Italy in winter: Where to go and how to spend the best holidays.

Winter in Italy might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip, but we’re here to convince you otherwise! Our extensive knowledge of Italy will show you all the best of the cold season. From snow-capped mountains to cosy cities illuminated with glittering Christmas lights, Italy has so much natural beauty and old-world charm to offer during the colder months.

In this complete guide, we’ll provide everything you need to know for planning the perfect winter getaway in Italy. We’ll share our favourite destinations and activities, where to find the best food and wine, how to get around, budget travel tips, and more.

Whether you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure or just want to sip espresso in cafés while bundled up against the chill, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here for an unforgettable Italian winter holiday. So let’s get started!

• Go wine tasting
• Visit Nativity Scene Makers street in Naples
• Take advantage of winter sales
• Enjoy the beautiful Christmas markets
• Chase the winter sun in the south
• Slow down on the mountains
• Visit Iconic places without crows
• Cuddle yourself in a ski chalet
• Dress up for the Carnival of Venice
• Taste the winter food
• Relax in a thermal spa
• Enjoy the small villages
• Affordable prices
• The atmosphere at New Year’s Eve

Winter Weather in Italy

As we introduced the diversity of Italy from north to south, we talked about whether this might differ by east coast and west coast as well. Winter weather in Italy will see temperatures that change dramatically on the two sides of the country and also from the centre to the coast sides.

You will spot snow on the Dolomites peaks since October, while in the south there is still time for the beach and sunbathing.

While snow is the topic of the north in winter, heading to the South, the average temperature is around 10 °C (50°F), mostly sunny with low rainfall. The temperatures in Southern Italy might drop around January and February, with these two as the rainy months.

Because it is unpredictable weather you will find in winter in Italy, we have highlighted the temperatures and conditions month-by-month.

Italy in December

Northern Italy | The perfect season to go skiing. The best ski chalets in Italy traditionally start the season on the 8th of December, which is a conventional catholic holiday “Ponte dell Immacolata). However, the resorts on the mountains are open already from 1st and 2nd November, which is another public holiday.

Even if the snow doesn’t hit the peaks, most of the slopes will be replenished with artificial snow. The mountains towns are also filled with sparkling lights and the first markets that lead to Christmas start to build up.

Southern Italy | While in the north the sky is already grey and the cold weather hits the regions, in the south, it is totally different. The temperatures are all everywhere around 10 °C to 15 °C (50°F to 59°F), with the coastal town tendentially warmer than the internal ones. However, always remember that at night the temperature drops a lot. In Sicily, Southern Puglia and Calabria, some days the temperatures can reach about 20 °C(68°F).

Italy in January

Northern Italy | January is the coldest month in Italy, from North to South. However, as said before tendentially Northern Italy in January is freezing, and this is the best time to hit the slopes. The temperatures are everywhere around 0 °C and 5 °C (32°F to 41°F).

Southern Italy | Temperatures are warmer than north, but very cold indeed. Mount Vesuvius sees the snow on the peak from time to time, making the scenery magical and unbelievable. In January, you can also find snow on the Etna Volcano, which makes the nearby city of Catania incredibly beautiful. Temperatures in January in southern Italy are all about 7 °C to 12°C (44°F to 53°F). Head to Sardinia or Sicily for the warmest place in Italy in winter.

Italy in February

Northern Italy | The weather in February in Italy is very similar to January, with the perfect skiing holiday for locals, thanks to public holidays as well. The temperatures in Italy in February are all around -2 °C to 5 °C ( 28°F to 41°F). This is also the time when the rain hits a lot, be prepared that temperatures drop a lot after rain.

Southern Italy | The southern part of the country remains warmer than the North in February as well, however, it is a rainy month, and you should prepare for it. During these months it is easy to see floating and most of the places struggling with the connection between the places suspended.

Italy in March

Northern Italy | The temperatures in March in northern Italy remain low in the first part, rising a bit by the end of the month. It’s no more time to hit the slopes, but this is arguably in recent years. Locals refer to March as the “Crazy Month” with temperatures and weather definitely unpredictable.

