Is it worth going to Italy in winter? 7 Best Places To Visit In Italy In December: Embracing Winter Magic

Is it worth going to Italy in winter? Yes, Italy in winter is worth experiencing, with its festive atmosphere, cultural events, and the opportunity to explore the country’s beauty without the summer crowds.

Italy In December: Whatever time of year you’re traveling, Italy is a beautiful place to fly to. Yet in winter, the nation takes on its unique beauty.

In its wonderful places, you can enjoy comfortable break time and also spend your evenings in nice and comfortable wine bars or have an excursion on its magnificent snow-capped mountains and interesting mountain ski runners.

And if you tour Italy in December, recognize the season with enthusiasm like the Italians and discover its many tourist destinations with full energy, go shopping with style, and also fulfill your sense of taste with meals flavored with the seasonal harvests!


What Is The Weather In Italy In December?

Italy’s weather in December marks one of Italy’s coldest seasons. During this season it’s also a little humid. While it may be a little cold the crowd is slightly less which makes more exploration for travelers. Hotel and travel prices may also drop a little. Italy’s temperature in December would be very nice.

Different parts temperatures in Italy in December are as follows:

  • Northern Italy: -4-5 ° C (-25-45 ° F)
  • Central Italy: from 5-13 ° C (40-55 ° F)
  • Southern Italy: From 13-16 ° C (55-60 ° F) 

List of 7 Best Places To Stay In Italy In December

Having said that, while traveling to Italy in December, take a look at these seven best places to visit which are a must for every traveler. Make sure you miss none! We have tried to answer the question of where to go in Italy in December

List Of  7 Best Places To Stay In Italy In December
S. NoPlaces To Stay In Italy In December Famous PlacesFamous Food
1SicilyGreek Temples, Opera House, Baroque churches, Local FoodArancini. Sicilian Arancini, Raw red prawns, Busiate al pesto Trapanese, Pasta Alla Norma
2VeniceLa Dominante, La Serenissima, Queen of the Adriatic, City of Water, City of Masks, City of BridgesSarde in Sao, Baccala Mantecato, Risotto Al Nero Di Seppia, Pasta Alla Norma
3TorinoBaroque, Rococo, Neo-classical, Art Nouveau ArchitectureWine, Cheese, Chocolate And Truffles, Risi e Bisi
4RomeColosseum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican  Food Items like Spaghetti, Lasagna, Pizza, Gelato
5Amalfi CoastLimoncello Liqueur, Positano, Amalfi And RavelloVilla Fiorentino, Spaghetti Alle Vongole, Sauced & Found Fried Fish
6FlorenceRaphael, Titian, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Giotto  Lampredotto, Pappardelle al Cinghiale, Gelato
7NaplesUnderground Naples, Galleria Borbonica, Catacombe di San Gennaro, Museo Cappella SanseveroPizza Napoletana, Ragù With Tagliatelle, Cuoppo, Panino Napoletano, Impepata Di Cozze

1. Sicily

Sicily Italy in December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Needpix

Palermo, the capital of Sicily is a nice starting point for your island tour and an amazing place to visit in Italy during the wintertime.

Exploring the city in December and also early January is a great experience, as you will find numerous religious symbols as well as Christmas markets – all adding to the elegance of Palermo.

You can also travel to Cefalu, a breathtaking views coastal town in South Italy in December, for ancient knowledge and a spectacular beach.

If you are searching for assured winter sun and temperate climate in Italy in December, you should surely be traveling to Sicily.

Also, the Average Weather in Sicily Italy in December would be between around 14°c – 17°c.

Must Enjoy In December: Take a 30-minute ride from Palermo to Termini Imerese, enjoy the city’s Christmas performance on the roads, shop in the glittering Christmas markets, and more.

Also Read: 13 Best Souvenirs And Places Help You In What To Buy In Prague, Czech Republic?


2. Venice

Venice Italy In December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Trish Hartmann

If you want to know where to go in Italy in December, then you definitely should consider Venice in December. Another beautiful spot to travel to during the winter season.

The air is cleaner, and the sights and activities are better while the crowd can distract from the scenery than during the summer.

Moreover, Venice provides everything from breathtaking baroque designs to gondola rides and fantastic food and wine.

If nothing else, in St. Mark’s Square you can also sit and drink a cup of coffee, and enjoy as you watch the world go by in genuine Italian style!

Also, the Average Weather in Venice Italy in December would be around the maximum of 8°c  and a minimum of 1°c.

Must Enjoy In December: Even during the fog, if you’re in Venice, a gondola ride is a must and one of the things to do in Italy in December. The environment gets more magical in winter, and you don’t have to think too hard about crowding.

Also Read: Place To Visit In Austria


3. Turin (Torino)

Torino Italy in December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Diabosik

If you’re making plans to go skiing in Italy in December, you surely should first make a trip to Turin, the northern city that offers a platform to the mountains.

