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Florence in Winter | Weather, Things to do, Packing Checklist, Travel tips & More

Florence, Italy's capital city, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. As a result, throughout the winter months, it may become clogged with tourists. During the holidays, many Tuscans return to their hometowns and switch places with tourists. Beautifully lit streets, outdoor concerts, seasonal culinary tours, and chestnut markets are just a few of the festivities that take place in the run-up to the holidays. So, if you're considering a trip to Florence in the winter but aren't quite sure yet, here are some of the popular favorites to surely lure you in.

Florence in Winter: At a Glance

November to March

Average Temperature: 3°C - 10°C
Average Rainfall: 111 mm
Average Daily Wind Speed: 7.4 m/hr
Average Sea Temperature: 13.33°C
Average Daytime: 7-9 hours

Why Visit Florence in Winter?

1. Go on a Shopping Spree

If you're in Florence in January, you may take advantage of the sales and get some shopping done. If you have a few euros to spare, you can purchase clothing, bags, accessories, or even household goods at any store in town. It's customary for deals to begin around the time of the local festival of Epiphany, so be sure to note it on your calendar.

2. Visit the Duomo

Climbing to the summit of the Duomo is possible for those who are physically fit and are not afraid of heights. To avoid crowds in the winter, arrive early and get a ticket before the sun rises so you can ascend the 400 stairs. Don't forget to capture the city from the peak with your camera.

3. Thinner Crowds

Visiting Florence in winter is a terrific idea for sparsely-crowded attractions. In December and February, Florence is at its quietest, so this is the greatest time to get a flavor of the city without the crowds. It's not completely "tourist-free," but it's way less congested than in the summer months.

4. Go on a Fashion Spree

Pitti Uomo, one of Europe's most prominent fashion trades, is based in Florence. If you're looking to catch up on the latest fashion trends, attend fashion shows and parties, this event is for you. It takes place twice each year.

What to Look Out for in Florence in Winter?

1. Restricted Food Options

If you're traveling through rural areas or seeing small towns, you may have difficulty finding a spot to eat, particularly during lunch. In fact, many attractions are closed during the holidays, particularly after Christmas, or they are only available on weekends.

2. Closed attractions

During the weekends, the vast majority of places of worship are shut. Make sure to check the schedule of neighboring attractions including the iconic Florence Duomo if you're planning a trip there.

3. Museums are Closed on Mondays

Museums in Florence are closed on Mondays for everyone. The Galleria dell'Accademia and Uffizi in Florence are both closed. Cortona's MAEC and Diocesan Museum are also unavailable to tourists on Mondays.

What to Wear?

What to Wear in Florence in Winter?

Florence is a historic city with many cobblestone streets, so bring some good walking shoes. To see all Florence has to offer, you'll have to put in a lot of walking time.
If you're going to be in Florence during the winter, don't forget to bring some warm scarves.
Leather mitts or woolen gloves and winter hats that match your overall style are essential for keeping your hands and head warm this season.
Choose a pair of pants that are both stylish and warm enough for Florence's winter temperatures.
A variety of shirts and blouses for the length of your stay are essential.

What to Pack for Florence in Winter?

Depending on your particular style and what you expect to do and see in Florence, you should bring some fantastic outfits.
Because it's fashionable and adheres to the Florentine style, a lovely purse or duffle bag is ideal.
Coats and jackets for the winter that are both warm and waterproof. When flying, you can minimize room in your suitcase by just bringing one piece of winter gear.
In spite of the frigid temperatures outside, you can expect a warm temperature indoors whether you visit art galleries or a restaurant for lunch. We'd recommend you layer up in order to stay most comfortable.
Wearing warm, thick socks can help keep your feet comfortable during the day of touring.

Top Things to do in Florence in Winter

1. Palazzo Pitti

Art Gallery

The Palazzo Pitti is a palace in Florence, Italy. It was originally the residence of the Pitti family. The palace was designed by Brunelleschi and constructed between 1458 and 1484. It is now used as a museum and art gallery which is a must-visit if you are an art aficionado.

From €24

2. Visit Santa Croce

Market | Outdoor Attraction

Santa Croce church provides a lovely backdrop. This German-themed Christmas market in the Piazza is Florence's most renowned market. There are forty wooden booths with candy-striped roofs and evergreen boughs ready for you. Stalls specializing in Christmas decorations, ceramics, and ornaments are common throughout the holiday season.

3. Florence Duomo

Cathedral | Indoor Attraction

The climb to the top of the Duomo takes you a total of 463 steps. You may see the inside and spectacular views of Florence from the top. On the way up, be sure to look out for Giorgio Vasari's portrayals of Christ's Last Supper. The Duomo is one of the most famous landmarks in Florence. It's a must-see for any visitor to the city.

