas, ferries don’t always run in the winter. It’s best to pick one Amalfi Coast town to stay in , and spend time relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

At Christmas, streets along this stretch of shoreline are decorated with lights. There are big celebrations for New Year as well. On the whole, days are still nice and sunny: perfect for exploring the practically deserted towns here.

While you might not be able to go on that idyllic Positano boat tour or boat trip to Capri , you’ll still be able to see the ruins of Pompeii , hike the Path of the Gods , explore Positano and beyond.

However bear in mind that because of the lack of tourists, many eateries and hotels catering for them are shut at this time of year.

Enjoying drives along the beautiful Amalfi Coast, with Positano behind me

Matera  

Average high: 11°C (51.8°F)

Average low: 7°C (44.6°F)

Rainy days average: 6

Elsewhere, Matera is cold, and sometimes sees snow, but it’s good for a bit of winter sun.

The major draw here are the cave dwellings in the Sassi area, which are usually crawling with tourists, but in winter you’ll basically have them to yourself.

Matera is lively during the winter, and hosts big celebrations in its piazzas.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 WEEKS IN ITALY |

The view over Matera from the viewpoint of the Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

The view over the Sassi of Matera from Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio

Average low: 5°C (41°F)

People might talk about the Tuscan sun (have you seen that awesome travel movie ?), but in the winter this region is no less special.

From its charming villages to its famous cities like Florence , there’s no end of sights and experiences that will make your trip amazing.  

Sunset over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo

View over the Tuscan countryside

Minus all the crowds of the high season (and there are a lot in Tuscany in summer), you can expect cheaper room rates and transportation costs, which means a much cheaper overall Italy trip cost !

Exploring Pisa , Florence and Siena without huge crowds is a breath of fresh air when compared to what it’s like in summer.  

Visiting these cities’ big sights and museums packed with culture is much more fun when there aren’t hundreds of people all trying to do the same thing!

You’ll get to see a more local slice of life in these iconic cities, whereas road tripping around the Tuscan countryside means sharing the road with locals rather than day-trippers and tourist traffic.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

Sicily  

Average high: 16°C (60.8°F)

Sicily is much warmer than the rest of Italy during winter. It’s a good time of year to come to soak up the island’s architecture, history and natural scenery minus tourist crowds.

But things still do get very lively, especially around the holidays. Christmas markets in its major towns, not least the principal city of Palermo, are a major attraction.

The Greek amphitheatre of Taormina at sunset

Ragusa Ibla seen from the neighbouring hill

Sicily has a lot of amazing food, which you can enjoy during the winter months, spending hours over a long lunch. The winter oranges in Sicily mean delicious freshly squeezed orange juice wherever you go.

There’s a lot of history on this island.

From ancient sites such as Motya, a Phonecian settlement founded in the 8th century BC, to ornate Norman palaces and imposing cathedrals, history buffs will have an awesome time lapping it all up during winter (no day-tripping crowds to share it with!).

Piazza del Duomo in Catania, Sicily

The main cathedral in Noto

Is winter a good time to visit italy?

Of course! Yes, it won’t be the stereotypical trip to Italy in summer, riding Vespas into the sunset and throwing coins into fountains, but it will be amazing.  

You can have an atmospheric, unforgettable time anywhere you go, whether you choose to spend your time making the most of the ski season in mountain areas, or if you prefer to see what Italy’s cities – Rome , Florence, Milan – look like without tourists.

And then there’s Christmas: Italians do it well, so it’s a great time of year to come and join in the fun.  

Last but not least, for those looking for winter sun, heading to the south of the country can yield some great results.

I wouldn’t recommend going to Sardinia , especially not if you plan on island hopping , or hiking in Cinque Terre , but other southern regions in Italy like Sicily can still offer a lot also in winter.

You won’t exactly be sitting on the beach, but you can still tick off some unique historical attractions from your Italy bucket list , and more than likely you’ll be experiencing something milder than your own country can offer in the depths of winter!

Watching the sunset over the Vatican and Ponte Sant’Angelo from Ponte Umberto in Rome

Final thoughts on visiting Italy in winter

There you have it, the ultimate winter in Italy guide! Have you been to Italy before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

In this article I tried to include everything you need to know about visiting Italy in winter, as well as highlighting where exactly in Italy you should be going in winter, to make the most of your trip.

Winter in Italy is great. Obviously the weather isn’t perfect, but it’s still better than many other European countries. Pair that with less tourist crowds and cheaper prices, and you have a winner!

Whether you choose to hit the slopes in the Alps, or wander around Italian cities, I hope you find this Italy winter guide useful in planning your own Italian winter vacation.

If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Before you go, make sure to check these 10 things Italians want you to know before travelling to Italy ! And these great quotes about Italy to inspire your Italy in winter trip even more!

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in winter in Italy? Pin it!

22 of the Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter

From big cities to small hidden towns to islands, the list of the best places to visit in Italy in winter is diverse and includes all types of destinations.

Whether you want to escape the crowds of the spring and summer months, get into the holiday spirit, or just see a different side of this incredible country, here’s a wanderlust-fueling Italy winter travel bucket list.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Weather in Italy in the Winter

It goes without saying that different regions offer different weather.

While the average highs in many northern Italian cities can be 0°C-8°C (32°F-50°F), temperatures in the southern part of the country can get to 15°C (59°F) by day.

Some days can be sunny and others rainy or snowy, so it’s best to check the forecast for a specific destination.

Is It Worth Visiting Italy in Winter?

Wait, should you even travel to Italy in winter? YES!

Let’s be honest, it’s always worth visiting Italy. Sure, spring and summer are the obvious choices for traveling through this stunning country, but winter has its advantages too.

Since the weather varies from north to south, you have an opportunity to plan different types of trips.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Italy in the winter, you can engage in winter sports, visit some Christmas markets, have a laid-back trip to winter sun destinations, unwind at some spa towns, and the list goes on.

Plus, cities that are normally crowded can be enjoyed without as many people, so visiting places like Rome or Venice in winter is a great idea.

Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter: Northern Italy

If you’re looking for cities that host Christmas markets, skiing areas, and other cold-weather destinations, northern Italy is a perfect choice.

By Catherine from  Nomadicated

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the dramatic mountain range of the Dolomites features 18 jagged peaks and picturesque valleys.

Now imagine a winter trip to the beautiful snowcapped landscape glistening against the hues of sunset.

South Tyrol and the Dolomites is one of the best Italian winter destinations for winter sports enthusiasts, foodies, and those looking to snuggle up after a spa day.

Considered one of the best ski resorts globally, the Dolomiti Superski network offers 1 ski pass to more than 1,200 kilometers of slopes across 12 ski resorts.

Before ending any ski day, indulge in the Italian tradition, stopping for an Aperitif at one of the huts.

If you’re not a skier or snowboarder, try any number of other winter sports, such as sledding, snowshoeing, or going for an enjoyable winter hike in the mountains.

A trip to the Dolomites wouldn’t be complete without going to an alpine lake. Lago di Braies is a forerunner for one of the best lakes to visit, even if frozen.

After soaking in all the beauty of South Tyrol and wearing yourself out with winter activities, enjoy the Alps’ unique culinary delights.

This area combines Italian and Germanic influence with traditional alpine dishes to form one of the most distinctive regional cuisines. Make sure to try specialties like cured meats, polenta, and apfelstrudel.

By Mary from Wanderu

One of the best times to visit Milan, the capital of the Lombardy region , is during the off-peak season, winter. Even if you stumble upon a rainy day in Milan , you’ll have plenty to do.

It’s much easier to see sights that usually have hours-long lines, like the Duomo and The Last Supper in Santa Maria Delle Grazie Church, as well as enjoy Milan’s hidden gems .

And without crowds at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, you can shop through this gorgeous Renaissance building and score deals on some of its high-end offerings.

In December, it hosts several Christmas markets and wears a festive look with decorated shops and streets. Don’t miss the markets near the Duomo and the Sforza Castle, which must be included in your Milan itinerary .

Consider planning your trip to coincide with the Carnevali Ambrosiani in February. Decorated masks, music, and parades characterize this lively event that takes place in front of the Duomo.

Milan is also the perfect home base for some truly incredible skiing in the Alps.

Within a few hours’ drive, you can reach world-famous winter sports destinations like Courmayeur on Mont Blanc, Cervinia near Zermatt, and Bormio, with some hot springs as a bonus!

And while you might need a rental car to go skiing, traveling to and from Milan is cheapest by bus.

If you’re combining a couple of destinations in one trip, you can reach  Florence from Milan by bus  for under $10, and many other cities throughout Italy are connected by trains, so you can take plenty of winter day trips from Milan .

By Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

Venice is one of the best places to visit in Italy during winter.

Not only is it the perfect time to avoid the crowds (especially at the  popular Instagram spots ), but prices can also be more affordable this time of year, making it ideal for budget travelers.

In winter, there’s so much to do in Venice. Be sure to visit Doge’s Palace, stand in awe of the beauty at St. Mark’s Square, and spend time getting lost and exploring some of the lesser-visited neighborhoods in the city. 

Should you be visiting in December, you may even be able to see the giant Christmas tree in St. Mark’s Square, which is miraculous.

If you’re feeling up to it, a gondola ride is also so much fun in Venice, but just know that it is a bit of a heftier cost than other activities in the city.

For food, be sure to get out of the touristy areas near St. Mark’s Square to find spots that the locals are more likely to visit. Not only will this allow you to get better prices, but you’ll also potentially meet some locals while dining.

Pro tip: Even in the winter, it’s best to wake up early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Most people don’t necessarily stay on one of the islands, so Venice tends to get a lot busier as the day goes on. It tends to be less crowded until around 10 a.m.!

By Lori from Travlinmad

One of the very best places to see in Italy in winter is the  Bolzano Christmas market , considered the largest and best Christmas market in Italy.

It’s a festive time of year in the Italian Alps and is guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit! The festivities start in late November and last for nearly a month.

Located in northern Italy’s South Tyrol or Trentino-Alto Adige region, just 160 km (100 miles) from the border with Austria, Bolzano is very easy to get to by train from major northern cities like Milan, Venice, Verona, Bologna, and Florence.

Held in the Piazza Walther, the market is warm and festive with brightly lit decorations and the aromas of pastries, cinnamon, and holiday sweets in the air.

You can enjoy South Tyrolean specialties like big soft pretzels with assorted toppings, an array of pastries, seasonal favorites, warm mulled wine, and crunchy flatbread called schüttelbrot.

You’ll also find all sorts of small traditional Christmas gifts to jump-start your holiday shopping. There are small carved wooden toys, knitted hats and gloves, candles, sweets, Magi scenes, and much more.

If you’re lucky, you just might experience it in the snow!

By Natalie from Voyage Scribe

Aosta is a small city in northwestern Italy that most people probably haven’t heard of, but it’s one of the best places to visit in the country during the winter and one of the best areas to stay in Aosta Valley .

That’s because it is located right in the middle of some of Italy’s best skiing areas. One of them, Pila, can even be accessed from the city center of Aosta.

You’ll find a cable car just a few minutes walk from the train station, making Aosta one of the  best places in all of Europe to go skiing without access to a car .

Pila is a mountain for intermediate skiers, but there are other ski area options in the Aosta Valley for all levels, like Courmayeur, for which Aosta makes a great base.

Beyond skiing, there is a lot to see in the city itself if you want a day off from the slopes. Aosta was an important city in the Roman Empire, so it has a long history with lots of fascinating ruins that you can still visit today.

These include the ruins of a Roman theater (currently closed until May 2025), ancient churches, and the forum, along with an archeological museum with other historical finds, all making Aosta worth visiting and a must-visit destination in Aosta Valley .

If you’ve yet to travel to Verona, known as the city of love or the city of Romeo and Juliet, consider visiting it on your next Italian winter break.

Apart from visiting famous landmarks like the Verona Arena, Juliet’s House, and Castelvecchio (“Old Castle”), you can enjoy the decorated streets, Christmas markets, and other seasonal events.

Absorb the Christmas spirit at the markets in Piazza dei Signori and the Courtyard of the Old Market (Cortile del Mercato Vecchio), check out the Star of Bethlehem   in Piazza Bra, and try a local Christmas cake called  Pandoro .

You can also take a short bus ride to marvel at the Flover Christmas Village in the town of Bussolengo or hire a car for a day to enjoy the Christmas markets and festivals taking place in some of Lake Garda’s towns, including Bardolino, Malcesine, and Arco.

Known as one of the best cities in Italy for foodies, Bologna is the intriguing capital of the Emilia-Romagna region.

During the winter, not only does it wear a festive look but also hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Italy, the Ancient Fair of Saint Lucia.

The fair takes place under the portico of the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi in Strada Maggiore, and its history traces back to the 16th century.

While you’re wandering through the stalls, you can buy ornaments and gifts or try some seasonal sweets like nougats and candied almonds.

If you’re looking to explore the city beyond the winter events, you can take a food tour, climb the Asinelli Tower, and admire the Basilica of San Petronio.

Be sure to also visit the 16th-century Archiginnasio building, explore the Museum of Modern Art of Bologna (MAMbo), grab a bite at the Mercato delle Erbe, and take one of these foodie tours in Bologna .

However you choose to spend your time here, it won’t take you long to understand why it’s one of the best cities to visit in Italy in winter.

The capital of the Piedmont region , Turin, is an underrated northern Italian destination that has so much to offer.

It is the birthplace of brands like Fiat and Lavazza, the Italian chocolate capital , and home to countless fascinating museums and UNESCO-listed royal palaces of the House of Savoy.

While the temperatures are very low in December, January, and February, there’s a good chance you’ll get to enjoy some sunny days alongside snowy ones.

If you’re visiting Turin in winter , check out the Christmas markets at Piazza Castello and Piazza Santa Rita, enjoy the Christmas edition of the vintage Bunker Big Market, and marvel at the decorations and twinkling lights adorning the historic center’s streets and shops.

Even if the weather gets too cold or rainy, you’ll have enough indoor things to do in Turin .

From sipping a cup of  Bicerin  (a local chocolate-coffee hot drink) at historic cafes to visiting the National Museum of Cinema to wandering through the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), you won’t get bored.

Need more info to plan your winter vacation in Italy’s 4th-largest city? Read:

• Where to stay in Turin
• Turin travel tips
• Hidden gems in Turin
• Long weekend in Turin
• Is Turin worth visiting?
• Milan or Turin

By Una from Wandernity

Winter is the perfect time to visit Lake Como, one of the most visited in the northern Italian lake district . The snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the crystal-clear waters, and the air is crisp and fresh.

The small towns that dot the shoreline are full of charm, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

There are many  things you can do in Lake Como  in winter without having to pay the higher accommodation costs of the summer season.

During the winter, there are fewer crowds in Lake Como, so you might enjoy a stroll through some of the more popular towns, such as Bellagio or Varenna, without hundreds of people around.

If you are feeling more active, the nearby mountains offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

And, of course, no visit to Lake Como would be complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine.

From hearty pasta to melt-in-your-mouth polenta, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget about the tasty Italian wine!

So if you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s both beautiful and delicious, look no further than Lake Como.

Best Winter Destinations in Italy: Central Italy

By Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

As the third most visited city in Europe, a trip to Rome usually comes with hordes of tourists. Being a popular destination for the summer months and shoulder seasons, the colder winter months tend to be significantly quieter.

Visiting Rome  in winter is, therefore, the best way to avoid the crowds. It offers a different and wonderfully refreshing perspective of the “Eternal City”. 

There is no better time of year to soak up the main tourist attractions than in winter.

Wander the Vatican City and visit the Sistine Chapel at a leisurely and peaceful pace. See landmarks like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain without rows of people obstructing your view.

It also means you don’t have to book tickets for every single attraction in advance. Be a little more spontaneous and soak up the dolce vita lifestyle.

The weather in winter is chilly and a little rainy at times. Although it’s cold, it’s not freezing – so just pack accordingly, and it won’t be a problem.

If you’re visiting around Christmas time, you can see the city lit up with Christmas sparkles and decorations for a truly magical atmosphere.

Plus, be sure to visit the Christmas markets in the piazzas throughout the city.

Check out this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary !

By Chris from Around The World With Me

Often overlooked for Florence to the north,  Siena  is a charming medieval city that will pleasantly surprise you. The entire wall-enclosed city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can easily be explored in one or two days. 

Winter can be an ideal time to visit this beautiful Tuscan city. While it won’t be as warm as south Italy, it hardly ever gets below freezing, and winter highs can be pleasant for a walk around town.

Exploring the sites of Siena on foot is the ideal way to spend your time in the city.

Siena is extremely hilly, and a visit during the colder months will make walking around the city more comfortable, while summers will leave you drenched in sweat and in dire need of water breaks. 

The downside of the weather in winter is that rain is more likely than in summer, and the days are far shorter. But this is worth it to avoid the crowds of tourists that visit in the warmer months.

Winter is also an ideal time to avoid the crowds in arguably the world’s most famous wine region of Chianti, just north of the city. So book a wine tour and enjoy that Chianti Classico! 

By Annabel Smudged Postcard

Gubbio is a delightful hillside town in northern  Umbria  in central Italy . 

With its wealth of history – dating back to Etruscan times, its truffle-infused cuisine, and its strong cultural traditions, Gubbio is a brilliant Italian town to visit at any time of year. However, wintertime is a particularly intriguing period to travel to Gubbio.

Each year, since 1981, a group of local volunteers construct a giant Christmas tree made from lights.

This structure – not a real tree – lies against the steep slopes of Mount Ingino, and by night it creates the illusion of a vast illuminated tree.

Visitors come to the town during Christmas time to see this unusual sight that entered the Guinness World Record books in 1991. The tree is 750 meters in height, and it lit on 7th December, remaining alight for around a month.

Gubbio is also an excellent base for exploring the wider region of Umbria – wintertime sees far fewer tourists at important destinations such as Assisi, Perugia, and Urbino.

By Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

Perugia is the capital of off-the-beaten-path Umbria and a quintessential medieval wonderland.

Think secret passageways, forts, and who knows, perhaps even a knight in shining armor, though he might be coveted away in one of the many museums the city holds.

Those visiting Perugia in the winter better bring some warm clothes, as with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (42.8°F), it tends to get cold, but with ample sunshine!

The best thing to do in Perugia is get lost in the Historical Center, find yourself a nice bar, and order an Aperol Spritz and pasta with truffle shavings. In fact, truffles grow in abundance in the Umbrian region and, as such, are very affordable.

Pop into the 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori, which holds the National Gallery of Umbria on the third floor and the impressive Cappella dei Priori. 

Next, head over to the impressive Piazza IV Novembre and dart into the 15th-century Perugia Cathedral, impressive even in its perpetual unfinished state.

If churches are your jam, the round Sant’Arcangelo Church should be your very next stop.

End the day in one of the many little restaurants located in the various tiny streets around Piazza IV Novembre. As the sun starts to set, you will experience the true charm of a medieval  Umbrian village .

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Winter is a wonderful time to visit Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance.

Not only will you encounter fewer crowds at popular spots, but you’ll find that accommodations are cheaper and that there are many events around the holidays.

Although it’s cold in Florence in the winter, bundle up, and you can enjoy a magical time in this beautiful Tuscan city.

One of the  best things to do in Florence  around Christmas is simply to wander around the historic center, which is dressed up with twinkling yellow lights and traditional red and green holiday decorations.

Stop to admire the nativity scenes you’ll find as you stroll, as well as the large Christmas trees decorated with ornaments and lights.

There are several Christmas markets in the city, but a convenient one you won’t want to miss is right in front of the Basilica di Santa Croce. Buy a souvenir or sample goodies on offer in the stalls.

Florence’s most famous sights are easier to access during the winter. Climb to the top of the Duomo for fantastic views over the city, admire Michelangelo’s  David  at the Accademia Gallery, or take in the many masterpieces at the Uffizi.

Whatever you choose to do, you will definitely find that Florence is one of the most beautiful places in Italy in winter!

By Lisa from Travel Connect Experience

Winter is the perfect season to enjoy long baths in the thermal pools that abound from north to south of the Italian peninsula.

One of the most popular spa destinations in Italy is Viterbo, where there are thermal baths to suit all tastes and budgets.

From the fancy spa Hotel Terme Salus, where daily admission costs €45, to the Terme dei Papi, which boasts a 2-km square pool and offers a daily admission of €18, to the more rustic “Bagnaccio” with 6 thermal pools (admission is €6).

The pools and spas are fed by the “Bullicame” spring, the most famous  hot spring near Rome , from which the sulfurous water rich in healing properties flows out at 58°C (136.4°F).

After spending hours in the thermal waters, the ideal continuation is to take a walk in the historic center of Viterbo, enclosed by intact medieval walls.

In the most picturesque neighborhood, San Pelligrino, there are many restaurants, such as “Il Gargolo”, that offer typical dishes of northern Lazio, but for an even more enjoyable dinner, let yourself be seduced by the excellent pizza of “Il Labirinto”.

The hospitality in Viterbo is excellent, and the prices are much more affordable than in other Italian cities that are more well-known and visited – one more reason to explore this city!

Best Places to Visit in Winter in Italy: Southern Italy and the Islands

If you’re looking for winter sun destinations, here are some must-visit places in southern Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia.

Baroque Towns of Val DI Noto, Sicily

By Soumya from Stories by Soumya

The Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto in southeastern Sicily are one of the best places for winter holidays in Italy. 

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, these 8 towns – Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, Noto, Palazzolo, Catania, Militello Val di Catania, and Caltagirone – are the finest example of Sicilian Baroque architecture.

They were all rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1693 and flaunt richly-sculpted Baroque facades, wrought iron balconies, grinning masks and cherubs, and exquisitely colored marble and mosaics. 

It is a good idea to begin your tour in Ragusa, a beautiful hilltop town that provides stunning views of the valley and the old town called Ragusa Ibla, filled with Baroque edifices. 

Head next to Modica for a taste of their dark chocolate, which has been produced for centuries using the same old traditional techniques. Visit the city of Catania, from where you can also book a day tour to the infamous Mount Etna.

Be sure to add Noto, the Capital of Baroque Art, to your  Sicily itinerary  because this small town has some of the most fascinating Baroque balconies in the world.

Winters are a great time to visit because the weather is relatively mild. Temperatures hover between 5°C-15°C (40°F-60°F).

Also, the absence of crowds and big tour groups gives you ample time to explore the architecture and wander the streets on your own.

By Agnes from  The Van Escape

Ostuni, la Città Bianca, is the white city of Puglia, rising majestically on a hill 218 meters above sea level.

The whitewashed city stands out clearly against the blue of the sea and the sky. It is located in southern Italy, between Bari and Brindisi.

Time flows differently here. It slows down. And you also slow down and absorb the charm of the city.

Winter is a good time to visit because the weather is still favorable for walking and sightseeing, and there are few tourists.

During the day, the temperature is around 14°C-15°C (57°C-59°C), and the days are sunny. At night, the temperature does not drop below 8°C (46.4°F).

The best way to enjoy Ostuni is to walk through the medieval old town, beautifully perched on a hill.

Get lost in the countless narrow cobbled streets, take in every corner, and admire the colorful doors and windows and the many arches that connect the buildings. You should also take a stroll along the city walls.

Be sure to visit Ostuni’s 15th-century Gothic cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. You’ll be impressed by the facade, an exciting mix of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Piazza Della Libertà is the largest square in the city, an ideal place for lunch or a drink. Here you will find the town hall, the church of San Francesco d’Assisi, and the column of Sant’Oronzo.

Only a few kilometers separate you from Ostuni to the beautiful Italian beaches. It is worth going for a winter walk, but remember to bring warmer clothes, as it can get windy at the seaside.

The most beautiful beaches in the area are Villanova, Lido Morelli, and Quatro di Mote.

By Laura from Travelers Universe

Matera, Italy’s cave city, is pretty no matter what time of the year you might visit. However, in winter, Matera can be blissfully quiet, and if you’re in luck, you might even see it covered in snow.

Being located in the south of Italy, in the region of Basilicata, temperatures tend to be quite mild even in the cold season, while sunny days are still the norm.

Up until not so long ago, the people of Matera were living under the poverty level.

But nowadays, this is changing rapidly, and the once humble cave dwellings are being converted into luxury boutique accommodations and fancy restaurants.

The old city of Matera was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Called the Sassi di Matera, it’s characterized by narrow labyrinthine streets dotted with rupestrian churches that you cannot miss.

However, one of the  best things to do in Matera  is to just get lost on purpose and let your feet take you places.

Most memorable corners are not in the guidebooks and don’t necessarily have a historical value, but they do speak volumes about the local way of life and the day-to-day struggles and joys of the locals.

Amalfi Coast

By Izzy from The Gap Decaders

The  Amalfi Coast  is a wonderful place in Italy to visit in winter.

Known for its famous stretch of road, which clings to the cliff face and twists from Sorrento to Salerno, this beautiful stretch of coastline has much to offer the winter visitor.

Positano, Italy , is a cascade of pastel-painted houses that step down from the road to the beaches below, lapped by turquoise waters in all seasons.

With a maze of charming cobbled streets connecting pretty Italian squares in the old town, Positano really is  la dolce vita .

Amalfi, the namesake of the coast, has some wonderful architecture and easily accessible beaches to enjoy.

Swimming won’t be possible in winter (unless you like cold water!), but boat trips to pretty Capri and the fascinating caves dotted along the coast will get you out on the water.

Ravello is considered the most romantic town in Italy and is located high in the hills above the coast, giving unsurpassed views of the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea.

It’s easy to see the whole coast in a day, but it’s best to spend longer here to really enjoy the laid-back vibe, get under the skin of each town and enjoy the mild winter weather.

By Richa from MyTicklefeet

If you are visiting either Naples or the Amalfi Coast, you must take a day trip to  Capri in the winter . You need to take a boat ride to get to Capri, and boats run from Naples, Sorrento, or Amalfi at regular intervals.

In winter, being a low tourist season, you may be sharing the boat ride with just a handful of people, so booking the tickets in advance may not be necessary.

The positive side of visiting Capri in winter is that you avoid the summer crowds and get this pretty island all to yourself.

The downside is that you won’t get to swim in the Mediterranean and most of the famous Capri shops are closed for the season.

A few must-do things here are visiting the Gardens of Augustus, from where you get gorgeous views of the Faraglioni rocks in the Mediterranean.

On the way, you will cross the famous Capri perfume shop, Carthusia. Even if you don’t buy anything, definitely stop by for window smelling.

You could also take the bus to visit the other side of the island and enjoy the views of Mt. Vesuvius from Villa San Michele.

Right behind this villa, you’ll find the chairlifts that will take you to the top of Mount Solaro, which also serves breathtaking views of the Italian coastline. 

By Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel

Naples is one of the best places to visit in winter if you want to experience authentic Italian culture without the crowds.

Firstly, Naples is extremely well-connected to the rest of the world with its major international airport. It is also quick and easy to get into the city center and is often used as a base to explore other parts of Italy.

Day trips to famous landmarks and historical sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, or Mount Vesuvius are easy to arrange and do not require hot summer weather to enjoy them.

Temperatures in winter will normally reach about 15°C (59°C), so the weather is still mild and comfortable, but there is an increased chance of rain.

That said, these activities are perfect for rainy days, and a simple train journey is all it takes. You can also book one of the many tours available.

There are many other  things to do in Naples, Italy , such as exploring the medieval Castel del’Ovo or several of the monuments and piazzas throughout the city.

The main square is Piazza Plebiscito, with several beautiful buildings and market stalls.

This square is THE place to be on New Year’s Eve, where you can enjoy spectacular fireworks displays.

If you’re traveling near Christmas, then be sure to check out the Christmas market in Via San Gregorio Armeno in the Spacca Napoli neighborhood.

Finally, don’t forget that Napoli is the home of famous Italian pizza! A visit wouldn’t be complete without a stroll down Pizza Alley, taking in the aromas and choosing which pizzeria to dine in for the evening.

You can even take it one step further and take a pizza-making class. Not only will you learn new culinary skills, but you can also enjoy your creations. Win-win, right? 

Cagliari, Sardinia

By Daniel from Urban Abroad

Cagliari is the capital city of the Sardinia region in Italy. It’s located on its southernmost side, facing the homonymous gulf.

Cagliari is a great destination to visit during the winter months because temperatures are warmer than in many other cities in the Italian boot. From November to February, the temperatures can range between 5/6 C° and 14/15 C°.

You’ll find there is a wide range of  things to do in Cagliari , and you can easily spend 3 or 4 days of your time exploring the inner city.

For example, in the historical center, start your itinerary from the Castello neighborhood.

From there you can find the Bastione Saint Remy and Torre dell’Elefante, plus don’t forget to make a stop at the most important cathedral of the city: Santa Maria Assunta and Santa Cecilia.

Get a glimpse of the local life by visiting the San Benedetto market and trying local foods such as  malloreddus ,  fregula , or  culingionis !

Between the neighborhoods of Castello and Stampace, you can also find a Roman amphitheater, representing the heart of social life back in the Roman era. 

If you love the ocean, why not go to the beach? Even during the winter months, they are pleasant, and you can visit some of Cagliari’s most popular beaches, including Poetto and Chia.

