While January may not be the most popular month to visit Florence, Italy, it holds a special place in my heart. The city is less crowded, offers plenty of sunny days, and let’s not forget… it’s sale season! These are just a few reasons why making the most of this time in Florence is a great idea. I personally enjoy long walks from Porta Romana to San Miniato al Monte, Fiesole, or Settignano. With the sun shining and the cool air, it’s the perfect opportunity to get moving and indulge in a warm cappuccino and a delicious pastry afterward.
Keep in mind that the only time you’ll see a larger crowd this month is during the Pitti Uomo men’s fashion fair, which runs from January 10th to 13th. This event offers great people-watching opportunities, especially near the Fortezza da Basso entrance. It’s always exciting to see the latest fashion statements. If you’re curious about what Pitti Uomo entails, I highly recommend this entertaining video by Aaron Christian.
January is also a fantastic time to dive into Tuscan cuisine. Think of hearty dishes like ribollita—a comforting bean and kale soup—and crespelle alla Fiorentina, which are stuffed with a ricotta and spinach filling, folded or rolled, then generously covered in béchamel sauce, a few spoonfuls of tomato puree, and grated Pecorino cheese before being baked to a golden brown.
For excellent Tuscan recipe inspiration, I recommend checking out Jul’s Kitchen or subscribing to Emiko Davies’ Substack newsletter. I especially love her piece titled “Ode to the Tuscan Trattoria.”
I’m also in the process of updating my blog with personal restaurant recommendations around town, so feel free to reach out if you think I’ve overlooked any delicious options!
Helpful weather tips and what to wear in January
The mantra for staying warm in Florence during January is all about layers. Typically, it’s one of the coldest months, with average temperatures ranging from 10.9°C (51.6°F) to 2°C (35.6°F). However, this year has been relatively mild, with highs reaching up to 60°F (15°C) even before mid-January. Good waterproof shoes are essential, along with a scarf, hat, and a decent jacket. Personally, I prefer wearing a sweater over a shirt and removing a layer if it gets warmer. Fashion has evolved since I last wrote about what to wear, and you can now see a diverse range of styles on the streets of Florence.
If you’re a working mom or want to connect with others, the wonderful founder of International Babysitters (whom we’ve used frequently) has started a new Thursday morning coworking group at Palazzo Niccolo in Florence, beginning January 19 from 9 am to 12 pm. It’s an affordable way to combine childcare with coworking, and yes, there’s coffee! You can follow them on Instagram here.
Enjoy these tips on activities in and around Florence this January (some also cater to armchair travelers who appreciate the city from afar). I hope to visit again later this month or in February, so stay tuned!
For Culture Enthusiasts
Don’t miss the final days of the First Act, a contemporary art installation by Marya Kazoun.
Inspired by the Nativity scene and the ongoing environmental crisis, this installation is on display in Palazzo Pitti’s Sala Bianca until January 29, 2023. Created by the interdisciplinary artist Marya Kazoun, born in Beirut in 1976, the artwork features wind, symbolizing the transitory and elusive aspects of life, acting as the essential breath of the universe. In contrast, a swarm of locusts made from Murano glass represents the looming threat of climate destruction facing our planet.
Visit the newly-renovated Magliabechiana library at the Uffizi Galleries.
This stunning space recently reopened after a 20-month renovation, complete with a state-of-the-art eco-sustainable lighting system. The library is named after Antonio Magliabechi (Florence 1633-1714), an esteemed scholar and librarian during the Medici era. He oversaw the Medici’s Palatine Library and created a detailed catalog of Cardinal Leopoldo de’ Medici’s library. Upon his passing, he left a legacy of around 30,000 volumes, establishing Florence’s first public library, the precursor to the current National Central Library. The Uffizi Library, located in the Magliabechiano hall, specializes in art history, museography, and local history. The library is open to scholars on Tuesday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am to 1 pm. Further information can be found here.
Explore an online course about lesser-known Renaissance figures.