By March, temperatures will have risen considerably all over Italy, but this is probably the most unpredictable month of the year! The temperatures in March in Northern Italy are from 7 °C to 15 °C(44 °F to 59 °F).

Southern Italy | In northern Italy the weather remains unpredictable, however, the temperatures rise considerably by the end of the month. In some parts of Italy, the bravest locals start to hit the beaches. Temperatures are from 10 °C to 20 °C (32 °F to 68 °F).

Go wine tasting

With the harvest season finished by October and November, December onward will be the best time to sip the final product. The local “vino Novello” locals mean the first production of wine coming out from the harvest season.

The beautiful Italian wineries are ready to welcome you, opening the cellars for sipping the best local wine. If this is your ideal holiday in Italy, you should consider visiting Tuscany for the best wine tasting in winter.

Discover the Chianti hills and book one of many tours around the valleys surrounding Florence, Pisa, and Siena. Organize a tour of Italy which includes the city of art and history, going deep into local heritage and traditions with a wine tasting tour.

Visit Nativity Scene Makers street in Naples

Naples might not be the first city coming up in your mind while thinking about Italy in the winter. The Southern city is one of the best, thanks to the unique heritage, delicious food and warm temperatures. Visiting Naples at Christmas will give you the chance to see the unique nativity scene makers street. 

San Gregorio Armeno is one of the most famous at Christmastime, rising in popularity among tourists. The narrow streets in the old town of Naples see the little craft stores open up to show the masters skills.

It’s a tradition in Naples for locals to visit San Gregorio Armeno and the narrow alleys of Spaccanapoli in the whole of December to take pieces of the Nativity scene. It is also a perfect souvenir from Italy for holidaymakers.

Take advantage of winter sales

Leave a bit of space in your luggage if visiting Italy in winter, especially if you are flying to the bel paese in January. This is the season when the winter sales start and make all the shopaholic enthusiasts get in and out of the shops and boutiques.

The winter sales start on the first weekend of January and last for about six weeks until mid-February.

Chase the winter sun in the south

You don’t need a long haul flight to chase the winter sun. While in the rest of Europe, winter hits hard in some popular locations, Italy still benefits from high temperatures.

Southern Italy is definitely the right location for you if looking for a warmer winter holiday in Europe. Heading to Sicily, Naples, or Puglia you can still enjoy the sunshine and warm temperatures, in some cases also a run to the closest beach.

Consider winter in Italy the best option to visit some locations usually busy in the summer. Sicily is the best example of our theory, with locations like Palermo and Catania less crowded and more enjoyable, with that little charm of wintertime.

Check out our tips on where to chase winter sun in Europe.

Slow down on the mountains

Opposite to the preceding paragraph, this is all about mountains and small retreats to relax body and mind. Winter is already a blue period for everybody, with work hitting hard and the mind and body in need of relaxation.

Up to the mountain, you can find your “oasis” of relaxation and switch off from everything. The best way to achieve this peace of mind is to visit small villages, surrounded by mountains, with fewer cars around.

We suggest you check out Trentino, a beautiful region on the North-East side of Italy ideal for slow travel. Trento, the capital region is all you might need to relax, with activities all around, some of the best Dolomites lakes close by and sports activities to switch off, but also the needs of a city.

We love Trento so much because it offers everything to a traveller who wants to slow down in Italy and enjoy their own time sipping a glass of “Trento Doc”, the local version of bubbles.

Cuddle yourself in a ski chalet

Considering Italy for a winter retreat on the slopes? This is the right time because the skiing season begins. Heading to Northern Italy, you will find some of the best Ski chalets in Italy opening the doors from November and the slopes by 8th December until Easter, and some until late April.

The best time to cuddle yourself in a ski chalet up the mountain is all around the end of November and December, with the Christmas and New Year’s period busier. The best places to travel to are around the Alps and Dolomites, with Cortina d’Ampezzo and Madonna di Campiglio in Trentino, Courmayeur in Aosta or Sestriere in Piedmont.