Other Italy Travel Guides

If you’re thinking of touring Italy in winter, you might also want to read:

• Best places to visit in October in northern Italy
• Best road trips in Italy
• Is Bari worth visiting
• Best things to do in Bari
• Where to stay in Bari
• Places to visit near Bari
• 5-day Puglia itinerary without a car
• Hidden gems in Puglia
• Visiting Puglia in March
• Hidden gems in southern Italy
• Road trips from Milan
• Things to do in Vicenza
• Gifts for Italy lovers
• Romantic novels set in Italy
• Books set in Tuscany
• Italy travel quotes
• Best winter city breaks in Europe
• Vienna in winter
• Best area to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “22 of the Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter”

We are Americans who will soon retire and want to spend Jan-March 2025 in Europe. We are with you on the addiction to coffee and pastries! And wine, too. I would appreciate your thoughts on where we might find a welcoming place to stay with milder temperatures, relatively easy travel access, and moderate rental prices. We speak only English and a little French. Our initial thoughts are maybe one place for a base or maybe one per month and go from there.

Hey Mike! Always a pleasure to meet a fellow lover of coffee, pastries, and wine! For milder temperatures in these months, look for places like southern Portugal, southern Spain, and southern Italy. You won’t be able to sunbathe, some businesses might be closed because it’s the off-season, and there are some rainy days, but these areas are still warmer than other parts of Europe. Southern Spain might be a great place to start because it’s also fairly easy to get around by public transport (the main cities in the region are well-connected).

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

Fearlessly Italy

Italy In Winter – Top Destinations to Visit + What to Expect

Are you planning to visit Italy in winter for a quiet vacation? You couldn’t pick a better time.

In winter in Italy, you can either opt for busy days like Christmas and Carnival or quieter periods when you will find fewer crowds.

Apart from the holidays, in Italy in winter you can enjoy cheaper prices, so if you are free and don’t mind cold weather, this is the right time to book your ticket.

This guide to Italy in winter is aimed at helping you plan a great trip and tell you what to expect.

Table of Contents

Weather in Italy in winter

Winter runs from December 21st to March 20th. Even though December for the first three weeks is officially fall, due to the festive spirit and the somehow cold weather, it feels like winter.

Moreover, it’s a pretty busy holiday season so I didn’t feel like skipping it all together.

Weather in Italy in December

If you are looking for anywhere warm in Italy in December , you will be disappointed. Even though some regions are warmer than others, winter in Italy is not a beach season.

December gives us cold temperatures overall, more so in the northern regions rather than in the south.

In general, from Rome southward, the weather is milder than in regions like Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Valle d’Aosta. In central Italy, it rains quite a bit in winter but there are also many sunny days. Heading north, the weather becomes colder, and in mountain areas definitely biting.

The temperatures can vary from near 0°C in northern cities to around 15°C in the south.

Weather in Italy in January

Across Italy, January is one of the coldest months . Temperatures go from below 0°C in some areas in northern Italy to 13°C the maximum of some cities in the southern regions.

Even though there will be a big difference between north and south, warm winter clothes will be needed everywhere in January.

Weather in Italy in February

Along with January, February is the coldest month of the year in Italy, and just like January, you will need a coat, a jacket, a scarf, and a hat to stay warm.

Temperatures in February in Italy range from around -2°C the minimum in the north to around 13°C the maximum in the south.

Weather in Italy in March

On March 21st, spring it officially starts, but for the first three weeks of the month, it’s still winter. March is quite rainy. in Italy, we call it a “crazy” month ( Marzo pazzo ) because it’s unstable and showers can start unexpectedly at any time.

Temperatures are still cold even though not as cold as January and February and sunny days start sneaking in more often.

Which part of Italy is warmest in winter?

If you are looking for the warmest areas of Italy in winter, head deep south. Think Sicily, Puglia, or even Sardinia , especially Cagliari or San Pietro and Sant’Antioco islands in the south.

Is it worth going to Italy in the winter? 5 reasons to plan your trip

• Fewer crowds. Apart from Christmas and the biggest Carnival parties, Italy in winter is pretty calm. While major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice will still have lines at the entrance of their landmarks, most towns and cities will have fewer crowds.
• Cheaper. Winter in Italy is somehow off-season so hotels and flights will have better rates, especially in the months of January and February (excluding New Year’s Eve and the days of Carnival).
• The weather. If you are anything like me, you will prefer walking in the cold with a coat rather than sweating under the scorching summer sun.
• Festive atmosphere. Between Christmas, New Year, and Carnival, winter in Italy is full of holidays and parties. On each occasion, there are different traditions and types of foods to try.
• Traditional foods. If you are in Italy in winter, don’t miss the delicacies made with pumpkin, mushrooms, and all types of cabbages, including cozy soups and comfort food. And obviously, tuck into the addictive Christmas cakes such as panettone, pandoro, and panpepato!

What to do in winter in Italy

Enjoy the christmas spirit.

Probably the reason number one for visiting Italy in winter, the Yule spirit is magic all across the country. From north to south, you will be surrounded by festive decorations, beautiful streetlights, and shimmering shop windows.

From the 8th of December, you will see decorated trees and nativity scenes around every corner, the most iconic images of Christmas in Italy . Whether you are religious or not, this is a magic time to visit Italy.

Skiing enthusiasts will love to discover the Italian mountains in winter. From the Alps of the Valle d’Aosta to the Dolomites of Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, you will be spoiled for choice.

If you planned your holiday in central Italy, don’t worry, the Apennine mountain range of the Lazio and Abruzzo regions offers great ski resorts and breathtaking snow-covered peak views.

Do some cultural sightseeing

I know that winter in Italy can give us some rain, but this shouldn’t stop you from sightseeing. Italy is packed with museums . From art galleries to archaeological museums to notable palaces, there’s plenty to see and do.

When it rains, ducking into a museum is the first thing to do, but since it doesn’t rain all the time, the cold weather makes it pleasant to walk around the cities without having to sweat like in summer.

Attend Italy’s Carnival

Apart from Christmas, another popular reason to travel to Italy in winter is to attend one of its Carnivals. From the colorful masks swanning about the canals and bridges of Venice to the ancient rituals of Sardinia, the Italian Carnival is always full of surprises.

If you are into wild parties, don’t miss the Battle of the Oranges of the Ivrea Carnival in Piedmont, while for huge satirical floats, the Carnival of Viareggio in Tuscany is one of the most famous. Even though less famous, Carnival in Rome is also very interesting and worth attending if you are around.

Go shopping

One of the most awaited times of the year for shopaholics, right after the Christmas holidays, usually starting on January 7th is one of the biggest sales events.

From clothes to shoes to accessories, you will find the big “Sconti” signs in every shop and store luring customers in with discounts starting from 30% off all goods.

Stores will be quite crowded but if you are looking for some trendy shopping at convenient prices, this is the perfect occasion.

Best places to visit in Italy in winter

Trentino-alto adige.

Winter is the peak of the season in Trentino-Alto Adige and there must be a reason for that. This beautiful northern Italian region is the perfect winter destination in Italy thanks to its snow-capped mountains, fantastic and well-equipped ski resorts, and obviously top-notch organization all around.

From the bigger cities like Trento , Bolzano , and Merano to smaller towns like the quaint Bressanone, Levico, and Rovereto, the Trentino-Alto Adige region offers a diverse range of experiences and activities.

Apart from skiing, in fact, you can visit its beautiful castles such as Castel Thun , the off-road sanctuaries like San Romedio , its wonderful parks like the Trauttmansdorff Gardens, and sample its heavily German-influenced cuisine.

There is hardly a bad time to visit Rome, but if you are in Italy in winter, the capital is a top destination to include in your itinerary. Like in many other cities, spending Christmas in Rome is magic. The city lights up with shimmering water reflections, Christmas trees in every piazza, and nativity scenes in every church.

Apart from Christmas, though, across the winter months, Rome is quite calm, making it a perfect time to visit otherwise crowded landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums.

If you are used to Sardinia as a beach destination , you will be quite surprised to visit during the cold season. If you are a party person, you are going to love the vibe during the Sardinian carnival, from the Sartiglia races of Oristano to the rhythmic dance of Mamoiada’s Mamuthones .

Apart from the carnival, however, Sardinia is a great place to include in your Italy itinerary in winter because it’s the perfect season to explore the inland. In summer, in fact, it’s way too hot to travel around the island and visitors mainly stick to the coastline. This is a pity because exploring Sardinia’s towns and villages is a fascinating way to get to know this offbeat Italian region .

The Carnival of Venice is the biggest reason to visit this Italian city in winter. Cold and misty, Venice is stunning any time of the year. Apart from the carnival days, during the cold season, there is the perk of seeing fewer crowds.

Rains can cause floods and Venice city center might get inundated. This, however, never stopped tourists from visiting and locals from enjoying their city. Actually, a flooded Piazza San Marco is incredibly photogenic.

Valle d’Aosta

Similar to Trentino-Alto Adige but smaller, the northern region of Valle d’Aosta on the border with France and Switzerland offers beautiful mountain views and well-equipped ski resorts.

Ski fans on a trip to Italy in winter will love the quaint and traditional vibe of this region.

L’Aquila and the Abruzzo region

If you are looking for mountains not far from Rome, the peaks of Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso are very popular among locals. From some offbeat traveling, you can stay one day in L’Aquila , the capital of the Abruzzo region, and from there reach Campo Imperatore, the closest ski resort where you can also enjoy scenic hikes.

L’Aquila is a nice city to visit and since it’s much less touristy than others, it offers less expensive holidays with cheaper accommodations and restaurants.

Those who want to enjoy a vacation in winter in Italy with mild weather should head to Sicily. The southernmost and largest Italian island boasts a long history and a rich culture, so wherever you go, you will enjoy a wide array of fascinating experiences.

From local festivals to delicious foods, from stunning cities to archaeological sites, Sicily is perfect to explore in winter. Don’t miss important hubs like Palermo, Catania, Taormina, Ragusa, and Agrigento’s Valle dei Templi that you will enjoy with fewer crowds than in spring and summer.

South from Rome and easy to reach with a one-hour train ride, you should spend at least two days in Naples to see at least the main attractions. Apart from exploring Naples’s city center and main landmarks, you can also organize a day trip to Pompeii and Ercolano.

Given the weather not so apt for beach holidays, the tourist organization of the Amalfi Coast will be mainly shut down, so this is not an ideal destination to visit in Italy in winter.

I won’t deny it here, the Emilia-Romagna region in winter is cold. Its capital, though, is always a charming city to explore.

Your Bologna itinerary should include its famous Quadrilatero, the main central streets, the famous Piazza Grande square, and famous churches such as San Petronio Basilica and the fascinating Santo Stefano Basilica also known as the “church of the 7 churches”.

While in Bologna, you can also plan some cool day trips such as the UNESCO-listed Ravenna, one day in Parma , the coastal towns of Rimini, and Modena.

What to pack for Italy in winter

• Travel documents. National ID or passport depending on your country of origin. If you are going for a sporty winter trip, you should also consider travel insurance.
• Hydrating face cream. Wind and cold are challenging for the skin, so a good moisturizer is a must.
• Sunscreen. In the mountains, sunscreen is needed in winter, too.
• Backpack. Perfect on many occasions, I would recommend carrying a backpack especially if you are spending your winter Italy trip in nature, hiking, skiing, or trekking.
• Reusable travel bottle. Whether you travel to Italy in winter or summer, a reusable bottle to fill up with tap water is essential to be more eco-friendly and to save plenty.
• Sling bag. Either a funny pack or a crossbody bag, they are safer and less bulky than backpacks. These are especially handy in the city. Check out this handy sling bag by Tortuga .
• Smartphone.
• Power bank. Essential to charge your phone on the way.
• Camera. Whether compact or DSLR, don’t forget your camera for postcard pictures.
• Tech organizer. Chances are that between phone and camera, you will be carrying plenty of tech stuff such as cables, chargers, flash drives, and SD cards. For this, I love Tortuga’s tech organizer , compact and tidy.

Traveling with your family? Check out this guide “ How old does a baby have to be to fly? ” to know the requirements of the most popular airlines.

What to wear in winter in Italy

• Jumpers and sweaters. Italy in winter requires warm clothes so jumpers and sweaters are recommended all across the country.
• Long-sleeve tops. Perfect for layering.
• Thermals. If you are going to the mountains or to cold northern cities like Venice, Milan, or even Florence, you might want to pack a pair or two of thermal leggings and underwear tops.
• Wool trousers. Loose and comfortable for the day out, tighter and fancy for the night out.
• Winter jacket. A sporty winter jacket is essential to go out in Italy in winter.
• Coat. A longer coat is more elegant so pack one if you are thinking you are going out on some fancy dinner.
• Walking shoes. A pair of warm and comfortable walking shoes is essential anywhere you are going in Italy in winter. If you are going to the mountains, you might consider also hiking and trekking shoes.
• Ankle boots. These are very handy because they can be comfortable enough to go sightseeing and also elegant to go out in the evening with a skirt.
• Hat, scarf, and gloves. I wear a scarf from November through March, on the coldest days, also a hat, and when it’s particularly rigid, also gloves. Even though in Rome, it’s not always necessary to wear gloves, in northern Italy you will find them handy.

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

17 Best Places To Visit in Italy in winter

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Are you thinking about visiting Italy in winter? Then, this article is for you!

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and it should be on everyone’s travel bucket list !

While most visitors chose to come to Italy in summer, the country has also a lot to offer during the winter months.

Italy is blessed with several climates which means that depending on where you chose, you can either get some snow or some winter sun .

⏱️ IN A RUSH? Here is what you need to know about Italy in Winter

🌡️ Average temperature : 13°C – 55°F

🌞❄️ Climate : Winter sun in the South – Snow in the North

TOP 3 Places to visit in Italy in winter:

🏛️ Rome 🌋 Catania ⛷️ Courmayeur

It’s also a much better time if you like to stay away from the crowds. Most tourists have left and you get to enjoy all the attractions without having to queue for hours.

In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know about the weather at this time of the year and the best places to visit in Italy in winter.

🔎 Table of Contents

Weather in Italy in winter

Italy is one of the best European countries to visit in winter.

The temperatures and weather vary a lot between the South and the North which means that you can get pretty much anything you want.

Northern Italy is known for its cold and snowy weather. That’s where you’ll find most of the ski resorts. 

For example, the average temperature in Turin and Milan is between 3°C and 8°C (37°F to 46°F).

In Southern Italy, you will get to enjoy some winter sun and mild temperatures (up to 16°C / 61°F).

This is an excellent place if you want to escape the cold of the winter.

No matter what, you should always plan to take a good coat and winter clothes.

Best places to visit in Italy in winter

Now that you know everything about the weather and temperatures, it’s time to discover where to go!

Visiting Italy during the winter is always an excellent idea.

It’s one of the most touristy countries in the world and it can get incredibly crowded in summer.

If you choose to visit in winter, you will get to discover some of the most famous spots without the crowds. This means no hassle and no waste of time!

Also, accommodation is usually much cheaper in winter (though this is not applicable for Christmas or in the ski resorts)

You can find below the best places to visit in Italy in winter.

The capital city, Rome , is one of the most famous cities in Italy (and in the world).

While most people choose to visit during spring or summer, winter is actually an excellent season to discover the Eternal City as well.

Most tourists have gone home which means you will get to spend more time with the locals and discover what the city is really like!

It will also be much easier to visit the famous landmarks and museums as it’s less crowded and the queues are much shorter.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Rome in winter:

• Christmas celebrations. As you can imagine, Christmas is a big deal in Rome. That’s where you can find the Vatican so it’s only normal that there is a lot going on in December and January. The Christmas masses in Rome are a beautiful thing to see. As there are hundreds of churches around the city, you’ll find plenty! There are also a lot of things happening on the 6th of January, for the Epiphany.
• Nativity scenes. Rome is the perfect place to find beautiful nativity scenes. The largest is located in St Peter’s Square and is well worth a visit.
• Christmas markets . You will find loads of small Christmas markets and lights all around the city. Piazza Navona is a particularly good spot for that.
• Ice skating. There are many ice skating rinks that pops up around the city centre of Rome. The most famous one is located by Sant’Angelo Castle.
• Visiting the Colosseum . This is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks so it won’t be surprising it made the list! In winter, the queues are much smaller so it makes it easier to visit. You should still book your ticket online to avoid wasting time.
• Vatican museums . This is the perfect winter activity in Rome. Firstly, it’s indoor which means that you will escape the cold. Secondly, it’s nowhere as crowded in winter as it is in the summer, which makes the experience more pleasant.

READ MORE: The Perfect Rome 3 day itinerary: exactly how to spend 3 days in Rome, Italy

Located in Northern Italy, Venice is known as the most romantic city in the world.

Entirely built on water, Venice is incredibly unique. There is nothing quite like it.

Unfortunately, it’s also known for being a place overrun by tourists. This is not the case during the winter months! 

While in spring and summer, it can get very crowded, Venice in winter is very pleasant.

It will be a bit cold so you need to make sure to pack a good coat and hat but you will get to enjoy the place (almost) to yourself.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Venice in winter:

• Visiting the Doge’s Palace . This is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. Located by St Marks Square, the Doge’s Palace is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Venice and its previous rules. It’s also a great place to escape the cold as you will be mainly inside. To do that, make sure to book your ticket in advance . You can also opt for a guided tour.
• Visiting La Fenice Opera House . This is another indoor activity that is perfect for a winter visit. It’s one of the most beautiful opera houses in Italy. Make sure to book your ticket online.
• Walking tour . The best way to explore a city is to start with a walking tour. This is the case while visiting Venice in winter as well. The local guide will tell you everything you need to know about the history of Venice and the famous landmarks. He will also give you some insider tips to enjoy your visit. 
• Day trip to Murano and Burano . These colourful islands near Venice are popular day trips. You can easily get there by taking one of the local vaporettis. Once on the islands, have a stroll around to discover the beautiful houses and go see some artisanal glassblowing. You can also book a day tour from Venice for this.

3. Florence

Last but not least: Florence.

Located in Tuscany, this sumptuous city is known for being the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

If you love art and culture, Florence will be your paradise!

It’s a great place to visit in Italy during the winter because most tourists have left. This means you get to discover what the Tuscan capital is really like! Fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation… winter is the perfect time!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Florence in winter:

• Discovering the Christmas decorations. Florence is very well decorated in December and you will enjoy discovering all the lights. If you head to the Duomo, you’ll also find beautiful Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
• Christmas markets. Italy is also home to some wonderful Christmas markets. If you’d like to get some festive food and mulled wine, head to Weihnachtsmarkt in Santa Croce Square.
• Visit the Duomo of Florence . The cathedral is the most famous landmark in Florence and no matter what, you have to visit it. To do so, make sure to book your ticket in advance.
• Visiting the Uffizi Gallery . This is one of the most famous museums in the world and a must-do while in Florence. It’s a particularly good activity in winter as it’s indoor (you’ll escape the cold) and it’s not as busy as during the summer months. You will find incredibly famous paintings such as The Birth of Venus (Botticelli). Make sure to book your ticket in advance here.
• Going to see Michelangelo’s David . David is the most famous sculpture realised by Michelangelo and you’ll get to discover it in Florence. It’s located in the Accademia Gallery. You have to book your ticket in advance to be sure to get to see it.

Looking for a place to visit in Southern Italy in winter? Naples will be the perfect destination.

Known for its culinary culture (it’s the birthplace of the pizza after all!) and its friendly inhabitants, Naples is perfect for people who want to enjoy some winter sun and have an interest in history.

Naples was founded by the Greeks and later on became a very important Roman city. It also played an important role during the unification of Italy, the enlightenment and WWII.

Its historic centre has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Naples in winter:

• Walking tour of the historic centre . With all the civilisations that built Naples, the city is an absolute paradise for history buffs. There is so much to discover! The local culture is also particularly interesting. If you want to discover more about this, make sure to join the local guided tour of the historic centre.
• Discover the food . Neapolitan food is known as the best food in Italy. That says a lot about how good it is! The best way to experience the local delicacies here is to eat street food. Not only is it cheap but it’s also delicious. Make sure to get a pizza fritta for lunch and a Sfogliatelle for breakfast or afternoon snack. The Neapolitan Baba is also a must-try!
• Day trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum . It would be impossible to visit Naples without going to Pompeii. Located only 1 hour away from Naples, Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. It’s literally an open-air museum. A must see!
• Day trip to the Amalfi Coast. This popular summer destination is also a great place to visit during the winter. Of course, it’s unlikely you’ll go swimming at this time of the year but you can still discover the beautiful landscapes and colourful villages without the crowds.
• Naples Underground. Located in the heart of the historic centre, Naples Underground is the perfect place to visit if you like unusual sights. It has played a very important role as an air raid shelter during WWII. You will also get to discover a Greek-Roman aqueduct that was found in one of the flats nearby.

READ MORE:  Day trip from Naples to Pompeii

5. Courmayeur

Italy is widely known for its endless amount of skiing during the wintertime and that’s exactly what you will get in Courmayeur.

This small alpine resort is located in the Aosta Valley, at the foot of the famous Mont Blanc.

While it is the best place to go for snow skiing, Courmayeur offers more than a winter ski experience. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Courmayeur in winter:

• Skyway Experience . The most famous attraction in Courmayeur is the Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco in Italian). No matter what, you cannot leave this town without taking a trip there. It’s the highest mountain in Western Europe! You can take the cable car to Punta Helbronner station and enjoy the stunning views! Click here to see the latest prices.
• Skiing and Snowboarding. Courmayeur is home to one of the best ski resorts in Italy. You can get a ski pass and hit the slopes!
• Warm-up in a cute café. Courmayeur has adorable cafes located throughout with fresh coffee and pastries. Experience a true Italian cafe breakfast that will leave your taste buds watering!
• Enjoy the local cuisine . The dining choices are endless and if you are a foodie, you’ll want to plan ahead. If you don’t you’ll find yourself mindlessly scrolling through endless delicious options. If you are planning to go to a high rating restaurant you can always call to plan out when the best time would come to get in. 
• Shop on Via Roma , a vintage-style street full of name brand shops and items. It is located in the historic centre and has some great merchandise, food and drinks to purchase. 

Located on the Eastern coast of Sicily, Catania is the perfect destination if you are looking for some winter sun!

It’s the second-largest city on the island and there are so many things you can do here!

Catania is mainly known for its location, at the foot of Mount Etna.

It’s a great destination for people who want to go on a city trip while still getting the opportunity to take some more nature day trips.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Catania in winter:

• Walking tour of the city centre . There are many things to discover in the city centre of Catania including the beautiful cathedral of Sant’Agata, the Piazza del Duomo and the Castello Ursino. Joining a walking tour is a great way to discover all these sites as well as interesting facts about Catania.

Did you know? Part of the city was covered by the lava from Mount Etna in 1669. The new city was rebuilt on top of the old one. Unfortunately, Catania underground cannot be visited anymore but you can see parts of it around the city.

• Street food tour . The local food in Catania is absolutely delicious. There are so many things you should try. Arancini, granita… Catania truly is a paradise for all foodies out there! If you want to make sure to get the best dishes and bites, join this food tour.
• Day trip to Mount Etna and Taormina . These are two of the most beautiful places to visit in Sicily and you can easily get there on a day trip.

READ MORE: Catania Food Guide: what to eat in Catania and authentic culinary experiences

7. Cagliari

Located in the southern part of Sardinia , Cagliari is a beautiful spot that many tourists haven’t discovered yet. 

When you go, you’ll find fewer crowds of people, and this isn’t from the lack of things to do here. 

This city is rich in culture and architecture. 

It has a historical beauty to it that you can view yourself with minimal distractions. 

Cagliari is also a main port for cruises in the Mediterranean, in fact, it’s one of the best!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cagliari in winter:

• Walking tour of the Old City . This is an excellent way to discover more about the city and its history. The local guides are very friendly and will give you loads of tips to enjoy this little city on foot. There are Four City Districts for you to explore in Cagliari. Each has its own unique architecture, dining, shops, and outdoor activities.
• Bike tour of Cagliari . If you don’t fancy walking, you can opt for a bike tour. It’s good fun!
• Underground City . Many Italian cities have underground cities (Naples, Catania and more…), Cagliari is no exception and the great thing here is that the Underground can actually be visited.
• Discover the local cuisine. As Cagliari City centre is quite small, shops and restaurants are all within a short walking distance. There are many restaurants where you can get traditional Sardinian food.
• Pasta cooking class. If you’d love to be able to make delicious pasta back home, you can book a cooking class with a local. You’ll learn plenty, have fun and of course, get to eat pasta!
• Wine tour of Sardinia . There are a lot of wineries in Sardinia and if you are foodie, you can join this cool day tour.
• Check out the nightlife! If you aren’t exhausted from a full day of exploring the city, check out the great nightclubs and bars open throughout the evening. It is full of life, fun, and music. 

8. Alberobello

Located near Bari, in the Puglia region, Alberobello is one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy . 

Mostly known for their little white huts, named Trulli, Alberobello makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie scene. 

The houses are uniquely designed with whitewashed colours. In the wintertime, it is even more magical. 

With snow filling the ground, and the rooftops, it is a winter wonderland.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Alberobello in winter:

• Just explore! This is a city to walk around and look at the buildings throughout. It is the perfect place to grab some incredible photos and see historical landmarks. If you are interested in learning more about the Trulli and the history of Alberobello, you can join a walking tour . It’s well worth it!
• Discovering the beaches. The city is located in Puglia, which is one where you can find a beach with crystal blue water ( I mean it is picture-worthy). 
• Food tour of Alberobello . Puglia is known as one of the best places in Italy in terms of food so if you want to discover all the local delicacies and listen to some folklore stories, joining a food tour will be the perfect thing to do.
• Visit the Gargano National Park while you are here. You will find white rocks all around and a large white rock castle. Once you’re done exploring the National Park you can lay out of the white sandy beach until the sun goes down. 
• Cooking class. If you love local activities, join this cooking class in a local farmhouse. You’ll learn how to make a 4-course meal and of course, will eat plenty!

Lecce is also another town in Puglia that is known as one of the “ Most Beautiful Cities ”. 

Lecce is located in the southern part of Italy and it’s a great place to enjoy some winter sun! 

There are historical museums and landmarks throughout but the majority of this town will be soaking in the beauty and history. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Lecce in winter:

• Lecce Cathedral. If there is one landmark to visit here it is the Lecce Cathedral. This magnificent church dates back to the 1100s and the 17th century. The detail and history have been kept up for years to keep the beauty of this Cathedral going. 
• Roaming around town. The piazzas are a must here in Lecce. Those picture-perfect European alleyways you see on social media and wonder to yourself “where is that?”, this is where you will find them. Not only will you grab some great pictures but you’ll also find some great coffee and food here.
• Walking tour. If you want to learn more about the history of Lecce, join the local walking tour. It’s super interesting! You can also opt for a food tour during which you will try some of the best local specialities and learn about the city too!
• The Roman Theatre is another historical landmark not to miss here. It dates back to the 2nd century, with an indoor and outdoor area to explore. Inside you will find a museum-going over the history of the theatre.
• Take day trips. There are a lot of cute towns and beautiful beaches near Lecce and winter is a great time to explore them. The crowds have left and you can fully enjoy the places. You can for example opt for this day tour that includes Alberobello, Polignano and Ostuni.

10. Madonna di Campiglio

This is another very large ski resort in Italy, that is highly popular with locals and tourists for high-end snow skiing. 

It is located in the valley of Brenta Dolomites Mountain. 

You can choose from miles and miles of different slope trails in this ski resort. 

The trails mostly range from intermediate skill to expert skill level. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Madonna di Campiglio in winter:

• Skiing and snowboarding. This goes without saying but obviously the very best thing to do in Madonna di Campiglio in winter is hitting the slopes! You’ll find over 150km of slopes, mainly red but also loads of blue and black ones.
• Go out in town and try out the restaurants and bars in Madonna di Campiglio. This town is accessible by walking, gondola or bikes. It is car-free, so enjoy the outdoor area, scenic views, and people around you. 
• Guided tour. Find a guide to take you through the best trails and around the mountain ski resort. You can always choose to ski without a guide but guides will know the ins and outs of the trails, shortcuts, and even tell you a bit of history during your tour. 
• Paragliding. If you aren’t afraid of heights, paragliding is a must-do in Madonna di Campiglio. Soar across the tops of the mountain and terrain below. You’ll get to see Italy from a whole new angle from above!

11. Val di Funes

Val di Funes is a beautiful town in Italy known for its rolling hills. 

Those beautiful green hills you see in the Sound of Music, well they aren’t these exact ones but the landscaping is almost identical. 

It is a quiet valley full of churches all around. 

Many walk from the villages into the valley where the churches are located throughout. 

Some steeples are so high that they can be seen over the rolling hills.

This town turns into a small snowy escape during the wintertime, enough to enjoy the outdoors and walk through the snow. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Val di Funes in winter:

• Snowshoeing in the Dolomites . There are 9 different trails and hikes to choose from all ranging in difficulty and length. If you are an outdoor lover or love a good scenic hike, these trails will surely not disappoint. You can rent your snowshoes from a local shop or opt for a guided tour (this is recommended)
• Skiing. Downhill skiing is not the main activity here as there is only 1km of slopes however it is an option. If you’d like to ski though, backcountry skiing will be a much better option. There are loads of trails that you can take and it’s a great way to discover the stunning views of Sud Tyrol.
• Tiso Mineral Museum. There is a great Museum in Val di Funes highlighting the history of the alpine minerals. It is open to the public daily and is a great little taste of Italian history. 
• Enjoy a picnic on the hill. The landscape of this valley is the perfect area to grab some picnic items and take them up to a spot of your liking. Of course in winter, there is snow everywhere so you need to be dressed according but if you have ski clothing, you’ll enjoy it! Relax on the hilltop, soak in the views, snap a few pictures and notice the relaxing calm this valley has. 

12. Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and has some of the oldest tombs located in its cathedrals. 

It is a beautiful city filled with history and unique architecture. 

Locals in Sicily are known as being very friendly and welcoming to others, including tourists. 

It is the largest luxury city in the world with elegant landscaping, large mansions, and palaces throughout. 

The weather during the wintertime stays pretty mild. It rarely gets cold enough here to snow. There are a lot of sunny days and opportunities to be outside and enjoy the city. 

It’s also a much quieter time to visit. Most tourists have gone and you really get to discover what the local life is like. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Palermo in winter:

• Street Food tour. Street Food is huge in Sicily and it’s definitely something you need to experience. Arancini, granite… there are so many delicious things to try! If you are a foodie and want to discover the best local street food, you should consider joining a local food tour. The local guide will make you try some delicious sicilian foods and tell you story about the city.
• Old Town Bike Tour . If you are a bit of a history buffs who loves to have fun then opt for a bike tour around the Old Town. It’s such a fun way to discover the city while learning plenty!
• Walk around in the Botanical Gardens of Palermo. This is a semi-large space in Palmero shaped in a square and designed for walking paths in all different directions. 
• Capo Street Markets. Palermo is known for its amazing markets. Here you’ll find delicious fresh products and local products. No matter what, make sure to visit at least one of them. The markets on Capo Street are particularly well known. If you want to learn more about the markets, you can also choose to join a market tour of Palermo.
• The Palermo Cathedral is an obvious must-see. With intricate detail, rich history, and artifacts this building is captivating. 
• Archaeological Museum . Many people go to Italy to experience the rich history, beautiful cathedrals, old palaces, and large mansions. Italy is truly a place for history nuts. When visiting Palermo, you need to check out the Archaeological Museum. This museum holds artifacts from decades before and ancient Greek Art. 
• Day trip to Agrigento . Palermo is located a couple of hours from Agrigento and the Valley of Temples. This is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Europe and is a must-see in Sicily. If you have a spare day, make sure to go on a day trip to Agrigento.

13. Amalfi Coast

Located near the beautiful city of Naples, the Amalfi Coast is a hot tourist area year-round in Italy but winter is definitely the best time to visit if you want to stay away from the crowds.

Most tourists come here in summer, spring or even autumn but in the wintertime, you get to enjoy a bit more of an authentic experience. 

The Amalfi Coast is a coast surrounded by large mountainous terrain. Along the coast are some small towns and beaches to explore with great restaurants, bars, and shops. 

There is no limit to luxury or high-quality items along Amalfi Coast. You can find high-quality hotels, restaurants, and shopping. 

Here are some ideas of things to do on the Amalfi Coast in winter:

• Visit the town of Positano and look at the picture-worthy homes on the mountainside. You can capture the draw-dropping view of the pastel homes staggered alongside the mountainside. It is the picture-perfect moment you only see in photos. 
• The town of Amalfi is another town along the coast to explore. It is larger than the other towns along the coast, with the only town to have its own Cathedral. Find dining options here to enjoy the views and the fresh Italian food. 
• Tour the Emerald Cave ( Grotta dello Smeraldo) located just outside of Amalfi. The guide takes you around the cave in a boat pointing out historical and geographical landmarks. The cave is lit up by natural emerald light which is beautiful in and of itself. 
• Sorrento. Sorrento is the main town on the Amalfi Coast and a great place to visit if you like to roam around cute towns. You can easily get there from Naples with the circumvesuviana train.
• Day trip to Capri. Capri is one of the most famous islands in Italy and you can easily get there from the Amalfi Coast. You can book a boat tour here.

Turin is the capital of Piedmont Italy but used to be the capital of Italy itself. 

This city has a large military history dating back to the Romans. 

It is known for its delightful cuisine and world-class dining areas. The Swiss Alps are located off in the distance towards the Northside of the city. 

It is a remarkable sight to see when the sun starts to set.

It gets quite cold in Turin in winter. After all, it has hosted the Winter Olympics before so it is definitely a snowy place but it’s still a great destination for people looking for a winter city break.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Turin in winter:

• The Turin Egyptian Museum is a fun way to learn the historical and educational background of the Egyptians. It has display cases of artefacts and collections from hundreds of years. It’s the most famous museum in the city and well worth a visit if you are interested in Ancient Egypt. Make sure to book your ticket in advance.
• Royal Palace . As previously mentioned, Turin used to be the capital city so it’s only normal you’d find a royal palace here. It’s absolutely stunning and a great place to discover beautiful examples of Italian art.
• Walking tour of the city. Turin was a very important city in Italy and there are so many things to know about it. The best way to discover more about Turin and its role is to join a walking tour. The local guide will also give you many tips to enjoy the rest of your stay. Make sure to wear a hat and a good coat though as you’ll be outside and it can be a bit cold.
• The National Cinema Museum is located in the Mole Antonelliana tower. This museum houses large collections of movie reels, props, books, and other miscellaneous objects. This museum is five stories high with a different theme on each level. 
• Palace of Venaria . This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most famous landmarks in Turin. It is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a must-see!
• Food tour . If you love Italian food and want to try the very best dishes, you could choose to join a food tour , patisserie tour or even take a cooking class !
• Discover the wine bars in town. The delicious wine tastings are a must-do in Italy. Turin has great choices of wine cellars and tastings to choose from. The wine is made fresh every day from the grapes of Italy. 

15. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is located in the Dolomites and is a large ski resort for locals and tourists to visit. 

It is known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites” due to the beauty of this area and where it is located in the Dolomites Heritage Center. 

This destination offers sporting activities, skiing, and history. The snow is abundant during the wintertime, which is why this is the perfect destination to ski.

It will also host the 2026 Winter Olympics so that gives you an idea of how great this place is if you are looking for a skiing holiday in Italy.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo in winter:

• Winter sport. Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the best ski resorts in Italy so winter sports are the main activities here. You’ll find hundreds of kilometres of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. If you’d rather explore at a slower pace, you can also opt for cross-country skiing.
• Take a guided tour through the Dolomites . Snowshoeing in the Dolomite Mountain with a guide is an amazing way to discover the area. They will take you through the valleys and the peaks, all while soaking in the living nature surrounding you. 
• Shop around in the Cooperativa di Cortina. You can find everything from fancy wines to winter gloves here. This shopping area has been open for over 100 years giving shoppers a high-quality experience every time. 
• Take a bus tour along the Dolomites and sightsee on your way up the mountainside. This is a fun ride to take up the mountain with gorgeous views and a bit of a drop-off on one side. Don’t be scared, these are professional tours and enjoyed by many.
• Discovering stunning views. The best viewpoints in the area are Lagazuoi, Monte Cristallo and Tofana di Rozes. They boast breath-taking views of the Dolomites.

16. Livigno

Livigno sits right on the border of Italy and Switzerland. 

The snow is endless here during the wintertime, the beautiful ski town is one to enjoy year-round with family or friends, but in the wintertime, the abundance of white snow fills the ground. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Livigno in winter:

• The Mottolino Gondola takes you up the mountain to the top of the ski slopes. If you haven’t ridden a Gondola, I encourage you to take this fun trip up the mountain for fun or to ski. 
• Take a ski tour through the mountains with a professional guide to show you the Livigno experience.  
• Chiesa di San Rocco is a religious and historical part of Livigno. It is a small church with a lot of rich history to experience. 

Located in Northern Italy, Milan is one of the best cities to visit if you love fashion or are looking for a girls trip in Europe!

Milan is home to two airports and there are a lot of low-cost flights that go there. For this reason , it’s an excellent destination if you are on a budget and looking for a cool winter city break in Italy.

Unlike other destinations mentioned here, Milan is quite a cold place in winter. It’s very close to the Alps (which is why you can also visit it on your way to a ski resort) so temperatures tend to be under 10C.

That having been said, there are loads of indoor activities you can do and it’s nothing a good coat and hat can’t fix.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Milan in winter:

• Visiting the Duomo of Milan . Located in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Milan is the most iconic landmark in the city. As you stand in front of it, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of this unique white gothic building. To visit it, you’ll need to buy your ticket in advance . It also includes access to the rooftop terrace that boasts some of the best views of the city.
• Visiting La Scala Theatre. This is one of the most famous Opera houses in the world and no trip to Milan would be complete without visiting it. The interior is absolutely stunning!
• Discovering the Last Supper , one of Da Vinci’s most famous paintings. Yes, you’ve read that right! If you love art and are looking for the ultimate experience in Milan, then this should be on top of your bucket list. Make sure to book your ticket in advance though. It doesn’t get too crowded in winter but better to be on the safe side.

You may also be interested in:

• 15 Best Books about Italy
• What is Italy famous for? 19 Extraordinary Things Italy is known for
• 19 Best Places to Visit in Spain in Winter
• 18 Best Winter Vacations in the USA (including both snowy and warm US destinations)
• 20 Best Places To Visit in December In The World (including Winter Wonderlands & Warm destinations)

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

Traveling to Italy in Winter: What You Need to Know

Winter fog in Venice || creative commons photo by Andrea Castelli

Unless you’re an avid skiier or snowboarder, it’s unlikely that your first inclination is to plan a winter trip to Italy. I would argue, however, that winter can be a good time to visit Italy for a number of reasons – not least is the lower cost.

Here’s what you’ll need to know about going to Italy in the winter.

Winter Weather in Italy

I’m defining winter in Italy as the months of December, January, and February. These are Italy’s coldest months, no matter what region you’re talking about. Those of you who are eyeing the ski resorts will no doubt think that’s the best thing you’ve heard all day. Anyone who dreams of meandering strolls through cobblestone streets may find that reality a bit chilling.

The temperature will vary depending on where you are in the country – regional temperature averages can be found in the individual articles on each month, linked below – but plan for it to be almost universally cold and often damp. Some areas get snow in the cities, not just the mountains, while others get rain.

Winter Holidays in Italy

Some of the biggest holidays of the year are in the winter – Christmas and Carnevale among them – and even though they occur in what is otherwise a low season as far as tourism goes, both of those holidays draw enough visitors that there’s a spike in crowds and prices. New Year’s Eve can also be busy, although it’s less of a draw for international tourists than Christmas or Carnival.

While it’s not technically a holiday, the official winter sales in Italy begin in early January and last for about six weeks. There’s a similar sales period in the summer, but the crowds are thicker then.

Pros & Cons of a Winter Trip to Italy

The perks of winter travel can be pretty alluring – especially if you’re on a budget. The cost of things like airfare, accommodation, and even tour tickets can be reduced in the winter – often by a substantial margin. Crowds aren’t as thick, and lines aren’t as long. You may still want to book things like Uffizi or Vatican Museums tickets ahead of time, but if you’re making plans as you go you won’t usually need to wait in line long for those or other top museums in Italy if you’re there in the winter.

The obvious downside to winter travel in Italy is the weather, so if your ideal trip involves beaches, sun, hiking, and the like, look to another season. Other possible drawbacks include shorter open hours (some attractions have reduced open hours in the winter) and winter closures (some hotels and restaurants, particularly in places that are big summer destinations, close up shop for winter). It’s relatively easy to plan for this by looking at winter open hours on museum websites, and double-checking a few hotel websites where you’re planning to go to see if they list any seasonal closures. Even if you don’t want to book rooms in advance, you can get an idea of whether a certain town seems to shut down at all in the winter.

As mentioned before, it’s a very good idea to find out when Carnevale and other winter holidays and festivals are before you make your plans so you can avoid anything you want to.

Further reading on winter in Italy

• Traveling to Italy in December: What You Need to Know
• Traveling to Italy in January: What You Need to Know
• Traveling to Italy in February: What You Need to Know
• Italy Weather
• Italian Festivals
• What to Pack for Italy

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Italy in Winter: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

For people who don't mind cold weather, winter can be a great time to travel to Italy. Most of Italy has fewer tourists in winter, meaning less crowded museums and shorter or non-existent lines to get into major sights. During the winter, opera, symphony, and theater seasons are in full swing. For winter sports enthusiasts, Italy's mountains offer lots of opportunities.

There are several reasons it's worth making the trip to Italy in winter, during what is traditionally the off-season for tourism:

• It will be much less crowded at some of the popular and historic spots than it is during the summer months, particularly in major cities like Florence, Rome, and Milan.
• Other than the Christmas and New Year's holidays, you'll find bargain prices on airfares and hotels in most Italian destinations, apart from ski resorts.
• Italy has great places for  winter sports and skiing , including the Piedmont venues used in the 2006 Winter Olympics, the Alps and Dolomites, and Mt. Etna in Sicily. Note that these are locations where winter hotel bargains might be scarce, other than towards the beginning and end of the ski season.

Winter Weather

Winter weather in Italy ranges from relatively mild along the coasts of Sardinia, Sicily, and the southern mainland to very cold and snowy inland, especially in the northern mountains. Even popular tourist destinations like Venice, Florence, and the hill towns of Tuscany and Umbria can get a dusting of snow in winter.

For most of Italy, the highest rainfall occurs during November and December, so winter may not be as rainy as fall. Although you'll probably encounter some rain or snow, you may also be rewarded with crisp, clear days where the only outerwear you need is a light jacket and a pair of sunglasses.

What to Pack

If you decide to visit Italy during the winter months, definitely pack layers of clothing, so that you can add or remove sweaters and jackets as the weather changes. While snow is always a possibility in most parts of Italy in winter, you're more likely to find chilly-to-cold, rainy weather. Be sure to pack a medium-weight waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes (or boots) that can be worn in rain or snow, gloves, a scarf, a warm hat, and a good umbrella.

The highlights of winter in Italy are, of course, the Christmas season , New Years , and Carnevale season. Italian national holidays during winter include Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Epiphany on January 6 (when La Befana brings gifts to the kids). On these days, most shops, tourist sites, and services will be closed, as will many restaurants. If you want to dine out, be sure to confirm with your hotel which restaurants are open on these holidays. Carnevale , the Italian Mardi Gras, is celebrated throughout Italy (starting ten days to two weeks before the actual date, which is 40 days before Easter). The most popular Carnevale celebration is in Venice , while Viareggio in Tuscany is known for its elaborate and humorous Carnevale floats.

Many saints' days are celebrated during winter, and may result in some closings. Read about the top festivals that take place in Italy during  December ,  January ,  February , and  March .

Travel Tips

Early winter sunsets mean more time to enjoy cities after dark. Many cities light their historic monuments at night, so strolling through a city after dark can be beautiful and romantic. From late November until early January, most cities and towns are decorated with Christmas lights, which often lend a wonderland effect to already picturesque streets and piazzas. Winter is also a good time for cultural events and performances in Italy's elegant historic theaters.

• Rome and Naples have the mildest winter climates of Italy's major cities . Naples is one of the top cities for Christmas nativities and many people visit Rome for the popular midnight mass on Christmas Eve in Vatican City .
• While you'll find smaller crowds and lower hotel prices during most of the winter, Christmas and New Year's are considered the high season in many cities, so bargains will be few and hotels will book up well in advance.
• Carnevale in Venice is also a huge tourist draw, so book early if you plan to join in the festivities.
• ​Many museums and attractions have earlier closing times during winter, but since the crowds are less dense, this shouldn't affect your sightseeing. Outside the cities, museums and other sites are often only open on weekends or may be closed for part of the winter.
• Hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and some restaurants may close for all or part of winter in seaside resort towns and popular summer countryside destinations. But a lot of hotels that are open will offer winter discounts (again, except in ski resorts). 

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The Best Time to Visit Naples, Italy

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

Weather in Naples, Italy: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Most Romantic Places in Italy

Your Trip to Florence: The Complete Guide

November in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Italian Nativity Displays and Christmas Scenes

The Best Time to Visit Tuscany

Tips for Going to Carnevale in Venice

Autumn in Italy: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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Italy in winter: 10 reasons to visit + 11 best places to visit in Italy in December

Last Updated on October 25, 2023 by Ingrid & Alex

Are you considering visiting Italy in winter? If yes, you should read this article, because I will tell you everything you need to know: from useful tips and tricks, things worth knowing when you travel to Italy, to the reasons why you should visit Italy in December, and all the best places to visit in Italy in December. 

My first encounter with Italy was during winter, when, on a cold January day I moved to Trieste. Years later, I spent some winter months in Rome and visited Sicily during winter . 

While the weather differs a lot from the Northern part of Italy to the Southern part, both areas are worth visiting during the cold season, for different reasons. 

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it on our  disclosure page here .

Table of Contents

Important things to know & travel tips for when you visit Italy in winter

I will try to include some tools I always find useful when traveling to Italy, together with some information about the weather in Italy in December or any other month of winter. 

How is the weather in Italy in winter? How cold is it in Italy in the winter?

While temperatures start dropping in December, you must remember Italy is long and seasons differ from the North to the South. 

You can expect colder days in places like Venice , Milan, or Florence , with average temperatures of around 7-11 degrees Celcius in December. However, as you move to the South, and get to places like Rome, Naples, Sicily, or Sardinia , average temperatures will be anywhere between 14 and 17 degrees Celsius. 

How long does winter last in Italy?

Like in most European countries, winter officially debuted in December and lasts until the end of February. 

At least that’s the official calendar, but with the current climate changes you never really know what to expect. In the past years, December hasn’t been so cold and it is not that common to see snowfalls during this month, but if you are a snow lover you can head to the Italian Alps and Apennines. 

On the other hand, that means that winters are even milder in Sicily or Sardinia, where you can run for some winter sun. 

How to get around Italy in winter?

The best way to get around Italy is always the same, no matter the season.

Depending on your budget, the area you choose for your vacation, and how much time you prefer to spend on the road, you have a few options: 

• Traveling by train –   this is my favorite way of traveling in the Northern and Central parts of Italy. With great connections, fast trains, and cheaper options, it couldn’t be easier to move from one place to another. Just don’t forget to validate your ticket before you get on the train, and you will be ok. Bookaway   is your getaway from trains, buses, and flights . All in one place.  Calculate your train fare here!
• Renting a car – there are certain areas where I strongly suggest renting a car because it will make your life easier and you can focus on the itinerary, and not on the way to move around. You can definitely drive on the Amalfi Coast , get around in Puglia , wander around Tuscany , and see the best of Sicily . However, I wouldn’t suggest renting a car for Venice , or the Cinque Terre.

My go-to car rental company is always  Discover Cars.  It is a great aggregator that will help you find and book the best option for renting a car during your trip, helping you  save up to 70%  on your car rental. They have a pretty good  cancellation policy  that would give you options in case your flight or travel plans change.   Get your best offers here!

Other things worth knowing when you rent a car: 

• make sure you have a credit card
• the name on the credit card needs to match the person with the driver’s license
• opt for insurance, especially in Italy

Is it worth going to Italy in winter?

Italy in winter? Absolutely! The scenery transforms into a literal winter wonderland, particularly in the northern regions where the snow-covered Alps provide a breathtaking backdrop.

Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice become less crowded, allowing you to enjoy museums, historical sites, and local cuisines without the usual tourist hustle.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the world-class skiing resorts!

To top it all off, you’ll find some phenomenal deals on accommodations during this season.

What to pack for Italy in winter

Packing for an Italian winter requires careful consideration to ensure comfort while exploring these beautiful cities.

Start with a warm winter coat and a few layers underneath such as thermal tops and bottoms. Consider packing a few versatile items like sweaters or long-sleeve shirts that can be mixed and matched.

Jeans are a staple too, as they’re perfect for strolling around cities and blending in with the local fashion.

Don’t forget your accessories. A beanie or a hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential for those chillier days and nights.

Waterproof, comfortable walking shoes are a must for those cobblestone streets, and maybe an extra pair for evenings out.

Lastly, an umbrella or a raincoat is necessary for those unpredictable rains, especially in Venice. Remember, Italian winter is all about layering.

Other things worth knowing

Because the winter season is not so long in some areas in Italy, and because temperatures aren’t so low, it is worth knowing that houses might not have heating or such great insolation.

Older buildings have wooden windows, and even in Trieste where I used to live, during the strongest winds (also known as Bora), we could feel the wind blowing inside with the windows and the shutters closed. 

You will need heavy jackets only if you visit the mountains, or go skiing. 

Some important restaurants and hotels might not be open during the winter months in certain destinations such as Positano , or even the smaller towns of Puglia. On top of that, ferries might not function during this time, and the bus schedules might be stretched. 

Travel insurance  – Our go-to travel insurance is  E KTA  – they offer great deals for people who travel. Everyone between the ages of 3 and 85 can buy it online on their website and save lots of time (and money). Your policy will be sent to your inbox within 2-3 minutes, and you get 24/7 multilingual client support.  Get the best deal for your travel insurance here! Moreover, they also have luggage insurance so you don’t waste any money, even if you luggage gets lost.

10 reasons to visit Italy in December

Christmas Markets and other celebrations

While the Christmas Markets in Italy don’t compare to the ones in Germany , Austria, or even France, there is still a special vibe to them. You will understand that Italy is a catholic country by the many nativity scenes on display, especially in towns of Southern Italy, like Naples. Here, Christmas is a holiday spent with your family.

Also, the main streets and squares in larger cities are covered in lights, a Christmas tree is set, and you can taste different delicious seasonal treats. 

Even on the smaller hidden streets of towns like Alberobello or Locorotondo, you will find beautiful Christmas decorations and flowers. 

If you are looking for the perfect Christmas Market experience in Italy, forget about Milan, Rome, or Venice, and head for the small mountain villages close to the border with Austria, in South Tyrol. 

Also during wintertime, many other world-renowned festivals take place all over Italy. If you don’t feel like being part of the crowds at the Venice Carnival, head to less popular destinations such as Taormina in Sicily, or Muggia close to Slovenia’s border, for charming and entertaining costumed carnivals. 

Taste some traditional sweets

Every country has its own traditions and traditional food for the holidays. And Italy is no different, with its famous and delicious panettone, typically eaten as a dessert for Christmas. 

A sweet bread, filled with dried fruit, that originates from Milan, the panettone is something worth tasting while in Italy during winter. 

Another variety of traditional sweet is the “pandoro” – a Veronese sweet bread, without the added fruit and nuts you get in the panettone. 

Don’t leave without trying “panforte” – a rich, chewy cake, packed with almonds and nuts. 

You can skip the crowds

While many people head to Italy during summer or warmer seasons, winter is perfect for those who want to skip the crowds and have some of the most popular Italian towns all to themselves. 

Important tourist attractions won’t have lines of people gathering to buy tickets, and you will also be able to explore the Uffizzi or the Vatican Museums at your own pace. 

Another important advantage is the prices, which are not so high in low seasons. That means that you can choose to stay in the heart of the city, without breaking the bank. 

Do some shopping and hunt for the winter sales!

The period for winter sales in Italy depends from one region to the other, and if you plan carefully you can catch some pretty nice discounts. 

However, you will have to travel during January or February, and I strongly suggest visiting towns with outlet stores nearby. 

Serravalle Outlet Village is located close to Genoa , and it is one of the largest outlets in Europe with brands ranging from Fendi, Gucci, and even Prada. 

Further south, in Puglia, not far from Bari, stops at the Puglia Outlet Village or drive for less than an hour from Florence and head to the Outlet of Barberino. 

The perfect destination for winter sports

Italy in winter is also the perfect destination for sports lovers. With countless ski resorts operating from December all the way to April, it is easy to find a place that you will like. 

The Dolomiti Superski (with Corina D’Ampezzo as one of the most popular resorts) covers 1200 km of slopes and is the place where you can find something for anyone. 

Val Gardena is another great option in South Tyrol, with 400 kilometers of slopes, while Alta Badia is popular for families and beginners. 

Additionally, the region has plenty of SPAs and thermal waters , offering the best options to relax after a day on the slopes, in the cold. 

Some of these hotels are stunning and can easily get on anyone’s Italy bucket list :

• Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti – an exceptional hotel with a heated infinity pool, a SPA center, sauna, and jacuzzi. See more here!
• Castel Hörtenberg – a 5* hotel with a heated outside pool, located in a castle. See more here!
• Gloriette Guesthouse – a place rarely available, within easy reach of the sports activities. See more here!
• Abano Grand Hotel – is located in Abano Terme, a historic thermal village located in the Padua area, less than one hour away from Venice. See more here!
• Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort – The Leading Hotels of the World – one of the most popular sights in Tuscany, I’m sure you have seen the above picture of this place at least once. See more here!

You can live like a local

And understand how Italians really live, when the crowds of tourists are not around. 

Wake up, go for breakfast at the bar on the corner of the street, have your strong coffee and your cornetto standing at the bar (al banco), and simply enjoy the slow life in Italy’s countryside. 

Enjoy the weather

Even though Northern Italy can get cold and windy, when you choose to visit the Southern part, you will take advantage of sunny days, and beautiful weather for exploring. 

Budget-friendly accommodation

Winter is off-peak season, which means better deals on hotels and vacation rentals.

Winter Festivals

Experience Italy’s rich traditions by participating in unique winter festivals such as the Venice Carnival.

Winter food

Try some hearty Italian winter dishes like pasta e fagioli or polenta.

What to visit in Italy in winter: 10 best places to visit in Italy in December

I visited Sicily in February and I think it was the perfect time to go!

Flights and accommodation were cheap, the weather was nice, and all the places we visited weren’t crowded. On top of that, we were part of the carnival in Taormina, which made the trip even nicer. 

Choose to spend one week in Sicily and visit the eastern part of the island, moving from Catania to Syracuse, Mount Etna, Taormina, Isola Bella, Messina, Noto, and Ragusa.

The other option is to go to the north-western part of the island, stay in Palermo , and make your way to Cefalu’, San Vito lo Capo, Trapani, and Marsala. 

Of course, you can always choose to spend more time on the island and drive around without missing any of its most important tourist attractions .

Popular Sicily activities

Where to land in Sicily

There are 2 airports you can choose to land in, depending on your best connections: Palermo, or Catania . 

Where to stay in Sicily in winter

I personally enjoyed Catania and all the other towns on the eastern part of the island much more than Palermo. That’s why, I would suggest staying in Catania, or even in Taormina. 

See accommodation options in Catania here!

However, when you want to visit the Palermo region, you can always stay in Cefalu! I absolutely adored that small village, set on the cliffs, overlooking the sea. 

See accommodation options for Cefalu here!

They say “vedi Napoli e muori” – “see Naples and you can die”, because you have seen the most wonderful landscapes in Italy. 

While I don’t totally agree with this, the area surrounding Naples is incredibly beautiful and offers so many activities to choose from. Apart from the fact that you will be set close to the Amalfi Coast , the islands of Ischia and Procida, Sorrento is only a short train ride away, and the historic sites of Pompei or Herculaneum are the same. 

I can safely say that you can spend weeks and even months in the region without getting bored. 

Temperatures in Naples during winter are just right, and in my opinion, it is much better to visit the area during the cold season than during summer.

If you would like to explore Naples as well, here is my complete guide for one day in Naples .

Popular activities in Naples

Where to stay in Naples in winter?

While Naples can offer more affordable accommodation options and has great connections for visiting the region, I would strongly suggest moving a bit to the south, and choosing to stay in the Sorrento area. 

Sorrento is much more charming and more tranquil. 

See accommodation options in Sorrento

See accommodation options in Naples

Italy’s capital, la Cita Eterna, Rome was my home for a few months a few years back. 

Vibrant, and packed with tourist attractions, Rome is for sure one of the best places to visit in Italy in December. 

Even if you are not one of the people who comes to the Vatican for Christmas mass, you can still take advantage of the low season and enjoy staying in stunning hotels for less and skipping the crowds at the Vatican Museums, or at the Colosseum and the Imperial Forum. 

From Rome , you can easily go on countless day trips, and even spend some time by the sea at Ostia Antica.

Popular activities in Rome

Where to stay in Rome in winter?

I strongly suggest you take advantage of the low season prices and choose an accommodation option in the Old Town area, anywhere around Piazza del Popolo, Villa Borghese, the Spanish Steps, or even close to the Vatican. 

Why not choose to stay with a view of the Fontana di Trevi from your window ?

Unlike its bustling summer months, Venice in winter presents a calm and enchanting experience. The city shrouded in a misty allure, takes on a poetic charm that is as captivating as it is serene.

As you traverse the city’s winding canals and narrow paths, you’ll find fewer tourists and more opportunities to engage with the local culture.

If you want to live like the locals, visit during one of the many events and celebrations that take place in Venice in winter. Of course, you will have the chance to experience Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Venice in December, but also the famous La Befana – when an entertaining boat race takes place on the Canal Grande.

Let’s not forget that February hosts the world-famous Venice Carnival.

Popular activities in Venice

Where to stay in Venice in winter?

For accommodation, the luxurious Hotel Danieli delivers Venetian elegance with a view of the Grand Canal.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider Generator Venice Hostel located on the island of Giudecca, offering chic, minimalist rooms with a lively social scene.

Another unique stay is the intimate Ca Maria Adele , a boutique hotel situated in the quieter Dorsoduro district, offering a mix of Venetian tradition and modern design.

Italy’s food capital, Bologna is also known as “The Red, The Fat, The Wise”, that’s because of its delicious food, the red buildings, and because it hosts one of the older universities in Italy. 

Located less than 2 hours away from Venice, Bologna has milder weather, and when I visited in February cherry trees were in bloom! 

Spend at least one day in Bologna , make your way to the Santuario San Luca, eat your heart out, and go on countless day trips to some of the most popular destinations in Italy.

Popular activities in Bologna

Where to stay in Bologna

The old town with its beautiful arches and towers is the perfect place to stay especially if you are planning to explore the region and be close to the train station. 