From €22

4. Ponte Vecchio

Bridge | Outdoor Attraction

The Ponte Vecchio is among Florence's most enduring icons. Since its construction by the Florentine people, the historic bridge has seen the city's growth. Because it is the city's original bridge, it is steeped in history and legend, and as a result, it has become one of Florence's most recognizable landmarks.

5. Campanile di Gotto

Bell Tower

Florence's most stunning bell tower, the Campanile, rises to a height of 84.70 meters. Famous artist Giotto di Bondone created it in 1334, making it one of the oldest examples of his work. As with the rest of the Florence Cathedral's ornate structures, the slender tower is aligned with the church's facade.

6. Visit the Piazzale Michelangelo

City Views

The Piazzale Michelangelo is an outdoor patio built in the foothills of Florence. It's a must-see destination for anyone looking for a bird's eye vista of Florence and a spectacular sunset. You may explore the 11th century Abbey of Monte, a few minutes' hike up the hill.

7. Visit the Boboli Gardens

Outdoor Attraction | Garden

Backing up to the Pitti Palace is one of Europe's most beautiful palace gardens, the Boboli Gardens. The grounds are decorated with statues, sculptures, fountains, and grottos from antiquity and Italy. In December, there are fewer visitors, allowing you to enjoy the artwork at your own pace.

From €16

8. Accademia Gallery

Gallery | Indoor Attraction

Visitors to the Accademia Gallery will be delighted by the variety of artwork on display. The Accademia Gallery has Michelangelo's David, Giam bologna's masterpiece, and Caravaggio's Coronation of the Virgin.

From €20

9. Uffizi Gallery

Gallery | Indoor Attraction

Florence's Uffizi Gallery is one of the world's largest art galleries, and its name is linked with the city. Visitors to the city make it a point to see the gallery's impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art. The Wooden Ceilings show opens in December for visitors.

From €30

Events in Florence in WInter

Florence Light Festival

Venue: Throughout Florence

Date: December 8

The inauguration of the Light Festival of Florence isn't just about the tree lighting. Some of the city's most famous landmarks and landmarks will be illuminated or adorned with light shows. The Ponte Vecchio will be the site of a video display, for example. Every night during the winter months, Florence's most iconic cathedrals and towers take on a more vibrant hue thanks to the city's seasonal illuminations.

Know more

The Feast of San Stefano

Venue: Throughout Florence

Date: December 8, 24, 25, 26

Throughout the nation, these dates overlap with significant Christian festivals commemorating the birth of Jesus, the Immaculate Conception, and St. Stephen. As many Italians as possible will throng the cities over the Holiday break, so arrange a long weekend, beforehand. On December 24, shops and businesses will be open, however many will shut off early. On 24, 35, 8, and the 26th of December restaurants remain open, so make sure you reserve your table in advance.

Cavalcata dei Magi

Venue: Firenze

Date: 6 January

January's Cavalcata is one of the most anticipated events of the year. To commemorate Jesus' birth, the three wise men who visited him on their way to Bethlehem are shown here carrying gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The 'Kings' with their 700-strong parade make this Florence's biggest and most lavish parade. Choirs, speeches, a real Nativity scene, readings, and a service in the cathedral round off the festivities.

Firenze e Cioccolato

Venue: Piazza Santa Croce

Date: Mid February

Piazza Santa Croce hosts an artisanal chocolate festival for 10 days that includes chocolate tastings and unique activities like an aperitivo and a cookery presentation. Within walking distance of the Santa Maria Novella railway station, the Fiera is a popular tourist destination in Florence.

New Year’s

Venue: All over Florence

Date: 31st December

In Italy, the 31st of December is a public holiday. To allow Florence residents to recuperate after New Year's Eve festivities, most stores, galleries, eateries, as well as other amenities remain closed.

Valentine’s Day

Venue: All over Florence

Date: 14th February

Italians have just recently started celebrating St. Valentine's Day as a romantic festival, complete with heart-shaped chocolates and romantic candlelight feasts. The festival may not be a big deal to Florentines, but tourists find Florence a particularly lovely place to visit during this time.

Tips and Hacks to Visit Florence in Winter

When using a Visa or Mastercard at an ATM in Tuscany, expect to pay a premium. If you can, bring in some Euros in order to avoid paying this commission cost.
A large number of small thefts, including purse theft and pickpocketing, are prevalent in Florence. Pack a small belt pouch with your passports, cash, and credit cards for on-the-go convenience.
If you're looking for a more relaxed side of Florence, one with tiny cafes and a quiet hamlet setting, go to San Niccolo instead of the Duomo or Palazzo Vecchio.
The 500-plus stairs to the top of the Duomo may seem exhausting, but the panorama is worth every ounce of effort.

