Imagine the scene—you are casually walking hand in hand with your partner through a snow-dusted piazza, sipping on a steaming cup of cioccolata calda, while gazing at the centuries-old architecture. Sounds magical, right? If you are wondering about the best things to do in Italy in winter, you are in for a treat.
That is the quiet charm of Italy in winter—a season when the crowds thin, the landscapes sparkle, and the cities feel more intimate. While many travelers rush to Italy in summer, the cooler months reveal a more authentic and romantic side of the country. So, are you ready to discover why winter is a perfect time to say Ciao to Italy? Let us uncover the top activities that make the winter season an unforgettable time to visit this timeless destination.
Why Should You Visit Italy During Winter?
Ever dreamed of visiting the empty Colosseum and learning facts about the Colosseum or scoring a bargain on those expensive Italian boutique hotels in Italy that you have been eyeing? Well, Italy in winter offers these perks and more.
The crowds are usually thin, prices drop, and a blanket of tranquillity settles over the typically bustling tourist hotspots. Plus, there is something extremely romantic about the ancient ruins of Rome dusted with snow or Venice’s canals covered in misty winter fog.
But it is not just about fewer crowds and better deals. Italy winter holidays bring a plethora of unique experiences that you simply cannot get in the winter months.
Then you can glide down pristine ski slopes in the Dolomites, cozy up by a fireplace in a Tuscan villa, or try out hearty vintage specialties like steaming bowls of ribollita soup.
Winter is also the perfect time to explore renowned museums and art galleries without the usual summer crowds. You can also spend loads of time admiring masterpieces in the Uffizi or Vatican Museums without feeling the rush.
And finally, there is the festive atmosphere that envelopes the country during the holiday season. From charming Christmas markets to elaborate nativity scenes, the country of Italy truly comes alive with holiday spirit.
Top Things to Do in Italy during Winter
1) First up, Christmas markets. These festive wonderlands pop up all over Italy in December, offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to mouthwatering seasonal treats.
The market in Bolzano, nestled in the South Tyrol region, is particularly famous. Picture wooden chalets selling local specialties, the aroma of mulled wine filling the air, and children ice skating under twinkling lights—it’s like stepping into a Christmas card.
2) If you’re a snow bunny, the Italian Alps are calling your name. From world-class resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo to hidden gems like Livigno, there’s a slope for every skill level.
Even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, many resorts offer activities like snowshoeing, sledding, or simply enjoying the stunning mountain views from a cozy chalet.
3) For a uniquely Italian winter experience, why not take a dip in a thermal bath? The ancient Romans were onto something with their love of hot springs, and you can follow in their footsteps at the best spots to visit in Italy, like Saturnia in Tuscany or Bormio in Lombardy.
4) Art lovers, rejoice! Winter is the perfect time to explore Italy’s renowned museums and galleries without the usual crowds.
Things to do in Florence include losing yourself in the Uffizi or marveling at the frescoes in the Duomo, all without the summer throngs. In Rome, you can spend hours in the Vatican Museums without feeling rushed, giving you time to truly appreciate the Sistine Chapel.
5) For a taste of local culture, consider attending a holiday concert in one of Italy’s beautiful churches or historic theaters. From classical performances in Venice’s Teatro La Fenice to Christmas concerts in Rome’s churches, these events offer a chance to experience Italy’s rich musical heritage in stunning settings.
6) Go hunting for truffles in the countryside. In places like Piedmont and Umbria, winter is the best time of year to harvest truffles. Gather your belongings, follow a knowledgeable guide and their dependable dogs into the foggy woods, and discover these cherished gastronomic treasures. Then, for the ultimate in authenticity, warm up with a meal of freshly made pasta topped with your newly discovered treasure.
7) Cruise the canals of Venice without the throng. Winter brings a calm, almost enigmatic beauty to Venice. The fog creates a surreal ambiance, the alleys are less congested, and the canals are quieter. Picture enjoying a steaming espresso in an espresso bar with a view of the Grand Canal, then settling into a comfortable blanket on a gondola.
8) Enjoy Carnevale the way the Venetians do. A treat awaits you if you arrive in February. Street performances, glittering costumes, and intricate masks are the main features of the Venetian Carnival. You can take part in the celebrations in St. Mark’s Square or explore the smaller streets to see pop-up performances and small-scale masked parties.
9) Savor the rich Italian flavors of winter cuisine. There is no better reason to indulge in comfort food than during cold weather. Try creamy risotto in Milan, wild boar stew in Tuscany, or polenta topped with rich ragu in the north. Remember to pair it with a red wine.
10) Discover the charming snow-covered hill towns of Italy. Light winter snowfall creates a wonderful atmosphere in towns like Assisi, Orvieto, and San Gimignano. Enjoy a hot cappuccino while strolling cobblestone streets, browsing through artisan shops, or having a hot drink at a cafe.