See accommodation options in Bologna

One of the most charming towns in Italy, Florence is packed with history and one of the perfect destinations for a honeymoon in Italy. 

I spent a long weekend exploring Tuscany’s capital, on a sunny November, and while it wasn’t wintering yet, I think December could be as perfect. 

Spend your time visiting the Uffizzi Museum ( book your skip the line priority entrance ticket online ) , walk on the Ponte Vecchio, see David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, eat a mouthwatering bistecca alla fiorentina, and climb to the top of the Duomo and see the city from above ( book a priority ticket for a Dome climb ).

Also, Florence in winter hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Italy, making it the right place to go when you want to feel winter’s spirit.

Get the most out of one day in Florence with this guide and itinerary!

Popular activities in Florence

Where to stay in Florence in winter?

When it comes to staying in Florence during winter, there are several cozy and luxurious options that offer a warm retreat from the chilly weather.

Hotel Lungarno is a charming option with an extensive art collection and a fantastic view of the Ponte Vecchio.

If you’re after something more modern, Gallery Hotel Art is a boutique establishment boasting a contemporary design. For those seeking the utmost luxury, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze provides opulent rooms set in a restored Renaissance palazzo, surrounded by an enchanting garden.

Budget travelers can consider B&B La S ignoria di Firenze in the heart of the city, a stone’s throw away from major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery.

Each of these accommodations ensures a comfortable and restful stay, letting you explore the magic of Florence in winter to the fullest.

No matter if you only spend one weekend in Puglia , winter might be the perfect time to head down south. The region is starting to become Italy’s top destination, not only for locals, and you must jump on the train fast if you want to catch it without the crowds. 

While you might not have the chance to explore all the magical beaches around Puglia, simply driving from one small town to the other will make you fall in love.

Temperatures during winter are mild in Puglia, and while many touristic spots might be closed you can live the authentic life in the region and blend in with the locals. 

Bari is the most important town, and the place with the largest airport in Puglia, but I suggest you look for accommodation in some of the smaller cities like Alberobello , Locorotondo , or even Martina Franca . 

Get your full guide to Puglia here!

Popular activities in Puglia

Where to stay in Puglia in winter?

Because winter in Puglia is still quite chilly, I would choose to stay in one of the bigger towns such as Bari , Brindisi , Taranto , or Lecce .

One of the most perfect places to run to for winter sun, Sardinia has plenty to offer during winter as well. 

With maximum temperatures during winter going between 14 and 15.5 degrees Celsius, you might not head directly to the beach, but I still believe this might be the perfect weather to stroll around Cagliari and deep dive into the island’s rich history. 

If you don’t like the cold, avoid the mountains and Tempio Pausania, since these are the places that get the coldest during winter, and where you can even find snow. 

That being said, while you might not be able to go for a swim, you could still spend time on the beach, enjoying the mild temperatures Sardinia has to offer. 

Rent a car and drive around the island, explore Cagliari, Bosa, Alghero, and much more with this perfect one-week in Sardinia itinerary . 

Popular activities in Sardinia

Where to stay in Sardinia?

Staying in Sardinia during winter allows you to experience the tranquility of the island outside of the bustling summer season.

If you’re after luxury and relaxation, the Eliantos Boutique Hotel & Spa in Santa Margherita di Pula offers beachside accommodations and a world-renowned spa.

The charming town of Alghero has a number of accommodations like the Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa which boasts beautiful views of the sea.

For a mix of culture and comfort, consider staying in the city of Cagliari, the island’s capital, where UNAHOTELS T Hotel offers contemporary accommodations in the heart of the city.

Cinque Terre

I’ve been to the Cinque Terre in early May and while it was not as crowded as during the peak season, some places were still crazy packed. 

Head to the colorful small town of Liguria during winter and you can still enjoy the stunning sights, go hiking, and eat delicious food, without having to worry about the crowds. 

On top of that, during December, in Manarola, you can see the largest nativity scene, and enjoy fireworks once night falls. 

Plan your trip for the end of February and come prepared for “Carnevale” – get your camera ready and just sit back and admire the colorful costumes you will see children running around town in. 

Plan your perfect Cinque Terre itinerary with my guide!

Popular activities in Cinque Terre

Where to stay in Cinque Terre in winter?

Staying in one of the villages may get windy, however, you can still choose to stay close, in places like La Spezia or even in Monterosso .

Cortina D’Ampezzo

As mentioned before, this is the right destination for the most active tourists, looking to enjoy nature and winter sports. 

Of course, you can mix an active vacation with a sightseeing one, when you rent a car and drive around Belluno, a region neighboring Friuli Venezia Giulia. 

Popular activities for Cortina D’Ampezzo

Where to stay in Cortina D’Ampezzo in winter?

Often referred to as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Cortina D’Ampezzo offers a plethora of accommodation options fitting every budget and preference, especially during winter.

For those who value luxury and comfort, Cristallo Wellness Mountain Living is a top choice with its panoramic views and comprehensive wellness services. The historic Hotel Bellevue Suites & Spa , located in the heart of the town, offers traditional charm coupled with modern conveniences.

For budget-conscious travelers, Hotel Olimpia offers a cozy and affordable stay, complete with stunning mountain views.

Adventure lovers may enjoy a stay at Rifugio Averau , a remote mountain refuge accessible by snowmobile or skis that provides a truly immersive Dolomites experience.

Even though in my mind Milan is not the real Italy, there is something about visiting Italy’s fashion capital during the cold season. 

Visit the Duomo on a guided tour , admire the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its high-end stores perfectly decorated for winter, indulge in some discounted shopping, take part in the Ambrosiano Carnival when you want to skip the crowds of Venice, and simply go on a stroll if you are lucky to see the snow in Milan.

Popular activities in Milan

Where to stay in Milan in winter?

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, offers a range of accommodations to suit every style, season, and budget, particularly in the winter.

If you’re looking for a high-end stay, you might consider the palatial surroundings of the Armani Hotel Milano, where sleek, contemporary design meets unparalleled luxury.

For a more boutique experience, Senato Hotel Milano offers elegance and charm in the heart of the city. Conveniently located near the iconic Duomo, it’s an ideal base for both shopping and sightseeing.

Budget-friendly options include Ostello Bello , a hip and social hostel with a lively bar, not just a place to sleep but a hub of cultural activity.

For those seeking a unique stay, the eco-friendly Hotel Milano Scala focuses on sustainability without sacrificing comfort, boasting a green philosophy and a rooftop garden with a striking view of the city.

Other Italy Travel Resources

• Choose the best Italy subscription box idea for when you don’t travel
• Read the best books about Italy , with the action taking place in Italy
• Make the best traditional Italian gifts for Italy lovers

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11 responses to “Italy in winter: 10 reasons to visit + 11 best places to visit in Italy in December”

[…] German fruit bread – a sweet bread filled with dried fruit, very similar to the panettone you must try when visiting Italy in winter. […]

[…] is an alternative for anyone who is short of time. If you prefer a peaceful holiday, come over to Italy in the winter and stay on the islands for a few […]

[…] Here’s a link to get you a gondola ride for a cheaper price. Beware, if you decide to visit Italy in the winter, there is a chance that there could be some rain. If rain hits Venice, this could result in extreme […]

[…] Christmas morning with delight and contentment. I was as merry as a schoolgirl. Joy knows no age! Visiting Italy in December and spending a beautiful Christmas in the cathedral complex of Pisa was one of the best decisions […]

[…] there during all seasons, I can help you decide when would be the best time to see Italy (and if winter is that time for […]

[…] of the most enchanting places to visit in Italy in winter is Aosta. In fact, the valley is a stunning place to visit at any time of the year, but December is […]

[…] dismiss Italy in Winter– there's still plenty to do. Northern Italy does get cold and snow in winter. Obviously, the […]

[…] Italy in spring might be my favorite one. Of course, all the others have their charm, especially winter and fall are perfect as well when you want to skip the crowds, but spring is simply […]

[…] where you could easily spend your whole honeymoon. Perfect for nature lovers, you can come here during winter for some skiing, extreme sports, and even thermal water SPAs in Cortina […]

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[…] is also a great destination for Italy in winter because of its mild temperatures. All in all, Puglia is a great destination year round, it only […]

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Winter in Italy: what to expect and 8 beautiful destinations to explore

There are many reasons to visit Italy throughout the year (and you can explore them all with our guide to the best time to visit Italy ). However, Italy in winter means is magical. There are fewer tourists (outside of specific festivals), lower hotel and flight prices and cool, crisp weather.

Visit Italy in December, and you’ll experience beautiful Christmas decorations, festivals, and markets. If you’re traveling to Italy in January, you’ll find the coldest weather, quieter streets, and a more local feel to even the biggest tourist destinations. In February, the days will get longer as winter comes to a close, and some of Italy’s most famous festivals bring the streets to life.

What to expect from winter weather in Italy

The weather during winter in Italy (December, January, February) varies depending on where you are. Inland and up north, the weather is colder and more snowy while there is milder weather in the southern areas, particularly along the coast.

Generally speaking, January is the coldest month of the year in Italy, and December is the rainiest. You can get lower prices and smaller crowds with a better chance of clear skies towards the end of February. The more temperate cities like Rome and Naples see average highs of between 50 °F and 59 °F , while the snowy slopes of your favorite Italian ski resort can get as low as 5 °F.

What to pack for your trip to Italy in winter

Pack plenty of layers when you visit Italy in winter, as you’ll likely be going from the chilly outdoors to warmer indoor attractions. Durable walking shoes are a must, and accessories like gloves, scarves and hats will keep you warm on cooler days. If you’re heading to a snowy region, pack snow and water-resistant boots, thermals and a super-warm coat (preferably a water-resistant one, or bring an extra raincoat).

Must know tips for your trip to Italy in winter

To make the most of your winter trip, embrace the dark evenings and explore Italy’s major attractions after dark. Night-time is particularly beautiful during the Christmas period when lights line the streets and squares.

To avoid disappointment check the opening dates and hours of any attractions or restaurants you want to visit. Some will close during the winter season in smaller towns, and in big cities there will often be reduced opening hours.

Finally, Christmas, New Year and Carnival all draw large crowds , so book your flights and accomodation well in advance.

Where to go this winter in Italy

Whether you’re after a skiing adventure, a city break or a small-town retreat, there are plenty of excellent winter destinations throughout Italy. Big cities like Rome and Florence showcase their top attractions with fewer crowds . Seaside resorts are quiet and slow-paced. Ski towns are lively and at their peak.

• Skiing at the Dolomites

The Amalfi Coast

Average temp: 57 °F

Naples is one of the best Italian cities to visit in winter to see gorgeous Christmas decorations and incredible nativity scenes .

The artists behind the nativity scenes often open their workshops (frequently found along the San Gregorio Armeno alley) and sell beautifully handcrafted souvenirs. For more Christmas cheer visit the Via San Gregorio Armeno Christmas market , and on Christmas Ever the fish market traditionally stays open all night long.

The city is relatively warm in winter compared to other major Italian cities, with average temperatures of around 57 °F. However, it rains frequently, so make sure to bring a raincoat and umbrella. And of course, don’t forget to get some pizza.

Average temp: 54 °F

Italy’s capital is gorgeous in winter and, like Naples, tends to have milder weather . There may be some rain, but it rarely snows. Spend some time seeing the top sights without the usual crowds and queues .

Remember to dress warm for the outdoor/partially outdoor attractions like the Coliseum and the Trevi Fountain. Winter is also a great time to head to the Vatican . The usual crowds have thinned out, and you can easily spend a full day indoors at sites like the Sistine Chapel. If you’re visiting for Christmas, you’ll have a chance to hear the Pope’s Christmas message at the Vatican.

During this time, the rest of Rome lights up with Christmas decorations and Christmas markets ; the Piazza Navona hosts the city’s best-known one.

Average temp: 35 °F

Milan is one of the best cities in Italy to visit during the Christmas season. After the Feast of Saint Ambrose (7th of December), you’ll find it full of decorations and Christmas markets .

You can find the best-known Christmas market with a beautiful public Christmas tree in the Piazza Duomo, Milan’s main square. Other markets include the traditional Oh Bej Oh Bej market, roughly translating to ‘So Nice! So Nice’, open around the Feast of Saint Ambrose and dating back to 1288.

During winter, you can still visit traditional Milan attractions like the Duomo or the Castello Sforzesco. And don’t forget that Milan is considered the fashion capital of the world. Whether you’re just window shopping or you need a new winter coat, be sure to check out shopping streets like Via Torino and Via Monte Napoleone.

The Dolomites

Average temp: as low as 14 °F

The Dolomites mountain range in northeastern Italy is an excellent destination throughout the year, and in winter, it’s one of the best skiing destinations in the country.

The Dolomiti Superski region comprises 15 interconnected ski resorts that you can access with one ski pass. One of the most popular ski resorts is Val Gardena , a spacious resort where you’ll find plenty of room to ski even during peak season.

Another excellent ski resort is Cortinad’Ampezzo. This resort offers a range of accommodation options and slopes so every skier can find their perfect holiday.

Average temp: 41 °F

Lake Como is another excellent mountain region to visit during the Italian winter. Better known as a summer destination, it takes on a quiet, peaceful ambiance during winter .

The weather from December to February sees temperatures cold enough to bring snow to the surrounding mountains (perfect for skiing). But it never drops so low that the lake freezes over, so ferries run all year round , albeit on a reduced schedule.

Ferries are a great way to explore the region, and with ‘hop on, hop off’ tickets, you can easily travel between the smaller towns in the region, like Moltrasio and Cernobbio. The towns around the lake are picturesque and peaceful, but Lake Como also puts you close to several ski resort towns. Try Piani di Bobbio to the east and Monte Sighignola to the west.

Average temp: 38 °F

Venice and crowds go hand in hand, but you will find the streets a little quieter if you visit Venice in winter , with one exception: during the Carnival.

Carnival will be held between January 27 and February 13, 2024 (or Mardi Gras/Marte di Grasso). The festival sees the city come to life in colorful costumes and extravagant masks. Outside Carnival season, you can use a winter trip to Venice to see the top attractions like the Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica and St Mark’s Square.

The cold weather also provides the perfect excuse to spend some time warming up at one of Venice’s ‘bacari’. In these traditional-style wine bars, you can sip delicious wines and sample small plates of Italian food in cozy comfort.

The Amalfi Coast is better known as an excellent warm-weather destination, but don’t count it out during the cooler months. Some of the most popular shops, restaurants, and attractions are closed, but you can spend a wonderful holiday soaking up the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere . It will get busier as the coastline lights up over Christmas and New Year.

If you visit during this period, you’ll get decorations, delicious Christmas treats, and numerous opportunities for Christmas shopping. Whether you head to Amalfi, Positano , or somewhere a little more off the beaten path, you can have a wonderful winter holiday along the Amalfi Coast. If you plan on hopping between different destinations, note that ferries here don’t run during winter.

• Average temp Florence: 43 °F
• Average temp Abetone: 36 °F

The region of Tuscany comprises some of the most beautiful places in Italy, and during winter, you can explore them in quiet comfort. Head to Florence and spend cold winter days in the warmth of the Uffizi Museum to explore its incredible collection of paintings. If you want to head outside of the larger cities, Abetone is a gorgeous mountain town in Tuscany.

It boasts excellent skiing conditions during winter, with over 30 miles of pistes. To warm up, head to Bagno Vignoni or Saturnia. These towns have amazing hot springs and luxurious resorts where you can relax amongst beautiful landscapes.

Tuscany is also one of the best wine regions in Italy. Although some wineries close during winter, many remain open, offering delicious wine tastings on cozy estates.

For more inspiration on places to go in Italy check out the KAYAK guide to the most beautiful places in Italy .

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Winter in Italy: A complete guide

This post is also available in: French

If you think about Italy, you’ll probably dreaming of summer, sunny days, seaside resorts, long walks along picturesque streets and so on…well, winter arrives here too and it brings along a great variety of wheatear conditions, peculiar landscapes and many activities and events you cannot miss!

Table of Contents

A guide for visiting Italy in Winter

How is the weather in Italy in winter?

It depends on the different areas of the Country! Italy has a wide range of climate scenarios, but we can summarize the typical winter wheatear as follows:

Northern Regions

The coldest months are December and January, where the temperature may reach -10°C. In the North Eastern areas there is a cold wind called Bora. Fog is a common phenomenon along the Po river, which often makes driving difficult. In the Northern Regions it does not rain often in winter, but it can snow a lot, especially in the mountains. Generally, days are cold but sunny and it’s the perfect weather for winter sports and outdoor activities.

Central Regions

In winter it can get really cold, but the temperature rarely goes below zero. It snows a lot in the mountains, especially in January. In Umbria there is a cold wind called Tramontana.

Southern Regions

This area of the Country is milder and the temperature rarely goes below 8-9 degrees. On the other hand, winter is generally rainy. Sometimes, Scirocco wind coming from Africa makes the temperature rise up to 20°C.

Winter is warmer (about 10-12 degrees) and sunnier. In Sardegna there are frequent sea storms.

What to pack for Italy in winter

It largely depends on your destination, but there are some things that are suitable for any place in winter: wool sweaters, a coat, a scarf and an umbrella!

Other tips?

• Choose thermal sportswear that will keep you warm without filling all the space in your suitcase;
• Dress in layers, so that you can have a t-shirt for warm restaurants and shops, a sweater for museums and public places and a coat for open air activities;
• Wear a hooded jacket, so that you can protect your head in case of sudden rain or snow;
• Wear comfortable shoes and, if possible, make sure they are waterproof too, because you’ll surely face rainy or snowy days;
• Don’t forget a pair of gloves if you go to the mountains;

Traveling on your own to Italy? Then you should check this guide on solo travel in Italy. 

Main winter events for each Region in Italy

Valle d’aosta.

• Sant’Orso Fair (January 30th and 31st in Aosta): typical folk crafts fair (wooden sculptures, panniers and laces)

Trentino Alto Adige

• Christmas Markets (December in Merano and Bolzano)

• Christmas Markets (December in Turin): in Piazza Castello and Cortile del Maglio
• Ambrosian Carnival (February in Milan): it begins when the other Italian Carnivals end, that is the first Saturday of Lent season.
• Flowers Carnival (February in Sanremo): traditional parade of floats decorated with local flowers
• Venezia Carnival (February in Venezia): one of the most famous Carnivals in the world

Check out my 2 day Venice itinerary . 

Emilia Romagna

• Rogo del Vecchione – Old Man’s Fire (December 31st in Bologna): a traditional bonfire where locals burn a puppet representing the ending year
• Viareggio Carnival (February in Viareggio): historic Carnival famous for its huge papier mache floats

Check out 45 things to do in Tuscany.

• Festa delle Candele – Candles Festival (early December in Candelara): folk crafts market and lighting of candles to enlighten the village at nightfall

Natale della Rocca (December in Perugia): Christmas Market in the fortress and its underground corridors

• Christmas Markets (December in Rome): in Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna

Check out my 5 day Rome itinerary .

• Living nativity scene (early January in Rivisondoli): hundreds of participants perform the nativity scene
• Christmas markets (December in Campobasso): in Corso Vittorio Emanuele
• Anthropological Carnival (February in Matera): traditional masks and folk music
• Luci d’Artista – Artistic Lights (November – January in Salerno): artistic light installations

Friuli Venezia Giulia

• Ski season in the mountains (November – March)

• Fiera dei Pupi (December in Lecce): Christmas market and exhibition of handmade papier mache and clay nativity scene figures.

Check out off-the -beaten- track destinations in Puglia.

• Mediterranean Cup (early November in Reggio Calabria): popular international race
• Bronte’s Nativity Scene (November – January in Bronte): exhibition of nativity scenes

Check out my winter Sicily itinerary .

• Christmas Markets (December in Cagliari): in Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Piazza Yenne

Best winter destinations in Italy

Rome (lazio).

To enjoy spring out of season

Best period: Christmas holidays

Why: its mild wheatear is perfect for long walks and for your sightseeing tours.

Things to do in winter:

• bring your kids to Villa Borghese garden and let them play in the open-air;
• if it rains during your stay, enjoy long breaks in cafés and restaurants to taste the local recipes;
• visit Piazza Navona Christmas Market to buy original gifts;

If you have more days: visit the historic Renaissance Christmas in Nettuno.

You might also like : Where to stay in Rome

Napoli (Campania) 

To sightsee in the sun

Best period: late January, after the Holiday season

Why: to enjoy the beautiful views of the historic city and the sea in the bright Southern sun, even in the heart of winter.

• walk along the famous “Spaccanapoli”, that is the long and ancient street going through the whole historic center of the city;
• take amazing pictures of the bay from Piazzale San Martino;
• visit the “via dei Presepi”, that is San Gregorio Armeno Street: here you can visit many craft shops producing nativity scene figures all year long;

If you have more days: have a boat trip to Capri (just check the sea conditions before)

You might be interested in: 3 days in Naples .

Palermo (Sicilia)

To live like a local without too much tourists around

Best period: November

Why? Because Sicily has only two seasons: spring and summer!

• visit the Ballarò market to experience the authentic local atmosphere;
• visit Kalsa district, that is the ancient Arabic part of the city;
• have a picnic on Mondello beach to enjoy the warm weather;

If you have more days: visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina and take some pictures of the sea from there

You might like: Things to do in Palermo 

Venezia (Veneto) 

To enjoy the city without the crowds of spring and summer tourists

Why? The winter fog creates a magical atmosphere among the canals and over the lagoon.

• enjoy the ancient building and the historic “calli” and “campielli” (Venetian streets and alleys) that are usually partially hidden by the crowd;
• Take some amazing pictures of the foggy landscape at nightfall;
• If you don’t mind being among a huge crowd, enjoy the crazy local Carnival;

If you have more days: visit Verona too

Madonna di Campiglio (Trentino Alto Adige)

For a holiday made of sport and fun.

Best period: Christmas Holidays

Why? It is one of the most popular ski resorts in Italy

• skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snowshoeing and many other winter activities;
• relax at one of the many spas nearby;
• go skating on the local frozen pond;

If you have more days: visit Trento, the capital of this Region

Torino (Piemonte)

To experience the royal life of Savoia kings.

Best period: December

Why? Torino is renowned for its 18 Km of arcades, built in the XVII century to offer nobles a covered walkway in case of rainy or snowy days.

• warm up with a Bicerin, that is the local hot drink made with chocolate, coffee and whipped cream;
• visit the complex of Royal Museums, to discover the life of the former Italian royal family;
• enjoy the opera at Teatro Regio (one of the most important opera houses in Italy);

If you have more days : visit the Reggia di Venaria, that is a large Royal Palace located in the countryside near Turin.

Bologna (Emilia Romagna)

To have fun, even with freezing weather.

Best period: New Year’s week

Why? To fight the cold and rainy weather, Bologna offers many museums, indoor activities and covered walkways to locals and tourists.

• try each one of the 3 famous spas of the city and choose your favorite one;
• visit Palazzo Poggi, with its original collections and reconstructions of scientific instruments and objects belonging to old scientists;
• Eat! Emilia Romagna is said to have the best typical cuisine in the whole Country, so taste tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù and local cold cuts with a glass of red wine;

If you have more days: visit the medieval village of Bertinoro, which is located on top of a hill overlooking the sea.

You might like: Things to do in Bologna . 

Cagliari (Sardegna)

To stay in the open air all day.

Best period: February

Why? It’s warm and sunny, with few rainy days during the whole winter.

• sun-bathing on Poetto beach;
• take some pictures of the bay and the city from St Remy Bastion;
• have a walk in the local botanical garden;

If you have more days: visit Alghero too

Alba (Piemonte)

To enjoy local gastronomy and visit food festivals

Why? Alba and Langhe area have a strong gastronomic tradition, so it is the perfect destination for food lovers.

Thins to do in winter:

• visit the annual Truffle Fair in November;
• enjoy some wine tastings in the many local wineries;
• have lunch in a local farm offering typical products and traditional farmer’s dishes;

If you have more days: visit the picturesque town of Saluzzo

Verona (Veneto)

To celebrate St Valentine’s Day.

Why? It is the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet love story and it is considered one of the most romantic destinations in Italy.

• Visit Juliet’s House and leave a love message like many tourists have already done over the years;
• have an “aperitivo” (happy hour) in Piazza delle Erbe, to enjoy a typical Italian custom;
• visit Arena: you can’t go to Verona without having a tour there, even in winter!

If you have more days: visit Palladio museum in Vicenza

You might be interested in: Things to do in Verona .

Pré-Saint-Didiers (Valle d’Aosta)

For a relaxing vacation.

Why: to relax in a beautiful natural landscape and concentrate on wellness, silence and quiet.

• enjoy the famous thermal pool in the open air, where you can bath in hot water surrounded by snow;
• visit the Glaciers Fair on December 30 th , to discover local craftsmen and their works;
• enjoy your favorite winter sports, but also long walks among a beautiful frozen landscape;

If you have more days: visit Courmayeur

Destinations to avoid in Italy in winter

• Chianti area and the Tuscan countryside: the landscape is not at its best. Keep this area for spring;
• Rimini and Adriatic seaside resorts of Northern Italy: winter is cold there and many hotels, venues and restaurants are closed;
• Northern Lakes: the landscape is not at its best;
• Po Delta natural areas (Veneto): too foggy and muddy;
• Trieste (Friuli Venezia Giulia): Bora wind makes the city really freezing;
• Cortina d’Ampezzo (Veneto): too crowded and too much “high society” in winter

Pros of visiting Italy in winter

• Some areas of the Country have pleasant and mild climatic conditions (Southern Regions and Islands);
• Some famous destinations are less crowded during winter (especially seaside resorts in Southern Italy and some Northern cities like Venezia, Bologna or Torino);
• In Southern Regions, you can have picnics and do outdoor activities in the sun;
• Christmas Holidays are an excellent occasion to discover local traditions and customs;
• Winter is the ultimate ski season, so any location in the mountain is a good idea for sport lovers;

Cons of visiting Italy in winter:

• Many Italian Regions are cold, snowy, rainy or windy, so that you’ll surely have at least a few days of bad weather during your stay;
• Many small towns (especially along the coasts in the Northern and Central Regions) are less populated in winter and many hotels and restaurants choose to close until late spring;
• There are fewer hours of light, so landscapes are not at their best and the colors of nature are mostly brown and grey;
• Nights can be really cold, especially in Northern areas and in the mountains, so that it’s not the best period to enjoy the local nightlife;
• Christmas Holidays are a classical period to have short trips and visit family members in other cities, so that many locals are moving and this increases traffic and make hotel prices raise considerably (the cheapest winter months are November and February);

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Winter in Italy: A Guide to Italy in the Off-Season

• Planning your trip

February 16, 2023

Winter in Italy is wonderful! While some might shun the sunny peninsula during the winter, we believe that Italy is a great destination year round, even after temperatures drop. With festive holidays, fewer tourists, and more Italians, there’s plenty to experience in Italy in winter!

Planning a trip this winter? Here’s what to wear, do and expect in Italy’s off-season:

Table of Contents

Winter Weather

Venice is gorgeous year round, but heavy rains in the winter can be a pain for travelers. Illuminated Rialto Bridge

Winter weather in Italy ranges from cold and wet in the north to relatively mild in the south. Rome and Naples are Italy’s two major cities that enjoy the mildest winter climates. Head to Rome to see Christmas celebrations in the Vatican City or Naples to shop for artisanal Christmas nativity scenes  (and see live ones throughout the city!). 

If you’re planing on visiting Rome in the winter Read more about  Rome in the off-season .  

Even though air temperatures can be mild, December, January, and February are still the coldest months of the year fin Italy so plan for a bit of chill and damp. Up in the mountains you can enjoy the snow, while in other regions you might get rain instead – though usually not enough to ruin a trip, provided you have a raincoat and/or umbrella. The one exception to this is Venice, which can experience its notorious acqua alta   during the winter. This is when a combination of wind and tides push so much water into the Venetian lagoon that the streets of La Serenissima actually flood. It might be an inch or two or water, or it might be a foot. In these cases – which are blessedly rare – the only thing to do is strap on a good pair of boots and get wading. Check out our blog for more on how to survive flooding in Venice with dry feet . 

What to Wear

Dress warm! Italians don’t let the cold stop them from strolling the streets, chatting at outdoor tables and enjoying their favorite outdoor sports year round. Their secret? Layers! This means a thick cotton or wool undershirt or tank top, then your long sleeve shirt, sweater, huge winter jacket, chic boots and of course scarf, hat and gloves. This doesn’t mean you have to feel puffy under all those layers though. Choose your fabrics wisely and dress for your body shape and you’ll look as chic as a born Milanese.

Want to be sure you look as chic as an Italian? Check out  How to Dress like an Italian: Fall and Winter Edition. 

Winter is also a great time for shoppers. Winter sales begin post-Christmas throughout Italy and last the entire month. Of course Italy has summer sales as well, but in winter you won’t have to fight the crowds.

Things to love

There are a ton of benefits to traveling in Italy during the off-season , here’s some of our favorite things about winter in Italy:

Bargain prices and fewer crowds

Winter brings a chance to see the Galleria without the usual crowds. | Photo by Gabriele Barni

Though we love winter, it’s considered the off-season in Italian tourism. This is good news for those visiting Italy in the winter, as prices will be significantly lower and you’ll be able to see the sights with far fewer crowds. From mid-November until about Easter time, excluding a rush near Christmas, you’ll be able to escape the cold, whiling away the hours in your favorite Italian museums and churches without the usual line push or time rush caused by the huge summer crowds. Unlike some other European countries, Italy’s major attractions don’t close during the winter excluding a few days around Christmas, so you’ll still have your pick of the best. The high accommodation prices encountered during the high season will calm down and the often expensive peninsula will feel like your own budget destination.

