What to See & Do in Italy in December
Are you looking for the best places to visit in Italy during December? Let’s explore some unforgettable experiences!
1) First on the list: Christmas Markets! These magical festivals appear throughout Italy in December, offering everything from handmade ornaments to delicious seasonal treats.
The market in Bolzano, in the South Tyrol region, is particularly well-known. Imagine wooden stalls filled with local specialties, the delightful scent of mulled wine in the air, and children skating under twinkling lights—it’s like living in a Christmas postcard.
2) For snow enthusiasts, the Italian Alps are a must-visit. With top-notch resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo and hidden gems like Livigno, there are slopes suitable for every skier.
Even if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, many resorts offer activities such as snowshoeing and sledding, or simply soaking in the breathtaking mountain views from a cozy chalet.
3) For a unique Italian winter experience, why not try a thermal bath? The ancient Romans knew the joys of hot springs, and you can follow their lead at famous spots like Saturnia in Tuscany or Bormio in Lombardy.
4) Art lovers will be delighted! Winter is the ideal time to visit Italy’s renowned museums and galleries without the usual crowds.
In Florence, get lost in the Uffizi or admire the frescoes in the Duomo, all while avoiding summer crowds. In Rome, spend hours in the Vatican Museums at your leisure, giving you the chance to truly appreciate the Sistine Chapel.
5) For a taste of local culture, attend a holiday concert in one of Italy’s beautiful churches or historic theaters. From classical performances at Venice’s Teatro La Fenice to Christmas concerts in Rome, these events provide a chance to experience Italy’s rich musical heritage in stunning venues.
Events & Festivals
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Celebrated on December 8th, this is one of Italy’s biggest events and marks the beginning of the Christmas season with parades, special masses, and the lighting of Christmas trees in town squares nationwide.
In Rome, the Pope leads a special ceremony at the Spanish Steps, placing a wreath at the statue of the Madonna.
Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica
If you’re in Rome on Christmas Eve, don’t miss the chance to see the Pope delivering midnight mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, although tickets are free but hard to acquire.
New Year’s Eve
For a unique New Year’s celebration, head to Venice. The city puts on a dazzling fireworks display over the lagoon, while locals and visitors gather in St. Mark’s Square for a massive group kiss at midnight! Many restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve menus, and the festivities often continue into the early hours of January 1st.
Epiphany
In Florence, the holiday season concludes on January 6th with the Epiphany, celebrated with the Cavalcade of the Magi—a colorful procession featuring participants in Renaissance costumes reenacting the journey of the Three Wise Men.
Winter Sports
For winter sports lovers, a variety of skiing and snowboarding competitions take place in the Alps and Dolomites throughout the season. Even if you’re not participating, these events can be thrilling to watch, often featuring festive après-ski parties.
What to Eat in Italy
Winter in Italy is a culinary delight, featuring hearty dishes that keep you warm from within.
- In Rome, try pasta e ceci, a nourishing soup with pasta and chickpeas—perfect for a chilly day of sightseeing. Look out for artichokes as well, especially carciofi alla romana (Roman-style artichokes) and carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes).
- Florence is known for its bistecca alla fiorentina, a huge T-bone steak perfect for sharing on cold nights, especially when paired with a robust Tuscan red wine. Another Tuscan winter favorite is ribollita, a comforting vegetable and bread soup.
- In Milan, you must try cassoeula, a rich pork and cabbage stew often served with polenta—truly hearty fare. Milan is also renowned for its risottos; the saffron-infused risotto alla Milanese is a culinary must.
- In Venice, warm up with baccalà mantecato, a creamy spread of salt cod, delicious on grilled polenta. Seafood lovers should also sample sarde in saor, sweet and sour sardines, a Venetian specialty.
- Don’t forget the sweets! Winter is the season for panettone, the dome-shaped fruitcake that is a Christmas favorite throughout Italy. In Sicily, look for cassata, a sponge cake soaked in liqueur and layered with ricotta and candied fruit. Throughout Italy, you’ll find enticing displays of Christmas cookies and chocolates.
- To wash everything down, indulge in Italy’s winter beverages. Vin brulé (mulled wine) is a festive favorite at Christmas markets and ski resorts. For a non-alcoholic option, try Italy’s rich hot chocolate, almost pudding-like and often served with whipped cream.
What to Pack for Italy in Winter
When packing for Italy in winter, it’s essential to be strategic—layers are key!
Start with warm thermal underclothes, add cozy sweaters, and finish off with a waterproof jacket.
Don’t forget durable walking shoes, as cobblestones can become slippery when wet. A pro tip: bring a scarf or two! They not only keep you warm but also help you blend in with fashionable locals.
Italians take winter fashion seriously, and you’ll rarely see anyone without a chic scarf draped around their neck.
Other essentials to consider include:
- A warm hat or beanie
- Gloves or mittens
- Thick socks
- A compact umbrella
- Lip balm and moisturizer (the cold air can be drying)
If you plan to ski or explore mountainous areas, remember to pack suitable gear. While many resorts provide rentals, it’s wise to bring your own base layers and ski socks.
Travel Tips for December
Here are some insider tips to make your winter Italian journey even more magical.
- Many state-run museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month—take advantage of these free days!
- Consider staying in an agriturismo, a farm-stay that provides unique experiences like wine tastings by the fireplace or cooking classes with seasonal ingredients.
- Keep the cost of living in mind when choosing your accommodations.
- Explore smaller towns and villages hosting winter festivals and markets, which are generally less crowded than those in major cities.
- Italians take winter style seriously, so pack a few nice outfits for evenings out.
- Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and events.
- The weather can be unpredictable, so stay flexible with your plans.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to connect with the locals.
- Don’t forget travel insurance to cover cancellations or delays due to winter conditions.
- Take advantage of winter sales, as many shops offer significant discounts during this season.
Conclusion
This is your comprehensive guide to a winter wonderland waiting for you in Italy. From snow-covered mountains to cozy cafes, festive markets, to world-class museums, Italy in December presents a plethora of unique experiences.
So why not break the mold and immerse yourself in la dolce vita this winter?
