italy tours in january

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Italy in January – Reasons to Visit and What to Expect

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Visiting Italy in January promises lower prices and fewer crowds across the country. However, cold weather is a guarantee but not necessarily a setback. In fact, January may just be the best time to visit Italy .

During the low season, the coast, country, and lakes are busy with Europeans on vacations due to the cold weather bringing in fewer tourists. That means major cities are quiet after New Year’s celebrations have concluded.

Quieter cities mean plenty of time and space to discover popular attractions in Rome, Venice, and Florence without the rush of peak season crowds. Granted, you’ll find some restaurant closures, more limited hospitality services, and times to visit famous museums and sites.

Moreover, January is an excellent time to go skiing in the Dolomites and a superb time for the fashion-forward traveler to capitalize on the sales (saldi) season.

With that in mind, this guide will detail the best places to visit, Italy’s weather during this month, what to wear, and the ongoing festivities of the season.

Weather in Italy in January

January falls in the middle of winter, which means you can expect the coldest temperatures of the year in this month. So, what kind of weather can you expect from Italy in winter?

Starting in Northern Italy, temperatures will be at their coldest as this region is near The Alps. Expect average temperatures around 34°F (1°C) to 45°F (7°C)  with snow at high elevations.

Central Italy experiences milder yet still cold conditions, around 39°F (4°C) to 54°F (12°C). Snow is possible but not guaranteed; instead, expect a bit more rain and fog.

Although the average temperature in Southern Italy is still cool in January, expect slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures averaging from 45°F (7°C) to 59°F (15°C).

Rainfall is typical this month, with the country experiencing an average of seven to 10 days of rain, shorter days, and limited sunshine.

Here’s a breakdown of the winter weather across the Italian cities and regions in January.

• Rome Weather in January: Average temperatures in January, Rome’s coldest month, range between lows of 37°F (3°C) and highs of 54°F (12°C) and are milder than other parts of Europe in mid-winter. You can expect about seven days of rain this month, which will appear as short bursts and drizzles.
• Florence Weather in January: The Italy weather in January in Florence ranges from 34°F (1°C) to 50°F (10°C). You can bet on 11 days of rainfall, cloudy skies, and some snowfall.
• Venice Weather in January: The average low and high temperatures range between 32°F (0°C) and 45°F (7°C). There are generally eight days of rain and frequent fog, and the water is too cold to entertain any idea of swimming.
• Tuscany Weather in January: The weather in Tuscany in January ranges from 36°F (2°C) to 52°F (11°C). Toward the end of the month, there should be some snowfall and cold snaps, and there will be minimal rainfall, only 2.1 inches (55 mm).
• Amalfi Coast Weather in January: The average temperature on the Amalfi Coast varies between 45°F(7°C) to 55°F (13°C). Although the Amalfi Coast is warmer than other parts of Italy, it’s still too cold to swim. But, there is only 1.1 inches (28 mm) of rain this month, making it a great time to explore quiet villages.
• Italian Lakes Weather in January: Lake Como and Lake Garda are relatively mild, and it’s unusual to see cold temperatures that make them unseasonably chilly. The nearby mountains are snow-dusted and famous for winter sports. However, these Italian lakes have an average of nine to eleven wet days throughout the month. Temperatures for both lakes hover between 30°F (-1°C) and 43°F (6°C).
• Cinque Terre Weather in January: The Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera offers averages ranging from 41°F (5°C) to 54°F (12°C). There are nine days of rainfall in this area in January. You can still wander through the villages (with notably fewer crowds); however, due to the weather, it’s not the greatest time to visit for boating or hiking.
• Sicily Weather in January: Sicily has warmer weather, much like the Amalfi Coast, thanks to its southern location. During January, you can expect average temperatures in Sicily to range from 46°F (8°C) to 61°F (16°C). While the weather is milder, there are nearly 19 days of rain across the month, so you’ll need to keep your umbrella handy.

Best Places to Visit in Italy in January

Now that you’re aware of what to expect from the weather in January in Italy let’s take a look at the best places in Italy to visit in winter. January may be the middle of the low season, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t marvelous cities worth a visit.

Whether you’re interested in skiing in the Dolomites or seeing some of the most famous attractions in the major cities, winter in Italy has plenty to offer if you know where to look. 

Before you think the weather is a setback, consider the low prices and thin crowds as an advantage when exploring these areas.

Florence in January

Florence in January is a serene and captivating experience. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the city’s rich history and cultural attractions without the crowds. The Uffizi Gallery art museum, located adjacent to the Piazza della Signoria in Florence’s historic center, is a must-visit, especially with the fewer crowds.