Skiing and Sunbathing

Italy’s unique geography means that after you’re done skiing in the Alps, you can head down the coast to the still relatively warm south to find heat even in the middle of winter – especially in sunny Sicily. Sicily’s day-time high throughout January and February is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Though it is colder in the morning and night, it’s still plenty warm when compared to North American or Northern European temperatures. If it’s more wintry weather you’re looking for, it’s worth looking into the Dolomites, Turin, or the Valle d’Osta – all three are winter wonderlands. 

Plenty of inside activities

Italy has spectacular scenery, but when the weather outside is more frightful than delightful, it’s easy to turn indoors. Besides the long meals mentioned above, you can explore some of Italy’s more than 25,000 churches, catch an opera at Milan’s La Scala or Rome’s Teatro Olimpico, finally give the museums the time they deserve or, you could even try a cooking class . If that’s not enough, head inside  and  underground, exploring the crypts and underground cities throughout Italy .

Festivals galore! (Christmas, New Years, Epiphany and Carnevale)

Christmas tree at the Colosseum

Of course, Christmastime isn’t necessarily the off-season, especially in the big cities, but it is a great time to visit Italy. Check out the different Christmas markets such as the Obej Obej  market in Milan, the Market in Santa Croce in Florence or the seasonal stalls in Rome’s Piazza Navona; enjoy the town decorations, attend a mass or two, and watch the parades held throughout Italy during the Christmas season.

After Christmas you can also look forward to the Epiphany. Celebrated on January 6 as the day the three wise men finally reached baby Jesus, its more secular side is known as  La Befana   after the “Old Witch” who comes to bring children candies and gifts on that day. The week from New Years to  La Befana  is noted as the biggest winter vacation week in Italy. Italians often go skiing and the atmosphere all over the country is very festive. Late February and early March bring carnival celebrations, check out our list of the top celebrations throughout Italy. Winter is filled with festivals to celebrate local foods and public and religious holidays, perfect for a traveler to soak up the culture and join in the festivities!

Winter comfort food

A plate of steaming risotto is the ultimate winter comfort food. Photo by Blue moon in her eyes (Flickr)

We love Italian food, but there’s nothing quite like Italy’s hearty winter comfort foods to warm a winter day. After a day of sightseeing, spend your evenings indoors lingering over a long dinner of hearty pastas, soups and meat dishes with a great glass of wine and some friends. With rich sauces in the south and meat and polenta in the north, each part of Italy has it’s own unique winter dishes. Perhaps the most coveted comes into season in October and runs through the end of November – we’re speaking, of course, about truffles – those rare fungi that are, by weight, some of the most expensive foods in the world. Eat them in a risotto, as in the picture above, or simply shave them over pasta to get a taste of why they’re so expensive. 

Know Before You Go

Remember that, barring Christmas, winter is considered Italy’s low season. Many museums and sites have different/reduced hours during winter. In small towns, museums and sites might only be open on weekends or may be closed for part of the winter. You can easily plan around this by checking winter opening and closing times online or asking at hotels before heading out into the cold!

by Gina Mussio

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Italy in Winter: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

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Morning scene of Dolomite alps in Italy

Winter in Italy is an exciting time to explore the variety of landscapes, cities, and towns, and we share insight into the weather, the best places to visit, and the top experiences you can enjoy.

Whether visiting the country in December or looking for ideas on Rome in winter, you can settle into its exciting ambiance and treasured traditions as you uncover skiing in the north, hiking in the south, or seasonal cuisine in the famous culinary center.

Find information on the weather or discover what to do in Italy in January so you know what to expect on a trip personalized to your preferences.

Weather in Italy in December, January, and February

Where to go in italy in winter, what to do in italy in winter, plan your trip to italy in winter.

Domes of the Twin Churches in Rome, Italy

Average Temperatures in Rome, Italy: 55°F High • 39°F Low

Winter in Italy can be cold, but the weather varies greatly between the mountainous northern terrain of the alps and the Mediterranean climate of the south, especially around Sicily and Puglia’s southern heel.

The diverse climate offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities when enjoying an Italy vacation in December to view the best Christmas markets in Italy or when embracing the hot springs around Tuscany in February.

From vineyards to snow trekking, skiing to discovering seasonal truffles to try during your Italy trip , the country’s weather is diverse and welcoming, with endless activities to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

View of Mount Etna from Taormina in Sicily, Italy

Naples • Best Place for Great Weather

Naples is a sensational place to visit in Italy, often used as a gateway to renowned Amalfi Coast tours or visits to Pompeii. Journeying to the region in winter removes the summer crowds, turning the iconic destination into a quiet seaside escape brimming with historic charm.

While not great for lounging on the sand, Naples and the surrounding bay offer consistent and comfortable weather in which you can embrace the museums, walk along the cobblestone streets, visit the fabled and colorful towns, trek the infamous Path of the Gods trail for incredible views across the water, or bask in seasonal festivities celebrating the wonders of Christmas.

Learn more: How to Spend 2 Weeks in Southern Italy

Rome • Best Place for Families with Children

On a fun and unique Italy Christmas tour , travelers can embrace the excitement of Rome, especially in December and January, when the Christmas markets are at their peak in the lead-up to the Epiphany on January 6.

With fewer visitors than in summer and fall, winter offers a great time to navigate the ancient ruins, wander the cobblestone boulevards, and visit the famous museums, from the Sistine Chapel to the preserved sculptures in the Capitoline Museums.

Enjoy the comfort of restaurants, embrace the flavors of local dishes, and learn the art of training like a gladiator when you visit Rome as a family .

Learn more: Rome Travel Guide • Italy Family Vacations & Tour Packages

Bologna • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Bologna is filled with exciting history and tantalizing flavors, giving it the nickname La Grassa , or The Fat One. While not completely off the beaten path, the city is a great escape from its popular counterparts and in winter demonstrates an enticing ambiance.

With aromas of delicious seasonal cuisine often found in the best dishes to try while in Bologna to grand Christmas markets, opulent porticoes, and outgoing locals interacting on an evening stroll, Bologna is enticing in winter.

Learn more: 3 Exclusive Itineraries to Emilia Romagna

Venice • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Venice is iconic and one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. In winter, the summer crowds are gone, the cool air offers a more comfortable ambiance in which to explore, and the seasonal festivities stretch from Christmas traditions to Carnivale.

From gondola rides to exploring Piazza San Marco, shopping to glass-blowing demonstrations, the city feels much more open in winter, making anything possible. Embrace the romance of an opera, capture the perfect image of your trip with a private photo shoot, or delight your taste buds with a celebrated cioccolato caldo as you indulge in the timeless romance of Venice in winter.

Learn more: Venice Vacations & Tour Packages • Venice Travel Guide

Sicily • Best Italian Island to Visit

Sicily is Italy’s largest island and its southern position makes it comfortable to visit in winter. While not necessarily warm enough to lounge on the beaches, the island offers an incredible array of places to discover and activities to enjoy.

Whether viewing the gilded Byzantine mosaics of the Norman Palace or walking beneath the towering figure of a Greek temple at Agrigento, sampling the delicious chocolate in the hilltop town of Erice or skiing on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, Sicily is a marvel of experiences in winter.

Learn more: Sicily Tours & Vacation Packages • Sicily Travel Guide

Italian wine tasting in Tuscany

Explore Ancient Rome Deeply

The ancient world and contemporary life converge in Rome, the capital of the former empire and modern-day Italy. Embrace the journey through time as you wander through iconic monuments to the past like the Colosseum, uncover hidden Raphael frescoes at the edge of a chic neighborhood, or indulge in cuisine that embodies the culinary traditions of Italian heritage.

From old-world wonders to trendy boutique shops, you can find the right experience for you with our top things to do in Rome .

Learn more: Rome Vacations & Tour Packages

Enjoy the Flavors of Regional Cuisine

Italy is famous for its cuisine and during your trip you can quickly find how each region celebrates its history and seasonality with local flavors, recipes, and ingredients. From Veneto to Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna to Sicily, the diverse landscapes and weather patterns affect the historical crops grown near the main cities, giving way to exquisite dishes known for their powerful flavors.

Whether eager to sample mouthwatering ravioli or a traditional bistecca fiorentina, ready for a traditional plate of cacio e pepe or searching for an authentic gelato, embracing the regional cuisine is one of the joys of a trip, especially when explored during an Italy food tour and vacation .

Learn more: Types of Italian Food by Region

Discover the Joys of a Christmas Market

Italy’s Christmas markets have become famous for their jovial ambiance, celebratory nature, and reflection of traditional culture. The market vendors may change based on the region, with woodwork and strudel more common in alpine towns and cities, contrasting the roasted chestnuts and customary charcuterie of southern towns.

During your Italy winter tour, you can visit the markets to enjoy the thriving cultural representation of the season and traditions like La Befana , a witch who brings good children treats on January 6, the day of the Epiphany, marking the end of the Christmas season in Italy.

Learn more: Top 5 Reasons to Spend Christmas in Italy

Sip Delicious Wines with Local Vintners

Wine is part of the heritage in Italy, with a history dating back to before the Roman Empire. With over two millennia of grape cultivation and wine production across the peninsula, discovering the country’s vineyards, vintners, and cellars offers fabulous results, defying singular definitions of the flavors, textures, and characteristics you can find along the way.

From small coastal villages to medieval hillside towns, sampling wine in Italy is a revelation of experiences, where the panorama may have as much effect on the taste of the wine as the soil in which the grapes are grown. Discover your favorite experiences with our Italy food and wine travel guide or look for inspiration with ideas from our sample Italy food and wine tours .

Cruise the Slopes with Winter Activities

Italy’s northern border is shaped by the alps, creating a dynamic escape for lovers of winter activities. Whether passionate about skiing the world-famous slopes or drawn to the prospect of a cozy drink beside a roaring fire, Italy is a celebrated winter destination everyone can enjoy.

Enjoy exclusive excursions while snowshoeing on a luxury Italy tour , indulge in the romance of snowy peaks surrounding beautiful Lake Como , or delight in the variety of art, culture, and cuisine as you explore the season during a Northern Italy tour to uncover the breadth of tradition and excitement on the slopes, in the chalets, and around the festive villages.

Winter season in Florence, Italy

Italy is remarkable in winter, when the temperatures are cool, the cities are filled with light, and the culture and heritage feel authentic. With charm and glamour, you can enjoy traditional sites like the Colosseum or revel in the thrills of luxurious ski resorts, depending on your preferences, interests, and travel goals.

Start planning your trip and consider exploring more ideas, with helpful tips, advice, and information found in our Italy travel guide or sample Italy tours and vacations .

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Italy in Winter – 15 Reasons to Visit

Updated September 22, 2019

// By Margherita

Winter is coming! After our popular Italy in Autumn post we’d love to tell you about Italy in Winter – here are 15 reasons why visiting Italy in winter time is actually a great idea!

Most people associate the idea of visiting Italy with spring and summer , imagining to live a dream of endless lunches overlooking rolling hills, sunsets over the cliffs in the Amalfi Coast or in the canals of Venice, lazying around on pristine beaches and hiking in unspoiled nature… you see what I mean. 

The reality of Italy during the high season is very different. All the places that are likely to belong on a first-timer itinerary – like Venice, Rome, Florence, the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and so on – are B-U-S-Y.

And by busy, I don’t mean you’ll see a few people here and there – expect the whole over tourism shebang , complete with rowdy tourists, huge crowds, queues everywhere. Stressful, if you ask me. 

The solution? Visit Italy in the low season, which coincides with winter. True, Italy in winter comes with a series of disadvantages, like short days and cold temperatures, but these are FAR, FAR outweighed by a series of benefits – like unique festivals, tasty comfort food, and great deals on hotels, transportation, and even shopping!

Here are 15 reasons to visit Italy in winter – coming from a local, naturalmente. But first, let us tell you about winter weather in Italy!

Winter Weather in Italy

First things first – Italy is 1200 km long from the Alps to Sicily, so expect weather and temperatures to change dramatically from north to south , and from the mountains to the coast. 

As a rough guideline, expect to find snow in the Alps and Apennines , but not necessarily in the valleys, even in Northern Italy. In the rest of the country weather is very changeable – grey, overcast days are common, but so are bright winter days, with clear skies and clean air. 

Generally speaking, the further south you head, the warmer and sunnier it will be. In Sicily, the temperatures rarely dip below 10°C, and it it is usually possible to swim until November.

I’ve included a close look at month-by-month winter weather in Italy – when talking about ‘northern Italy’ I refer to the area north of Rome, and by ‘southern Italy’ I mean the rest of the peninsula, plus Sicily and Sardinia. 

Italy in December

December marks the beginning of the ski season in the Alps , with resorts traditionally opening on Dec 8th .

This doesn’t mean the snow has already reached the slopes – more often than not, there’s only artificial snow, with ‘proper snow’ arriving a few weeks later in late Dec/Jan.

Christmas market towns and the ski resorts in the Alps and Apennines will be busy in December, but the rest of Italy will be fairly quiet.

In terms of weather, expect an abundance of grey, overcast days and lots of rain in northern Italy , with temperatures around 10°C max, dipping close to freezing at night. 

In southern Italy, temperatures will be about 5°C warmer compared to the north, especially if you’re close to the sea. Snow is very rare in southern Italy, but you may encounter strong winds and rough seas.

However, you’re also just as likely to have warm, sunny days , with temperatures around 20°C!

Italy in January

January is the coldest month all over Italy , and the month when you’re most likely to see snow away from the mountains. In northern Italy, it snows most years, but the snow doesn’t often ‘stick’ – sleety rain is more common.

On the other hand, snow in places like Rome or Naples is extremely rare , only happening about once a decade – in Sicily and Sardinia, it’s even rarer. 

Weather wise, expect daytime temperatures to be around 5°C in the north and below freezing at night, and a bit warmer in the south – 10-12°C is the average max. You’ll probably encounter a mix of cloudy and sunny days, hopefully more of the latter!

Italy in February

The weather in February is very similar to January , only a touch warmer. February is also Carnival month – many people opt for a skiing holiday in this month, since it is also when the snow is at its best. If you’re planning to go skiing, it will be busy!

Otherwise, the weather remains cold all over northern Italy , with daytime temperatures reaching between 5 and 10°C, and up to 15°C in the south.

The sun also starts making a comeback, and by the end of the month sunny days usually outnumber cloudy ones – and when it’s sunny, you can definitely feel the warmth, unlike those crisp, freezing midwinter days!

Italy in March

By March, temperatures will have risen considerably all over Italy , but this is probably the most unpredictable month of the year!

During the first half of March, Italy sometimes experiences ‘Arctic blasts’ bringing the temperatures close to freezing again, and by the end of the month, sunny days with temperatures exceeding 20°C are not uncommon. 

Also, be ready for more rain , but also much longer days, as the sun sets around 8 PM by the end of the month. In terms of temperatures, daytime highs very between 7 and 17°C in northern Italy between the start and the end of the month, and you’ll find between 15-20°C in the south. 

Reasons to Visit Italy in Winter

1) fewer tourists.

Let’s start with the most obvious points – visiting Italy in winter means not having to share places like Rome, Venice, and the Cinque Terre with thousands other tourists.

Now, don’t expect to be alone – people visit Italy year round, including winter , but generally speaking winter visitors are only a fraction of those coming in summer. 

Crowds do increase over the Christmas/New Years school holidays, but even then visitors are still far from reaching summer numbers. If you really want to avoid crowds, visit in mid-December, or mid to late January – these are the quietest times in most major cities. 

The ski resorts of the Alps and Apennines are a completely different story – ski season opens in early December and runs all the way past Easter, with Christmas/New Year and February as the busiest times.

If you want to visit the Alps but don’t want to jostle with the skiing crowds , either visit in early December or consider staying in the valleys, and taking cable cars up to the mountains, rather than staying on the slopes. 

2) More Affordable Prices

Well, that goes without saying! Fewer people also means more affordable prices , and that is the case for everything – accommodation, tours, transport, flights, you name is. So, if you want a budget-friendly holiday, definitely visit Italy in winter!

Winter is the perfect time to stay at that perfect luxury villa or 5-star hotel, since in low season many upscale properties slash their rates to attract visitors.

However, if you have a specific property in mind, make sure it stays open throughout the winter – hotels in coastal locations like the Amalfi Coast, Capri or Cinque Terre often close in winter for maintenance. 

3) Easier to Get Around

Fewer crowds and affordable prices make everything so much easier! You don’t need to book trains and hotels ages in advance, allowing you to change plans on a whim, and decide to travel from Milan to Venice with no advance planning for example!

Personally, I am not a fan of planning everything to the last detail – I love keeping my options open, and visiting Italy in winter allows you to do just that!

The same goes for attractions – in summer, you definitely have to book tickets to points of interest like the Vatican Museums or the Last Supper in Milan months in advance, but in winter queues are much smaller and you may even find tickets on the day. 

Having said that, if you’ve got your heart set on specific sights or museums, definitely book ahead! You can do so below!

• Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tickets
• Vatican Museums Skip-the-Line Tickets
• Milan: Last Supper Tickets and Tour
• Florence: Uffizi Gallery Timed Ticket
• Florence: Timed Entrance Ticket to Michelangelo’s David

4) Perfect Time to Slow Down

Winter in Italy is the ideal time for a relaxing holiday. As I said, few people means you can leave your options open, leaving each day at a time, enjoying those long lunches, and ‘relaxed’ lifestyle that has been drawing visitors to Italy for centuries. 

Treat yourself to a hot chocolate, spend the day wandering around a lesser-known museum, take a day trip to a village or go on a hike – but don’t forget it gets dark early! Never mind, you can while your evening away with a good book and a glass of wine. 

Crowds in summer might make you want to cram more into your schedule, while winter is the best time to slow down, and dedicate some time to your wellbeing. 

5) Go Skiing in Italy

On a different note, winter in Italy is also skiing season. The slopes traditionally open on the day of the Immaculate Conception, December 8th , and stay open all the way to Easter, and even up to May in some cases. 

For the first few weeks, expect the snow to be artificial – climate change means the snow comes later each year , and it’s hard to predict how much snow will fall.

The best snow conditions are usually found in February , but this is also the time when the ski resorts are at their busiest. If it’s powder you’re after, consider going ski touring with a good Alpine guide instead!

Two places I really love for skiing are Madonna di Campiglio and Cortina d’Ampezzo , both in the heart of the Dolomites. 

6) Winter Sun in the South 

You can’t quite swim year round in Italy , but if you are looking for sunshine and warm temperatures, you can definitely find them in Southern Italy. 

To make matters even better, Southern Italy is very busy in summertime, so visiting in winter will give you the opportunity to have many places to yourself , and enjoy the sunshine!

Places in Southern Italy we recommend visiting in winter include the whole of Sicily , especially Mount Etna (where you can go skiing with a sea view!) and places like Noto or Taormina , filled to the brim in summer.

There’s also Puglia , with the stunning Salento region, Alberobello and its trulli, and charming Gargano, the picturesque city of Matera in nearby Basilicata, and naturally Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. 

Top tip – if you’re making it all the way to Sicily, don’t miss Syracuse in winter! The town is quite far south, so it never really gets cold, and winter is the ideal time to explore its unique blend of Greek ruins and Baroque architecture , and enjoy some tasty Sicilian sweets overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. 

7) Perfect Time for a SPA Break

Did my recommendation of a wellness-focused visit to Italy in winter tickle your fancy? You may be happy to know that winter is a great time for a SPA holiday in Italy!

Most spas and wellness centres are open year round, and feature hot water pools outside. There’s nothing more pleasant than bathing in thermal water with the snow all around you!

Once again, visiting spas in winter is the best way to avoid the crowds , especially if you do so during the week, as weekends are busy year round. Two places I really love for a spa break are Salsomaggiore Terme and QC Terme Dolomiti in Pozza di Fassa – but for the ultimate treat, opt for a spa hotel like one of these!

• QC Terme Bagni Vecchi
• QC Terme Bagni Nuovi
• QC Terme Monte Bianco
• QC Termeroma Spa & Resort
• Parco Termale di Villa dei Cedri

8) Perfect Time to visit Italy’s Best Cities

Winter is the perfect time to visit Italy’s best cities – personally, as a local, I refuse to visit tourist hotspots like Rome, Venice and Florence in any other season, because I can’t deal with the crowds and rude tourists treating these ancient cities as their own playground.  

Rome in winter is a really great place to visit. The weather is often warm and sunny, and it’s not overrun with tourists – during my last visit last year, there was no queue whatsoever at the Vatican Museums and Colosseum , and we were able to enjoy our visit without having to constantly dodge selfie sticks. 

My hometown Milan in winter is not blessed by the lovely weather of Rome, but we have lots of events – Christmas markets, ice rinks, Carnival parades, and great shows and exhibitions to enjoy.

On top of that, winter is also the ideal time to eat our hearty traditional food (more on this later…), Christmas and Carnival sweets, not to mention it’s the best time to snag shopping bargains!

Another city worth visiting in the winter is Turin. It’s one of the closest major cities to the Alps, and it is home to great museums and palaces, from the time when it was Italy’s capital.

It has a noble, genteel feel, which truly at its best in winter – and make sure you sit at one of Turin’s historic cafés and order a bicerin , a coffee and chocolate concoction that is probably the best winter drink ever.

9) Christmas Markets

Did you think Christmas markets were just a German thing? Well, guess what – you’ll find them in Italy as well , all through December. 

Most major cities in Italy have Christmas markets – Florence has the famous Santa Croce Market , in Milan there’s a nice market near the Darsena , and even though the historic Piazza Navona market in Rome has closed a couple of years ago, there’s another one not far from Piazza di Spagna. 

However, Italian Christmas markets tend to be tackier and not quite as cute as German ones – if it’s that vibe you’re after, your best bet would be heading to Trentino or South Tyrol, close to the Austrian border, where you can find some really adorable Christmas markets. 

The best known Christmas markets in Italy are the ones in Trento, Bolzano, and Merano – but they’re often crowded with visiting day-trippers.

Smaller Trentino towns also have great Christmas market with a more ‘local’ atmosphere – two great examples of this are the market at Canale di Tenno near Lake Garda , and the one in Rango , not far from Madonna di Campiglio.

10) Christmas Traditions

Christmas in Italy is not all about the markets! It’s also the perfect time to see Italian cities and villages all decorated with sparkling baubles and lights , and marvel at the huge Christmas trees placed in major squares – yes, indeed, sometimes they could be better looking, as in the case of Rome’s famous Spelacchio ! 

Christmas trees and lights are found all over the world, but there’s another typically Italian Christmas tradition – presepi , meaning Nativity scenes.

Most families display a Nativity scene in their own home , which could be as simple as a tiny wooden house with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, or an elaborate set-up complete with mountains, streams and moving parts. 

If you like Nativity scenes, you can’t miss visiting Naples . Not only will you find many intricate Nativity sets on display in churches and squares, but there’s also an entire street in the historic centre dedicated to Nativity sets and statuettes – it’s Via San Gregorio Armeno , sometimes called ‘Christmas Alley’ in blogs and guidebooks. 

Epiphany is also celebrated in Italy on January 6th , and marks the official end of the Christmas festivities. Families also exchange gifts on this day – all Italian children will tell you that their homes are visited by the Befana , a benevolent witch-like figure riding a broom.

The Befana brings a stocking filled with sweets to good children, and charcoal to naughty ones – if you’re not sure, or simply want to play a prank, you can also purchase charcoal-shaped sweets!

11) Winter Sales and Discounts

Fashion lovers, rejoice! If you happen to be in Italy in winter , after the Christmas craziness is over, you can snap up some awesome deals on fashion and accessories, even from the most exclusive designer boutiques. 

The Italy winter sales traditionally start on the first Saturday in January , even though some stores start offering discounts even earlier. The first day of winter sales in Italy is a big deal , especially on high-end shopping streets, and famous designer shops hire extra security and often have queues snaking around the block. 

Winter sales in Italy last approximately 6 weeks , ending in mid-Feb when spring/summer collections start making their appearance. Sales start at around 20 or 30% on the first week or so, and then increase to 50% or more by the end of the sales period. 

12) Enjoy Italian Winter Food

Winter in Italy is also the ideal time to indulge in cold-weather comfort food , as well as a tasty array of Christmas sweets!

Pizza and pasta can be enjoyed year round – in winter, make sure you also try some heartier dishes like polenta , boiled cornmeal served with stewed meat and/or mushrooms, and pizzoccheri , a Lombardia winter dish made with buckweat pasta and oodles of cheese. 

If you’re visiting Milan in winter , some old-school restaurants may offer cassoeula , a stew including cabbage, sausages, and various pork pieces – every bit as delicious as it sounds. All through Northern Italy , winter is also the time to enjoy bollito , a selection of meats cooked in broth with sauces and mustard-candied fruit served alongside. 

As far as winter sweets go, every Italian region seems to have their own – but the two found on most family tables on Christmas day are definitely panettone and pandoro.

Panettone is a Milanese raised cake with raisins and orange peel, while Pandoro is originally from Verona, and it’s a star-shaped raised cake with lots and lots of butter. 

Next time you visit Italy in winter you’ll have to decide if you’re team Panettone or team Pandoro. My heart goes to Panettone!

13) New Year’s Eve Parties

After Christmas is done and dusted, the whole of Italy will be thinking about what to do for New Year’s Eve. Most cities organise outdoor concerts and parties in the main squares.

In Milan, there’s always a New Year’s party in Piazza del Duomo , in Florence you can head to Piazza Michelangelo , in Rome the best party is at Circo Massimo , and in Venice there’s always something going on in Piazza San Marco. 

Are you not a fan of crowds and loud music? If that’s the case, your best bet is spending New Year’s in a restaurant , usually offering a special menu (for a price ranging between €50-100) or in your own hotel. 

Another very Italian thing to do on New Year’s Eve is heading to a club until the next morning – however, be aware that entry tickets may be pricey and you’ll have to book a few days in advance. 

14) Venice Carnival

After some quiet winter time in January, Carnival season kicks off in early February! Venice Carnival is probably the best known in Italy, and definitely worth a visit, despite the crowds. 

In 2020, Carnival celebrations in Venice will start with a floating parade down the Grand Canal on February 9th , and then will continue on the following Saturday with the traditional Festa delle Marie , a kind of pageant where 12 beautiful young ladies are dressed in period costume and parade around the city, before one of them is elected Maria dell’Anno (Maria of the Year).

However, the official event to open Carnival will take place on the day after – I’m talking about il Volo dell’Angelo , when the previous year’s Maria ‘flies’ on a zip line from the San Marco belfry all the way to Doge’s palace. 

This marks the beginning of a nine-day extravaganza of parades, balls, and private parties in the city’s most exclusive palazzos, taking Venice back to the decadence of Casanova’s time.

If you don’t have an invitation, fear not – it’s still a magical time to visit Venice , with locals and tourists alike in 18th century attire wandering around the city, making you feel as if you were dream.

15) …And Many Other Carnivals

Yes, Venice Carnival is beautiful, but it’s really crowded. Luckily, if you happen to be in Italy in February, you can enjoy Carnival celebrations in pretty much all cities and villages!

Carnival refers to the time of fun and revelry just before Lent , and so exact dates change every year depending on when Easter will be. The highlight of the celebrations usually takes place between the Saturday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday , and usually involves floats, street parties and dancing.

One of the coolest places to be is Ivrea , a town in Piedmont home to the crazy Battle of the Oranges , where teams on foot or on the back of horse carts belt oranges at one another. Ouch!

Other unique Carnivals can be enjoyed in Viareggio , where you can see some very elaborate floats inspired by politics and current affairs, and in Mamoiada , a Sardinian town famous for its masked characters, mamuthones and issohadores.

Departures for winter holidays in Italy, an unforgettable time, lost in the scents and flavours of tradition. Get inspired by the magical Christmas atmosphere

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Forni di Sopra ski resort: relaxation, fun and sports in the Friulian Dolomites

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If it's true that each season adorns our beautiful Peninsula with uniqueness, winter certainly drapes our cities and mountains in an enchanted blanket that immerses us in a fairy tale. With its soft whiteness, the snow makes landscapes gentle and welcomes our steps in an enveloping silence.

An atmosphere that becomes even more magical during the holidays.

Choose the location you prefer and enjoy a glimpse into breathtaking landscapes, charming Christmas markets, and stunning ski slopes.

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Five not to be missed ski resorts in trentino.

The Amalfi Coast in winter: 4 excellent reasons to visit

7 destinations for winter weddings in northern Italy

5 snowparks in Italy for high-speed fun in the snow

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Blog Amalfi Coast and Naples The Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter

The Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter

As Italy groans under the weight of its exponential increase in summer visitors, we are starting to nudge our clients towards the quieter early spring (March/April) and late fall (October/November) seasons to avoid the crowds, heat, and general chaos that can mar a summer trip. 

But we are also encouraging travelers to consider winter trips from December to March , when the entire country gets a chance to breathe again, there is more availability from hotel rooms to museum tickets, and guides and drivers are rested and relaxed. That said, there are certainly some caveats to a winter trip: the weather can be unpredictable ; there are certain destinations that essentially close for the entire season; and simple pleasures like outdoor dining and basking on the beach are generally off the table. 