Visit Iconic places without crows

Among all the reasons why you need to spend winter in Italy, this is the one we like the most. Low Season means fewer tourists around. Some of the most popular cities in Italy, busier in summer and the best part of the year sees fewer tourists around.

This is the right time to wander around the Colosseum, and don’t stay in line for hours before getting your chance to get in. The same is for Venice, which suffers from overcrowds in a city that only hosts 60,000 inhabitants but welcomes more than 5 million tourists every year.

Discover these cities in Italy in winter with a short break in Europe. Take a break from the routine and see Venice on a weekend, or enjoy two days in Milan, Naples, or Florence with a fraction of the usual visitors.

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Taste the winter food

When cold weather hits Italy, hearty, soul-warming dishes take centre stage. Polenta, a cornmeal porridge topped with meat and mushrooms, rules the North, while pizza and pasta comfort the South. Cheeses, chestnuts, and decadent truffles also peak in the winter months.

Like Christmas, pandoro and panettone cake ignite endless debate over which is superior – the plain, sweet pandoro or panettone studded with raisins and candied fruits? Beyond the classics, regions toast the season with specialities like Struffoli fried treats in Naples and creamy Cassata cakes in Sicily. Italy’s winter offers no shortage of delicious comfort food.

Relax in a thermal spa

After a stressful year, unwinding in an Italian thermal spa hits the spot. Ski chalets often include wellness centers with massages, saunas, heated pools, and tranquil trails, like our stay at Trentino’s Monroc hotel by the slopes.

While many spas operate year-round for treatments, Saturnia’s natural hot springs in Tuscany let you soak for free in blissful high-temp waters in winter. With medical sites like Salsomaggiore Terme plus scores of luxe mountain retreats, Italy beckons for the ultimate winter spa getaway whether you seek rejuvenation, romance, or affordable indulgence.

Stay in a small village

Beyond Italy’s famed metropolises lies a treasured landscape of storybook hamlets brimming with generations-old traditions. Wandering these intimate winter villages lets you experience authentic local life firsthand.

Watch nonnas handcraft pasta in tiny kitchens, artisans ply ancient trades in cluttered workshops, and everyday existence unfolds in the piazza. For the most charming scenes, travel inland to unsung gems like Spello, Bevagna, Spoleto and Gubbio in Umbria.

Away from bustling cities, these rural time capsules open a window to Italy’s heritage and heart that should not be missed.

Affordable prices | Italy winter holidays

As mentioned before, one of the best reasons why visit Italy in winter is because it is less crowded. This means that popular locations come at more affordable prices. This is valid for everything from Hotels and other accommodations to tours, transports, and even connection flights.

Consider winter in Italy the best budget trick to explore Italy. December, January, and February are the best months to explore Italy for backpackers and Digital Nomads, especially the south where the temperatures are higher, and you can stroll around the city without crowds.

Places like Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Tuscan Hills become affordable like no other time. You can get your luxury hotel stay with a sea view on the Amalfi Coast for cheap, or catch the ultimate bargain by staying in Sorrento and visiting the Amalfi Coast. Another captivating idea might be to organize your own road trip in Italy and explore multiple cities for a low price.

The atmosphere at New Year’s Eve

Christmas and New Year’s Eve make the atmosphere like no other time. Italy sees an increase of visitors during this time of the year, so act fast organizing your trip. However, the cities are still enjoyable, with locals organizing parties and outdoor concerts in the main squares.

The best public parties with concerts and shows are in the major cities. Piazza del Plebiscito in Naples, Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Piazza Duomo in Milan, Circo Massimo in Rome, Piazza San Marco in Venice. However, heading to Italy for New Year’s Eve, you should consider checking out the events calendar before your trip.

Be aware that this is the typical holiday season for locals as well, and the prices are rising. Book in advance and don’t expect the places just for yourself.