11) Sip a hot chocolate in Turin. Turin is well-known for its rich, thick hot chocolate, which is practically a dessert in and of itself. Visit a historic cafe, such as Caffe al Bicerin, and sample the specialty Bicerin. It is a concoction of coffee, chocolate, and cream and a true winter pleasure.
12) Experience the citrus season in Sicily. Sicily experiences mild winters, with the aroma of fresh oranges and lemons filling the air, while the rest of Italy is covered in snow. Take a stroll through the citrus trees, visit local markets, and taste freshly squeezed juice while admiring Mount Etna’s snow-capped peak in the background.
13) Take part in a seaside celebration of the New Year. Unforgettable New Year’s Eve parties are held in coastal cities like Amalfi and Naples. Locals dancing in the streets long after midnight, live music, and fireworks over the ocean are all to be expected. It is an exuberant, joyous way to start the new year.
14) Enroll in a cooking course that focuses on winter dishes. Discover how to prepare filling Italian foods like osso buco, ribollita soup, and homemade pasta with truffle sauce. Many classes are held in rustic farmhouses or chefs’ kitchens, making it a warm and culinary adventure.
15) Take a wine tasting tour through the winter landscape of Tuscany. Tuscany’s quiet, cozy winters are ideal for touring wineries without the crowds of tourists. You will tour historic wine cellars, taste Chianti by a roaring fireplace, and discover the production process of these world-renowned wines.
16) Visit Candelara for the Candlelight Festival. Every December, when the lights are switched off and thousands of candles light the streets, this little village in the Marche region comes alive. A fairy tale-like enchantment permeates the food, music, and atmosphere.
17) Take in the wintertime splendor of Lake Como. While summer draws yacht crowds, winter reveals a more romantic side of Lake Como. Lakeside villages like Bellagio and Varenna feel like tranquil retreats, while snow-capped mountains frame the placid waters. Lakeside communities like Varenna and Bellagio feel like tranquil retreats. The calm waters are framed by snow-capped mountains.
18) Stroll around Nativity Street in Naples. A visit to Via San Gregorio Armeno in Naples is a must in winter. This area is crowded with artist workshops that create elaborate miniatures of nativity scenes, ranging from holy family figures to oddball cameos by celebrities. In one lane, it’s like experiencing the atmosphere of Christmas in Italy.
19) See the frost-covered Sassi in Matera. When covered in frost, Matera’s historic cave homes appear unearthly. Wander through its narrow streets, see its rock churches, and see how the stone city turns golden under the chilly winter light.
20) See a show in Milan at the Teatro alla Scala. It is well-known for its sophisticated productions. When visiting the city, it is imperative to see an opera or ballet. The magnificent interiors and imposing architecture create a memorable ambiance. The theater presents top-notch shows that draw visitors from all around the world. Look at the schedule to see a performance while you are there. The skill demonstrated by well-known performers will astound you.
Major Winter Events & Festivals in Italy
This is one of the biggest celebrations in Italy. It is celebrated on December 8th. This national holiday welcomes the Christmas season with parades, special masses, and the lighting of Christmas trees in town squares across the country.
In Rome, the Pope leads a special ceremony at the Spanish Steps, placing a wreath on the statue of the Madonna.
If you are in Rome on Christmas Eve, you might catch a glimpse of the Pope delivering midnight mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the tickets are free but very limited.
For a truly unique celebration, head to Venice for New Year’s Eve. The city puts on a spectacular fireworks display over the lagoon, and locals and visitors alike gather in St. Mark’s Square for a massive group kiss at midnight! Many restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve menus, and the festivities often continue well into the early hours of January 1st.
In Florence, the holiday season culminates with the Epiphany on January 6th. The city celebrates with the Cavalcade of the Magi, a colorful procession of people in Renaissance costumes reenacting the journey of the Three Wise Men.
For winter sports enthusiasts, numerous skiing and snowboarding competitions take place in the Alps and Dolomites throughout the season. Even if you’re not participating, these events can be exciting to watch and often come with festive après-ski parties.
What to Eat in Italy in Winter
Winter in Italy is a foodie’s paradise. This is the season for hearty, comforting dishes that warm you from the inside out.
- In Rome, don’t miss pasta e ceci, a warming soup of pasta and chickpeas. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly day of sightseeing. Another Roman winter specialty is artichokes—look for carciofi alla romana (artichokes Roman-style) or carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes).
- Florence is famous for its bistecca alla fiorentina, a massive T-bone steak that’s perfect for sharing on a cold winter night. Pair it with a robust Tuscan red wine for the ultimate Florentine experience. Another Tuscan winter favorite is ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
- If you find yourself in Milan, try cassoeula, a rich stew of pork and cabbage that’s pure comfort food. It’s often served with polenta, making it a truly stick-to-your-ribs meal. Milan is also famous for its risottos—the saffron-infused risotto alla Milanese is a must-try.