Then, meander over to the Accademia Gallery , home to Michelangelo’s David and the largest collection of Michelangelo’s works. It’s also less busy during January, allowing you to admire the masterpieces.

Stroll through the quiet streets of Florence, visit the stunning Florence Duomo , and explore the charming neighborhoods. The colder weather adds a unique appeal to the city. Taking the time to appreciate Renaissance architecture and famous landmarks makes it feel like you have Florence all to yourself.

READ: Our guide to Buying tickets for the Uffizi gallery .

Rome in January

Rome in January offers a peaceful atmosphere to explore its historic sites and museums. The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are less crowded, providing an intimate experience of these magnificent structures. Take a leisurely walk or a guided tour through the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, and enjoy the absence of long lines in this beautiful city.

Rome’s mild winter weather is perfect for visiting the many museums, such as the Capitoline Museums and the Borghese Gallery. Warm up with a hot espresso in a cozy café and indulge in hearty Italian cuisine at local trattorias.

The Dolomites in January

For winter sports enthusiasts, the Dolomites are the ultimate destination in January. This stunning mountain range in the Italian Alps offers some of Europe’s best skiing and snowboarding. With various ski resorts and slopes catering to all levels, you’ll have plenty of options for a winter adventure. Dolomites Superski is just one example of an ideal establishment for winter sports.

Apart from skiing, the Dolomites offer numerous outdoor activities, such as snowshoeing, ice climbing, and winter hiking. The picturesque mountain villages, with charming chalets and traditional Alpine hospitality, are perfect for a cozy stay.

If you need more details on the Dolomites, where to stay, what to do, and the best towns, look at these resources below.

• Where to stay in the Dolomites
• Best towns in the Dolomites
• Best things to do in the Dolomites

Sicily in January

Sicily in January might not offer beach weather, but it still has plenty to explore. The coastal resort towns are quieter, allowing you to enjoy the island’s rich history and culture leisurely. Visit the ancient ruins of Agrigento, the stunning mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale , and the historic cities of Palermo and Catania.

Although boat services will be minimal, you can still visit charming villages and enjoy the local cuisine. The mild temperatures make sightseeing and hiking comfortable, especially in the island’s beautiful nature reserves.

If you want to visit Sicily in January, check out these articles for more in-depth insights.

• Best things to do in Sicily
• Best places to stay in Sicily
• Things to do in Palermo, Sicily
• Where to stay in Palermo, Italy
• Where to stay in Catania, Sicily

Milan in January

Visiting Milan in January is an excellent opportunity to experience the city’s famous fashion sales. The winter sales (saldi) offer significant discounts on high-end fashion, making it a shopper’s paradise. Explore the stylish boutiques in the Quadrilatero d’Oro and find great deals on Italian designer brands.

Apart from shopping, Milan’s cultural attractions are well worth a visit. The iconic Duomo di Milano is an impressive cathedral built over six centuries in Renaissance and Gothic style.

Then, of course, you must see The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci with this guided tour to the Basilica Santa Maria delle Grazie . Another great attraction to visit during the off-season is the impressive Castello Sforzesco, a medieval fortification built in the 15th century. 

Once you’ve explored Milan’s marvelous sights, enjoy the city’s vibrant café culture, which provides a warm respite from the winter chill. Furthermore, you can go on a day trip from Milan to Lake Como for a few days of fun by the lake.

DISCOVER: The best accommodation in our guide on Where to stay in Milan .

Venice in January

In January, Venice is an enchanting city with a unique charm. The absence of large crowds allows you to explore the narrow canals and historic landmarks peacefully. Enjoy a quiet gondola ride, visit St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace on a guided tour , and wander through the picturesque streets of this magical city.

The colder weather creates a mysterious atmosphere, with fog often blanketing the canals and adding to Venice’s allure. Take the chance to visit the many art galleries and museums, such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell’Accademia .

PLAN: Your time in Venice with our 3-day Venice Itinerary Ideas .

Festivities and Public Holidays in Italy in January

Things begin to wind down in January after the Christmas season. However, you can look forward to New Year’s, the Saldi, and more before February exhilarates with its wealth of events. Here’s a list of some festivities and public holidays in Italy in January.

• January 1 – New Year’s Day (Capodanno) : This national public holiday is a day of rest for many Italians after a long night of celebrations. Italians celebrate the start of the New Year with fireworks, feasts, and parties. Big cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples host grand celebrations with concerts and public gatherings. Expect most stores and restaurants to be closed on the 1st of January as festivities can extend until dawn.