Best less popular cities to travel in Italy on a budget in the low season

Escape the tourist hordes and save money in Italy’s overlooked gems come winter. The university city of Bologna charms with medieval towers, long porticoes, and hearty cuisine. Affordable Padua unveils artistic and architectural treasures without the crowds.

Discover rocky Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and winding alleys. Regal Turin delights with elegant piazzas, museums, and chocolate.

Or lose yourself in labyrinthine Lecce, the Baroque Florence of the south. For local flavour and lower price tags, Italy’s underrated cities offer budget travellers authentic charm and fewer frills in the off-season.

Best events in winter in Italy

Alongside the popular events across Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Italy is full of incredible events taking place in winter. Among the popular, there is a huge number of events you should consider attending.

From local fairs to more large gathering events like the Umbria Jazz Winter. This incredible music festival is in Umbria in the city of Orvieto and takes place over the New Year’s holidays. The Umbria Jazz winter features live performances and concerts in multiple venues across the small historic centre.

Popular is also the Befana, which is the traditional figure associated with Santa Claus, with villages and fairs filled with sweets and performances. One of the popular ones is in Naples, taking place every year and closing the festivities season on the 6th of January.

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Naples Italy in winter

This is one of the best cities to visit in Italy when the cold months approach. Naples should be on top of the destinations for your winter holidays in Europe. The Southern city offers warm temperatures all year round, low rain and a huge heritage.

Not only that, Naples might be the perfect hub for incredible day trips, from hiking Mount Vesuvius to the ruins of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Oplonti. In winter, you can also enjoy the Amalfi Coast like no others, without crowds and accommodation at affordable prices.

Rome | Popular destination in Italy in winter

Rome offers the highest range of activities to travellers all year round. With some of the best weather conditions, winter is definitely a destination to consider in Italy. Visiting Italy in December you should consider Rome as a destination, the city becomes more charming than ever with sparkling lights, romantic scenery and Christmas vibes. These are some of the unmissable things to do in Rome in winter.

• Ice skating at the Castel Sant’Angelo
• Seeing the Spanish Steps dressed up for Christmas
• Trying panettone and sugary torrone treats

Rome is a busy destination, even in winter. If you are flying into the airport during peak times, make sure to book your airport transfers before you fly to avoid any long queues once you arrive.

Dolomites

This is one of our favourite destinations in Italy. The Dolomites might suggest only slopes and ski chalets, but if you are not into that you can go just for a relaxing retreat surrounded by nature.

Enjoy some of the best lakes in the Dolomites, or rent a car and go for a rousing road trip around northern Italy. Check out our guide to the best places to visit in the Dolomites. For the best winter sports and ski rising resorts, our tip is to discover South Tyrol, an enchanting part of the Dolomites area with influence from the neighbour Austria and Germans.

Venice

While summer heat and crowds can overwhelm Venice, winter allows you to better appreciate the city’s romantic, decaying beauty. Meander car-free streets and cruise the Grand Canal bundled in your warmest jacket. Look for holiday concerts at La Fenice Opera House and presepi (Nativity scenes) around Piazza San Marco. Don’t miss:

• Strolling over the Rialto Bridge at sunset
• Trying fritole, fried sweet dough, from bakeries
• Exploring the Peggy Guggenheim Collection’s modern art

Tuscany in winter

From beautiful and popular Florence in winter, passing through Pisa and Siena, Tuscany can occupy all your annual holidays in one fell swoop. Florence itself is beautiful and worth visiting in winter, however, we suggest you cut some time off from your trip to visit the countryside and vineyard region of Chianti.

Florence

Between the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio bridge, this Renaissance jewel enthrals in any season. Join a tour to learn curiosities from local guides as you explore.

Sample seasonal delights like truffle ravioli and chocolate panforte. Get swept up in holiday spirit at festive markets around Santa Croce Church and Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Top experiences include:

• Seeing Christmas markets at Piazza Santa Croce
• Booking skip-the-line access to Michelangelo’s David
• Warming up with vin brûlé (mulled wine) in Piazza della Repubblica

Puglia

Not often included in the tourist’s guides of Italy, Puglia is rising in popularity. The beautiful region in the boot of the heel is perfect for a winter retreat in Italy with sunshine.

