Italy in December: Weather, Festive Holiday and More!

Expect the weather to be cold while traveling to Italy in December. Temperatures in the country during this time of year range from -3°C to 7°C in Bolzano, located in the Alps, where the ski season kicks off with the first round of snow. However, they reach up to 16°C in Naples and the south. Although warmer than its northern counterpart, the southern parts of Italy see slightly more rain in this month, receiving some rainfall for nine days compared to four or five days in the north. Daylight hours across Italy are limited compared to the summer months, with sunset taking place before 5:00 pm in Rome.

For a seasonal overview, read our guide on the best time to visit Italy.

Pack a warm hat, woolen scarves, and thick gloves, and the cold weather will not stop you from experiencing all that Italy is famous for. Plus, there are also several advantages to visiting Italy in December.

• Fewer crowds and better rates : December offers a more peaceful travel experience as Italy’s tourist crowds are thinner compared to peak summer months. Attractions are less crowded, and you can explore Italy’s historic sites and museums without long lines. Plus, it’s an affordable time to visit with lower hotel and flight prices.
• Winter sports in the Alps and Domoties: For winter sports enthusiasts, December is a great time to visit Italy’s northern regions. The Italian Alps and Dolomites offer world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With picturesque snowy landscapes, cozy chalets, and après-ski culture, these regions are perfect for an active winter escape.
• Festive holiday atmosphere: Italy in December is filled with holiday cheer. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan are beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and festive markets. You can enjoy mulled wine, traditional pastries like panettone, and lively holiday events, making it a magical time for those seeking a festive winter getaway.
• Mild southern climate: While northern Italy experiences colder temperatures, the southern regions, like Sicily and Naples, have milder winters, making them ideal for outdoor exploration. Enjoy the Mediterranean climate with fewer tourists, and visit historical sites like Pompeii or relax along the scenic coastline of the Amalfi Coast.

Even in December, there are many things to do in Italy. The obvious favorite among adrenaline junkies is a few days’ skiing and snowboarding experience in resorts such as Cortina d’Ampezzo, a joint host for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Rome in winter rarely sees the levels of snow as Italy’s north, which ensures that the capital remains one of the top places to visit in Italy even during the cold months for anyone with interest in its ancient past. 

For those seeking milder weather, the Bay of Naples is a cozy escape. Explore the historic ruins of Pompeii, take in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, or enjoy a glass of wine at the vineyards of Mount Vesuvius. In southern Italy, Lecce in Apulia dazzles with its baroque buildings, their intricate stonework glowing in the winter sun. A short journey across the Strait of Messina brings you to Sicily, where the island’s festive Christmas traditions, charming villages, and rich history await. From snowy mountains to sun-kissed coastlines, Italy in December offers something for every traveler.

Are you wondering how long you should stay? For more information, check out our travel guide to how many days to spend in Italy.

Your packing list for Italy in December will differ depending on which part of the peninsula you intend to visit. If you are going for the wintry north, you will want plenty of warm clothes, ranging from thick socks and thermal underwear to winter overcoats. If you are instead traveling to Naples or anywhere further south, you can get away with a spring wardrobe comprising short-sleeved tops and trousers or skirts alongside a sweater for cooler evenings. In addition to all this, a pair of shoes you can walk comfortably in all day is also a must.

Italy’s weather in December will not stop you from enjoying the many attractions and destinations that the country boasts. So why not take advantage of low-season prices? However, if December in Italy is not for you, the country offers plenty of opportunities during other seasons as well. Feeling inspired? Make your trip to Italy a dream come true by getting in contact with our local travel experts for your customized tour to Italy.

You may want to check out our Italy tours in December.

Other related articles:
Italy in November
Italy in January