Fun fact: On New Year’s, Italians eat Cotechino , a special pork sausage with lentils that symbolizes prosperity.

• January 6 – Festa della Befana (Epiphany): This national holiday concludes the Christmas festive period. They are associated with the figure of the Befana, a broomstick-riding old woman who presents gifts to children or a lump of “coal” if they have been bad during the year – much like Santa Claus. 

Some festivities go on during this day, mainly gift-giving and celebrations at the Piazza Navona, including a holiday market. You’ll also encounter the Viva la Befana Parade in Rome, which leads up to the Pope’s noon Angelus. In Venice, a unique tradition of the Regata delle Befana occurs – a single-oared boat race in which rowers dress as Befana and win a sock full of sweets.

• January 17 – Feast of Saint Anthony: Saint Anthony’s feast day celebrates the father of monks through the festive occasion of Festa di Sant’Antonio Abate. Known as the pioneer of the monastic lifestyle, he is celebrated through bonfires illuminating the streets of Naples and southern regions. Processions are held across municipalities with music, various festivities, and lots of eating.
• January 20 – Feast of Saint Sebastian: Venerated across Italy, Saint Sebastion is notably celebrated in Acireale in Sicily with a large procession and various traditional events honoring the saint. Celebrations typically include religious processions, special masses, and local festivals.
• January 30–31- The Sant’Orso Fair: Located in Aosta and held at the end of January, the Sant’Orso Fair is an opportunity for artists and artisans from the Aosta Valley to partake in age-old traditions. During this fair, they display all expressions of traditional craftsmanship, including woodworking, leatherwork, lacework, household objects, casks, and more. This is a celebration of the industrious and creative nature of the locals.
• Late January onwards – Carnival Season: The Carnevale starts about a month before Ash Wednesday, so it falls on different dates yearly. Starting in early February, preparations and some events begin in late January. During this time, Italians celebrate with parades and celebrations, wearing masks and throwing confetti before the solemn period of Lent.
• Throughout January – Sales Season (Saldi): January marks the start of Italy’s highly anticipated winter sales (saldi) season. Locals and tourists can find significant discounts (up to 70% off) on fashion, accessories, and other goods. Major cities like Milan, Rome, and Florence are especially popular destinations for these sales.

EXPLORE: More of Italy in winter in Reasons to Visit Italy in February.

What to Wear in Italy in January

Wondering how to pack for Italy in January? You should bring winter clothing and layers. How you experience the chilly Mediterranean winter depends on how well you handle the cold. With that in mind, you should pack a varied wardrobe for your trip. Here’s a list of essential items to consider:

• Light clothing – Even though it’s winter, lighter layers are helpful for indoor attractions and warmer days.
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals – Essential for exploring cities and historical sites. Ensure they are weatherproof and provide good support.
• Sunhat and sunglasses – The winter sun can still be bright, especially in the southern regions.
• Warm boots and a winter jacket – Keep warm during outdoor activities and city exploration.
• Sweaters, fleece, scarves, and beanies – These items are perfect for layering and adjusting to different indoor and outdoor temperatures.
• Raincoat and umbrella – It would be a bad idea not to pack an umbrella or raincoat in the wet season, as January can bring rain, especially in the northern and central regions.
• Pants or jeans – Add comfortable and flexible long pants to your suitcase, along with your favorite pair of jeans.

Is January a Good Time to Visit Italy?

Yes, January can be an excellent time to visit Italy, especially if you’re inclined towards colder weather. The winter season is a budget-friendly time and great for enjoying indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, churches, and shops. Though seasonal closures might limit some experiences, the trade-off with fewer crowds and lower prices makes it worthwhile.

Additionally, winter sports enthusiasts will find January ideal for skiing in the Dolomites, and fashion lovers can take advantage of the fantastic winter sales. Each region offers a unique winter experience, making Italy a diverse and exciting destination even in the coldest month.

READ: Want to stay in Italy for the Christmas festivities? Have a look at visiting Italy in December .

Our team of writers and creatives at Untold Italy are experts in keeping you informed and inspired about travel in Italy. Our team collaboration involves writers, photographers and editorial staff dedicated to sharing accurate Italy travel information.

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

Italy in January: all you need to know to plan your winter trip to Italy

Travel tips to visit Italy in January: January weather in Italy, the best places to visit, what to book in advance, pros and cons of spending January in Italy

January in Italy is the heart of winter.

The first month of the year is one of the coldest in Italy and traveling at this time means you are most likely to find chilly temperatures, some rainy days and, in many parts of Italy, at least a dusting of snow.

