Is December a good time to visit Italy?
December can be a good time to visit Italy, especially for winter sports as the Alps and Dolomites usually get a good dollop of snow. Rome comes alive with dazzling Christmas markets and elaborate nativity scenes in Turin, Florence and Verona are matched by light displays that illuminate ancient architecture in Venice, Lecce, Milan and others.
Although the weather tends to be cooler, especially in the northern regions, and occasional rain showers can occur countrywide, there are plenty of upsides. The weather in Italy in December provides good opportunities to sample Alto Adige’s wine during the Törggelen season.
This roughly coincides with the arrival of the Neuien – the first bottles of new, young wine – from about the end of September to the beginning of December. It traditionally marks the passage of the year, celebrating a golden time of clear autumnal weather before winter sets in.
Do note that by December, some tourist attractions may have reduced hours or be closed completely for the winter.
This exciting tailor-made journey through the treasures of Italy: Venice, Florence and Rome can be personalised to suit the winter and our local experts will do their best to make your winter holiday in Italy an unforgettable experience.
Average rainfall in Italy in December
December brings varying levels of average rainfall across Italy. As the late autumn transitions into winter the northern regions, such as Milan and Venice, see slightly higher average rainfall levels, ranging from 60 mm to 100 mm.
Central areas, including Florence and Rome, experience moderate rainfall, with averages ranging from 40 mm to 80 mm. In the south, destinations like Sicily and Naples, receive relatively lower average rainfall, typically between 40 mm to 60 mm.
While December is not the wettest month in Italy, occasional rain showers are common, especially in the northern and central regions. Note that sleet and snow occur regularly as well, especially in mountainous regions.
