A Winter at Italy in December Travel Guide

Have you ever think about that why Italy in December is so great for holidays?

As I go through snowy villages and markets during Christmas, I can’t help but feel so well during this you to Italy in December winter. From the glittering lights of Rome, cafes in Florence, the entire country was full of something which you will love. 

Join me as I share my journey through Italy in December as an experience that you’ll love to make a tour to Italy during this winter season.

Italy December Weather

If you are thinking about going to Italy in December, you can enjoy ,

  • The Great Holiday parties, 
  • Bright Christmas lights and 
  • Snowy mountain slopes. 

December is the beginning of winter (off-season), there are fewer tourists, more holiday spirit, and cheaper prices. As always, this gives you the chance to have a ,

  • Relaxing trip to Italy and 
  • A land of snow and ice. 

That is why December might be the best month to go to Italy. Southern Italy enjoys lovely sunny days. The lakes hardly ever freeze, that’s why ferries keep running. In Lake Como or Lake Garda, you’ll have an enjoyable time at Christmas markets located among the snowy peaks.

Cinque Terre The weather in December

This lovely region along the Italian River is quiet and enjoyable as it has warm December weather, even though it’s in northwest Italy. Wonderful Spots to Explore in Italy in December. Exploring Italy in December is enjoyable. You can enjoy, 

  • Open-air markets, 
  • Soak in the Christmas spirit and 
  • Take advantage of lower prices. 

Here are a few of the top choices. If you’re excited about taking advantage of holiday sales, you’ll definitely want to check out one of the world’s fashion capitals for that best winter coat. 

Milan Trip in December

Milan has so much to do in December besides shopping. If you love finding Christmas offers, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect spot. Otherwise, take a slow walk through the wonderful Christmas markets like the Oh Bej. 

The holiday festivities start on December 7th, when everyone comes together to celebrate and honor the city’s beloved patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio. However, you can still explore Milan’s top attractions through a guided walking tour. Such as, 

  • A visit to the Last Supper or 
  • Enjoy a Duomo and 
  • Rooftop tour for a great view of the city. 

Why not take a lovely trip from Milan to Lake Como? You’ll find a more peaceful environment and some fantastic places waiting for you. Visiting Italy in December is a must for anyone who loves, 

  • Snowboarding, 
  • Snowshoeing or 
  • Skating in the beautiful snowy mountains.

The Dolomites are the perfect destination for that adventure. In December, the Dolomites have so much more to enjoy than just winter sports. There are also so many nearby resorts. Val Gardena is a well-known skiing destination and there are 11 other ski slopes in the Dolomiti Superski region. 

If you want, you can take a helicopter tour over the mountains of Italy or explore some of the beautiful towns in the Dolomites. Take a slow walk in the Christmas market decorated with lights in Bolzano and enjoy a warm cup of mulled wine.

Italy Trip in December

As I started my December trip to Italy, I was pleased by how much I fell in love with its winter beauty. From lovely, snow-covered mountain villages to colorful city streets shining with festive lights, every moment felt like a scene from a postcard. I enjoyed the lovely cities and events I noticed, where winter turns into a truly memorable adventure in Italy.

Rome’s Christmas Lights and Endless Places to Enjoy in Holidays

Walking in Rome during December felt like walking in a place where everything is colorful and royal. Places to visit,

  • The Colosseum
  • St. Peter’s Basilica and 
  • The Trevi Fountain looked even more beautiful with fewer tourists. 
  • Piazza Navona’s Christmas market had colorful stalls and handmade gifts. 

At night, every street glowed especially around the Spanish Steps, this made Rome’s holiday wonderful.

Florence: Art and Cafes

Florence welcomed me with the cafes. A cup of hot chocolate perfectly goes with the winter. The Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio were quieter this time of year. The city’s Christmas tree at Piazza del Duomo glowed with the twinkling lights, while festive markets filled the streets, selling Tuscan. Every corner of Florence felt like a celebration.

Canals of Venice During Winter 

Visiting Venice in December was one of the best decisions. The canals were misty and had a flow of peaceful air of romance. St. Mark’s Square looks great and has skies. I discovered a local shop selling Murano glass and Venetian masks. Walking through the narrow streets, wrapped with my coat. I felt like Venice was a gift for the tour lovers.

The Dolomites: A Snowy Spot to Italy’s Mountains

I decided to switch things up and visit the Dolomites. I enjoyed the stunning beauty of Italy’s winter. I had such a wonderful time skiing along beautiful routes and soaking in the snowy mountains. Evenings were filled with pleasant white snow mountains and a cup of mulled wine. The experience was truly enjoyable a great adventure.

