Travel Tips

Thinking of visiting Italy this winter? Here’s what Italy’s winter weather is really like

Discover what Italy’s winter weather is really like! From skiing in the Dolomites to soaking in Tuscan hot springs, here’s where to go, what to wear, and the best things to do this winter.

Italy has some of the most diverse scenery and climates in Europe, meaning a winter getaway in Milan looks nothing like one in Sicily. And this is precisely what makes Italy THE ultimate winter destination.

Whether it’s the mild temperatures and coastal beauty of Sardinia you’re after, or the majestic mountain landscapes and charming Christmas markets of Trento, a trip to Italy this winter won’t disappoint.

As someone who has spent multiple winters in Italy, I’m sharing why this season is so magical, what to expect from Italy’s winter weather, and the best seasonal experiences throughout the country!

In this article

How cold does it get? Italy’s winter weather by region

In the winter, northern Italy is considerably colder than the south. Milan in winter sees highs of 8°C (46°F), while Sicily in winter can be as warm as 17°C (63°F).

The northern mountainous regions (which border Switzerland) are the coldest areas of the country. In fact, in ski towns like Livigno and Bormio, it often snows from the end of November to the end of March.

Here’s a breakdown of winter weather in Italy by region, including average temperatures and what to do there during the cold season:

Region	Average daytime temps	Typical weather	Seasonal highlights
Northern Italy (e.g., Milan, Turin, Dolomites)	-1°C to 8°C (30°F–46°F)	Cold, crisp, sometimes foggy, often snowy in the mountains.	Ski season in the Dolomites & Alps, Christmas markets in Trento and Bolzano.
Central Italy (e.g., Florence, Rome, Tuscany)	4°C to 13°C (39°F–55°F)	Cool and damp, with occasional rain and misty mornings.	Cozy trattorias, hot springs, museum-hopping without the crowds.
Southern Italy (e.g., Naples, Sicily, Puglia)	8°C to 17°C (46°F–63°F)	Mild and sunny with cool evenings.	Coastal hikes, peaceful seaside towns, and wine tastings.

What to wear for Italy’s winter weather

Packing for the winter weather in Italy is all about smart layering, as you’ll be transitioning between the cold outdoors and heated indoor spaces.

Similarly, if you’re hiking mountains or taking long coastal walks, you’ll be surprised how quickly you warm up. So wear removable layers you can easily adjust throughout the day.

A proper winter coat is essential, too. Don’t assume a thin jacket will be enough. Even the south can get chilly in the evenings and mornings!

Here are some additional Italy packing list tips based on the regions:

North: Pack thermal layers and warm accessories (gloves, hat, base layers) for frosty days and ski trips.
Central: Bring waterproof shoes or boots, as Rome and Florence in winter can be rainy.
South: Scarves are a must. Italians wear for style and to protect themselves from the “colpo d’aria” (cold air hit).

Best things to do in Italy in winter

While some European countries may hibernate during winter, Italy certainly does not. From alpine adventures and hot springs to wine tastings and hiking, here are the top ways to enjoy Italy’s winter weather.

Skiing and snowboarding

Italy’s northern mountain regions offer some of Europe’s most stunning and underrated ski terrain:

In the Dolomites, you’ll find Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy’s most glamorous ski town, with 120 km of skiable terrain.
In the Italian Alps, the bustling ski village of Livigno has reliable snow, 115 km of slopes, and tax-free shopping.
In the Aosta Valley, you’ll find Courmayeur nestled near Mont Blanc. Along with world-class skiing, this charming historic town is full of cozy wine bars and gourmet dining.

Christmas markets

Italy’s Christmas markets in the northern mountainous towns are renowned for their wide selection of regional foods, artisan crafts, and winter wonderland backdrops.

Bolzano is home to Italy’s largest Christmas market. Set against the snowy Dolomites, it feels like stepping into a storybook, with wooden stalls, hot Aperol (my go-to winter beverage), and a cute nativity scene.

Trento’s Christmas market is equally popular, set below the city’s illuminated castle, with stalls dishing up polenta and cioccolata calda (Italy’s incredibly morish take on hot chocolate!)

Away from the mountains, cities like Florence and Verona also put on some wonderful festive markets.

Cultural escapes

With fewer crowds around, winter is the best time to explore Italy’s museums and cultural gems. This is the one time of the year when you can admire the masterpieces at the Vatican in peace, or take photos at the Colosseum without droves of kids and tourist groups stepping in every shot.

Similarly, winter is a fantastic time to enjoy a night of opera at La Scala in Milan, as the season kicks off in early December.

Hot springs

One of the best ways to warm up during winter is to visit a geothermal hot spring. There are thermal baths in Tuscany, Lombardy, and Sicily, where you’ll find mineral-rich waters bubbling beneath scenic landscapes.

For example, Saturnia in Tuscany is famous for its cascading pools, while Bagni San Filippo (also in Tuscany) offers a secluded soak surrounded by limestone formations.

Wine tastings

Wine tasting in Tuscany is recommended in any Italy travel guide, and in the winter, it’s extra magical.

Many local agriturismos and vineyards host winter tasting experiences of their robust reds, such as Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, which are perfect for colder weather. These are typically paired with regional cuisine, such as Ribollita, a simple yet hearty Tuscan soup often ranked among the best foods in Italy.

Coastal walks

In the southern regions, where the climate remains mild, you can still enjoy sunny coastal hikes. For example, in Sicily, stroll along the Zingaro Nature Reserve or the Taormina coastline. And in Sardinia, explore the Golfo di Orosei or Gennargentu National Park.

Why winter is secretly the best time to visit Italy

While people love Italy’s summers, winters are undeniably the most magical time of the year to visit this European gem. With fewer tourists, the cafés and piazzas transform from hectic to peaceful, allowing you to gain a more intimate glimpse of authentic Italian life.

Plus, being the off-season, you can find better deals on hotels and flights, making the cost of a trip to Italy considerably lower. And you don’t have to queue for hours to enter the famous landmarks of Rome in winter!

But for me, as a mountain lover, it’s the northern regions that really shine in the winter.

There’s something truly special about waking up on a cold morning and looking out your window at the misty hills and snow-dusted peaks. These white wonderland landscapes create a truly festive atmosphere and magical photo opportunities.

Stay connected during your Italy winter adventure with Holafly

Whether you’re skiing the snow-capped Alps or wandering the cobbled streets of Rome, you’ll want cheap and reliable roaming in Italy.

With a Holafly eSIM for Italy, you’ll get unlimited data from the moment you land, and solid coverage across the entire country, so you can navigate mountain roads and check train schedules without the stress.

For more smart travel tips and destination guides, follow Holafly on Google Discover.