- In Venice, you can warm up with a plate of baccalà mantecato, a creamy salt fish spread that pairs well with grilled polenta. Seafood lovers looking for delicious Italian cuisine should also try sarde in saor, sweet and sour sardines that are a Venetian specialty.
- And let’s not forget about the sweets! Winter is the time for panettone, the dome-shaped fruitcakethat’s a Christmas staple across Italy. In Sicily, look for cassata, a sponge cake soaked in liqueur and layered with ricotta and candied fruit. And everywhere you go, you’ll find tempting displays of Christmas cookies and chocolates.
- To wash it all down, indulge in some of Italy’s winter beverages. Vin brulé (mulled wine) is popular at Christmas markets and ski resorts. For a non-alcoholic option, try thick, rich Italian hot chocolate—it’s more like a pudding than a drink and is often served with whipped cream.
Packing Tips for Italy in Winter?
Packing for Italy in winter requires a bit of strategy. The key? Layers, layers, layers!
✧ Start with a base of warm thermals, add some cozy sweaters, and top it off with a waterproof jacket.
✧ Don’t forget a sturdy pair of walking shoes—those cobblestone streets can be slippery when wet.
✧Here’s a pro tip: pack a scarf or two. Not only will they keep you warm, but they’ll also help you blend in with the stylish locals.
✧ Italians take their winter fashion seriously, and you’ll rarely see someone out and about without a chic scarf artfully draped around their neck.
✧Remember, if you’re planning to hit the ski slopes or venture into the mountains, you’ll need to pack appropriate gear. Many ski resorts offer rental equipment, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own base layers and ski socks.
Travel Tips for Visiting Italian Winter Gateway
Now for some insider tips to make your winter Italian adventure even more magical.
- Many state-run museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month, so take advantage of these free museum days.
- We recommend staying in an agriturismo, which is a farm-stay accommodation that also offers unique experiences like wine tastings by the fireplace or cooking classes using seasonal ingredients.
- Consider the cost of living in Italy when choosing your accommodations.
- Visit smaller towns and villages that host winter festivals and markets, which are much less crowded than the city ones.
- Italians take their winter style very seriously. So, pack a few nice outfits for evenings.
- Book popular restaurants and events in advance.
- The weather is very unpredictable, so be flexible with your plans.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to blend in with the locals.
- Make sure to get travel insurance to fund cancellations or delays due to the winter season.
- Most shops offer heavy discounts during this time. You can take advantage of winter sales.
Remember to pack a warm hat or beanie, gloves or mittens, thick socks, a compact umbrella, lip balm or moisturizer, comfortable shoes, and thermal clothing.
FAQ’s About Italy in Winter
What is the weather like in Italy in winter?
Italy has a Mediterranean climate ranging from cold and snowy in the northern mountains down to relatively mild near Sicily. Most major cities like Florence, Venice and Rome in central Italy average around 35°F to 50°F during winter but have a damp chill. Pack layers and waterproof shoes.
Which Italian cities have Christmas markets?
Christmas markets fill town squares across the country come December. Some of the largest and most beautiful markets glow through the festive season in Verona, Florence, Milan, Bolzano, Merano, Rome, Trento and Orvieto.
Is New Year’s a major holiday event in Italy?
Italy rings in the New Year with noisy fireworks, parties and feasting. Naples traditionally competes with Rome to ignite the biggest midnight fireworks displays. Expect crowds and celebrations December 31st through January 1st.
Is winter the low tourist season in Italy?
Yes, late fall, winter and early spring represent Italy’s low tourist season compared to the peak summer months. You’ll find cheaper airfares, hotel rates, restaurant bills and train tickets when visiting from November through early March before spring holiday crowds arrive.
What should I pack for visiting Italy in winter?
Pack warm layers like sweaters, scarves and hat plus a heavy winter jacket and waterproof boots or grip-soled shoes. You’ll want gloves for handling frozen gelato cones plus a lightweight, umbrella for unexpected showers. Waterproof outer layers work best for both snowy Milan and rainy Rome.
These were some of the top things to do in Italy during the winters. It’s important to remember that some places may get cold during the winter, so packing in your winter stuff is a necessity. If you are traveling with kids, take extra care to ensure they are comfortable and warm during the trip.
Conclusion
So, that’s all, my friend, a comprehensive guide to a winter world that is awaiting you in Italy. From snow-capped mountains to cozy and warm cafes and markets to world-class museums, Italy in December offers a wealth of unique experiences.
So why not buck the trend and embrace la dolce vita this winter?