One of the most popular countries in the world to visit year-round, Italy is a traveller’s paradise in winter. From Dolomite ski resorts to warm winter sun, Italy really does have it all. Whether you want fresh seafood by the beach or to hit the slopes further north, from city breaks in places such as Milan to relaxing winter holidays in Calabria, there’s something for everyone in Italy.
Discover all you need to know about visiting Italy during the winter months in this guide below:
Your comprehensive guide to visiting Italy in winter
Church of Santa Maria Assunta, Brunico
What is the Weather Like in Italy in Winter?
Weather-wise, Italy is one of the most diverse countries in Europe. You could ski in the north of the country one day, and then relax on the beach in the south the next. As such, it’s the perfect place to visit this winter.
For example, Val Gardena in the Dolomites is a well-known ski resort destination, and the temperatures in winter hover anywhere from -8℃ to -2℃. Further south, in places such as Rome and Naples, you can expect temperatures to be around 4℃ to 15℃, making them pleasant places to visit in the winter months.
However, if you’re really searching for an Italian sun-filled winter getaway, then we recommend heading to Sicily. Palermo and Catania remain vibrant and warm cities, although the award for the warmest average winter temperatures in Italy is Syracuse, with temperatures around 15℃ to 21℃ throughout the winter months.
You’re truly spoiled for choice when it comes to holidaying in Italy in winter, as the weather caters for all types of travellers.
The Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter
There are numerous stunning places in Italy which are perfect for visiting in the winter. In fact, some of these places are even better in the winter than in the summer.
The Dolomites: This northern Italian mountain range – which forms part of the wider Alps Mountain range – is ideal for winter sport enthusiasts in the winter; expect skiing, snowboarding and more. However, it’s also beautiful to visit for a holiday filled with snow, cosy log cabins and incredible food, even if you’re not into winter sports.
Rome: The Italian capital, also known as the Eternal City, is perfect for a winter visit. It can become stiflingly hot in the summer, with temperatures up to 40℃ not unheard of, so visiting in the winter is much more comfortable. The snow-dusted Colosseum is a true wonder to behold.
Milan: If you’ve forgotten to pack your winter coat for the cold weather, at least you’re in luck when it comes to shopping in Milan – only if you’re prepared to spend thousands on a jacket that is! This northern Italian city is a great place for a winter holiday – expect stunning scenes, culinary delights and a vibrant city centre.
Sicily: For sun-seekers, look no further than Sicily. Leave the winter coat at home, and bring some shorts and t-shirts instead. Enjoy ice-cold white wine by the sea, or fresh seafood on a rooftop terrace in the middle of winter – and the island is much quieter in the winter months, too.
Caccamo, Sicily
The Best Things to Do in Italy in Winter
Italy is easily one of the most accessible countries in the world, and there is so much to do. While other Mediterranean countries suffer from being solely summertime economies, Italy has the advantage of being as much a winter paradise as it is a summer one. Here are some of the best activities you can do in Italy this winter:
Indoor Activities to Do in Italy in Winter
Cooking Classes: Arguably the most famous and most-loved cuisine in the world, it’s no secret that Italians are very passionate about their food. As such, there are cooking classes offered in every city and almost every large town in the country. Whether you want to master a margherita, perfect your penne or make top-class tiramisu, there’s something for every type of cook – no matter your level of expertise – in Italy.
Museum Visits: Italy is one of the most historically-rich countries on Earth, and is famed for the Roman Empire, and as such, there are thousands of museums across the country – many of which are free to enter – where you can learn about Italy’s past.
Spa Day: Spas are very popular in Italy during the winter, and have been since the Roman era. If the weather’s nasty, treat yourself to a day inside a warm spa. Many spas near Lake Garda have thermally heated outdoor pools, which are ideal for getting the best of both worlds.
Rome
Outdoor Activities to Do in Italy in Winter
Winter Sports: Particularly if you’re visiting the Dolomites, taking part in winter sports is a must. Everything from skiing to snowshoeing and more is possible, and what better way to end your day of hitting the slopes than by enjoying a hot chocolate or a beer or two by the roaring fire in an Alpine lodge?
