Winter in Italy: What to Anticipate and 8 Stunning Destinations to Discover

There are countless reasons to visit Italy year-round (check out our guide to the best time to visit Italy for more). However, winter in Italy is truly enchanting, with fewer tourists (aside from certain festivals), reduced hotel and flight prices, and refreshing, crisp weather.

If you travel to Italy in December, you'll be greeted by beautiful Christmas lights, festivals, and bustling markets. Visiting in January offers the coldest temperatures, quieter streets, and a more authentic atmosphere even in the most popular tourist spots. By February, the days start to lengthen as winter winds down, and some of Italy’s most renowned festivals enliven the streets.

What to Anticipate from Winter Weather in Italy

Winter weather in Italy (December, January, February) varies by region. Inland and northern areas experience colder, snowier conditions, while southern regions, especially along the coast, enjoy milder temperatures.

In general, January is the coldest month in Italy, while December tends to be the wettest. By late February, you can expect lower prices and fewer crowds, along with a greater likelihood of clear skies. In more temperate cities like Rome and Naples, average high temperatures range from 50 °F to 59 °F, whereas popular ski resorts may experience temperatures as low as 5 °F.

What to Bring for Your Winter Trip to Italy

Bring plenty of layers when visiting Italy in winter, as you’ll likely move between chilly outdoor conditions and warmer indoor spaces. Sturdy walking shoes are essential, and accessories such as gloves, scarves, and hats will help keep you warm on colder days. If you're venturing into snowy areas, don't forget to pack snow and water-resistant boots, thermal wear, and a very warm coat (ideally water-resistant, or bring an extra raincoat).

Essential Tips for Your Winter Trip to Italy

To fully enjoy your winter visit, embrace the long evenings and explore Italy’s major sights after dark. The nighttime atmosphere is especially enchanting during the Christmas season, when the streets and squares are adorned with lights.

To prevent any disappointment, be sure to verify the opening dates and hours of attractions or restaurants you wish to visit. Some may close during the winter months in smaller towns, while major cities often have limited hours.

Lastly, Christmas, New Year, and Carnival attract large crowds, so it's advisable to book your flights and accommodations well in advance.

Top Winter Destinations in Italy

Whether you're seeking a skiing adventure, a city getaway, or a quaint small-town experience, Italy offers a wealth of fantastic winter destinations. Major cities like Rome and Florence feature their top sights with fewer visitors, while coastal resorts provide a serene, laid-back atmosphere. Ski towns are bustling and vibrant, at their peak during this season.

• Naples
• Rome
• Milan
• Skiing in the Dolomites
• Lake Como
• Venice
• The Amalfi Coast
• Tuscany

Naples

Average temperature: 57 °F

Naples ranks among the top Italian cities to visit in winter for its stunning Christmas decorations and remarkable nativity scenes.

The artisans who create the nativity scenes often open their workshops, typically located along San Gregorio Armeno alley, offering beautifully crafted souvenirs for sale. For more festive spirit, check out the Via San Gregorio Armeno Christmas market, and on Christmas Eve, the fish market traditionally remains open all night.

The city enjoys relatively mild winter weather compared to other major Italian cities, with average temperatures around 57 °F. However, it does experience frequent rain, so be sure to bring a raincoat and umbrella. And don’t forget to indulge in some pizza while you're there.

Rome

Average temperature: 54 °F

Italy’s capital is stunning in winter and, similar to Naples, experiences milder weather. While there may be some rain, snow is rare. Enjoy visiting the major attractions without the usual crowds and long lines.

Be sure to dress warmly for outdoor or partially outdoor sites like the Coliseum and the Trevi Fountain. Winter is also an ideal time to visit the Vatican. The typical crowds are reduced, allowing you to easily spend a full day indoors at places like the Sistine Chapel. If you’re in town for Christmas, you’ll have the opportunity to hear the Pope’s Christmas message at the Vatican.

During this season, the rest of Rome is illuminated with Christmas lights and markets; the Piazza Navona is home to the city’s most famous market.