The region offers the best holiday vibes even in winter, despite being mostly a location for summer. Instead, in winter in Puglia, you can indulge in local food and hidden gems. Even spending just a weekend in Bari or Brindisi, the two main airports of the Region, can recharge your batteries a bit during the cold season.

If staying longer in Puglia definitely check our guide to the most useful things to know before visiting Puglia and discovering the white villages on top of the hills of Valle d’Itria. Go on a road trip discovering Alberobello, Locorotondo, Polignano a Mare, Ostuni and many more without crowds.

Sicily in winter

The warmest region in Southern Italy is incredibly hotter than other places in Central Europe. Facing the coasts of Africa, Sicily is the closest spot for a winter warm escape in Europe. Also, you will discover the unbelievable heritage of the island without crowds. Cities like Catania, Palermo, Ragusa, Taormina and Syracuse will be without the usual tourists mass.

This makes you want to discover the quirky things the island has to offer, from cute fisherman villages to the unique white cliffs of Scala Dei Turchi.

Umbria | Hidden gem for Italy winter holidays

Unlike other regions in Italy, Umbria is less popular and definitely sees a few tourists around all year round. This is an internal region and so more popular in autumn and winter.

In Umbria, you can find everything to slow down and enjoy the taste of the little villages’ life, plenty of food and cultural festivals. There is not a perfect time to visit Umbria, but this is a trip to plan when your batteries are totally down.

Often seen as the green lung of Italy, the region consists of beautiful valleys, not so high mountains and many forests, waterfalls, and rivers. The best city to consider visiting is Perugia, home of sweet chocolate, cultural heritage, beautiful churches and squares.

Verona | The charm of northern Italy in winter

To be fair, the city of Romeo and Juliet is fantastic to visit all year round. Not often on the tourist bucket list of Italy, Verona is an awesome escape for winter in Europe.

Beyond being the setting for Romeo and Juliet’s star-crossed love, Verona enchants with its blend of Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and trendy cafés. The city’s Christmas market fills Piazza dei Signori with festive stalls, while regional wine and risotto satisfy cravings. Top sights include:

• Seeing Juliet’s balcony and “love letters” left on the walls
• Sampling Amarone, Valpolicella, and more at cantinas
• Admiring Roman Arena lit up at night

Lake Como, Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore

All three are very famous and definitely worth a visit in winter. The major lakes in Italy are always crowded, especially in summer, however, in wintertime these spots see fewer tourists around that making the whole holiday more enjoyable.

The lakes are nestled in valleys surrounded by beautiful mountains with high snowy peaks. The scenery will be gorgeous and ideal for a little break from the routine.

Milan in winter

Italy’s fashion and design capital dazzles with illuminations during the holidays. Shop the designer boutiques in the Quadrilatero d’Oro and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. See Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper and La Scala opera house. Don’t miss these top sights:

• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II’s Christmas lights display
• Ice skating under Milan’s Duomo
• Seeing holiday markets around the Castello Sforzesco

Best Winter Activities in Italy

Once you’ve picked your destination, it’s time to start planning how to stay active and make the most of Italy’s winter landscapes. Here are some top seasonal activities:

Hit the Slopes

Crisp mountain air, powdery snowfall, and groomed pistes entice skiers and snowboarders from December through March. Top ski resorts include:

• Dolomiti Superski – 12 interconnected resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo spans the Dolomites, offering over 400 lifts and 1,200km of runs.
• Via Lattea – Glide down long, scenic trails overlooking the dramatic Monte Rosa massif in the Milky Way ski area.
• Cerreto Laghi – Family-friendly slopes sit at the top of Italy’s Apennine Mountains.
• Courmayeur – This chic resort near Mont Blanc combines quality skiing with shopping, spas, and gourmet dining.

Most resorts offer equipment rentals, ski lessons, and mountain hut restaurants where you can fuel up on polenta and speck (smoked ham).