The most important factor in a winter trip is the choice of destination. There are some spots in Italy that delight all year round, and others that are decidedly seasonal and can be a challenge to enjoy (or even simply visit) in the winter. Here are the best places to visit in Italy in winter plus a few areas to avoid in the off-season.

Great Winter Destinations in Italy

The Eternal City is enchanting no matter what the season.

Winter weather in Rome is neither arctic nor balmy (though it is decidedly warmer than much of the US), and you can definitely catch days that are particularly nippy or wet. But one thing is guaranteed during a winter visit to Rome: no crowds. You can enjoy famously chaotic sights like the Vatican and Colosseum in peace, nab tables at the most popular trattorias, and wander A-list neighborhoods like Monti and Trastevere feeling like a local. On sunny days, the city’s open-air sites and charming backstreets beckon; when the weather becomes less inviting, museums and churches offer eye-candy shelter. The Romans are also more welcoming in the off-season, when their city is more livable and tourism less disruptive for residents.

Warmer climes on the island just a few nautical miles from Africa

You probably won’t be able to take a dip in the sea (though some seasons are mild enough that winter bathers make the evening news), but Sicily is one of the best places to visit in Italy in winter if you’re looking for Mediterranean climes. The average winter temperatures hover around 60° and the island gets very little rain, so the chances of being able to sit outside for a cappuccino, hike, or bike are relatively high. We planned both Thanksgiving and Christmas trips to Sicily just last year , and our clients were able to spend much of their time outdoors either visiting ancient sites or hitting the trails. While tourist crowds are almost non-existent, the island’s cities bustle with locals during winter months, the UNESCO-listed ancient sites stay open all year round, and opera and concert seasons are in full swing, so you can get a peek at SIcily’s sumptuous historical opera houses.

Savor the rare months of the year when this gem isn’t overrun with tourists.

Venice has become so packed over the past few summer seasons that it’s a challenge to enjoy the city between May and September. We encourage our clients to get off the beaten path and explore the quieter “sestieri”, but there’s no escaping the throngs in St. Mark’s Square and other must-see sights. Though Venice is bone-chillingly cold in winter, its magical atmosphere makes it one of the best places to visit in Italy in winter. Quiet, misty, romantic…this is the Venice of postcards. Since the city has a year-round tourist season, hotels and restaurants are still open, plus there are no lines at the A-list sights, and gondolas continue to glide along the canals (with lap blankets provided to keep you warm). The only exception to this serene vibe is during the Carnival celebrations in February, when the city comes to life and parties like no other.

The Dolomites

Ski the most majestic peaks in Europe.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning alpine landscapes in the world, the Dolomites are particularly spectacular in winter. Dramatic serrated peaks jut above stone pinnacles and spires, with pristine expanses of forest below. You can spend your time here reveling in the views, or enjoy some of the best skiing in Europe . This mountain range is home to luxurious resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo and Madonna di Campiglio, though the Dolomites are also fascinating for their unique Tyrolean history and culture, which includes a distinct language and cuisine.

Worst Places to Visit in Italy in Winter

Most of Italy is prime for a winter visit, but there are a few destinations that we generally discourage for winter visits (though even these have exceptions…we planned a trip for clients in December on the Ligurian Riviera and they had a fabulous trip!). Here are a few places you should probably cross off your list from November to March:

Beach Towns 

The coastlines along the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian shut down in winter. 

The resort towns that line Italy’s coast virtually shutter when the summer season ends in September. Beach clubs close up shop, hotels and restaurants take a much-needed break, and the “la dolce vita” vibe that makes these waterfront hot spots charming under the summer sun vanishes completely. One exception is the resort town of Viareggio along the Tuscan coast, famous for its Carnival festivities in February.

The Islands

Don’t risk getting stranded when winter storms roll in.

Aside from Sicily, Italy’s smaller islands are not particularly attractive winter destinations. Most hotels, restaurants, and other services close up shop, the weather is unpredictable, and the pretty towns are more or less vacant. In addition, choppy winter seas mean that you might get stuck for a day or two if the ferry and taxi boat routes are suspended.

Hilltowns in Tuscany and Umbria are cold and damp come November.

Postcard-perfect from spring through fall, the charming medieval villages the clients love to visit in Tuscany and Umbria are decidedly unwelcoming for much of the winter. Those stone castles, monasteries, and farmhouses that are delightful in the summer become bone-chilling in the winter, plus restaurants and other services close down from Christmas to Easter and the weather can be wet for days on end. You may get lucky (we had clients in Montepulciano for a week in January and the weather was divine), but don’t risk it.

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Is Italy worth visiting in winter? A guide on what to see and things to do

If you're seeking to escape the winter and its chilliness, then southern Italy may be the perfect destination for you. It is perfect to travel on a budget.

Last Update: December 9, 2023

• Destination

Absolutely, Italy is worth visiting in winter. Even though Italy gets quite chilly in winter, with temperatures around 10°C on average, visiting during the off-season has some great advantages.

The famous sights are way less crowded, accommodation prices drop significantly, and the Christmas markets create a magical atmosphere. We would choose winter over summer in Italy any day!

Is it good idea to visit Italy in winter?

Winter is an excellent time to visit Italy. With fewer tourists, you can really immerse yourself in the local culture. The cities feel more authentic, and many world-famous art galleries and museums are quiet.

We love strolling around and soaking up the atmosphere without fighting through crowds. As long as you wrap up warmly, winter is ideal.

Read Also: Best destinations to visit in Italy in winter

Is Italy expensive in winter?

Italy gets much more affordable in winter. Peak season accommodation can be extremely expensive, but hotel rates drop by 40-50% between November and March . Eating out is cheaper too, as restaurants try to entice customers in.

Activities like guided tours or cooking classes offer great low-season discounts. With strategic planning, we’ve visited Italy very reasonably in winter.

Is it better to visit Italy in summer or winter?

Winter is better for avoiding crowds, while summer offers long sunny days and warmer sea temperatures. In summer, popular destinations get very busy and prices spike. But Italy is charming year-round. We prefer winter for a more relaxed, cultural trip focusing on sightseeing, food and wine. Summer suits beach holidays better. It depends on your interests, but you can’t go wrong visiting in either season!

Read Also: Best places to visit Italy in Summer

Is it worth going to Italy in December?

December is a wonderful time to visit Italy – the Christmas spirit is in full swing! Twinkling lights decorate historic city centers, nativity scenes adorn churches and squares, and festive markets sell handcrafted gifts. As Italians celebrate holiday traditions, you’ll experience the country at its most magical. With far fewer tourists than summer, December gives you the chance to experience Italy’s heart and soul.

Read Also: A guide to Naples at Christmas

Is Rome worth it in winter?

Rome dazzles in winter. The weather is cool but comfortable for sightseeing, and major attractions like the Colosseum , Roman Forum and Vatican Museums are uncrowded. At Christmas, St Peter’s Square and the Pantheon host beautiful nativity scenes.

Enjoy warming cups of Italian coffee as you explore Rome’s atmospheric streets and piazzas. With so much history and culture, Rome enthrals year-round but is truly special in winter.

Read Also: What looks like Rome in Winter

Is Milan worth visiting in winter?

Milan makes a vibrant winter city break. While summer’s heat can be oppressive, the cooler months are perfect for strolling the glossy shopping boulevards and galleries. The lively aperitivo bar scene beckons after dark.

Don’t miss La Scala opera house and Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper”. And Milan creates a festive wonderland at Christmas time! With relatively mild winters, Milan dazzles year-round but we especially love it in winter.

Read Also: What looks like Milan in winter

How cold is Italy in winter?

Winters in Italy are cooler than you may expect, with average temperatures of 10-15°C . In the north, including Milan, winters feel colder with more rain and occasional snow – light jackets and layers are essential.

Rome and southern Italy have milder winters , but you’ll still need a coat, scarf and gloves for sightseeing. Pack waterproof shoes as rain is common. Once you’re prepared, Italy’s winter chill is easy to enjoy!

READ ALSO: 15 Reasons why Italy is a good idea for a winter escape in Europe.

Is Italy rainy in winter?

Italy can be rainy in winter, especially in the north. Rome averages 60mm rainfall in December. Pack a small umbrella or waterproof jacket, and be prepared for showers. However, winter rains usually pass quickly.

On sunny days, averages of 5-10°C still feel pleasant in the bright Mediterranean sunlight. The rain creates beautiful reflections as it drizzles over ancient monuments! With the right gear, don’t let winter showers deter you from visiting Italy .

Read Also: How to skip the crowds at the Colosseum in Rome

Should you visit Italy in winter?

Italy dazzles year-round, but winter provides an enchanting atmosphere with fewer crowds and lower prices. Be prepared for chilly weather and occasional rain, but don’t miss out on Italy’s history, food, and festive magic!

READ ALSO: 13 Amazing things to do in Puglia in winter

What is Italy like in winter?

Italy takes on a magical atmosphere in winter. Christmas lights adorn historic buildings and nativity scenes fill piazzas. Families gather around traditional holiday meals. Northern cities like Milan become festive winter wonderlands with ice skating rinks and Christmas markets. In Rome and Florence, you’ll have ancient sites nearly to yourself. With fewer crowds, Italy feels more intimate and authentic. Just bring warm layers to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting Italian winter!

Visiting Italy in winter is an excellent idea for several reasons:

• Crowds are much smaller at popular sights like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums and Uffizi Gallery compared to peak summer tourist season. You can appreciate the sights peacefully without fighting through hordes of other travellers.
• Prices are lower for flights, hotels, tours and attractions in the off-season. You can visit on a budget and still enjoy world-class art and culture.
• Italy has a festive atmosphere in winter with Christmas markets, lights and nativity scenes creating holiday magic.
• The weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing , with average temperatures of 10-15°C. Occasional rain can be managed with an umbrella and warm layers.
• Lovely winter cuisine like oven-baked pastas, stews and soups are perfect to sample.

So if you don’t mind bundling up a bit, visiting Italy in winter is an amazing experience without summer crowds and expenses. We highly recommend it!

Other questions you might have about winter in Italy

 is italy expensive in winter.

Italy gets much more affordable in the winter low season. Flight and hotel prices can be 40-50% lower between November and March compared to peak summer rates. For example, a hotel that costs €200 per night in August could be found for €100 in January. Even luxury hotels offer great discounts. Activities and tours are also cheaper. By travelling in winter, you can experience world-class art, cuisine and culture in Italy on a budget.

What time of year is cheapest in Italy? 

The cheapest time to visit Italy is typically November to March, excluding Christmas and New Year’s weeks. Crowds are lower and hotels/flights offer major discounts during these cooler winter months. Summer, especially July and August, is extremely expensive with peak airfares and accommodation rates. Shoulder seasons like September-October and April-May offer a happy medium of decent weather with fewer tourists.

READ ALSO: How to travel to Naples, Italy on a budget.

What month is cheapest to visit Italy?

If you’re looking for the cheapest month, January is a great option . The weather is chilly but you’ll find the rock-bottom prices typical of winter. November and February are also excellent choices for affordable flights and hotels before and after the holiday peak.

With strategic planning, Italy can be enjoyed relatively inexpensively any time between November and March ( aside from Christmas and New Year’s) .

READ ALSO: Best time to visit Amalfi Coast

Is December a bad time to visit Italy?

Far from it – December is a wonderful time to visit Italy! The Christmas spirit creates a magical atmosphere with lights, markets and nativity scenes . Key sights are less crowded than other months. The only caveat is that flights and hotels may be more expensive around Christmas and New Year’s weeks.

But the rest of December offers seasonal charm without summer tourist crowds. With an umbrella and warm coat, December is ideal for soaking up Italy’s festive ambience.

READ ALSO: A guide to Puglia at Christmas, places to visit and best experiences.

Is winter bad in Italy?

While Italy has cooler, wetter winters than summer, they are far from bad. In fact, winter has some key advantages like fewer crowds and lower prices. Major cities like Rome and Florence have mild enough weather to enjoy sightseeing.

You’ll just need to pack warm layers, waterproof shoes and a small umbrella. With the right preparation, winter is an underrated time to discover a more authentic, magical Italy beyond the tourist masses. Don’t be afraid to visit in winter!

READ ALSO: 20 Essential things to know before visiting Naples, Italy

Is Florence worth visiting in December?

Absolutely! Florence is enchanting in December, sparkling with Christmas lights on the Duomo and markets in Piazza Santa Croce. The weather is cool but pleasant for exploring the city’s treasures like the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David with fewer crowds.

Don’t miss strolling the Arno at sunset. Bundled up against the winter chill, Florence in December allows you to truly immerse yourself in the city’s beauty and history.

READ ALSO: 15 Incredible why Reasons why visit Florence, Italy

How long is ideal to spend in Italy? 

At least 1-2 weeks is recommended to make the most of a trip to Italy. It’s a big country and it contains a dizzying amount of world-class art, architecture, food and culture to experience. Within a week you could get a taste by focusing on Rome and Florence.

With two weeks, add time in Venice , the Tuscan countryside or Amalfi Coast. More time allows you to venture further to Naples, Milan, Cinque Terre and beyond. There’s so much variety across Italy that we’d suggest staying as long as your itinerary allows!

Hi travellers! Welcome to Italian Trip Abroad an award-winning travel blog, telling stories about our trips around the world, in search of the best destinations that tells stories. We love to offer deep guides, with the use of photos and videos. Read our story and how we got here!

Award-winning Travel Blog

Meet the Authors: Toti and Ale

We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Italian Trip Abroad and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way . You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross Italy and get on the most insane adventures. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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Italy in Winter: The Ultimate Italian Winter Vacation Guide

Planning a winter vacation? Get ready to discover the best things to do in Italy in winter. 

Everyone dreams of an Italian summer – but what if I told you that Italy in winter is equally as brilliant?

Look, I’m aware that it’s a hard sell – swapping beaches for slopes isn’t for everyone – but there’s so many fun things to get involved with, many only possible when the weather begins to cool.

I know the feeling of dread that looms when deciding where to venture for a winter holiday. And, I’ll admit, the allure of winter sun destinations in Europe pulls with quite a force.

But don’t rule out the chillier Italian climate – let me show you the best things to do.

Brilliant Things to do in Italy in the Winter

Embark on a wine-tasting adventure.

Sold? I thought so. 

In general, winter weather in Italy means a couple of things. One of them is that the harvest season officially comes to an end. And, what follows is the production of the best wines in the world. 

Locally the first batches, called ‘Vino Novello’, hit the shelves, and wineries around the country open their cellars to welcome you. Although you’ll find exceptional vineyards around Italy, Tuscany soars far above the rest. As far as an epic Italy travel guide goes, you shouldn’t skip the country’s wine culture.

Head to the Chianti Hills that surround Florence, Pisa, and Siena. Trust me. You’ll get to quench your thirst and dig into some art and history.

Tip: Book a Florence Chianti wine-tasting tour to explore picturesque vineyards and taste Italy’s best.

Explore Pompeii

Winters in Italy allow you visit some of the world’s best tourist attractions and locations without the crowds (and without sweating your t*ts off). The ancient city of Pompeii is one of them. 

Not having to push your way through waves of tourists makes exploring this fantastic historic site much better. Count me in for easy access to many of Pompeii’s highlights, cheaper admission and lower food and drink costs.

The only drawback? The closing time for Pompeii is earlier during these months – but still 5pm. Pompeii is also closed on the 25th of December and the 1st of January. 

Tip: Book a day trip from Rome , which makes adding Pompeii to your Italy itinerary much easier.  

Discover the Best Rome has to Offer

Speaking of Rome , for first-timers to the Eternal City, there is no better time to explore many of its highlights. You don’t need to be a globetrotter to understand why, as summer in Italy draws immense crowds. 

So logically, a winter holiday in Italy is the best time to explore iconic attractions such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, or the Trevi Fountain. With Italy’s winter temperatures relatively mild, days spent admiring these icons are far more enjoyable than in summer.

When is the best time to visit Rome if you’re on the hunt to immerse yourself in its historical sites? Well, explore the city during winter with this guided tour , and the answer becomes quite clear.

Tip: If you’re wondering how long to spend in Rome, check out my easy 3-day Rome itinerary . You can thank me later.

Go Skiing in the Alps & Dolomites

What’s an Italy winter without some epic skiing? I’m sorry, that was a trick question. 

Jetting down the slopes of the Italian Alps and Dolomites, some of the highest peaks in Europe , is a must. Winter sports are a big hit as the Swiss Alps chain along the north and the Apennines run down the middle.

Skiing opportunities are endless, from Mont Blanc in Courmayeur, close to the French border, to Mount Etna, Sicily’s infamous volcano. Tuscany’s snow-capped mountains and the hidden gems of Val d’Aosta beckon those looking for snowboarding.

As for other alpine winter activities, head to Gran Paradiso for some frosty hikes – history buffs and nature lovers, you’ll also love this as it’s Italy’s oldest national park.

Tip: Ready to discover the winter wonderland that is the Dolomites? I’ve covered everything you need to know about a winter visit to Trentino, Italy .

Catch a Football Game (or Two)

Not everyone is an avid thrill-seeker eager to soar down icy slopes, but Italy has the perfect alternative for any sports fan. One of the most beloved pastimes during Italy’s winter months is football season.

The entire country goes into a footie-frenzy from early November. So why not join them? With numerous matches played between local and international teams in stadiums around the country, it’s an experience you can’t miss.

Heck, even if you’re not a fan, the aura that the football season creates is infectious enough to make this a highlight. Enjoy a warm ‘cioccolata calda’ while draped in an emblazoned blanket in support of whoever is playing — it’s also a fantastic souvenir to take home.

Attend Carnevale Festivities

Nothing is more rooted in Italian tradition and culture than the annual Carnevale festival held during February. Think Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but with Italian flair and a much larger scale. Sounds like the ultimate party, am I right?

Well, that’s precisely what it is, a massive celebration that sparks joyous festivals in every major city around the country. Each city does Carnevale a little differently, so you’re in for a lot of fun.

Ivrea boasts staged battles throughout its streets, giant (and hilarious) floats parade through Viareggio, and thousands of locals in ornate masks descend on the streets of Venice.  

Tip: Celebrate in Venice and create your own Carnevale mask during this workshop hosted in the city. 

Go Museum Hopping

With the scorching weather no longer beckoning you outside, now’s a great time to head to some of the top museum’s in the country.

Explore places such as the Bargello Museum in Florence or the Galleria Nazionale in Perugia, filled with history and architecture. For some artsy infatuation, get lost within the Uffizi Gallery , also in Florence, or the Galleria Borghese in Rome. With fewer crowds, museum hopping is never as easy as during winter in Italy.

Tip: Amongst the fantastic things to do in Puglia , tour the Museo Nazionale Archeologico .

Spend A Night at the Theatre

Synonymous with music, Italy boasts the world’s premier classical music influence. As the birthplace of famous composers such as Monteverdi and Antonio Vivaldi, its boasting is pretty called for. 

One of the best things to do in Italy in winter is to attend an opera performance or classical concert. Italy brims with theatrics – from epic historical churches to specially built opera houses. 

Immerse yourself in a lavish opera at Teatro alla Scala in Milan or a masterfully orchestrated concert at Teatro La Fenice in Venice.

Tip: If you can’t attend a live performance, get this entry ticket and audio guide to La Fenice. An exceptional way to appreciate theatre without seeing a show.

Visit Some of the Best Christmas Markets

If you plan on having a whimsical winter holiday, nothing beats Christmas in Italy. And nothing screams Christmas like a festive market. Well, you’re in luck, as Italy is home to some of Europe’s best.

Italy’s northern mountain villages showcase markets unlike any you can imagine. But, in the south and popular cities, equally, grand fairs take place. One of the most famous is the market held in Piazza Navona in Rome. 

Not to be outdone; however, Salerno, close to Naples, becomes a festive feast for the eyes, while Trentino’s surrounding villages host small-scale markets.

Tip: One of the best places to experience an Italian Christmas is in Rome. Book this Christmas in Rome walking tour for some festive fun.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

I’d be remiss if I left out celebrating New Year’s Eve in Italy from this guide. Soon after the Christmas festivities around the country come to an end, the end-of-year ones kick into action.

Italians love New Year’s celebrations, and you’ll find plenty of parties and outdoor concerts hosted throughout the country. The most popular include those held in Piazza del Plebiscito in Naples, Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Circo Massimo in Rome, and Piazza San Marco in Florence.

Tip: Use my 10-day Italy itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the action taking place around the country.

Eating and Drinking Your Way Through Winter in Italy

Where to drink.

Does it get cold in Italy? Yes. Are there enough cosy pubs and bars to keep you warm? Yes. These are two of the best.

Oscar Wilde

An Italian winter holiday often requires the enticing welcome of a cosy pub, and Oscar Wilde in Jesi, Ancona offers just that. Based on the traditional Irish pub that started business in the 10th century, it’s the perfect spot for some classic ales and pub grub.

Il Mercante

The fantastic Il Mercante cocktail bar sits in front of the Basilica dei Frari in Venice. Inside is dim and moody, the perfect place to grab a winter warmer.

Cocktails here are crafted using fresh ingredients, and the menu features a wide range of classics as well as some rather unusual options.

Where to Eat

Italy’s winter weather does a lot more than create the perfect opportunities for sightseeing. It also stirs empty stomachs. Luckily, with this amazing guided food tour , or a trip to one of these two restaurants, you’ll be grinning from ear to ear.

Regina Bistecca

A few steps from the famous Duomo di Firenze you’ll find Regina Bistecca. An elegant restaurant in Florence that delivers traditional Tuscan delicacies with a modern spin. 

Take my word for it – the 21-day dry-aged Florentine steak is a must-try.

Trattoria Pennestri

Dining in Rome is just as unforgettable as anything else you’ll experience while in the city. The best place to find some Roman classics with a twist is Trattoria Pennestri. 

Each dish, from their appetisers to mains, is thoughtfully paired with wines from local producers. And their chocolate mousse with rosemary and sea salt is heavenly.

Where to Stay for Your Italy Winter Holiday

Belmond hotel cipriani (luxury).

Providing sweeping views of the Venetian lagoon, this 96-room luxury property personifies sophistication and opulence. The 5-star Belmond Hotel Cipriani aims to offer you a private and serene stay.

Check Prices and Availability

The H’All Tailor Suite (Mid-Range)

For a chic and stylish getaway in the upscale Borghese neighbourhood of Rome, the H’All Tailor Suite caters to luxurious needs at an affordable price tag. This stunning boutique hotel features 14 suites, each elegantly decorated with furnishings hand-crafted by local artisans.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Visit to Italy in Winter

• Although winter in Italy can get very cold in the north, the weather remains a mild and temperate aspect of your trip, so pack accordingly. And, if you’re not sure what to pack, check out my Italy packing list .
• Tourist numbers decrease during winter months in Italy, but the locals flock to the highlights and attractions. Be sure to check the availability of your planned activities in advance.
• If you’re stuck wondering which landmarks you should visit, read my guide to iconic landmarks in Italy you should add to your itinerary.

Winter in Italy: Map

Italy in Winter: Read Next

• Italy Packing Guide: Season by Season
• 20 Things to do in Rome
• 28 Famous Landmarks in Italy You Need to See
• 10 Days in Italy Itinerary
• Best Skiing in Europe: Where to Go

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Italy in Winter: Top 8 Destinations

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• ~ mins read

Italy is a magical place at any time of the year, but in winter it takes on a distinctive charm of its own. From snow-capped mountains and alpine ski runs to relaxed city breaks and a hint of Mediterranean sun, a tour to Italy in winter is bound to impress and delight!

The beautiful city of Venice is a wonderful place to visit during the winter months. The attractions and sites are quieter, and the air is clearer than during the summer when pollution and crowds can detract from the surroundings. Venice has something for everyone from gondola rides to beautiful baroque architecture and fabulous food and wine. If nothing else, relax with a coffee in St Mark’s Square, and enjoy watching the world go by Italian style.

• What to do: Take a gondola ride through the fog. The landscape in winter becomes even more mystical (great for photographs!) and there are fewer crowds, meaning no jostling of gondolas in the waterway. Wish for a light snowfall for the most magical experience!
• Best time to visit:  While winter in Italy starts in December, in January and February Venice is at its crisp, cold best with bright clear winter days.
• What to take: Venice is a city of fashion, you’ll see fur coats and stylish suits in abundance; be sure to dress to impress and to keep warm!

2. Palermo & Sicily

Palermo, Sicily's capital, is a good base for exploring this fabulous island. In December and early January, you’ll find an abundance of Christmas markets and nativity scenes adding to its charm. One can also try the coastal town of Cefalu for a beautiful beach and medieval charm. If you’re looking for a temperate climate and guaranteed winter sun, look no further than Sicily where you will find pleasant weather and a warm welcome throughout the winter months.

• What to do: Go to Termini Imerese, which is a half-hour car ride from Palermo. The town holds a Christmas nativity play in the streets, so you are actually a part of Italy's cult. It is a not-to-miss experience even for a non-religious person. The play even has belly dancers!
• Best time to visit:  A trip to Sicily is pleasant throughout the winter, visit in January or February for a dose of summer sun in contrast to the chills of northern Europe. But if you have your heart set on seeing some fantastic Christmas markets or doing some Christmas shopping, December is the time to go.
• What to take: You can ditch the winter thermals and opt instead for lighter spring clothing, don’t forget the sunscreen too!

Rome in winter is a sight to behold, Italy

Italy’s capital is quieter in the winter but no less beautiful, and with fewer crowds you can explore highlights such as the Vatican museums and the Roman Forum at a more relaxed pace. Along with a plethora of fashion stores you’ll find lots of opportunities for craft and art in Rome’s narrow winding streets. And after a hard day of walking, the city provides numerous bars and restaurants which at this time of year are quieter but no less atmospheric.

• What to do: Shop till you drop! Winter in Rome is the best time to cash in on the grand, holiday sales the stores have.
• Best time to visit: In December, Rome comes alive with the preparations for Christmas including the spectacular nativity scene in St Peter’s Square.
• What to take: If you’re planning to see the sights a good pair of walking shoes are essential, an umbrella is useful too for those sudden Roman downpours.

Exploring in the northern city of Turin provides a gateway to the Alps, and many skiers arrive here before heading to the mountains. But the city is a destination in itself. A particular highlight is the annual Luci d’Artista, a celebration of art through light, which sees the city lit up in many creative and imaginative ways. The city is also a food lover’s paradise with the original ‘Eatly’ store located here, showcasing the finest Italian produce. Be sure to check it out alongside the flourishing restaurant scene where Italian favourites are mixed with a decidedly alpine flavour!

• What to do: Enjoy Bicerin at Caffe Al Bicerin. Bicerin is a traditional Piedmontese drink, a decadent concoction of coffee, chocolate and cream, and the cafe serves the best of its version. A must-do if you are in Turin during winter.
• Best time to visit: Stay here before or after your ski trip and enjoy northern Italian hospitality.
• What to take: Close to the Alps, this most northern of Italian cities can get very cold during the winter; you’ll need appropriate clothing and good footwear.

5. The Amalfi Coast

During the winter a visit to Amalfi Coast provides an attractive proposition for those wanting a temperate climate and a pleasant seaside experience. Take a road trip along the coast when the area is quieter, and you can enjoy the coast without the crowds. It’s a particularly good place if you’re looking to do some winter walking; the coastal paths provide an ideal opportunity for longer hiking excursions , while the towns and villages come alive with celebrations during Christmas and the New Year .

• What to do: Find Pansa Pasticceria in Piazza del Duomo in Amalfi. It is as historic as the cathedral next to it, preparing sweets and pastries for two centuries. Pop in for some special local desserts that are only available during the holiday season. Otherwise, their famous panettone is a good bite any day. There are also concerts happening all around Amalfi during winter if you’re in for some good music.
• Best time to visit: Take a trip here in December to banish the early winter blues and enjoy the Amalfi coast without the crowds.
• What to take: You can opt for lighter clothing though temperatures can still be cool here during the winter months.

The Tuscan countryside, with its numerous picturesque medieval towns and villages, provides a stunning backdrop to an Italian winter break. Explore the wineries and vineyards, or take a pleasant walk in the countryside. The ski slopes at Abetone are only an hour or so away from Florence and winter also provides a time for truffle hunting – a famous Tuscan pastime! With the opportunity of combining stunning countryside with a visit to some of Italy’s most famous Renaissance sites, a winter break here is bound to impress!

• What to do: There are plenty of hot springs sprinkled all over Tuscany. Relax in the thermal water spas as you enjoy the snow-covered vistas around. Rent a classic luxury villa in Tuscany  for an escape and wake up to majestic views of the countryside in the morning. 
• Best time to visit: Visit for the New Year celebrations to see traditional Italy at its best or come in the late winter months for the first signs of spring.
• What to take: Snow isn’t unheard of here during the winter so warm clothes and good footwear are essential if you’re planning on getting out into the countryside.

The city of Naples is famous for its Christmas nativity scenes, something of a speciality throughout Italy but given a particular flare here during the festive season. Naples is one of the most atmospheric winter destinations in Italy. You’ll find the presepi (nativity scene) set-up from early December through to January and in Naples there are hundreds of examples across the city. Visit those on Via San Gregorio Armeno to see some of the best!

• What to do: Winter is sunny in Naples, so it is a great time to visit the beach and work on your tan, if the Christmas setting is not much of an attraction.
• Best time to visit: Between early December and January when the nativity scenes are displayed.
• What to take: You’ll need a good pair of walking shoes if you’re planning to see the hundreds of nativity scenes displayed, but with a more temperate climate you can pack lighter clothes and leave the thermals at home.

8. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo cannot be missed when one is speaking of winter in Italy. Known as ‘the Queen of the Dolomites’ this glorious landscape is a beautiful backdrop for any snow enthusiast. It has become a popular skiing destination after the Winter Olympics in 1956, and the town is well worth walking around for possible shopping escapades. You can even try your hand on the Olympic Bobsleigh run if you grow tired of the slopes!

• What to do: Ski!
• Best time to visit: December to March is ski season.
• What to take: It snows in Cortina so pack adequately for winter. Don’t forget your ski gear.

Italy is a fabulous country to visit at any time of the year but Italy in winter is something special. Wherever you choose to go, rest assured that you’ll find the famous Italian combination of good food, good wine, beautiful locations, and warm, friendly people on your Italy tour .

All these destinations can be a part of your customized tours to Italy with the help of our local travel experts . For more detailed information, read our travel article on the best time to visit Italy and/or how many days to spend in Italy .

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• What To Do In Italy
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• S Sarah Thomsen Bookmundi Staff Sep 08 2022 Hi Moises Thank you for your message. I see that you're interested in planning a trip to Europe. However, our travel experts do not recommend traveling to multiple countries. Since the majority of the time will be spent on traveling rather than enjoying the trip. We highly suggest you decide on certain destinations that are of your interest and plan accordingly. If you are open to suggestions, we would like to recommend Italy or France since they are the most popular travel destinations in Europe. It would also help our travel experts greatly if you could let us know your tentative budget per person for this trip. More information regarding any activities that you want to participate in or the sights you want to see would be much appreciated too. This information will help our travel experts prepare an itinerary as per your requirements. You can also email us at [email protected] to discuss your travel plans with our team and they will be able to assist you as per your requirement. I hope the above helps. Look forward to hearing from you.
• T Tuscany Untouched Tours Jun 03 2019 Hi Shelly, Val D’Orcia region in Tuscany is a beautiful place! Especially Montepulciano and Montalcino during Christmas, where you can see amazing Christmas markets. Driving in Tuscany is safe all over the year. You might find it a little tough if you drive above 800 m s.l.m and it could get a little annoying in the morning due to the mist in the morning. Overall, it will be absolutely fine. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions. Best, Matteo
• S SHelly Gleeson Jun 17 2019 Thank you for your reply. I will put some more info together and send through to see what you think. Shelly
• L Lisa Hopp Bookmundi Staff Feb 28 2019 Hi Indri, I am glad you liked our article. Thank you for dropping by! :)
• F FindYourItaly Nov 02 2018 Hi Maha, nice to see you are willing to visit our amazing country! in 15 days you will have time enough to experience local atmosphere as well as visiting some of the most famous spots in the world. Visit Palermo & Sicily or the Amalfi Coast for temperate climate; you can do enjoy some beach time without the usual crowd, indulge in some shopping and witness Christmas as well. If you are looking for a full package crafted by an expert let us know. Best, Andrea.
• M Marie Bookmundi Staff Sep 12 2018 Hi Maya, Thank you for the query. I have listed some Tuscany day trips below, all starting in Florence. Hope they will be of interest to you. 1. https://www.bookmundi.com/florence/tuscany-in-a-day-tour-from-florence-2582 2. https://www.bookmundi.com/florence/tuscany-day-trip-from-florence-1243 3. https://www.bookmundi.com/florence/chianti-afternoon-tour-from-florence-2585 4. https://www.bookmundi.com/florence/tuscany-by-e-bike-2628 5. https://www.bookmundi.com/florence/montalcino-pienza-and-montepulciano-tour-from-florence-2614 You can find some more at https://www.bookmundi.com/italy?did=557&daytours=1 I hope I was able to assist you. Do write back may you have more queries. Have a good day! :)

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7 unique things to do in Italy in winter

• December 18, 2022
• Italy , Europe

Whether you’re looking for some winter sun or a ski holiday, Italy’s got you covered! Italy boasts an incomparable historical, artistic, cultural, and gastronomic heritage. From head to toe of the peninsula, each region boasts world-famous cities and landscapes worth discovering. Even in winter, when everything is calmer and more relaxed, Italy offers countless things to do, see and experience.

A more authentic experience sans the crowds

Low season means lower prices, the holiday spirit, winter sports, the venice carnival, day of love festival in verona, christmas markets in wintery bolzano, witness the presepe in rome, escape underground in orvieto, explore the crowd-free naples, catch some winter sun in puglia, winter holidays and events in italy, does it snow in italy, what to pack for winter in italy, planning a trip to italy, why visit italy in winter.

If you’re picturing polar temperatures and boring rainy days, you are very wrong. A winter holiday in Italy can be a lot of fun and I honestly believe most Italian cities don’t get much better than on a sunny winter day.

There are several benefits to traveling to Italy in winter; fewer crowds, lower prices, and seasonal festivities. Plus winter sports and winter comfort food.

Winter in Italy gives you an opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful cities in Italy without the masses. There will be no waiting in line to see the attractions, you’ll get to share the streets with the locals. You’ll have the chance to sit down at the bar and chat with someone who knows the city inside and out. You’ll get to experience Italy as the Italians know it.

The colder months are generally considered low season, and therefore cheaper. Winter is the perfect time to snag a great deal on your accommodation and activities. A lot of the attractions will actually have flexible pricing that changes with the seasons according to demand.

And on top of that, January and February are a great times for shopping as the Saldi (sales) season starts.

In Italy, Christmas is a serious matter. You can expect a month filled with festivities, Christmas songs, nativity scenes, twinkling lights, and a country filled with Christmas markets.

The Italian Alps and above all the Dolomites, are renowned for their great ski slopes and fantastic snow conditions. The ski season in Italy generally runs from December to March.

A very popular place to spend your skiing holiday is Cortina d’Ampezzo, also known as the Queen of the Dolomites. Following the Winter Olympics in 1956, Cortina has become one of the most famous and popular ski resorts in Italy.

Unique things to do in Italy in winter

Italy sees less tourism in winter so you’ll get to enjoy this beautiful country  without the crazy crowds  and for a  more affordable price. On top of that, you’ll get to experience some really special events and festivities that only happen during the winter period.

Below is a selection of the best things to do in Italy in winter as suggested by Milijana of World Travel Connector, Lori of Travlinmad, Catrina of 24 Hours Layover, Linn of Brainy Backpackers, Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones, Cris of LooknWalk, and yours truly.

Venice is beautiful any time of the year and the main sights like Piazza San Marco and Doge’s Palace should be visited no matter the season, but winter in Venice also presents itself with the opportunity for some incredible experiences that are only possible during winter.

The Carnival of Venice is an incredible event that runs each year for 10 days leading up to  Ash Wednesday.  It usually occurs in February or early March but the exact dates vary each year.

The Carnevale in Venice kicks off with  The Flight of the Angel  at midday on the first Sunday of the carnival when an acrobat jumps off the San Marco Bell Tower and flies down a zipline landing on Saint Mark’s Square. Followed by a plethora of fun events like parades, balls, competitions, and historical traditions. During this time, Venice feels like a walk back in time with  costumes from seventeenth-century Venice.

The best area to base yourself in Venice is the San Marco district since it’s the most central and home to the majority of attractions in Venice. While excruciatingly expensive in season, the prices here are lower in winter so you’ll be able to afford a once-in-a-lifetime stay in the heart of Venice. My all-time favorite is Baglioni Hotel Luna .

Verona has been a symbol of eternal love ever since the love story of Romeo and Juliet got written. It is often referred to as the City of Love and Little Rome and is considered to be one of the most romantic destinations in Italy.

Beautiful Verona was the setting for Shakespeare’s love story and thanks to it, Verona is a popular destination among couples and honeymooners who seek lifelong romantic memories.

St Valentine’s Day, or the Day of Love, is a fabulous time for visiting Verona. Every February the city hosts the famous Verona in Love festival. This 4-day festival is a must-attend for romance seekers in Italy in winter. The entire city of Verona transforms into a love fairytale.

The city streets get decorated in shiny red and the entire city center soaks in the love-theme atmosphere. A large red heart-shaped carpet gets spread out on the Piazza dei Signori. The Lamberti Tower, the tallest building in Verona, gets illuminated in red. The entire Verona is wrapped in a red love vibe.

There is so much to do in Verona during the festival: from buying love-themed products and gifts on the street stalls and shops to listening to live music and concerts, as well as dining in love-themed restaurants in Verona.

Still, there is no visit to Verona without seeing the balcony and the statue of Juliet. The iconic stone balcony of Casa di Guileta that overlooks the statue of Juliet in the courtyard in the center of Verona is a must-visit site for lovers. Lovers touch the right breast of the statue of Juliet, wishing for eternal love.

Fantastic L’Evangelista Ristorante & Enoteca near Piazza Bra is a top-rated restaurant that serves  traditional Italian food  in Verona. A romantic dinner with risotto all Amarone, the famous dish from Verona, with local Amarone red wine, is a must. Or, bigoli pasta (the spaghetti of Verona) with anchovies or duck ragu! For the ultimate foodie experience make sure to join this food tour.

If you wish to celebrate love in Italy for Saint Valentine’s Day, head to Verona for Verona in Love festival! For a romantic getaway stay at Hotel Milano & SPA   which offers a rooftop jacuzzi in the heart of the city.

Italy conjures up visions of quaint cobblestoned streets and amber-hued landscapes, but winter in Italy is an especially magical time to visit, especially in the North.

If your plans include a visit to Italy this winter, don’t miss the city of Bolzano (Bozen in German). Located close to the border with Austria in South Tyrol, Bolzano sits nestled in a valley between the scenic Italian Alps that dominate the landscape.

With train service from major cities like Venice, Verona, Bologna, and Florence, Bolzano is easy to get to.

Many travelers to South Tyrol in winter come for the snow sports. Downhill and cross-country skiing on the nearby slopes in the Dolomites is mindblowing. And this snowshoeing excursion is a must winter activity in the area.

Another highlight of the winter season in Italy is a visit to one of the festive markets filled with delectable holiday foods, traditional gifts, and festive decor.

As the night sets in Bolzano, the Bolzano Christmas market lights up. Carolers are heard singing, and twinkling lights make their appearance in shop windows and on the facades of buildings all over town. Grab a mug of hot mulled wine and enjoy the scene at the largest of all the  Christmas markets in Italy .

Because of its proximity to Austria and Switzerland, local restaurants in Bolzano also serve traditional German-style foods and other local seasonal favorites of the region. Peters Patisserie is a must-stop around the holidays for sweets and hot chocolate.

The Parkhotel Laurin is a great choice for where to stay. It’s centrally located and just steps to the holiday market!

Discovering Rome in winter offers you a completely different experience compared to if you visit during the busy summer months. In winter you get to enjoy the city and sights without any tourists and get to see the special Christmas decorations and celebrations that are unique to Rome! Plus it often snows in Rome in winter, and seeing Rome covered in a white blanket of snow is simply magnificent!

There is a special magic and air of excitement in Rome during the festive period. Wander around the Christmas Markets during the day and then enjoy the spectacular Christmas trees and lights lit up after dark in all their glory.

The Christmas Market at Piazza Navona (open from early December until 6th January) has a really festive and lively vibe with children’s carousel and musicians all around. Wander around the stalls and admire the handmade gifts and nativity crafts. Be sure to try some of the delicious seasonal street food as well!

At St. Peter’s Square you’ll find the life-size nativity scene (“presepe”) – this is the largest and most elaborate Nativity Scene in Rome and is definitely worth a visit. Other churches in Rome also have their own smaller presepe – the best ones being around Piazza del Popolo and Santa Maria d’Aracoeli. You can visit them on this  Christmas walking tour.

Visiting Rome in winter means you get the opportunity to do and see so many special things that aren’t available throughout the rest of the year.

For example, you can spend a magical evening ice skating at the beautiful Castel Sant’Angelo overlooking the River Tiber, or attend Christmas Mass held by the Pope at St. Peter’s Basilica. You can also enjoy experiencing the famous sights and  Instagrammable places in Rome  such as the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum to yourself without the crowds!

When planning your Rome trip, make sure to book a central hotel such as H10 Palazzo Galla so all the main sights are just a short walk away. Rome is definitely best explored on foot!

One of the best things to do in Italy during the winter is to escape underground in Orvieto, where the temperatures are consistent year-round.

Only an hour and a half by train from Rome, Orvieto is a lovely excursion in the cooler winter months. Especially if it rains, it is better to spend the time underground, and most of the  best things to do in Orvieto  happen to be underground,

The main attractions are the Etruscan wells, the St. Patrick’s Well and the Pozzo della Cava. The walk down to the Pozzo di San Patrizio is incredible – winding down one way, and returning up the other so that the working animals wouldn’t collide on their way up and down. Pozzo della Cava includes two different wells, one Etruscan and one Renaissance well.

The other main attraction below the ground is, the aptly named, Orvieto Underground. This ancient town is jam-packed with tunnels and caves carved out in the limestone cliff where Orvieto is situated. The oldest rooms date back to Etruscan times, but the locals used the undergrounds for centuries after that.

Today, most of the underground labyrinths are privately owned, but there is a section that you can visit as part of this guided tour.

There are also many wonderful restaurants in Orvieto where you can fuel up with a pizza and a glass of wine. A great place to stay in Orvieto is the elegant Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini .

Naples is an excellent choice for a vacation in Italy in the winter. You’ll avoid the heat and the crowds of summer, and be able to enjoy Naples’ many attractions at a more leisurely pace.  Since Naples is on Italy’s Mediterranean coast, winter temperatures are mild compared to Northern Italy.

There are many  fantastic things to do in Naples , so you’ll want to spend a couple of days exploring the city.  Naples is chock-full of incredible monuments and architecture, and the historic center of Naples has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can spend a full day just wandering through Naples’ historic center and marveling at the architecture.

Start in Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest piazza. On one side you’ll find the stunning Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola, with Greek-style columns flanking the basilica’s entrance. And on the other side stands the restored Royal Palace of Naples, a lavish 17th-century palace. While you can see the gardens for free, book this tour to really experience this beautiful palace and its rich history.

Historic fortresses dot the cityscape and are must-see attractions during your stay in Naples. Admire Castel Nuovo, with its magnificent Renaissance triumphal arch, explore the imposing seaside Castel Dell’Ovo, or take a funicular to view the star-shaped hilltop fortress of Castel Sant’Elmo. From this hilltop vantage point, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Naples, the harbor, and Mount Vesuvius.

Naples is, of course, famous for being the birthplace of pizza. Why not take a street food tour and sample delectable Neapolitan cuisine while you learn about some of the city’s cultural attractions?

One of the perks of visiting Neaples in Italy are the lower hotel prices, so splurge a bit and enjoy a luxurious stay at the Grand Hotel Vesuvio for a fraction of the price. This 5- star hotel has a terrific location overlooking Castel dell’Ovo, the historic marina, and the beautiful azure waters of the harbor.

The main reason to visit Puglia (Apulia) in winter is to take advantage of the balmy Mediterranean climate. From December to February, the daytime temperatures stay around 10-16C (50-61F) with regular sunny days.

How warm the winter is in Puglia depends on your tolerance, of course. Someone used to colder temperatures (around 0C or below) would gladly walk around in a light jacket, while someone used to tropical weather, would add a couple more layers. However, the longer you stay in the area, the faster you adapt to the temperature and fewer layers are needed.

If you want to see the real Puglia, want to have the beaches for yourself (and share it only with locals who jog or walk their dogs), or avoid the summer crowds, winter is the best time to explore this magnificent Italian region.

Christmas is magical in the area. In Vieste you can witness living nativity scenes ( presepe vivente ), depicting Jesus’ birth. For this occasion, the entire Old Town turns into Bethlehem, with volunteers dressed up. Other towns where you can see living nativities include Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Tricase, and Matera.

Of course, there are Christmas Markets in the area too, and a charming one to visit takes place in Bari’s Old Town.

When in Puglia you should definitely take make some time to discover the local cuisine. The best way to do this is at a masseria. These are historic farmhouses, tucked away in the mountains and hills, where you can find olive, orange, and lemon groves. Eating here is a delight and a very elaborate affair where a lunch stretches well into the night.

You should also explore the local markets, which are bursting with produce even in winter. This market tour will take you through a market and end with a delicious dining experience, a must when in Puglia!

Bari is a great place to choose as your base to explore Puglia from. From Bari you can easily do day trips to  Alberobello , Polignano a Mare, Matera, Lecce, Ostuni, Treni, and more.

There are many events and celebrations all throughout winter in Italy and they can provide a truly unique experience.

These events can also impact the opening hours of shops, attractions, bars, and restaurants. Availability of accommodation and tours, as well as prices, might also be affected.

Below is a list of the most prominent dates you should be paying attention to when planning your winter trip to Italy and depending on where you’re heading there might be more local events and festivities to consider

24th of December Christmas Eve ( La Vigilia di Natale ) Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

25th of December Christmas Day ( Natale ) Expect shops, restaurants and tours to function in a limited fashion. Christmas lunch reservations are essential.

26th of December St. Stephen’s Day ( Il Giorno di Santo Stefano ) Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

31st December New Year’s Eve ( La Vigilia di Capodanno ) Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

1st of January New Year’s Day ( Capodanno ) Shop, restaurant, and tour operating hours might be affected.

6th of January Epiphany (La Befana ) Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

14th of February Valentine’s Day ( San Valentino ) Opening times are not affected. Dinner reservations are recommended.

School holidays Exact dates vary, expect a higher influx of visitors. Italian kids have their school break between Christmas and the Epiphany (exact dates vary each year). Other European countries will also have school holiday breaks during this time.

Carnival Exact dates vary, expect a higher influx of visitors, especially to Venice. The Carnevale di Venezia runs each year for 10 days leading up to  Ash Wednesday  and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Italy winter temperature & weather

Officially winter in Italy starts on the 21st of December and lasts till late March. There are big differences in temperatures and weather in the North and South of the country as well as between coastal towns and in the mountains.

Generally speaking winter in Italy is fairly mild but quite grey and humid, with the exception of higher altitudes where it can get fairly cold and snowy.

The coldest month is January with temperatures averaging between 12˚C (54˚F) in Sicily and -7˚C (19˚F) in Aosta in the North.

In the northern regions, there may be quite a bit of snow, especially if you want to travel in January. Central Italy has a slightly warmer climate, with a less intense winter season. The temperatures in the South, on the other hand, are never excessively low and you’ll begin to notice the first cold only from December onwards, while November can still be T-shirt weather.

Despite the calendar winter dates, keep in mind that November can often feel quite wintery too while March can often feel like spring. Make sure to check the specific weather data for the towns and areas you intend to visit as climate changes considerably throughout Italy.

Italy does get snow every winter. The northern and higher altitude areas get a lot of snow and are famous for their ski fields while coastal and Southern towns don’t often get snow. Therefore we can say that it will be difficult to find snow in Naples in winter, while maybe you will have a white Christmas when traveling to Bolzano.

Winter in Italy can wear many hats and can be pleasant and sunny one day, grey and foggy the next or rainy and wet the day after. As already mentioned, there is also a big difference in the weather across the country so you have to be prepared for it all.

Make sure to pack some good quality waterproof boots, a (preferably long) winter coat, a compact umbrella, gloves, scarf and hat, warm layers, but also sunglasses and sunscreen as the winter sun can be especially sneaky.

Shop these Winter essentials:

HUNTER Tall Boots

Columbia Long Down Jacket

Merino Socks

Columbia Winter Jacket

Wool Blend Wrap Coat

Windproof Travel Umbrella

USB Hand Warmer

Chelsea Boots

Hat Scarf & Gloves Set

Italy is such a stunning country that packs beautiful nature, astonishing architecture, rich history, interesting culture, loads of hand gestures, and delicious food. Oh, don’t even get me started on Italian food!

I’ve prepared a whole plethora of articles to help you  plan your Italian adventure  and if you’re planning a trip to Venice make sure to check out the relevant resources below:

Venice in winter: Best things to do in Venice in winter

Milan in winter: Best things to do in Milan in winter

Verona in winter: Best things to do in Verona in winter

Bologna in winter: Best things to do in Bologna in winter

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

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25 Things to Do, Eat and Enjoy This Winter in Northern Italy

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Italy , Lists , Veneto

Winter is a great time to find yourself in Northern Italy.

Free of the dense summer tourist crowds and with a rich calendar of events, the larger northern italian cities as well as the smaller local towns are a delight to explore. on most days the sun shines brightly and the skies are blue..

It’s true, it may get rather chilly and a bit foggy every now and then but it’s nothing that a thick jacket and a nice cup of Italian hot chocolate can’t beat.

A nice snowfall is guaranteed in the Alps and the Dolomites. And while you can’t swim in the sea and the many Northern Italian lakes, numerous spa resorts tempt you with gushing mineral springs feeding large swimming pools and whirlpool tubs.

In terms of major events, you have Christmas, New Year’s, St. Valentine’s, Carnival and International Women’s Day. All of this is intertwined with many large art exhibitions and cultural events.

So, the three months of winter in Northern Italy offer a lot to see and enjoy. Not to mention the many truly scrumptious (and sometimes even healthy) things to eat – from Carnival frittelle with creme patisserie to the tender local leafy green –  broccolo fiolaro  – the season of which starts in January.

As such, here is a nice and tidy list with twenty-five exciting things you can do this winter in Northern Italy. I hope that you find it helpful when you plan your weekend break, your family trip or your solo exploration of this beautiful part of the world.

For ease of reference, all of the suggestions below apply to the astronomical season of winter starting at the end of December and ending in the second half of March each year.

The lists with 25 things to do, eat and enjoy in Northern Italy in  autumn  and  spring are just a click away. Please, have a look at them, too as many of the suggestions in them are applicable to any season. The list for summer will be ready soon, too.

One more thing to get out of the way before we dive in. Geographically, all of the suggestions below refer to the eight Italian regions that together comprise the body of Northern Italy. They are Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige (South Tyrol).

Now, let’s start!

1. tick several christmas markets off your list.

Northern Italy has many great Christmas markets offering lots of fab shopping, vats of mulled wine, and lashings of festive atmosphere. Particularly famous are the Christmas markets in the autonomous region of Trentino-Alto Adige (South Tyrol). Yet, anywhere from Turin to Verona and all around the Northern Italian lakes, you are bound to come across many Christmas markets – some being set up for a day and some lasting almost two months from the middle of November to Epiphany on 6th January.

Click here for more information:

• Christmas Markets – Best 5 Things to Buy This Festive Season
• Christmas Guide 2018 for Northern Italy – The Complete List of Christmas Markets, Events, and Happenings

2. Delight in festive sweets and cakes

From panettone to pandoro , from torrone to panpepato  and from marron glace to tronchetto di Natale , winter comes to Northern Italy bringing at least a dozen seasonal sweets and cakes. Make sure that you have a slice or two of each in order to decide which one you love the most. Try both the supermarket versions (from the simplest to the most luxurious ones) and the ones made in local artisan patisseries. This will help develop your appreciation for the Northern Italian festive sweets and cakes.

• Points 41, 42, 43, 44 and 48 for a detailed explanation of Northern Italy’s festive sweets and cakes: Christmas in Italy – 50 Fun Facts About the Italian Holiday Season

3. Enjoy a white Christmas

Spending a white Christmas is a deeply entrenched Western European dream. You may have never thought that Italy (famous for its sun and beaches) could be the country to help you live your snowy dream. Yet, if you head to the small picturesque villages and the ski resorts of the Northern Italian Alps and the Dolomites, it is perfectly reasonable to expect a Christmas snowfall. The price tag will match. If it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience though, then why not treat yourself?! Look into Trentino-Alto Adige, the Aosta Valley and the Venetian Dolomites.

4. Celebrate Capodanno in the piazza

Capodanno is Italian for New Year’s Eve/New Year’s Day – from capo (head, boss) and d’anno (of the year). New Year’s Eve celebrations in Italy are traditionally held on the central squares of large cities and smaller towns. People get together for loud music and impressive firework displays.

Particularly famous is the Capodanno event in Ferrara  which attracts thousands of people each year. At midnight large fireworks literally seem to set on fire the majestic Castle of Este in the centre of the Rennaissance city.

5. See a New Year’s swim-off

Italians can be a bit pazzi . That means ‘crazy’ in English. In the best possible way, though! They come with some crazy ideas and then make them happen. Like the New Year’s swim-offs that take place in the icy waters of the Venetian Lagoon and Lago di Garda !

If on 1st January you find yourself either on the Venetian island of Lido or in the town of Riva del Garda which is on the shores of Italy’s largest lake, head over to the beach. As this is where the local club of Ibernisti  (or ice-swimmers in English) will take a cold, cold dip to celebrate the start of the New Year.

Be warned! You may need an extra glass of mulled wine to warm up after simply watching them having their fun in the icy waters.

• Check the New Year’s Eve / New Year’s Day category for details about the New Year’s swim-offs – Christmas Guide 2018 for Northern Italy
• Check point 8 for more information about Riva del Garda – Best 12 Towns to Visit Around Lago di Garda – Italy’s Largest Lake

6. Go on a Nativity Scenes trek

Nativity Scenes are a central part of the Christmas celebrations in Italy.  Also known as a manger scene or a crib in English, they are called  presepio  or  presepe  in Italian and are carefully arranged in churches, city squares and private homes all over the country.

The Nativity scenes represent the Holy Family in the stable. They can be small with tiny figurines or human-size. In many places, the whole town of Bethlehem is recreated in minute detail around the stable – from the marketplace with all sorts of stalls and craft workshops to many different animals, houses and even people going on about their daily lives.

Italians really pull out all stops in terms of Nativity Scenes. Between December and January, you can spend a happy afternoon in a large Northern Italian city like Turin, Milan or Venice simply traipsing from church to church to admire the Nativity Scene lovingly set-up in each one of them. Or you can head to a medieval village in the mountains of Northern Italy where dozens and hundreds of Nativity Scenes have been dotted all through the cobbled streets, in the roots of large trees, in the stone walls of the gardens and any other possible place you can imagine.

• Photos from the Nativity Scenes exhibition in the abandoned village of Campo di Brenzone, Lake Garda
• Check the Nativity Scene Displays and Exhibitions category in Christmas Guide 2018 for Northern Italy – The Complete List of Christmas Markets, Events and Happenings

7. Meet Befana and learn more about this unique Italian Christmas gift-bearer

If you happen to be in Northern Italy on Epiphany – 6th January – head to the central square of the town or city you are in. Chances are, there will be a large event for kids at which an old lady riding a broom and having a rather unfortunately large nose will be the guest of honour. This is Befana – a Christmas gift-bearer unique to Italy. She visits the good and not-so-good Italian children on the night of the 5th to the 6th January bringing sweets and presents for the former and a piece of coal for the latter.

• Point 5 in Italy’s Five Christmas Gift Bearers
• The Good Witch Befana

8. Celebrate Leonardo da Vinci’s life and genius

In 2019, Italy marks the 500th anniversary of the death of one of its most renowned sons – Leonardo da Vinci. Events and happenings dedicated to his genius will be taking place all over the country all throughout the year.

In Northern Italy and, most importantly, in Milan, there will be a rich palette of events officially starting on 2nd May 2019. After all, Leonardo spent 17 years in Milan – the most productive period of his life.

Even though the bulk of initiatives will be held come late spring and then summer 2019, this winter you can still get close to Leonardo in Milan. Head over to the city’s National Museum of Science and Technology to see Leonardo da Vinci Parade – an exhibition of real-life models constructed following Leonardo’s designs.

Also, don’t miss the Leonardo3 Museum and trace Leonardo’s footsteps all over Milan with the help of the detailed information and apps prepared by the city’s tourist board.

9. Attend a festival, a fair or an exhibition

There are dozens if not hundreds of festivals, fairs and exhibitions taking place all over Nothern Italy this winter. From the Motor Bike Expo in Verona in January to the International Record and CD Fairs in Genoa and Bergamo in February, from the Fair of Sant’Orso that has been held in the Aosta Valley for more than a thousand years to the Live Wine artisan wine event in Milan in March, Northern Italy is brimming with exciting happenings vying for your attention.

• Events in Italy – 6 Ways to Find the Best Italian Festivals, Fairs and Happenings for an Experience of a Lifetime

10. Treat yourself to a classical concert in a church or an opera performance

Italy is the country of music and Northern Italy is the birthplace of many composers whose names we all know no matter how big or small our knowledge of classical music is. For example, Monteverdi and Vivaldi.

In addition, the acoustics offered by the numerous churches and specially built opera houses are parallel to none. Enjoy a concert during your time in Northern Italy. It could be a lunchtime performance in a church in a medieval walled town or a lavish opera in the worldwide known Teatro alla Scalla in Milan or Teatro La Fenice in Venice.

You will leave with a new appreciation for classical music and a memory to last you a lifetime. By the way, if your budget doesn’t really stretch to purchasing a ticket for the Northern Italian opera houses (they can be very expensive, I know!), look into visiting them during the day when they open their doors to tourists for a very reasonable fee.

• Teatro La Fenice in Venice, Italy – The Opera House with the Phoenix Factor
• Exploring Venice – The Museum of Music
• Video from the museum at  Teatro alla Scala in Milan

11. Indulge in a cup of Italian hot chocolate

The Italians have come up with a genius solution to keep the winter chill at bay. During the cold months of the year, they indulge in cups of hot chocolate. Known as cioccolata calda in Italian, this is a seriously thick and gooey drink which, if you wish, can be crowned with a mound of freshly whipped cream. It’s heaven after a long day of sightseeing around churches and museums.