Vineyard Tour: Italian wine is almost as famous as Italian food, and most of the vineyards in the country are open year-round. Tours of vineyards are often discounted during the winter, so if you’re visiting on a budget, this can be a fun activity to do. Plus, most of them end with a wine tasting by the fire afterwards – and who doesn’t enjoy a hearty Italian red in the winter?
Fishing: Whether you prefer a dedicated fishing reservoir or want to take a boat out into the Mediterranean, fishing during the winter months is a popular pastime for outdoor enthusiasts in Italy. It’s even better if you’re allowed to keep the fish you caught, and cook them in your favourite Italian dressings and sauces afterwards.
Madonna di Campiglio ski resort
Winter Events and Festivals in Italy
Christmas Markets: While the towns and cities around the Dolomites draw on the Alpine theme for their Christmas market celebrations, there are plenty throughout the country which offer warm Italian hospitality, locally-crafted goods, and homemade food and drinks for all to enjoy in a festive atmosphere throughout November and December.
Feast of the Epiphany: Celebrated on 6th January, this nationwide event celebrates the end of the Christmas period, with parades and open religious ceremonies in most of the major cities in Italy.
La Befana Festivals: Typically celebrated throughout January, these celebrations go hand-in-hand with the Feast of the Epiphany, and celebrate the mythical figure La Befana – the good witch who gives sweets to well-behaved children.
Snow Sculpture Festivals: Hosted in San Candido and San Vigilio throughout the winter, these festivals attract thousands of visitors, who flock to the Dolomites to see the incredible hand-crafted snow sculptures made by local artists.
The Best Food to Try in Italy in Winter
Very few places do comfort food better than Italy, and winter in Italy is all about eating delicious food and waiting until the gym reopens in January to burn off all the calories!
Polenta: One of the most versatile food items, polenta (made from cornmeal) can either be fried or served soft and creamy, and is a popular accompaniment to stews or a cheeseboard.
Orzo/Pastina: This tiny pasta is exactly what every Italian grandmother makes during the winter – and as such, it is associated with comfort food. Served as a broth, often with winter vegetables, it’s only great to eat when you have a cold, but also to warm you up after a cold day out.
Baccalà: Dried and salted cod may not appeal to many people, but for centuries, this has been a winter favourite in Italy. Often served alongside potatoes, rice and winter vegetables, this helps cut down on food waste because it is preserved in the summer and eaten in the winter.
Pannettone: No visit to Italy in winter is complete without pannettone, which is quickly making its way around the globe as a Christmastime favourite. This sweet bread, filled with sugared fruits, is best enjoyed the traditional Italian way: with a chilled glass of sweet wine, or with a freshly brewed espresso.
Snowy vineyards of Piedmont
Practical Tips for Winter Travel in Italy
Visiting Italy in the winter requires a bit of careful thought on what to pack and when to book certain events. Here are a few handy practical tips to help you prepare for winter travel in Italy.
Packing: This really depends on where you’re visiting. You’ll need lots of warm clothing and winter sports gear if you’re planning a ski trip in the Dolomites, but if you’re heading to the south of the country, or to Sicily, for example, you’ll likely just need to bring a light jacket or sweatshirt to wear in the evenings. We recommend bringing a waterproof jacket regardless of where you’re going, and checking the weather forecast before travelling to Italy.
Transport: Public transport is generally very reliable in Italy, especially in the major cities such as Rome. However, snowy conditions can sometimes affect public transport routes, and many of the Alpine mountain passes are closed during the winter. As such, you should make sure that you have travel organised, such as either hiring a car or booking a coach trip.
Book in Advance: Winter tours in Italy can fill up on numbers very quickly, so booking in advance is essential. Winter sports enthusiasts should ensure that the resorts they book have all the facilities they need, while if you’re planning on booking a cooking class or a vineyard tour, you should also give enough notice to guarantee your place.