However, this doesn’t mean January is a bad month to visit Italy.

There are actually several advantages to traveling at this time and it is also possible for the weather to surprise you and treat to you some beautiful bright days.

The pros of traveling to Italy in January are:

• Smaller crowds, especially towards the middle and the end of the month
• Lower prices (low season)
• Great shopping – January is sales season!
• More of a local feel, with local life being more visible with lower visitors’ numbers

The cons of traveling in January in Italy are:

• Cold weather, with possible rain and snow in some areas
• Coastal resort towns offer limited hospitality services, catering mostly to locals during the low season
• Very limited or no ferries or boat services in coastal areas (Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre etc)
• No farm activities, as they follow agricultural rhythms
• Limited or no hiking (snow on the higher altitudes, trail closures in other areas)

Overall, January is a great month to visit Italy if you are on a budget and want to visit museums, churches, and mostly indoor attractions.

January in Italy, however, is not a good month for visitors who are hoping to enjoy the Italian Coast or spend time outdoors in the countryside as the weather will inevitably limit your options.

In this guide to Italy in January, I will go through what to expect during the first month of the year in various Italian destinations.

Disclaimer : this is a seasonal guide to Italy. For travel advisories and restrictions that may apply to the time of your visit, please check official channels. Check here for official info if traveling from US , Canada , UK , Ireland , Australia , New Zealand .

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we might make a small commission.

January closures in Italy: what closes in January in Italy?

One of the most common questions I receive about winter travel in Italy is:

‘Will everything be shut in Italy in January?’ Of course not!

Italy receives a lot of tourism but it is also a country with almost 60 million inhabitants who call it home and we definitely don’t stop living in winter.

No matter where in Italy you are, you will find people going to school, to the office, going food shopping and you will find the services supporting local life.

However, resort towns and tiny coastal towns that live primarily off tourism see many of their hospitality business closing for the winter.

Small towns on the Amalfi Coast are a great example of this: while you can visit as the town is physically there, you may not find accommodation for the night as hotels may only be available in the bigger centers and the choice of restaurants may be more limited.

If planning on visiting summer resorts out of season, I recommend you have a car and consider either a hotel with a restaurant or an apartment.

January in Italy: weather overview

January in Italy is winter. So, no matter where you go, you should expect cold weather, limited hours of daylight and days with rain or snow.

The differences in temperature between the north and south of Italy are not as significant as many expect: as the temperatures below show, while the south is a little bit warmer than the north, on average, January sees cold weather in the whole of Italy.

Average temperatures in Italy in January, historically, are:

• Bolzano (getaway to the Dolomites): 7C / -4C It gets significantly colder up on the slopes
• Milan : 7/2C – 44 / 35F – average 6 days of Rain
• Venice: 7/0C – 44/32F – Average 5 days of rain
• Rome : 12/3C – 53/37F – average 7 days of rain
• Florence : 11/2C – 52/36F – average 7 days of rain It gets significantly colder in the countryside, especially on hilltops
• Palermo : 15/10C – 59/50F – average 8 days of Rain. It gets significantly colder up Mount Etna or anywhere are higher altitudes

January in Italy: festivities and celebrations you need to know

When planning a trip to Italy in January it is helpful to look at the month as divided into two parts:

Between the 1st and the 6th of January Italy is still celebrating Christmas. Schools are off, many locals have days off work and tourism is at its peak. This is a busy and often expensive time to travel to Italy and tourism is both local and from overseas

From the 7th to the 31st of January Italy goes through a brief low tourism season. Crowds and prices are lower at this time, therefore the last three weeks in January are one of the best times to visit Italy on a budget.

January in Italy sees some festivities that can impact your travels. 

The first week of the month is still part of the Christmas festive period and some attractions are closed on specific days. In particular:

1st January  – A national holiday. Most attractions, including the  Vatican , the  Colosseum and the Uffizi Gallery, are closed on this day.

6th of January : The Epiphany , a national holiday.

This marks the end of the Christmas festivities (it is the last day for most Christmas markets ), some attractions may close. 

See also: traveling to Italy in December | Tips for traveling to Italy

The best places to visit in Italy in January

The dolomites, for skiing and christmas markets.

If you are looking for a ski vacation in Italy, then you may love January on the Dolomites!

The exact snow conditions will vary from year to year and from locality to locality however, the options are so many you are sure to find one for you!

Read here >> the best places to visit on the Dolomites

The Dolomites are also one of the best places in Italy to enjoy Christmas markets. Careful with dates, however: the Christmas markets end with the end of the Christmas season and usually wrap up by January 6th.

