Florence in December: A Guide to Winter in Tuscany

Italy, in general, is a great winter destination, and Florence in December is especially pretty.

Northern Italy will be cold and snowy, while Central and Southern Italy will be more mild.

December in Florence will bring smaller crowds, beautiful Christmas decor, festive events, and a mix of weather.

Florence is a very walkable city, so as long as you’re somewhere in the city center area, you’ll love the location.

If you’re traveling with family, I’d recommend renting a VRBO or AirBnB with a few bedrooms. There are a lot of great options, and we’ve always enjoyed renting an apartment rather than hotel rooms if traveling as a group.

You can use this interactive map to plug in your dates and check out the options and rates available for both rentals and hotels:

Florence is surrounded by great Tuscan towns to check out. These are three of the top tours to take if you’re in the area:

➡️ Book: Tuscany Day Trip

• A guide will take you to San Gimignano, Siena, and Pisa.

➡️ Book: Tuscan Farmhouse Cooking Class

• A guide will take you to a full cooking class, ending with a big meal.

➡️ Book: Wine Tour

• A guide will take you on a half-day Chianti wine tour from Florence.

Every street is lit with lights, and the whole city is decked out for Christmas!

1. Festive Atmosphere: December brings a festive ambiance to Florence and Tuscany with Christmas markets, decorations, and lights in the streets and squares. You’ll come across several large Christmas trees in the plazas, and the outdoor cafes are heated and glowing with holiday lights.
2. Fewer Tourists: Compared to the rest of the year, December sees much smaller crowds. It’s my main reason for encouraging people to experience December in Florence! Galleries, museums, cathedrals, and other top sites are all much more accessible and enjoyable.
3. Mild Weather: While it’s winter, December in Florence is still mild! I’ll go deeper into details below, but generally daily highs are in the 50s.
4. Culinary Delights: You can indulge in hearty comfort foods like ribollita (Tuscan soup). In the markets, you’ll find mulled wine and chestnuts roasting. Plus, famous foodie spots, like All’Antico Vinaio (the sandwich hotspot) will have winter specials on the menu.
5. Art: Florence is a hub of art and culture. December provides a quieter time to appreciate renowned artworks and museums without the usual crowds.
6. Scenic Countryside: Tuscany’s landscapes are stunning year-round. In December, the rolling hills and vineyards might be dormant and less-green, but they’re still beautiful to drive through. One of my favorite ways to discover and explore towns and villages I’d never heard of before is by stumbling upon them during a road trip.
7. Shopping: December is perfect for shopping in Florence. You’ll find holiday markets and artisanal shops offering locally crafted goods, leather products, and unique gifts. Plus, I’ve found: the vendors are far more likely to give discounts this time of year!
8. Wine Tastings: Wine enthusiasts can enjoy visits to wineries and vineyards without the crowds. It’s an excellent time for wine tastings and tours, experiencing the renowned Tuscan wines in a more relaxed setting.

It’s generally cooler and rainier in December in Florence, but don’t let the weather be a deterrent! I’ve been to Italy several times in the winter, and it’s always been enjoyable.

Let’s go over the basics for December in Florence:

• Temperature: The average daytime temperatures in December range from around 48°F (7°C) to 60°F (13°C). Of course, temperatures can fluctuate, and occasionally, it can get colder, dropping into the 30s at night. Outside the city, it’s cooler.
• Rainfall: December in Florence typically sees moderate rainfall. You can expect around 2 to 3 inches (50 to 75 mm) of rainfall spread across the month. Based on what I’ve experienced over the years, you can expect light showers, along with cloudy and sunny days.
• Snowfall: On average, Florence might see a few days of snow each year, typically between December and February. However, the snowfall is often light and doesn’t usually accumulate significantly on the ground, especially in the city center. I’ve never seen it, but the photos look beautiful!
• Daylight: Remember, it’s December! So days are shorter, with fewer daylight hours. The sun doesn’t rise until 7:30am, and it sets around 4:30am.
• Dress in Layers: Pack layers for your trip, including sweaters, a jacket, a waterproof outer layer, and comfortable walking shoes. This way, you can adjust to temperature changes and stay dry if it rains.

Things to Do in Florence in December

2. See Michelangelo’s David

The Palazzo Vecchio, which means “Old Palace” in Italian, served as the political hub of Florence for centuries. It was originally built in the early 14th century to house the city’s governing body, the Signoria, and later became the residence of the ruling Medici family.