Know Before you Visit Florence in Winter

Transport

Stay

Food

Getting Around Florence in Winter

To get around Florence in winter, you have the option of using the bus, tram, or train.

By Bus: A local public bus from ATAF, Florence's bus terminal, is the most cost-effective way to go about town.

By Tram: There have been new tram lines being built in Florence since 2005. Scandicci is the first stop on the route, which was inaugurated in 2010. Tickets for trams and city buses are interchangeable.

By Hop-On and Off Buses: The infamous Hop-on and Off buses may be seen in almost every major city. With a single-day ticket, you may hop on and off as many times as you'd like at any of the stops along the route.

By Train: You can easily go to other cities if you need to. Countless trains leave each day from Florence's major railway station, Santa Maria Novella, bound for destinations around the area.

Where to Stay in Florence in Winter

Florence, Italy's most beautiful city, is sometimes referred to as a "living museum." The city's Renaissance architecture and museums and galleries are unrivaled.

Luxury Hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Hotel Savoy, The Westin Excelsior, The St. Regis Florence
Mid-range Hotels: Hotel Kraft, YellowSquare Florence, Terra Artis Guest House, Santa Croce 14 B&B
Budget Hotels: PLUS Florence, Hostel Archi Rossi, Tourist House Battistero, Guest House Biffi Simone

What to Eat in Florence in Winter?

Lampredotto: This is a typical meal from Florence's medieval era, made by the locals for the townspeople. Sliced tripe is simmered in broth before being seasoned and eaten either on the side or as a meal or sandwich. Outdoor markets and street sellers all throughout the city sell it with a variety of toppings such as fiery red sauce, herb green sauce, and even Bagnato.
Papardelle al cinghiale: Long, broad, flat, and often served with a rich sauce like ragu, Papadelle is a favorite among pasta connoisseurs. Cinghiale is a dish cooked with wild boar, although it may also be prepared with hare, geese, or rabbit if it is raised on a farm rather than in the wild.
Gelato: The gelato in Florence is among the finest in Italy. Vendors with piles of brightly colored gelato and gaudy toppings should be avoided at all costs.
Crostini: Crostini is an appetizer consisting of a variety of bruschetta - thin slices of Tuscan bread covered with various sauces, purees, or vegetable salsas. Antipasto Toscano is sometimes served with a chicken paté on Tuscan bread.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Florence in Winter

Is winter a good time to visit Florence?

The winter months in Florence are reserved for the natives, giving it the ideal time to immerse yourself in the city's authentic culture and environment. Florence is just as gorgeous in the winter as it is in the summer, despite the cool weather or perhaps a little rain.

How cold is Florence in winter?

Winter chills in Florence moderates between 3°C to 11°C.

What is the average temperature in Florence in winter?

Florentine lows in winter are just 3°C, while highs are usually 10°C.

Is it sunny in Florence during winter?

Florence in winter mostly remains cloudy with light drizzle.

Is it windy in Florence during winter?

Yes, Florence in winter is a little windy, so be mindful of the chills and pack your bag accordingly.

What clothes to wear in Florence in winter?

Prepare for Florence's weather by dressing in layers. Coats, t-shirts, and elegant gowns are all acceptable attire in the winter.

Is Florence cheaper in winter?

Hotel and restaurant rates are cheaper in the winter, and museum and tourist attraction lines are shorter.

Is Florence expensive to visit?

Yes, Florence can be quite expensive to visit, depending on your budget. There are a lot of tourist attractions and restaurants that can be quite pricey. However, there are also some great budget-friendly options available if you know where to look.

What are some things to do in Florence in winter?

There is a slew of fun activities to do in Florence in winter. Visit the Florence Duomo, or be mesmerized by ‘David’ and other famous works of Michelangelo.

How safe is Florence?

Beware of petty crimes like pickpocketing in Florence in winter.

What can I see in Florence in winter?

You can attend the Florence Light festival, or visit the Florence Cathedral and many more.

What is closed in Florence in the winter?

Most of the churches are closed during weekends. Museums remain shut on Mondays.

What adventure activities can I do in Florence in winter?

You can visit the churches on the feast of San Stefano day in Florence in winter, or spend quality time in Santa Croce, or Florence Duomo.

What are the free things to do in Barcelona in winter?

You can visit the local outdoor market, the Florence Cathedral, and San Lorenzo Central among other attractions for free.

Can you swim in Florence during the Winter?

The water is very cold for swimming if you decide to take a dip with an average sea temperature of around 13°C

What is the average temperature in Florence?

Florentine winters average approximately 6°C and are lengthy and bitterly cold but mainly clear throughout the short, scorching summers.

What to do with kids in Florence in the Winter?

You can visit most of the primary attractions in Florence in winter with your family.