Need to know: If you do not sky, consider carefully if this is a good time for you to go: in January, you will not be able to hike on the Dolomites and high mountain passes may be closed.

January on the Dolomites is good for skiing, for a visit to the markets or to Bolzano or to a enjoy a hotel break: not for hiking or driving.

If traveling to the Dolomites with kids in January, it can be a good idea to look for areas with baby snowparks so even little ones can make the most of the snow. Find here >>> my guide to baby snowparks in Italy

Rome goes through a blissful moment of low crowds after Christmas.

So, if you are planning to come to Italy in January, I recommend you add Rome to your itinerary as crowds in January are at their lowest (a very rare thing!)

January is the coldest month of the year in Rome and very much winter, which means you need to wrap up with sweaters, coats, scarves and boots.

However, it is a lovely time for sightseeing and a great time to visit Rome on a budget.

In January, is busy and buzzing with Christmas cheer until the 6th of January, and then enters a quiet, lovely time of low crowds and local atmosphere.

This is a wonderful time to see Rome for the real city as it is!

January is a good time for museum visits, shopping and warming meals in local trattorie .

However, it is not a good time for prolonged time outside and days are short, so you may have to take it slower than at other times.

If traveling with kids, they will still be able to enjoy Rome’s parks in January and the city also has several indoor attractions for the coldest days. Find here >> my guide to Rome with kids

You can find my  full guide to Rome in January  here. 

Venice in January

I love Venice in January, I find it exceptionally romantic and atmospheric.

However, it is not a month everyone will love here!

The weather in Venice in winter is hit and miss at this time and you will need warm coats, boots, scarves and a hat.

As you can imagine, Venice gets pretty humid in the winter and this will impact on how long you will be able to stay outside.

However, the city has so many wonderful museums, shops and restaurants, you are never far from a warm cozy interior, and Venice does warm and cozy really well!

Need to know : Venice in winter sometimes sees the phenomenon of  acqua alta  (high tide). During Acqua Alta, parts of Venice get covered in water, spilling over from the lagoon onto some of its piazzas and roads, effectively flooding the city. Despite how dramatic the word flood may sound (and despite the water really being problematic for the city), Acqua Alta is not a big issue for visitors: the city reacts to it by setting up boardwalks and you walk on them to stay dry. If going to Venice in winter, keeping an eye on the  weather and water forecast  is useful.

If traveling with kids, I recommend booking some indoors activities such as glass blowing or mask decorating to escape the cold. Find here >>> our guide to Venice with kids

Florence and Tuscany

January is a great time to visit Florence, as the many museums in the city will allow you to escape the cold!

Florence however gets pretty cold, so you need to be prepared to wrap up well.

If you do, the last three weeks of January in Florence are the time when the city is at its quietest and this can go a long way to make you enjoy its otherwise very busy streets.

This is a good time to visit many of Florence’s famous museums and, if you get here during the weeks with the sales, it can be a shoppers’ paradise.

January is also a wonderful time to sample Tuscan food, which is warming, filling, and perfect with a glass of local red!

if you are traveling with kids, I recommend you book indoor activities and plan time in children-friendly museums to warm up and fill the darkest hours of the day. Find here >>> my guide to Florence with kids.

The Tuscan countryside gets chilly in January and you can also get snow at higher altitudes.

You can still visit hilltop villages, however, January is a time for museums more than outdoor pursuits so I would stick as close to Florence and to Tuscany’s main cities ( Siena , Lucca , Pisa ) as possible.

If you are traveling with children and are hoping to enjoy agriturismo or country stays, January is not a good time to visit Tuscany with kids.

Farm activities will be on hold until spring, many agriturismo will only open at weekends, if at all, and outdoor time will be limited by the cold temperatures and limited hours of daylight.

Turin is a city often overlooked by overseas tourists, yet a wonderful to city to visit in January or any other month!

The first capital of Italy is an elegant, intellectual, beautiful city with stunning museums, that will keep you warm and entertained on winter day.

The Royal Palace in Turin, the Museum of Cinema, and the many shops and cafes in the city are fabulous in winter and offer an Italian yet also almost Mittleuropean experience.

if visiting Turin with kids, this is a great time to bring them to the National Car Museum and the famous Egyptian Museum, huge, stunning, and super kid-friendly!

Find here >>> Our guide to Turin with kids

January is cold and grey in Milan. However, it comes with perks: sales and lower crowds!

As a fashion capital, Milan is heaven for shoppers and the sales are a good opportunity to secure some items at a somewhat more affordable price point (affordable in Milan is always a relative term).