The palace’s prominent tower, the Torre d’Arnolfo, stands tall and provides panoramic views of Florence from the top.

Inside the Palazzo Vecchio, visitors can admire splendid frescoes, ornate ceilings, and grand halls adorned with artworks by renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Giorgio Vasari, and Donatello.

Today, the Palazzo Vecchio operates as a museum open to the public.

5. Tour The Duomo

The Duomo in Florence refers to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, an iconic and breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

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Here’s an overview:

1. Historical Significance: Construction began in 1296 and continued for centuries, making it a symbol of Florence’s wealth, power, and artistic prowess during the Renaissance.
2. Architectural Marvel: The Duomo is a prime example of Gothic architecture, known for its striking red dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The exterior features intricate marble facades, decorative details, and an iconic bell tower.
3. Interior: Inside, the cathedral’s vast interior impresses visitors with its grandeur. The nave is spacious and adorned with stunning frescoes, stained glass windows, and intricate marble work.
4. Dome by Brunelleschi: Brunelleschi’s Dome is a remarkable feat of engineering. Its construction without wooden centering was an architectural breakthrough of the time and remains a marvel of ingenuity.
5. Giotto’s Bell Tower: The adjacent tower stands tall as a separate structure from the cathedral. Climbing the tower provides panoramic views of Florence and a closer look at its intricate design.
6. Baptistery: The Baptistery of St. John, famous for its magnificent bronze doors, is just across the plaza.
7. Artistic Treasures: The Duomo houses significant artworks, including Donatello’s wooden sculpture of Mary Magdalene, and the Last Judgment fresco by Vasari and Zuccari on the interior of the dome.

6. See the Basilica of Santa Croce

Here’s an overview of this remarkable basilica:

1. History: Constructed in the 13th century, Santa Croce is renowned for its association with the Franciscan order and its role in Florentine history. It holds a prominent place as a burial site for notable figures.
2. Architecture: The basilica showcases classic Italian Gothic architecture with a stunning facade adorned by intricate marble designs. Its interior features a Latin cross layout with a nave and side aisles, adorned with frescoes, chapels, and elegant architectural details.
3. Artistic Treasures: Santa Croce is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. It houses remarkable frescoes, including works by Giotto and his school, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis. The Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels also showcase frescoes by Giotto.
4. Tombs of the Illustrious: The basilica is known as the Temple of the Italian Glories due to its numerous tombs of influential figures, artists, and thinkers. Notable tombs include those of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Niccolò Machiavelli, and Dante Alighieri (although Dante’s tomb is symbolic, as he was buried in Ravenna).

Here’s an overview:

1. Historical Background: The Ponte Vecchio, which translates to “Old Bridge” in Italian, spans the Arno River in Florence. It has a rich history dating back to medieval times, although the current bridge was reconstructed in the 14th century after a flood damaged the original structure.
2. Distinctive Design: What sets the Ponte Vecchio apart is its construction of three segmental arches and its notable feature of shops built along the bridge. These shops were traditionally occupied by butchers and fishmongers, but today they house jewelry stores and souvenir shops.
3. Vasari Corridor: Above the shops runs the Vasari Corridor, an elevated passageway built by Vasari in the 16th century. It connects the Palazzo Vecchio (Florence’s town hall) with the Palazzo Pitti, allowing the Medici family to move between their residences without mingling with the public.
4. Views and Atmosphere: The Ponte Vecchio offers stunning views of the Arno River and is a popular spot for photographers, artists, and tourists. The ambiance is lively, with tourists browsing the shops, street performers, and the constant flow of visitors.
5. Surviving Historic Events: The Ponte Vecchio miraculously survived World War II when the retreating German army reportedly spared it from destruction.

Let’s talk about some of the great shopping spots in Florence, in addition to the big-name brand stores that call the city home.

You’ll find markets popping up in different parts of the city, but the main Christmas market is at the Piazza di Santa Croce.

The biggest Christmas market in Florence is at the Piazza Santa Croce, right in front of the Basilica of Santa Croce.

The market typically runs from late November through Christmas Eve, featuring dozens of vendors selling traditional Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, gifts, ornaments, foods, sweets, and mulled wine (known as “vin brulé” in Italian). 