Milan

Average temperature: 35 °F

Milan is among the top cities in Italy to experience during the Christmas season. Following the Feast of Saint Ambrose on December 7th, the city becomes adorned with festive decorations and Christmas markets.

The most famous Christmas market, featuring a stunning public Christmas tree, is located in Piazza Duomo, Milan’s central square. Other notable markets include the traditional Oh Bej Oh Bej market, which translates to ‘So Nice! So Nice’, and dates back to 1288, open around the Feast of Saint Ambrose.

Throughout winter, you can still explore iconic Milan attractions like the Duomo and the Castello Sforzesco. Additionally, Milan is renowned as the fashion capital of the world. Whether you’re window shopping or seeking a new winter coat, be sure to visit shopping streets like Via Torino and Via Monte Napoleone.

The Dolomites

Average temperature: as low as 14 °F

The Dolomites mountain range in northeastern Italy is a fantastic destination year-round, and in winter, it stands out as one of the top skiing spots in the country.

The Dolomiti Superski area includes 15 interconnected ski resorts accessible with a single ski pass. One of the most favored resorts is Val Gardena, a spacious destination that offers ample skiing space, even during the busiest times.

Another outstanding ski resort is Cortina d’Ampezzo. This resort features a variety of accommodation choices and slopes, ensuring that every skier can discover their ideal holiday experience.

Lake Como

Average temperature: 41 °F

Lake Como is another fantastic mountain area to experience during the Italian winter. While it’s typically recognized as a summer getaway, it adopts a tranquil, serene atmosphere in winter.

From December to February, the temperatures are low enough to bring snow to the nearby mountains, making it ideal for skiing. However, it never gets cold enough for the lake to freeze, so ferries operate year-round, albeit with a reduced timetable.

Ferries provide a wonderful way to discover the area, and with ‘hop on, hop off’ tickets, you can conveniently travel between charming towns like Moltrasio and Cernobbio. The lakeside towns are picturesque and tranquil, and Lake Como also places you near several ski resorts, such as Piani di Bobbio to the east and Monte Sighignola to the west.

Venice

Average temperature: 38 °F

Venice is typically bustling with tourists, but you'll find the streets somewhat quieter during the winter months, except for one notable occasion: Carnival.

Carnival will take place from January 27 to February 13, 2024 (also known as Mardi Gras). This vibrant festival fills the city with colorful costumes and elaborate masks. Outside of Carnival time, a winter visit allows you to explore iconic attractions like the Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica, and St Mark’s Square.

The chilly weather is a great reason to warm up at one of Venice’s ‘bacari’. These traditional wine bars offer a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious wines and sample small plates of Italian cuisine.

The Amalfi Coast

Average temperature: 57 °F

While the Amalfi Coast is renowned as a warm-weather retreat, it's also a delightful winter destination. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions may be closed, but you can enjoy a serene and relaxing ambiance. Expect more activity as the region comes alive with decorations during Christmas and New Year.

Visiting during the holiday season means you'll encounter festive decorations, tasty Christmas treats, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Whether you choose Amalfi, Positano, or a quieter locale, a lovely winter holiday awaits you on the Amalfi Coast. Just remember, ferries do not operate in winter, so plan your travels accordingly.

Tuscany

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

Tuscany is home to some of Italy's most stunning locations, and in winter, you can discover them in a peaceful atmosphere. Visit Florence and enjoy chilly days inside the Uffizi Museum, where you'll find an impressive array of artworks. If you're looking to venture beyond the major cities, Abetone offers a picturesque mountain retreat in Tuscany.

With fantastic skiing conditions in winter, Abetone features over 30 miles of ski runs. After hitting the slopes, unwind in Bagno Vignoni or Saturnia, known for their remarkable hot springs and luxurious resorts that provide relaxation amid breathtaking scenery.

Tuscany is also renowned as one of Italy's premier wine regions. While some wineries may close during the winter months, many remain open, inviting you to savor delightful wine tastings on charming estates.