Art lovers will find the last three weeks of January to be a relatively quiet time in Milan when getting tickets to the Last Supper is slightly less competitive.

if visiting Milan with kids, January is a good time for the several indoor museums the city offers.

Find here >>> My guide to Milan with kids

I do not recommend visiting the area with kids if you intend to use Milan as a base to see the lakes and they won’t offer much to children at this cold time.

Other destinations you may be considering for January in Italy

Sicily can get pretty cold in January.

However, overall the winter here is mild and you can also get the occasional properly pleasant sunny day that will make you feel it is the spring, rather than the heart of winter!

This is a quiet time in Sicily and while you will not be able to have a sea and sun vacation here in winter, you will be able to visit all Sicily’s main attractions without the scorching sun that makes it so hard in summer.

Places I recommend you visit are Taormina , Siracusa and the Valley of the Temples, battered by the sun in summer.

If traveling to Sicily with kids, I recommend setting expectations carefully as January won’t allow them to enjoy the sea and adventure parks may even close for the winter.

Puglia is one of my favorite destinations in Italy in January and not just!

Blessed with gorgeous beaches, it is often associated with summer trips and indeed, you can visit Puglia all year round however, I find the low season in its pretty towns one of the most pleasant of all.

In January in Puglia you won’t be able to swim or enjoy water activities: however, you can visit its pretty towns (Alberobello, Lecce), enjoy the region’s wonderful food and admire the dramatic Apulian coastline as waves crash against its tall cliffs!

You can find out recommended itinerary in Puglia here .

if traveling to Puglia with kids in winter, I recommend setting expectations carefully as they won’t be able to enjoy the sea and kids attractions such as Fasano Zoo are closed until spring. Like other

Other places to consider for January in Italy

Amalfi coast in january.

The Amalfi Coast is so beautiful I will never tell you not to go.

However, if you are in the area in January you need to know what to expect as the experience will be significantly different than in summer.

In January here, you will be able to enjoy the towns at their quietest, which is surely a plus.

However, you will not be able to go boating or even get around by ferry, which means you will miss out on seeing the Costiera from the water which is, I believe, one of the best ways to enjoy it.

In January, the more touristy towns such as Positano only have bare-bone services available as many hotels close for the season.

If this is the only time you have to visit, I recommend you stay in Sorrento, which is lovely and has enough to keep you entertained for quite a while!

A better choice in this area is to visit wonderful Naples and, if wrapping up very well, Pompeii.

Lake Como is a lovely area, with lovely views and pleasant towns, but it is not a place with much to do and, in January, this can be a problem especially if you are hoping for an active holiday or you are visiting with kids.

If you only have January to go to Lake Como, your best bet is the first week of the month.

During the Christmas festivities, the town of Como itself is lovely and you also have a nice Christmas market that can make the day there worth it.

if visiting with kids, you can find here >>> My guide to Lake Como with children

Cinque Terre

January is not a good time to visit Cinque Terre, although the towns are of course there and you can therefore go visit and take a stroll among the colorful alleys.

The reason why I don’t recommend this area in January is that most of the activities you are likely to want to do won’t be available,

In January, Cinque Terre paths tend to be closed, rain is frequent and many hotels and tourism services shut, the season starting again later in the year, towards mid-March.

If visiting Cinque Terre in January, I recommend going for the day and aiming for the Christmas season.

During the Christmas festivities, the towns have lovely nature scenes and they themselves look like one, Manarola being home to the biggest Nativity scene in the world!

If visiting  Cinque Terre with kids , it is paramount that they know swimming and boating is out of the question in January.

My recommendation in that case is to opt for a stay in Genoa instead and take a trip to the Terre from there. You can find here >>> my guide to Genoa with kids

What to book in advance if visiting Italy in January

Italy is relatively quiet in January, with the exception of the first week of the month, when we are still in the middle of the Christmas holidays.

However, some of Italy’s most famous attractions stay crowded and advance booking is recommended.

I recommend you book as soon as your trip is confirmed and you opt for tours and tickets with good cancellation options like the ones I recommend below via GetYourGuide 

Last Supper, Milan : often booked out weeks in advance, book as soon as your trip is confirmed via their official site  here  or via GetYourGuide  here , which offers excellent cancellation options.

Colosseum, Rome : the  official site  is the best site to get hold of ticket: they come out for sale 30 days before. A good alternative is GetYourGuide  here

Vatican, Vatican City, Rome : tickets sell out fast and operate on a time slot system. You can get them on the  official site  of the museums or choose a guided tour via GetYourGuide  here : I highly recommend them as the museums are vast and easily overwhelming, without a guide.