Some of my favorite booths to stop at include:

• Truffle products (Tartufi)
• Glass products (from Murano, Italy)
• Creative metalwork art
• Olive oils

Of course, the Italian cookie stalls are “must stops.” They’re full of bins of traditional cookies, biscotti, and other desserts. The prices are a fraction of what they’d be in New York City. 

This is a local market, flooded with people from Florence, shopping for fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.

You can stop in at one of the food counters for an authentic midday snack.

The plaza outside the Palazzo Vecchio isn’t a Christmas Market, per se, but you’ll find a beautiful Christmas tree, plus restaurants and cafes decked out in lights.

There’s also a huge Christmas tree next to the Duomo, several blocks away. 

This is another of Florence’s famous plazas, which often has vendors set up. It’s surrounded by cafes and a carousel (or “giostra”). 

During December, it’ll be lit beautifully.

Here’s an overview of what you’ll find:

1. Location: Situated on a hilltop on the south bank of the Arno River, the Piazzale Michelangelo offers the best view of Florence’s historic center, including the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the surrounding hills.
2. Michelangelo’s Statue: The square is named after Michelangelo, and is home to a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s famous statue of David.
3. Terrace and Viewpoints: The square features terraces and viewing platforms where visitors can admire the cityscape and take photos of Florence’s skyline. It’s especially popular at sunset!
4. Accessible by Foot or Taxi: Visitors can reach the square by climbing a series of stairs or taking a bus or taxi to the top.
5. Cafes: There are cafes and kiosks in Piazzale Michelangelo, selling drinks and snacks.

Tuscany is always beautiful to drive through, any time of year. In December, it’s also easy to take public transportation to a few other smaller cities in the region.

I’ve been using Trainline to book trains in Europe. It’s simple to search, and avoids the kiosks in the train stations. They send you a QR code to your text and email, which you have scanned at the station to board.

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December in Pisa

As you’d expect, December brings a festive ambiance to Pisa, with Christmas decorations in the city streets and squares. 

➡️ Book: Florence to Pisa Half-Day

Plus, of course, fewer tourists crowd the Square of Miracles in December, where the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, Baptistery, and Monumental Cemetery are located. You’ll be able to climb the tower without a line!

San Gimignano has artisan shops where you can find unique handmade crafts, ceramics, and locally produced goods, making it a great place for holiday shopping.

➡️ Book: Florence to San Gimignano & Siena

The ancient streets are lit with Christmas lights, and while some of the stores are closed for the season, many remain open.

San Gimignano sits on a hilltop, so you’ll have beautiful surrounding views of the vineyards and rolling hills. December might bring a frost or light snow, creating even more of a Christmasy or wintry feel!

The area around San Gimignano is renowned for its wine production. December offers a quieter time for wine tastings at local wineries, allowing for a more personalized and immersive experience. 

December weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack versatile clothing and be prepared for variations in temperature and some rain. 

1. Clothing: Layers are key. Pack warm sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and a heavier coat or jacket. Bring a rain shell, too, which can be easily rolled in your luggage.
2. Shoes: Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes or boots that won’t slip on wet cobblestone streets.
3. Accessories: Bring a scarf, gloves, and a hat, plus a small umbrella.
4. Adapter: Don’t forget a universal adapter. Depending on where you stay, you’ll likely need one for charging.
5. Language and Currency: If you have Euros lying around from a prior trip, don’t forget to pack those! Otherwise, you don’t really need to exchange currency before your trip. You can easily find an ATM once you arrive.

Let’s tackle a few more frequently-asked-questions about a visit to Florence in December.

Does it snow in Florence?

Snowfall in Florence is relatively rare due to its mild Mediterranean climate. However, it’s not unheard of for Florence to experience occasional snowfall during the winter months.

When it does snow in Florence, it’s usually light and doesn’t often accumulate significantly, especially in the city center. The surrounding hills and higher elevations around Tuscany might see more snowfall and occasional accumulation.

Does Florence have Christmas markets?

Yes, you’ll find different markets throughout Florence in December. The biggest Christmas market is at Piazza Santa Croce.

Is Florence crowded in December?

There are very few tourists in Florence in December. The streets will be full of locals and students studying abroad.

While I always suggest a “shoulder season” visit to Europe (in May, September, or October), a December visit to Florence won’t disappoint!

The combination of the festive Christmas atmosphere, plus the relatively mild weather will create a memorable trip.

I’d also suggest visiting Rome in winter for the same reasons! From there, it’s easy to take day trips to other hilltop villages and towns, like Orvieto and Assisi.