Go Ice Skating

Lace-up your skates and glide across the ice under open skies or within historic settings. Top rinks include:

• Piazza del Duomo in Milan
• Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City
• Castel Sant’Angelo moat in Rome
• Palazzo del Ghiaccio in Florence

Tour by Bicycle

While many avoid biking in Italy’s steamy summers, winter provides ideal cycling weather to explore cities and countryside. Rent bikes and helmets to pedal around:

• Countryside vineyards and olive groves near Florence, Siena, or Verona
• Coastal trails like the Cinque Terre
• Ancient sites in Rome or Pompeii

Join a Cooking Class

Learn to make pasta, tiramisu, and other Italian favourites during hands-on cooking classes. Many farms and wineries also offer sessions focused on regional specialities and wines. Read our review guide about the best cooking classes in Florence.

Go Snowshoeing

Strap on snowshoes to trek through a winter wonderland around mountain areas like Trentino, Alto Adige, and Abruzzo National Park. Guided tours are available for beginners.

Getting Around Italy in Winter

One perk of travelling in winter is the ease of transportation without massive crowds. Here are the best ways to get around:

Train Travel

Italy’s extensive high-speed and regional train network makes hopping between cities quick and scenic. The state railway Trenitalia and newer, private Italo service offer:

• Speedy connections between major hubs like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan
• Regional routes to smaller cities, villages, and airports
• Discounted advance-purchase fares and special deals

Check timetables and book tickets online. At stations, validate tickets before boarding. Note that strikes can occasionally disrupt service.

Domestic Flights

For covering long distances across Italy, flights can save time. Airlines like Alitalia and easyJet connect Rome, Milan, Venice, Sicily, and more. Budget airlines offer cheaper fares with carry-on-only policies. Expect to pay extra for seat selection, checked bags, and food.

Rental Cars

While driving in cities can be stressful, having a car helps you explore provincial towns and rural regions at your own pace. Reserve well in advance for the best rates. Consider:

• Manual vs. automatic transmission
• Including GPS to help navigate
• Paying extra for collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance

Always have your passport and International Driving Permit handy when renting.

Regional Buses

Less expensive and extensive than trains, regional buses link cities to smaller towns. Tickets usually need to be purchased at stations or tobacco shops versus online. Plan routes and schedules ahead of time.

Taxis

Taxis easily connect you door-to-door within cities, though rates add up quickly. They are best for short trips or when you have lots of luggage. Insist the meter be turned on to avoid scams.

Where to Eat and Drink in Italy in Winter

Classic Italian Desserts

• Tiramisu – Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and sweet mascarpone cream make this pick-me-up dessert.
• Panna cotta – Creamy, chilled panna cotta is often topped with an orange or berry sauce.
• Cannoli – Crispy, fried pastry shells get filled with sweetened ricotta. Try them in Sicily.
• Gelato – While good year-round, a cup of gelato helps warm up winter strolls.
• Zuppa Inglese – This trifle layers rum-soaked cake with custard and chocolate.

Warming Winter Drinks

• Vin brulé – This mulled red wine is the perfect apres-ski treat after a day on the slopes.
• Amaro – Sip Italian herbal digestifs like Averna, Montenegro, or Nonino neat or over ice.
• Negroni sbagliato – Mix Campari, vermouth, and sparkling wine for this bubbly cocktail.
• Caffè corretto – Add a splash of grappa or sambuca to espresso.
• Hot toddy – Splash in lemon juice, honey, and whiskey to warm up on cold nights.

Regional Wines

Sample rich Italian reds and whites that pair perfectly with hearty winter cuisine:

• Barolo – The “king” of Piedmontese wines has intense tannins and notes of tar and rose.
• Brunello di Montalcino – This bold Tuscan red gets aged for years before release.
• Amarone – Made from dried grapes, Amarone della Valpolicella, oozes flavors of prunes and chocolate.
• Chianti Classico – Look for black cherry and violet notes in bottles from this central Tuscan DOCG.