I’ve always been a fan of winter travel.
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ToggleFewer crowds, shorter lines, and the chance to explore without sweating in the summer heat! Florence in winter is nothing short of magical, with crisp air, cozy atmospheres, and the city’s iconic landmarks shining under a softer light.
Even though snow is rare, the foggy mornings over the Arno River and occasional rain add a romantic touch to this already enchanting city.
When I visited Florence in December, I loved wandering the historic streets, enjoying the festive Christmas markets, and finding quiet moments in normally busy attractions like the Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Gallery.
And if you’re not sold yet, prices for accommodations are lower, the city feels more intimate, and there’s still plenty to do, both indoors and out.
If you’re planning a winter trip to Florence, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Where to Stay
– Hotel Silla
– Hotel Lungarno
– Hotel Calimala
👉 Things to Do (Read my full guide here!)
– Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
– Climb the dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
– Visit the Uffizi Gallery
– Walk across Ponte Vecchio
👉 Day Trips from Florence
– Tuscany Full-Day Wine & Food Tour from Florence – Small Group
– Florence to Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hike & Lunch
– Florence to Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti & Pisa Tour with Lunch
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.

How to Get to Florence in Winter
Getting to Florence in winter is easy, whether you’re travelling by train, plane, or car:
By Train – Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Train Station, located in the city centre, connects to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice via high-speed trains. I found the train journey comfortable and stress-free.
👉 If you’re after train tickets I loved this site
By Plane – Fly into Florence’s Peretola Airport (FLR) or nearby Pisa International Airport, about an hour away by train.
By Car – Driving is an option, but beware of the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) in the historic centre. We parked our car outside the ZTL area and explored on foot, which was much easier.
👉 I found my rental car here
👉 Read Next: Tips for Hiring a Car and Driving in Italy
Where to Stay in Florence in Winter
Choosing the right neighbourhood is key to making your winter trip smooth and enjoyable. Here are my recommendations:
Budget – Hotel Santa Croce – A cozy, affordable stay near Piazza Santa Croce, perfect for exploring the Christmas markets.
Mid Range – Hotel Silla – I loved staying here during my trip; the hotel offers parking (great for road trippers like us!) and is a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio.
Luxury- Plaza Hotel Lucchesi – A stunning choice with rooftop views of the Duomo and Piazzale Michelangelo.
Where I stayed in Florence
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Hotel Silla in Florence.
Florence Winter Weather
Winter in Florence is mild compared to other European cities. Expect temperatures between 2°C and 10°C (36°F–50°F), with occasional rain and fog. Snow is rare but magical if it happens!
December – Festive vibes with Christmas lights and markets.
January – Quieter streets and cooler temperatures.
February – A great time for museum visits without crowds.
Pro Tip: Pack warm layers, a sturdy umbrella, and comfortable shoes for walking the cobblestone streets.

Things to Do in Florence in Winter
Florence offers a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, making it perfect for winter exploration. Here’s my ultimate list.
The festive Christmas market at Piazza Santa Croce is a must-visit in December. You’ll find handmade gifts, Italian treats, and plenty of mulled wine to keep you warm.
Florence’s Duomo shines during the holidays with a life-sized nativity scene and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree in Piazza del Duomo.
Winter is the best time to visit the Uffizi Gallery, as you can enjoy masterpieces like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus without the summer crowds.
Seeing Michelangelo’s David up close was a highlight of my trip. Winter means fewer crowds, so you can truly take in the experience.
Winter is a great time for day trips from Florence. Visit the leaning tower in Pisa, explore the medieval streets of Siena, or wander the charming walled town of Lucca.
Cozy up in a Tuscan winery and learn about the region’s wine traditions. Winter is the perfect time to sip on rich reds and enjoy hearty Tuscan cuisine.
Winter evenings are perfect for learning to make pasta from scratch. This was one of my favourite experiences in Florence.
Even in winter, the Boboli Gardens are a peaceful escape. The quiet paths and crisp air make for a lovely afternoon walk.
Day trips we recommend from Florence
🍇 Sip world-class wines in Tuscany’s heart! Tuscany Full-Day Wine & Food Tour from Florence – Small Group
🌊 Discover Italy’s coastal charm! Florence to Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hike & Lunch
🏛️ Explore Siena, Pisa, and more in one day! Florence to Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti & Pisa Tour with Lunch
🍷 Wine tasting in Chianti awaits! Florence to Chianti Wineries Tour with Food & Wine Tasting
👉 If you’ve thought about renting a Vespa in Florence, here’s what my experience was like.
What to Pack for Visiting Florence in Winter
Here’s what I recommend packing for your winter trip.
Warm Layers – Sweaters, long-sleeve tops, and a good coat.
Comfortable Shoes – Essential for walking Florence’s narrow streets and cobblestones.
Umbrella – A compact, sturdy one for rainy days.
Accessories – Scarf, gloves, and a hat to stay cozy.
Day Bag – For carrying essentials while exploring the city.



FAQ for Visiting Florence in Winter
Yes, most attractions like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and Palazzo Pitti are open year-round.
Mild but chilly, with temperatures around 2°C–10°C (36°F–50°F).
December for the festive vibes, or January and February for quieter streets and shorter lines.
Absolutely! The historic centre is compact and easy to explore on foot.
For sightseeing, stay near the Duomo or Santa Maria Novella.
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