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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. Hotels and flights also come cheaper during this time!
4. Attend fashion parties
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 during 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 events to attend in Florence during winter
1. Birraio dell’Anno
Birraio dell’Anno (Brewer of the Year) is Italy’s leading craft beer celebration, drawing an international crowd to Florence each year. This highly anticipated event awards the country’s top brewers and offers attendees a taste of rare and experimental brews, along with masterclasses and workshops led by industry experts. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Birraio dell’Anno has become a hallmark of Italy's craft beer scene, celebrating innovation, tradition, and community.
2. The Christmas market in Santa Croce
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. Attend the holiday market in Piazza Duomo
On December 8, Italy's holiday season officially begins in Florence's Piazza del Duomo with the lighting of a magnificent Christmas tree, celebrating the Immaculate Conception. Join the festive kickoff featuring a public ceremony with Florence’s mayor, live music, and a bustling Christmas market filled with seasonal delights and crafts—the perfect way to start your Christmas countdown!
4. Florence Light Festival
The Florence Light Festival takes place from December 7, 2024 to January 5, 2025. 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.
5. The Feast of San Stefano
Throughout the nation, The Feast of San Stefano will be celebrated on December 26, 2024 along with 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.
6. Cavalcata dei Magi
Cavalcata on January 7 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.
7. Firenze e Cioccolato
From March 7 to March 10, 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.
8. New Year’s
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.