Festivals to Enjoy in December

Italy in December is filled with festivals. I had such a wonderful time exploring the Christmas markets in the cities. I had a wonderful time in Milan at the Feast of Saint Ambrose on December 7. It was such a special occasion that celebrated the opening of the city’s oldest Christmas market at Piazza degli Affari. Another beautiful experience was the Midnight Mass at the Vatican. 

Why Italy in December Will Steal Your Heart

The chilly, misty weather and the fog turn the canals into a spot for a vacation in Venice. Take an enjoyable ride on the Grand Canal. Check out the charming local Christmas markets. Such as,

  • “Natale in Laguna” in Campo Santo Stefano or 
  • Have a lovely time visiting St. Mark’s Basilica

Be sure to check out the Christmas tree lighting in St. If you’re excited about a day trip from Venice, why not check out Murano Island for the Natale di Vetro (Christmas of Glass)? 

You’ll get to see a stunning 20 foot tall glass Christmas tree there. The festival’s highlight is the Regatta di San Niccolò, which is a water procession put together by the talented glassworkers from Murano Island. 

December in Bologna is usually chilly and occasionally gets a light layer of snow. I enjoyed the most beloved dishes. Such as, 

  • Tagliatelle al ragù, 
  • Lasagna bolognese and 
  • Tortellini in brodo. 

Enjoy day trips from Bologna to nearby towns such as Modena and Parma or enjoy a VIP Ferrari journey. It’s a bit chilly with mostly clear skies and some occasional rain, December is a lovely time to explore the Italian capital, Rome. You can still enjoy visiting amazing places like the, 

  • Pantheon, 
  • Colosseum and 
  • Vatican Museums. 

With a pleasant winter sun and some rain now and then, Naples is a wonderful spot to enjoy December in Italy. The holiday season fills Via San Gregorio Armeno. This place is also known as Christmas Alley I feel a cheerful vibe because artisans show their beautiful wooden handcrafted. It’s a lovely tradition for locals to enjoy fish for dinner on Christmas Eve. My trip to the Porta Nolana Fish Market is another story.

Holidays in Italy in December

The weather in Italy in December has the perfect mix of dry air and cozy vibes. But I prefer mild coastal temperatures to snowy mountain adventures. The cool breeze in cities like Rome and Florence and light snowfall in the Dolomites. Feels like magic right. With comfortable December temperatures in Italy starting with a cool morning to chilly evenings, it’s the best time for hot drinks and a tour of festive markets.

Temperature of Italy in December: Weather Chart by City

City

Average High (°C / °F)

Average Low (°C / °F)

Weather Highlights

Rome

12°C / 54°F

4°C / 39°F

Mild with occasional rain

Florence

10°C / 50°F

2°C / 36°F

Chilly mornings, sunny afternoons

Venice

8°C / 46°F

1°C / 34°F

Foggy canals, occasional rain

Milan

6°C / 43°F

0°C / 32°F

Cold but festive mood in markets

Dolomites

0°C / 32°F

-6°C / 21°F

Snowy, perfect for skiing

What I Wore and How I Enjoyed My Trip

During my trip, the weather in Italy in December felt refreshing and festive. I wore, 

  • A warm coat, 
  • A scarf and started exploring outdoor markets.

Lightweight sweaters were perfect for indoor museums and cafes. In cities like Rome and Florence, I wear comfortable shoes to walk on the streets. I keep an umbrella in my bag for occasional light rain.

The temperature of Italy in December was best for enjoying both indoor and outdoor activities. I went to Venice’s foggy canals, had a hot chocolate in Florence and explored festive markets under Rome’s twinkling lights. 

The snow-capped Dolomites are a perfect adventure, here my ski jacket and boots kept me warm. Traveling through Italy this time of year, I found that every moment was enjoyable. Italy weather in December is a season that makes every experience feel great and makes memorable.

FAQs

Is it a good time to visit Italy in December?

Yes, December is a great month to visit because towns have winter attractions, holiday markets and fewer tourists. The holiday emotions, along with events and arrangements that fit the season will make it a wonderful memory.

Is it worth going to Italy in December?

Without a doubt, December in Italy is a special time to visit because of the beautiful winter scenery and warm food. There is a lot to see and do, from snow-covered mountains and busy city streets.

Which city in Italy is best for Christmas?

Rome and Florence are top choices for Christmas, with their decorations, markets and holiday concerts. Milan is also exceptional for its majestic tree at Piazza del Duomo.

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