We all recognize the concept of the ‘Renaissance Man’—the polymath geniuses of the 15th and 16th centuries. But what about the ‘others’ not typically highlighted? Starting January 10, join a two-part online course led by local expert Alexandra Lawrence that delves into Renaissance women. This course draws inspiration from the enlightening anthology “Renaissance Characters” (edited by Eugenio Garin) and examines radical and creative women and the eclectic personalities who populated Renaissance Italy alongside their more established peers. More information and registration details can be found here.
Recommended Reads Centered Around Florence
For fellow book enthusiasts, be sure to check out this list of winter book recommendations with a Florentine twist, compiled by local bookstore The Paperback Exchange for The Florentine. Among other gems, you’ll find Ross King’s The Bookseller of Florence, which is a tribute to the world of books and printing, chronicling the transformative journey from script to print through the life of a remarkable yet little-known figure from history.
Join the celebration of Befana in Piazza della Repubblica on January 6.
Many places are closed until the 7th, with most returning to work the following weekend. This is due to the beloved folklore character La Befana, celebrated on Epiphany, January 6, which is a public holiday in Italy. Befana is an old woman who flies across the country on her broom, filling children’s stockings near the fireplace with sweets and small gifts. However, those who have been naughty might find coal instead! Good children also receive candy coal, as it’s quite tasty. If you want to catch a glimpse of her, head to Piazza della Repubblica around 11:30 am on the 6th for a chance to see her (and perhaps score a treat!).
For Those Seeking Relaxation
Indulge at one of Florence’s luxurious spas and practice mindfulness.
As someone who enjoys a great sauna, Turkish bath, and thermal pool, I’m pleased to recommend two exceptional options within the city (and one just outside) worth your time. My top choice is the Helvetia & Bristol day pass (€50), which grants access to the new Roman bath experience at the Helvetia & Bristol hotel. I visited with a friend, and it was just as fabulous as it sounds—complete with warm saunas and a relaxing pool area where you can escape the bustling city while still being in the heart of it. Additionally, in Campi Bisenzio, you’ll find Asmana Wellness World, which features a large outdoor/indoor pool area and numerous relaxing rooms and saunas with varying rituals throughout the day.
For a wellness center in central Florence that focuses on fitness (offering EMS, yoga, and pilates) and mindfulness, I highly recommend Relax Firenze. They offer a range of options, including mindful counseling, reflexology, expert massages/treatments, and courses. The space itself is cozy and inviting, making Relax the perfect place to indulge in self-care—a ritual rather than just a one-time activity.
For Foodies
Embark on a craft beer tour with Curious Appetite.
Italy, particularly Tuscany, is renowned for its wine, but you might be surprised to learn about the excellent craft beer available across the country. As a fan of artisanal beer, I believe signing up for a craft beer tour with the expert foodie team at Curious Appetite is a fun January activity. Italian craft breweries often experiment with unique local ingredients like chestnuts, saffron, peppercorns, flowers, ancient grains, wild honey, and seasonal fruits, making their offerings truly special. During the tour, you’ll visit 2-3 craft beer locations in Florence, enjoying guided tastings along with snacks that pair perfectly with each brew. Don’t forget to invite me!
For Adventurous Spirits
Experience the Florence Eye or ice skate at one of Europe’s largest rinks.
The Florence Ice Village will close on January 15, so there’s no time to waste! Head over to enjoy skating with family members who are eager for some fun. Also, for those unafraid of heights, the Florence Eye offers a unique perspective of the city from above. The Ice Village is open daily from 10 am to midnight, and you’ll find street food options available as well.
Consider a winter hike, whether urban or otherwise.
Florence and its surroundings feature fabulous places to explore. One of my favorite pastimes is downloading a few podcasts and taking a long walk with my beagle Ginger in the hills around our home near Piazza Tasso and Bellosguardo or walking to San Miniato al Monte. The Florentine has a great list of local hikes that you can discover here. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even consider embarking on a 130-kilometer (around six-day) hike, similar to what pilgrims used to do, from Bologna to Florence along the “path of the gods,” as my friend Silvia Donati did. It could be a thrilling way to kick off the new year!