The town is where many skiers come for their ski trip before heading to the mountains. Yet, in itself, Turin is like a paradise.

The yearly Luci d’Artista is the main attraction, an event that glorifies art through light and you also will see the city illuminated in various creative and innovative ways.

Moreover, if you love food, you’ll fall in love with Turin as this is the location of the original ‘Early’ store, which displays the finest Italian food.

Also, Do not even forget to check out the booming dining scene where chefs blend Italian classics with a distinctly alpine flavor.

Also, the Average Weather in Turin Italy in December would be around the maximum of 9°c  and a minimum of 4°c.

Must enjoy in December: Visit Caffe Al Bicerin to experience Bicerin, a classical Italian drink. Add the chocolate, coffee, and cream to this decadent concoction.

Also Read: Top 10 Places To Visit In Greece


4. Rome

Rome Italy in December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Trimlack

In winter Italy’s beautiful capital is quieter but indeed spectacular. Rome is truly one of the most important places to visit in December in Italy.

You can love visiting tourist destinations like the Vatican Museums as well as the Roman Forum at a relaxed pace, with fewer crowds to deal with.

Rome is renowned for its many fashion shops but in the city’s small, winding streets you’ll also find plenty of art and design opportunities.

Then after a long day of sightseeing, in one of its many restaurants and bars, you can enjoy a meal and drink that is just as lively and vibrant in winter as any other time of the year.

Also, the Average Weather in Rome Italy in December would be around the maximum of 13°c  and a minimum of 4°c. It’s one of the best places to travel in December.

Must Enjoy In December: Go shopping! You will cash in on the incredible holiday sales in shops around the city when you visit Rome in the wintertime.

Also Read: Places To Visit In Scotland


5. Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast Italy in December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Harold Litwiler

The weather in Southern Italy in December is nice, with a cool climate, rendering it a perfect place to visit during your holiday.

On the Amalfi Coast, situated in the province of Salerno, you can also have a beautiful seafront view.

If the area has fewer people and also is nicer you can probably go on a road trip along the coast. Also, you can experience whatever the Amalfi Coast has to give at your rate.

You can go on hiking adventures and start exploring the towns and villages as they come alive with winter holiday celebrations.

Also, the Average weather in Amalfi Coast Italy in December would be around the maximum of 14° c and a minimum of 9°c.

Must Enjoy In December: Explore Pansa Pasticceria at Piazza del Duomo in Amalfi and also look for it. Over two decades, it has been baking exquisite pastries as well as sweets, rendering it as historic as the nearby cathedral.

Please ensure you only get a taste of the local-specific desserts available during the festive season and their renowned panettone. You can also enjoy some good music in concerts happening in winter all over Amalfi.

Also Read: 14 Unique Places To Visit In Switzerland


6. Florence

Florence Italy in December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Pixabay

Apart from being a home to Italy’s vibrant culture portrayed via its artwork as well as design, Florence is also recognized as the Middle Ages or Athens.

Going to play an essential role in the fashion world, this town is also known to rank among the world’s top 15 fashion capitals.

A visit to this capital of Tuscany will surely amaze you and you’ll keep returning for more. However, tourists from all across the world come to this city to appreciate the tall historical works of art of architectural origin mostly a place for history buffs.

Also, the Average weather in Florence Italy in December would be around the maximum of 11° c and a minimum of 3°c.

Must enjoy in December: Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell’Accademia as well as Ponte Vecchio. Also one of the best places to visit in Italy in December.

Also Read: 20 Places To Visit In Germany


7. Naples

Naples Italy in December
Image Source – Google | Image By – Pixabay

The capital city of Campania, Naples, is also the third-largest city in Southern Italy. Also, Naples had a bit of a dodgy reputation for years. My family visited and loved it, years ago.

They had POTATOES pizza on it which made their year (Irish people love potatoes). Foodies, listen up, Naples food is some of the best that you’ll find in the world.

From Naples, you can also visit the stunning and LEGENDARY volcano Mount Vesuvius which destroyed Pompeii more than 2000 years ago.

Pompeii is more like a time capsule, and for history lovers it is great. You can also catch the Capri ferry where you will find ruins, hiking trails, and much more to explore.

The Museo Archeologico Nazionale, the Royal Palace of Naples, Castel Nuovo, and also the Naples Underground Geothermal Zone are a few other places worth visiting.

Also, if you are traveling with family members, Villa Comunale is a seaside park with fountains, sculptures, children’s play area. It is also a must-visit place in Italy in December.

Also, the Average weather in Florence Italy in December would be around the maximum of 14° c and a minimum of 6°c.

Also Read: 10 Wonderful Places To Visit In Austria Which Will Make Your Vacation Memorable.


What should I pack for a December trip to Italy?

Pack layers, waterproof gear, cozy accessories, and festive attire to prepare for varying weather conditions and holiday celebrations.