• Italian Hot Chocolate or 3 Cosy Places to Enjoy a Proper Cioccolata Calda in Vicenza Now

12. Shop in the winter sales

The retail sales are a big thing in Italy. They happen twice a year – once in January and once in July – and can last up to six-eight weeks each time.

As you can imagine, Italy has some of the best shopping in the world. With the home-grown high fashion designers and the myriad of local artisans, there is a never-ending stream of opportunities here to buy some lovely stuff.

Clothes, ceramics, jewellery… Anything your heart desires you will find it in Italy. If you can wait until the sales (called Saldi in Italian), you can get it all at a snip of the original retail price. Especially towards the end of each sales period.

13. Head to the mountains to ski, sled, snowboard and for lots of apres-ski fun

Flanked by the Alps and the Dolomites, a great part of the winter appeal of Northern Italy lies in the opportunities it gives to winter sports aficionados to practice their sport. Opportunities for skiing, sledding and snowboarding abound. From expensive resorts to cheap pistes and sledding hills, there is something for everyone no matter how deep his pocket is or what is his level of snow skill.

14. Skate on an ice rink set up on a historical square

You don’t have to trek all the way to the mountains in order to practice a winter sport in Northern Italy, though. In all its largest cities and smaller towns, temporary ice rinks are set up in December and remain there until the end of January. Or even until the beginning of March as it is the case with the ice rink at Campo San Polo in Venice in 2019.

Skates can be rented on site. There are even supports shaped like cute polar bears and penguins to help the newbies in the sport. Glide away!

The best bit is that these temporary ice rinks are set up on some of the most beautiful Northern Italian historical piazzas. So, you can skate and admire world-class architecture at the same time.

15. Eat at a sagra

A sagra  (pl. sagre ) is a food festival dedicated to a particular foodstuff which is locally cultivated or produced. It could be peas , a particular type of salami or even cherries . All the food served at the festival will be based on the foodstuff to which the  sagra  is dedicated.

If you find yourself in Northern Italy in winter, don’t miss to tick a sagra  off your bucket list. These food festivals are a lot of fun. The food is very reasonably priced and very tasty to eat. Plus, you will be surrounded only by locals.

In the Veneto, a particularly popular winter  sagra  is the one dedicated to the  broccolo fiolaro – a leafy green which is cultivated in the area of Creazzo in the province of Vicenza .

• The Veg That Rocked – for a description of the sagra dedicated to the  broccolo fiolaro
• Point 9 in Italian Food – 13 Ways to Eat Well in Italy Without Breaking the Bank

16. Celebrate the Day of St. Anthony the Abbot

On 17th January Italy celebrates the day of St. Anthony the Abbot. Also known as St. Anthony the Great and the Father of all Monks, he was a Christian monk and hermit from Egypt who lived an ascetic life renouncing all worldly temptations.

St. Anthony the Abbot is often depicted with a pig at his feet. Some believe that this is because he spent several years of his life working as a swineherd. Others think that the pig is a symbol of all the temptations that the devil sent to the saint to test his faith and resolve.

Nowadays, the Saint is venerated as a protector against the devil and as the patron of all farm animals. A legend from the Northern Italian region of the Veneto states that on the night of the 17th January the animals acquire the skill to speak. On this night, the farmers had to stay away from the stables as overhearing the animals talking was believed to be a sign of bad luck.

The Day of St. Anthony the Abbot is celebrated by rural communities all over Italy. In the northern part of the country, the Saint is widely celebrated in the region of Lombardy where bonfires and other events are organised in his name.

Some of the most well-known celebrations take place in Barni (a town in the province of Como), and Lonato del Garda (a town in the province of Brescia). In Barni, people give gifts to the Saint in the form of local agricultural products like salami, vegetables, fruit and cheese. The gifts are sold at an auction held on the 17th January and the proceeds are donated to the parish.

In Lonato del Garda, the Day of the Saint is marked with a fair which has been held there since ancient times. An integral part of it is the Blessing of the Animals which takes place at the square in front of the Church dedicated to St. Anthony the Abbot.

17. Feel the love on St. Valentine’s Day

Italy is one of the world’s most romantic countries. There are no two opinions about that! Spending St. Valentine’s Day here is a no-brainer if you want to impress a special someone.

On one hand, you can choose from a wide palette of experiences like:

• stays at luxury hotels in one of Northern Italy’s large cities ,
• spa days in one of the many resorts where naturally hot mineral waters gush from the earth and feed sprawling swimming pools and whirlpool tubs,
• jewellery shopping in the Italian Meccas of gold- and silver-working like Vicenza in the Veneto and Valenza in Piedmont.

On the other hand, you can head to Verona – the City of Love – and live your own Romeo and Juliet story with, obviously, a happy-end. Every year, in the days leading to the 14th February, Verona stages a city-wide festival under the slogan of Verona in Love. There are lots of romantic events taking place all over the beautiful historical centre of the city. It’s definitely a festival to experience holding the hand of a loved one.

And, thirdly, you can do something even more original on the 14th February here in Northern Italy. Namely, you can head to the small Church of St. George ( Oratorio di San Giorgio ) in the town of Monselice, Veneto. You will find it attached to the splendid Villa Duodo on top of a rolling hill overlooking the medieval walled town below.

Inside the Church of St. George and among relics of the first Christian protomartyrs, you will find what the locals assume to be the remains of St. Valentine himself. Every year, on 14th February, the town stages a large celebration dedicated to the Saint. An important part of it is that each child receives a golden key which is believed to protect him or her from the bad eye and epilepsy.

• Letters to Juliet or What Happened When I Visited the Juliet Club in Verona
• Point 11 in 20 Family-Friendly Walks and Hikes Up to an Hour and a Half from Vicenza – for information how to reach the Church of St. George in Monselice, Veneto

18. Enjoy Carnival

Spending a Carnival season in Northern Italy should be on the bucket list of every traveller who wants both to have fun and to learn more about centuries-old traditions preserved to these days. Obviously, the Carnival in Venice is the one attracting the most column inches with its phantasmagorical costumes and lavish balls which cost a pretty penny to attend. Yet, the Carnival Season lasts between two and three weeks and takes over the whole of Northern Italy.

Happy, loud celebrations take place under clouds of confetti. Huge floats adorned with colourful paper-mache figures parade through the central streets and squares of small towns and large cities. In addition, the Carnival period brings up to the surface centuries-old traditions which are still honoured in small mountain villages. If you find yourself in Northern Italy during Carnival, make sure that you experience its many facets in as many different towns and places you can visit. The links below will give you some inspiration.

• Bagolino Carnival – An Italian Experience You Mustn’t Miss
• Ciao, Carnevale or 9 Authentic Italian Carnival Experiences You Should Have
• Photographing the Carnival in Venice
• E Carnevale (about the Carnival in Verona)

19. Stuff yourself with traditional Carnival fritters

One of the big pleasures of Carnival season in Italy is the ability to stuff yourself with traditional Carnival fritters. Called f rittelle, crostoli  and  bugie, they  are sold strictly for the duration of the festivities:

• Crostoli  are thin crisps of fried dough generously sprinkled with icing sugar.
• Bugie  are small pieces of crisp fried dough which are stuffed with chocolate, jam or creme patisserie.
• Frittelle,  are balls of fried dough studded with raisins and served either as they are or stuffed with creme chantilly, chocolate,  zabaione  or creme patisserie. They can be as small as a cherry or as big as a tennis ball and cost anything from 15 to 30 euros per kilo depending on where you buy them from – the local supermarket or a refined patisserie where everything is baked on the premises following recipes passed down from generation to generation.
• Fritella – The Taste of the Venetian Carnival

20. Celebrate the Venetian New Year

Did you know that for hundreds of years the Republic of Venice celebrated the beginning of the New Year not in January but in March? This was in direct reference to the traditions of the Veneti – an Indo-European tribe which used to populate the lands of the Northern Italian region of the  Veneto  as far back as the 8th century BC. The Veneti used the ancient Indo-European calendar according to which the year had only ten months and started in March with the re-birth of the earth after the long winter.

Curiously enough, in  Venice  and Veneto, the tradition to celebrate the New Year in March survived through the centuries and against two major calendar reforms (the Julian and the Gregorian). Initially, the Venetians celebrated the arrival of the New Year on 25th March – to commemorate the day on which Venice was founded in 421. Later on and in order to simplify their calculations, the Venetians moved their New Year celebrations to the 1st March. This continued until the fall of the Republic of Venice in 1797.

Nowadays, attempts are made by grass-roots organisations in and around Venice to revive the old tradition of celebrating the beginning of the New Year in March with a large get-together around a huge bonfire signifying the end of the old and the beginning of the new. The ritual is called Batimarso .

Celebrating Batimarso – The Thousands of Years Old Ritual of the Venetian New Year

21. Throw oranges at each other

Head to Ivrea in the Northern Italian region of Piedmont at the beginning of March for the most surreal experience of your life. This is where and when a worldwide known festival takes place. Based on an ancient tradition, for the four days of the Ivrea festival, people throw oranges at each other. Yes, oranges. Like, in the fruit. Whole oranges at that, with the peel et al. Definitely not for the faint-hearted. Click here to see what I mean.

22. Visit hundreds of state museums, archaeological parks and art galleries for free

From January to March, every first Sunday of the month gives you free entry to over 480 state museums, archaeological parks and art galleries all over Italy. In addition, entry to them will also be free for a whole week in March 2019 (from the 5th, Tuesday, to the 10th, Sunday).

This means that for a day in January and February and a whole week in March, you won’t have to pay to visit such fab collections of art, archaeology, and culture in Northern Italy as:

• The Ducal Palace in Mantua;
• The Civic Museums of the Sforza Castle in Milan; and
• Villa Pisani in Stra.

Click  here  to check the full list with participating museums and cultural establishments.

23. Celebrate the Festa della Donna

International Women’s Day on 8th March is widely celebrated in Italy. On this day, Italian ladies receive mimosa sprays covered in tender yellow blooms. You will see mimosas everywhere in Italy in the days leading to the 8th March. Even cakes in the local patisseries are adorned with them.

At the same time, Italian women are increasingly fighting for their rights and against several deeply entrenched forms of gender discrimination. This article gives you a good idea as to what it means to be a woman in Italy nowadays.

24. Eat zeppole  on Father’s Day

Father’s Day is celebrated on 19th March in Italy. It coincides with the Feast Day of St. Joseph ( San Giuseppe in Italian) who was, obviously, the husband of the Virgin Mary and a father figure to Jesus.

Traditionally, on this day, people treat themselves and their father to  zeppole . This is an Italian pastry with a deep-fried or baked choux pastry base which is then filled with pastry cream (or custard, jam, or a mix of butter and honey) and crowned with a sugared cherry or a small dollop of chocolate spread. It’s rather yummy! You will find  zeppole  being sold in every self-respecting patisserie and bakery in Italy on Father’s Day.

If you find yourself in the region of Emilia-Romagna around the Feast Day of St. Joseph, head over to Trebbo di Reno in the province of Bologna . This is where the Feast of the Raviola takes place on the third Sunday of March. Raviola being a type of pastry filled with mostarda bolognese  (a type of marmalade with a mustard kick).

25. Explore a brand new museum or two

A brand new museum opened its doors in Ravenna in December 2018. Its name is Classis Ravenna Museum of the City and the Territory . The museum explores the history of the Fleet of Ravenna ( Classis Ravennas ) which was the second most senior fleet of the Imperial Roman Navy.

Another new museum opens its doors in Northern Italy in December this year. It’s called Lumen and it is dedicated to the art of mountain photography. Lumen is quite an extraordinary museum as it is located at a height of 2275 m on top of Mount Kronplatz-Plan de Corones in the heart of the South Tyrolean mountains and the Dolomites.

In Conclusion

Winter is a great time to find yourself in Northern Italy! From centuries-old Christmas traditions to sparkling New Year’s celebrations, from snowy mountains to cities full with events to enjoy, from seasonal sweets and pastries to indulge in to lively Carnival events, there is a wide palette of experiences for everyone to choose from in accordance with his or her tastes and expectations.

Enjoy Northern Italy in winter! ‘Tis the season to be happy!

Let me know which of the above suggestions you would like to experience yourself this winter in Northern Italy. Also, have I missed something? An event, a festival, an idea for a great winter happening in one of the eight Northern Italian regions? Let me know in the Comments below!

More Helpful Links

• 25 Things to Do, Eat and Enjoy This Spring in Northern Italy
• Top 15 Places to Visit in the Veneto, Italy – The Ultimate Guide
• 18 of the Best Cities to Visit in Northern Italy (With Travel Tips and Nearest Airports)
• Day Trips from Padua, Italy – Over 35 Unmissable Destinations in the Veneto, Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna
• Day Trips from Verona – 16 Destinations to Fall in Love With (With Travel Times and Train Tips)
• Day Trips from Vicenza, Italy – Over 90 of the Best Destinations
• 11 of the Best Day Trips from Venice (With Lots of Photos, Travel Times and Italy Train Tips)
• 10 of the Best Views in Italy (Totally According to Me)

Thank you for reading! Please, leave me a comment, pin the image below or use the buttons right at the top and at the end of this blog post to share it on social media.

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Mirco Piazzi

Sunday 31st of December 2023

Thank you very much for the article, some very good information! One question, what is the location of the first image of the article? Looks like a restaurant deck overlooking some sort of a castle with a bridge? I would appreciate if you could share the info:)

Thank you for your kind words! This is in Borghetto sul Mincio - a small medieval hamlet famous for the local delicacy, tortellini nodo d'amore. The fortified bridge was built in the 14th century and is still in use. You can read more about this beautiful place in my blog post here. Best wishes,

Bernice marzullo

Wednesday 16th of January 2019

Thank you so very much for sharing these stories about italy it is very interesting to me I never knew some of these things I need to get a book on italy

Thank you for your kind words! I am glad to be of help. Best wishes, Rossi :)

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Want to buy a $1 home in Italy? The best advice from 3 people who did it

For years now, people around the world have been captivated by Sicilian towns selling off abandoned homes starting at 1 euro , or roughly $1.08.

Several hundred homes have been sold to curious and ambitious renovators, including Meredith Tabbone, 44, of Chicago. She learned in 2019 that a town called Sambuca di Sicilia was auctioning off homes starting with 1-euro bids.

"A lot of people warned me that it could be a scam [and that] I could end up losing a lot of money," she tells CNBC Make It.

Still, she took up the idea when she realized her great-grandfather was actually from Sambuca. She placed her bid on a home for 5,555 euros sight unseen and won, thus starting her on a four-year journey of renovations.

"From the moment that I sent in the bid and checked my email every day and found out that I won, all the way through this process, there have been 4 million moments of frustration, exhaustion, contemplation of how to move forward," she says.

Tabbone and other 1-euro homebuyers share their biggest pieces of advice to other aspiring renovators around the world.

Prepare for additional costs

Sicily's homes may start at 1 euro, but the cost is largely symbolic and just the start of more expenses down the line.

In Mussomeli, one of the most famous 1-euro towns, buyers must also pay a realtors fee of 500 euros and pay for the deed, which costs 2,800 euros. That adds up to a total of 3,301 euros, or nearly $3,600.

Rubia Daniels, 50, of Berkeley, Calif., bought three 1-euro homes in Mussomeli in 2019. So far, she's focused her efforts on renovating her main vacation home. She originally thought it would cost her $20,000 but has already spent $35,000 between materials, labor and furniture. She hopes to stay under $40,000.

Tabbone paid 5,555 euros for her home, plus some taxes and fees, bringing the home sale up to 5,900 euros, or roughly $6,400. She then bought the building next door through a private sale with the owner for 22,000 euros, or nearly $24,000. 

Over the next four years, Tabbone spent about 425,000 euros on renovations, or roughly $463,000. Altogether, that adds up to 430,900 euros, or $469,500 for her dream home in Sicily.

Be present for renovations

Speaking of renovations, though communicating with local construction workers can kick off plans, buyers say it's crucial to be on the ground while work is being done.

Danny McCubbin, an Australian native who bought a 1-euro house in Mussomeli, says he's seen "quite a few" foreigners try to manage their project from their home country.

McCubbin bought his cheap Sicilian home in 2019 with hopes to turn it into a food-rescue charity. He ended up selling his house back to the real estate agency after it experienced extensive, and costly, water damage. But he managed to open his charity, The Good Kitchen, elsewhere in town.

"It's best to actually be here with the builder, choosing the tiles, choosing whatever you need," he says. For the times you can't be there in-person, he also recommends finding a local project manager who can speak English and Italian to communicate plans with the local crew.

Have patience

Daniels works in construction and learned quickly that things in Sicily take much longer than they do in the U.S.

"Working with contractors in Sicily, I had to learn how to set my expectations, but not my American expectations," she says.

Have patience to understand the culture and how business is done so you don't get frustrated, she adds. She's been renovating her main home in Mussomeli on and off since 2020 and is still several months from finishing.

"Overall, there's plenty capable people to do the work," Daniels says, but "the work here, it flows in a different way. You have to remember this is an island and they are in an island time. So [things] just move a little bit slower than what you expect."

Visit in the winter

If you're planning to buy real estate in another country, it's best to spend a good amount of time there. And don't only go when it's peak travel season.

"I always say come for longer than one or two weeks," McCubbin says. "And most importantly, come in winter. In summertime it's beautiful. It's sunny, the houses, there's no mold in them. You discover in winter that a lot of these houses do have mold. They do have moisture, and it's a very different feel here than in summer."

Learn the language

Tabbone, Daniels and McCubbin agree that it's crucial to learn Italian in order to really get around Sicily, especially if you plan to spend part of your year there.

Language-learning apps and courses are a good place to start, but immersing yourself among locals is another great way to practice.

Tabbone says she enjoys spending time with Sicilians when she visits. Her first friends in Sambuca included members of the construction crew on her project, who then introduced her to their friends and family members. She also has a close relationship with the town's mayor — she practices her Italian with him and he practices his English with her.

"I think I would be extremely fluent in Italian if Google Translate did not exist," she jokes, "but I'm very, very proficient at Google Translate."

Don't be lured just by cheap houses

Newcomers to Sicily may be attracted by inexpensive houses, but many say their biggest reason for staying is the people they meet along the way.

"I always say, don't be allured by the fact that the houses are cheap," McCubbin says. "Think about where you want to be and where you want to spend your time. Having said that, people here are kind. People here are very friendly. It's a great place to live." McCubbin now lives in Mussomeli full-time and owns another house there.

Tabbone says one of her favorite things about Sambuca is how she can connect with fellow foreigners as well as long-time residents.

"One of the things that I love the most about Sambuca is that the community is not just expats who are moving here. It's really well intertwined with the locals and the community. Any dinner party that you go to, even if you just go to a cafe on the street, you will always see a very nice mixture of expats and of locals, and I love that."

Conversions from euros to USD were done using the OANDA conversion rate of 1 euro to 1.08 USD on March 22, 2024. All amounts are rounded to the nearest dollar.

Want to land your dream job in 2024?  Take  CNBC's new online course How to Ace Your Job Interview  to learn what hiring managers are really looking for, body language techniques, what to say and not to say, and the best way to talk about pay.

French bid to host 2030 Winter Olympics talks with Italy, Netherlands to stage speed skating

L AUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — The favored French candidacy to host the 2030 Winter Olympics is in talks with the Netherlands and Italy to stage speed skating races.

The cross-border option was detailed on Monday by International Olympic Committee officials ahead of a visit next week to proposed venues in French Alps ski resorts and Nice, the upscale French Riviera coastal city.

Nice does not have enough venues for all Olympic events on ice and the IOC now encourages hosts to avoid construction costs by finding cheaper solutions abroad.

“We have several candidates with whom the French team will discuss,” the IOC executive director of the Olympic Games, Christophe Dubi, said in an online briefing.

Dubi suggested France's neighbors Italy — which will host the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo — and the Netherlands, a longtime power in speed skating. The Dutch team won six speed skating gold medals at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, including three for Irene Schouten .

The French Alps bid is expected to be confirmed as the 2030 host at a July 23-24 meeting of the IOC in Paris on the eve of the Summer Games. The 2034 Winter Games host also should be decided in Paris, with Salt Lake City, Utah, the preferred candidate.

The IOC gives members a single candidate to approve rather than ask rival bids to campaign ahead of a contested vote. The new process cuts costs and avoids the risk of more vote-buying scandals .

The French bid for 2030 was preferred by the IOC executive board in November ahead of proposals from Sweden and Switzerland which did not require building any venues. The Swedish bid centered on Stockholm planned to use a bobsled track across the Baltic Sea in Latvia.

The IOC also has urged Italian organizers of the next Winter Games to use a bobsled track in neighboring Austria or Switzerland instead of spending tens of millions of euros (dollars) renovating a venue in Cortina .

Italian officials did take a cost-effective option for speed skating by choosing a temporary track at a conference center venue in Milan.

Dubi said on Monday a temporary speed skating venue also could work in 2030 because “we now know that it is doable with all the guarantees needed for ice quality.”

IOC officials and selected members start a five-day visit in France next Monday and will end the week with a news conference in Nice. The inspection team is scheduled to deliver a report in June to the IOC board to prepare for confirmation in Paris.

AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games

Why it's high time for slow travel in Gstaad, Switzerland

There’s something about soaring mountains, sparkling lakes and dense forests that can provide the perfect backdrop for a much-needed reset. Relax, recharge and lean into a more mindful summer getaway in the holiday region Gstaad.

Laid-back, low-key, leisurely, languorous. There are many ways to describe the summer lifestyle in Gstaad, a characterful village tucked away in the Bernese Alps that encourages visitors to come up and slow down. The region was once described as "the last paradise in a crazy world" by actress and honorary resident Julie Andrews, who has owned a home here for over 50 years. Indeed, it's a place that seems made for those looking to fine-tune the art of slow travel — a softer, more considered form of travel that's been growing in popularity in recent years. Slow travel requires a visitor to take time to appreciate the essence of a destination — choosing experiences that connect to its communities, and activities that allow immersion in its nature.  

The village of Gstaad, in the heart of Switzerland’s picturesque Saanen region, is perfectly primed for these types of getaways. Here, summer haze drifts slowly over five finger-like valleys — formed by God’s handprint, as the local legend goes, with Gstaad in the palm. Snow-dusted mountaintops rise up to meet pure blue skies, and waterfalls spill down sheer granite cliffs into pastures scattered with flower-festooned chalets and old farmhouses.

Long renowned as a top wellness destination, Gstaad was an early favourite of British Alpinists, who were drawn in by the mountain air and outdoor lifestyle. Today, the village remains a choice spot for those seeking a much-needed mid-year pause, opting for slower, softer travel.  

Begin by easing yourself into the area’s stunning natural surroundings with a gentle hike. Follow the Swiss cows up to the sun-warmed slopes, where a network of 185 miles of easily accessible trails and paths meander through lush green pastures and shady forests while, wherever you go, cowbells provide the soundtrack.

For a smoother journey, consider heading out on two wheels to explore the 95 miles of bike trails that loop around the region. Hiring an e-bike allows you to relax into the surroundings even on uphill tracks, the motor helping to ease effort levels. For the most scenic route, follow the trail from Gstaad to the traditional village of Lauenen and around its namesake lake, a wonderfully picturesque spot framed by forests. Stop to take a boat out, or wade in for a dip in its cool, calming waters. Indeed, being around ‘blue space’ has been known to have similar wellness benefits to ‘green space’, resulting in decreased feelings of stress and negativity.  

A similarly restorative route takes in Lake Arnen, in the shadow of Les Diablerets. Spend some time fishing or stand-up paddleboarding, before pedalling on to the Rössli restaurant in nearby Feutersoey for a long and languorous meal in its flower-covered garden. Set within a centuries-old chalet, this family-run inn puts a gourmet spin on hearty classics such as wiener schnitzel and whole royal pigeon. Don’t miss the trout meunière, a recipe that’s been passed down through generations and is served with boiled potatoes and spinach.

Continue your sojourn in the slow lane at one of Gstaad’s Alpine spas. Situated just off the cobbled, car-free promenade, the family-owned luxury hotel Le Grand Bellevue started life as a health spa in 1912. Guests still seek sanctuary in its vast wellness centre, which is the largest in the region. Whether staying in one of the hotel’s large, opulent rooms, or simply visiting for the day, opportunities abound to soak in a bubbling hot tub, cleanse yourself in the salt inhalation grotto and breathe in local botanicals in the herbal or hay sauna — before cooling off in the ice fountain.

However, while summer signals slower, sun-filled days for many, it’s all systems go for the region’s farmers. There are 340 working farms and around 11,000 cows in the region and, from late spring, the prized herds ascend to the high pastures to graze on grass and Alpine herbs. Traditionally the farmers sleep up here in their summer farmsteads, perched on the slopes, and make cheese from the grass-rich unpasteurised milk on a wood fire every morning. For the best taste of this lcoal speciality, head to one of the huge fondue caquelon (pots) that are dotted throughout the region, where you can feast on hot cheese thanks to a 'fondue backpack' from a local dairy. Or, amble along the one-hour Cheese Trail from Berghaus Wispile to Alp Bodme, where you can tour the cheese dairy, sample its produce and pet the animals in the neighbouring barn.  

To taste this local produce in hearty regional dishes, visit one of Gstaad’s many low-key mountain restaurants. Top picks include Refuge l’Espace , a rustic hut on Glacier 3000 where visitors can take a seat on the large sun-splashed deck under the looming rock of the Quille du Diable, while keeping watch for bearded vultures. Graze on air-dried local meats and wafer-thin curls of the area’s traditional cheese, Berner Hobelkäse AOC, washed down with a glass of fresh and floral 'petite arvine'. Indeed, the fragrant wines of the area are one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets.  

Visit as summer draws to an end and you may witness the Gstaad Züglete, the annual August cattle drive, when the cows and bulls are resplendent with headdresses and huge cowbells as they are led back down to spend winter in the valley.  

Three slow hikes in Gstaad

1. Wispile to Lake Lauenen Catch the cable car up to Wispile — a mountain just south of the village of Gstaad — then follow this rewarding three-hour trail along the ridge, through high meadows and down into shady forests, before finally reaching the gleaming shores of Lake Lauenen.  

2. Horneggli Panorama Trail   Incredible views of the jagged Bernese Alps await on this high-altitude hike. Start in Zweisimmen and take the cable car up the Rinderberg, then follow the trail signs to Hornberg along the Gandlouenen Ridge. Hop on the Horneggli chairlift back to Schönried, from which it’s less than 15 minutes on the bus back to Gstaad.

3. Lauenen to the Fondue Caquelon Armed with a fondue backpack kit from one of the many local dairies, follow the trail from sleepy Lauenen through the forest to an oversized caquelon (fondue pot) — essentially a pot-shaped table and bench — to fire up your kit. Feast on bubbling cheese as you gaze over the Geltenschutz and Tungelschutz waterfalls.

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French bid to host 2030 Winter Olympics talks with Italy, Netherlands to stage speed skating

FILE - Gold medalist Irene Schouten, of the Netherlands, poses for a photo during a medals ceremony for the for the women's speedskating 3,000-meter race of the 2022 Winter Olympics, on Feb. 6, 2022, in Beijing. The favored French candidacy to host the 2030 Winter Olympics is in talks with the Netherlands and Italy to stage speedskating races there. The IOC’s executive director of the Olympic Games, Christophe Dubi, suggested France's neighbors Italy — which will host the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo — and the Netherlands, a longtime power in speed skating. The Dutch team won six speedskating gold medals at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, including three for Irene Schouten. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Jae C. Hong]

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — The favored French candidacy to host the 2030 Winter Olympics is in talks with the Netherlands and Italy to stage speed skating races.

The cross-border option was detailed on Monday by International Olympic Committee officials ahead of a visit next week to proposed venues in French Alps ski resorts and Nice, the upscale French Riviera coastal city.

Nice does not have enough venues for all Olympic events on ice and the IOC now encourages hosts to avoid construction costs by finding cheaper solutions abroad.

“We have several candidates with whom the French team will discuss,” the IOC executive director of the Olympic Games, Christophe Dubi, said in an online briefing.

Dubi suggested France’s neighbors Italy — which will host the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo — and the Netherlands, a longtime power in speed skating. The Dutch team won six speed skating gold medals at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, including three for Irene Schouten .

The French Alps bid is expected to be confirmed as the 2030 host at a July 23-24 meeting of the IOC in Paris on the eve of the Summer Games. The 2034 Winter Games host also should be decided in Paris, with Salt Lake City, Utah, the preferred candidate.

The IOC gives members a single candidate to approve rather than ask rival bids to campaign ahead of a contested vote. The new process cuts costs and avoids the risk of more vote-buying scandals .

The French bid for 2030 was preferred by the IOC executive board in November ahead of proposals from Sweden and Switzerland which did not require building any venues. The Swedish bid centered on Stockholm planned to use a bobsled track across the Baltic Sea in Latvia.

The IOC also has urged Italian organizers of the next Winter Games to use a bobsled track in neighboring Austria or Switzerland instead of spending tens of millions of euros (dollars) renovating a venue in Cortina .

Italian officials did take a cost-effective option for speed skating by choosing a temporary track at a conference center venue in Milan.

Dubi said on Monday a temporary speed skating venue also could work in 2030 because “we now know that it is doable with all the guarantees needed for ice quality.”

IOC officials and selected members start a five-day visit in France next Monday and will end the week with a news conference in Nice. The inspection team is scheduled to deliver a report in June to the IOC board to prepare for confirmation in Paris.

AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games

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