Booking tours in Italy in January

My recommended providers for yours in Italy are:

LivTours : a fantastic tour provider covering all most popular destinations and attractions in Italy. They offer private and small group tours for up to 6 people only, they are family friendly (but excellent also if you dn’t have kids, they are not just for children) and super reliable. They are my favorite tour provider!

DevourTours/Walks : a great tour provider for food tours and cooking classes!

MariaclaudiaTours : a wonderful tour provider for families with kids age 6 to 11! Use code MamaLovesItaly when booking!

Visiting Italy in January with kids

January is a tricky time to visit Italy with kids as you will be limited in the number of outdoor activities you can do and even afternoons at the playground will have to fight with the possible rain. 

My main tips for planning a trip to Italy in January with children are:

• Choose cities – cities have the largest number of indoor attractions and opportunities for children in winter. Do not expect smaller towns to have indoor play centers, children’s museums or classes for toddlers: some do but it is very much not the norm
• Avoid coastal resort towns – Towns don’t close as such but coastal resort towns or towns with a big tourism vocation may only offer bare-bone services in winter. While services catering to locals stay open, you may find hotels, restaurants etc to limit their operations and sometimes close altogether until later in spring. Coastal towns are the most affected by seasonal closures.
• Book classes and workshops – with the cold weather and the short hours of daylight, classes and workshops come into their own to keep kids entertained. Pasta making, mask making, mosaic making, pizza making… have a look at the guides below to see what’s available wear
• Don’t plan farm activities – farm activities follow the season and therefore they tend to stop during winter. The best chance to spend a country stay in winter is to fo during the Christmas festivities before the 6thj of January when they may offer packages od room + dinner.
• Indoor pools are rare – hotels with indoor pools exist however, it is not common to find indoor pools in agriturismo or country properties. The best place for indoor pools in natural settings are the Dolomites!

These are some of my favorite family activities in Italy for kids:

• Discover the family friendly side of Venice – book a family friendly hotel and a treasure hunt for kids to make the most of this quiet time in the city
• Plan a few days to discover the many  things to do in Florence with kids : cooking classes, museums, treasure hunts… there are quite a few that are perfect for the winter
• Discover  Rome with kids  and make the most of the many indoor activities available such as pizza-making class for kids and kid-friendly mosaic class in Rome
• Discover the magic of I taly’s Christmas Witch,  la befana !

I hope you found this guide to Italy in January useful. Happy travel planning!

This post was first published in 2020 and has now been fully updated with current photos and tips.

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate from the University of Rome, Marta channeled her passion for culture and travel into the creation of family travel websites that inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way. Marta also manages the thriving online community of parents 'Italy with kids' who turn to her for expert advice and competent Italy travel planning support. She is the author of the travel guides 'Best of Rome with kids' and 'Best of Florence with kids' available on Amazon and of an array of kids printables (scavenger hunts, info booklets etc) available on her Etsy shop 'Mama Loves To Print'

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Ciao Bella Italia!

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

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Destination must-see's.

Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means that it is a valuable and protected place on earth. Feel like you have stepped back in time when you visit this collection of colorful medieval villages sitting high on the edge of the sea.

Visit a place that was frozen in time in the summer of A.D. 79. Soak in 2,000 years of history at the excavated ruins of Pompeii as a local expert provides you with a detailed view of this incredibly preserved archaeological site.

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and perhaps one of the most recognizable places on the planet. It sits right in the center of Rome and was constructed by emperors of the Flavian dynasty. Imagine being there in its day!

Go off the beaten path to see the Castello Sestiere area with a local guide and get to know authentic Venice. You’ll be able to walk canal by canal through streets lined with historic buildings and old churches. See how the locals live every day with each step you take in this unique city.

Destination Must-Do's

Get a Taste of Sicilian Street Food:

Each region of Italy has its own dishes of renown, and Sicily has a rich street food culture. Chickpea fritters (panelle), fried potato croquettes (crocchè) fried risotto balls (arancine/arancini), and cannoli are just some of the items you may find while sampling the local fare.

Tour Lucca:

The fascinating medieval city of Lucca is surrounded by 16th-century Renaissance walls. Choose to see it by bike or on foot, but either way will bring you to see the Cathedral of San Martino, the Piazza Napoleone and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, all sites you simply should not miss.

Visit Capri:

On a beautiful day, take a boat trip from the stunning Amalfi Coast to the lovely Mediterranean island of Capri. There, a local expert will bring you on a tour of a dreamy place that can only be described as paradise on earth.