Festivals In Italy In December

Several festivals in Italy have been celebrated this season. One of the largest of all is Christmas. Here are some festivals in Italy which are a must-visit.

  • Christmas market in Merano enjoying a festive mood from mid-November to the first week of January. Merano has lots of events and activities to enjoy for the whole family.
  • The Vert Noël Marché: A Christmas market concept, let’s shine over to Aosta, where they enjoy Marché Vert Noël.
  • City of Toys in Como: A fantastic town of Toys is being designed as children and their families rush to Città dei Balocchi

Also Read: What To Wear In Italy?


Main Festivals And Holidays in Italy in December

List of Other Festivals And Holidays in Italy in December
S.NoName Of The Festival
1Florence Noel
2Wild Boar Festival
3Perugia Christmas Festival
4Saint Barbara Day
5Saint Nicolas Feast Day
6Festa di San Nicolò
7Saint Ambrogio Day
8Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception
9Saint Lucia Day
10Saint Stephen’s Day

FAQs About Italy in December

There are a lot of questions that come to our mind while planning for an Italy trip some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

Q. What is the weather like in Italy in December?

A. December marks one of Italy’s coldest seasons
Some mean temperature ranges for different parts of Italy in December are as follows:
Northern Italy: -4-5 ° C (-25-45 ° F)
Central Italy: from 5-13 ° C (40-55 ° F)
Southern Italy: From 13-16 ° C (55-60 ° F)

Q. Which is the best place to travel in Italy in December?

A. Sicily, Venice, Turin, Amalfi Coast, and Rome are amongst the best places to travel in Italy in December.

Q. What to do in Italy in December?

A. Such fun things to do in Italy In December are:
1. Enjoy Italy’s oldest Fairs, OH Bej! Bej, Oh. You can find festive meals and decor, books, and local crafts here.
2. Have a nice time skiing in Sicily.
3. View Florence from a different perspective every evening as part of the Florence Light Festival from 8th December to 7th January.
4. Be part of a wonderful Christmas.

Q. What to wear in Italy in December?

1. Warm waterproof winter jacket
2. Scarf, hat, gloves
3. Short and long-sleeve tops for layering
4. Cardigan
5. Warmer jumper
4. Long trousers/skirts and winter tights

Q. Which are the major festivals celebrated in Italy in December?

1. Saint Ambrogio Day
2. Christmas
3. Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception
4. Saint Stephen’s Day
5. Saint Lucia Day

Q. Is it a good time to visit Italy in December?

A. There are, however, many convincing reasons to visit during this winter season. The low season for tourists in Italy is winter, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good time to visit. Italy in December is a treat, with fewer crowds, lower prices, and festive festivals.

Q. How cold is it in Italy in December?

A. 13°C
Averages December in Italy has an average temperature of 13°C, making it one of the coldest months of the year. In the winter, however, you’ll still get nine hours of sunshine every day, with an average humidity of 75%.

Q.  Is December a good time to visit Rome?

A. Don’t miss out on the scenery of Rome!
December, and the winter season in general, is an excellent time to visit Rome. Lines are shorter, museums and monuments are less crowded, and there are many exciting deals and things to do in Rome in December. 

Q. What is the cheapest month to go to Italy?

A. While September is a popular but relatively affordable month to visit, the colder months are by far the most affordable. In February or November, Hopper found tickets to Milan for as little as $513 roundtrip.

Q. Where is the warmest place in Italy in winter?

A. Sicily
In the winter, where Italy is the warmest? Sicily is a great area to visit in the winter if you’re looking for a warm destination in Italy. It is extremely warm in the winter and has a vibrant culture all year.

Q. Where in Italy is best in December?

A. Charming towns and villages, as well as iconic cities like Rome and Florence, showcase their unique allure in December, making them ideal destinations for a winter getaway.

Q. Will it snow in Italy in December?

A. Yes, Italy experiences snowfall in December, especially in regions like the Italian Alps, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.

Q. Is December a good time to visit Italy?

A. December is an enchanting time to visit Italy, offering festive celebrations, snow-covered landscapes, and a unique cultural experience.

Q. Are there special events in Italy during December?

A. Yes, Italy hosts numerous special events in December, including Christmas markets, festivals, and traditional celebrations that add to the festive atmosphere.

Q. Is Italy crowded in December?

A. December is considered the off-peak season, making it a perfect time to visit Italy without the usual crowds. You can enjoy popular attractions with a more intimate atmosphere.


Conclusion

Italy in December offers a magical and immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary. From festive celebrations to snow-covered landscapes, every aspect of this winter getaway is infused with charm and uniqueness. Plan your visit to discover the enchanting side of Italy during the most wonderful time of the year.


Tell Us In The Comments About One Of  Your Favourite Things In Italy In December.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with Fiery Trippers. Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.



Avatar of Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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