Drink wine:

Just about anywhere you go in Italy, you’re going to encounter fantastic wine. Whether you’re in Tuscany, Stresa, Piedmont, Umbria or any other region of this beautiful country, taste the wine. Buy a few bottles and bring it home to enjoy with friends and family.

Expert Advice

Some of what you think of as traditional Italian foods are actually American interpretations and not widely available there. Some examples are heavy cream sauces such as alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken parmigiana (however, you may find these items in more tourist-oriented restaurants).

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Italy in January – Your Winter Guide for 10 Things to Do

Italy in January differs cgreatly from going in July because of the season. Most plan a trip to the Bel Paese in the summer season when the country’s temperatures are more favorable, but this gives you the advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds. 

Going to Italy in January is the low-season for the country because Christmas has ended, and Easter remains a few months away. Nothing much to draw tourists happens in January, making it less attractive. The weather during this time can get cold, and it may not be the right choice for everyone. 

Would you like to uncover the best things to do in January to ensure the most out of your Italian vacation? Keep reading as we explore everything you need to know about a winter vacation here. 

Weather in Italy in January

Especially central Italy and northern Italy the weather in Italy in January can become cold with temperatures that range from 32°F to 50°F. Most think of it as the coldest month of the season. Northern Italy will even experience snow with temperatures dropping lower than elsewhere. Cities like Milan, Bologna, Turin, and Lake Como all experience a moderate level of snowfall. Turin would be the snowiest place in Italy with it being one of the best places for skiing. 

Tips to Get the Most of the Weather in Italy

If you want warmer weather in Italy in January, head to the south like Sicily where temperatures in January range from 41°F to 60°F, with 60°F being the average temperature. Rainfall during this time is about 3.5 inches. You won’t see much beach activity even in Sicily because the temperatures, while you could go swimming, don’t lend themselves too well to comfort. Italy weather in January isn’t warm enough to swim. 

10 Things to Do in Italy in January

Curious about what you can do in Italy in January? Let’s take a look at all the fun activities available to you when you go on vacation.

1. Rome: Attend a Cooking Class 

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Rome Cooking Class (@cookingclassrome)

During a break from all the sightseeing, you might sign up for cooking class . You will learn to make a variety of dishes like fettuccine with sauce, ravioli with butter and sage, and homemade tiramisu. During your time in Rome at this cooking class, you will learn traditional recipes and professional techniques to make the best Italian foods . 

2. Florence: Drink Hot Chocolate

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Aleksandra Zielinska | Florence food (@aelleeix)

The cioccolata calda is one of the most famous hot chocolates in Italy at the Rivoire cafe-bar on Piazza della Signoria. For chocolate lovers, this thick hot chocolate will take you straight to heaven. Another plus side is that it only takes 10 minutes to make. Especially if you’ve been strolling the streets of Florence all day, going in for a hot drink in January before going back out makes sense. 

3. Milan: Design, Fashion, and Winter Sales 

Crowds will thin out in Milan in January, but it also happens to host one of the world’s biggest fashion shows in January known as Men’s Fashion Week. Due to lower demand, January also happens to give you the hottest prices on fashion and design. For a budget traveler, you can fly to Milan for much cheaper than doing it during the high season. 

4. Tuscany: Enjoy Hot Springs and Thermal Baths

Saturnia Hot Springs will keep you warm when in Italy in January. A visit here is far more pleasant during the winter months. At the same time, it’s such a unique attraction that you can’t pass it up. You could also visit San Casciano dei Bagni . This small village located in southern Tuscany gives you 42 thermal hot springs to choose from. Everything from the medieval architecture, the panoramic views, and the Tuscan cuisine all make for a wonderful experience. Finally, you could experience Bagni San Filippo . Again, this site has thermal water with its thermal bath being known as the White Whale, which is a great mass of white limestone. 

5. Sicily: Mild Winter with Rich History

Winters in Sicily tend to be the mildest in the country. Sicily is a fascinating region because it often struggled as a pawn for conquest and empire. You see over a dozen ethnic groups in Sicily because of it being a center for trade with other countries. Over the centuries, the Normans , the Arabs, the Greeks, and even the Vandals all conquered it. History lovers will take it all in as they explore this historically rich region. 

6. Dolomites: Winter Wonderland

Carved wooden sculptures gained fame in this region, and some woodcarving families have existed here for generations. Even now, the United States and the rest of the world treasures the wooden sculptures from the Dolomites as some of the best. The Dolomites also happens to be a great place for skiing. You can go on many hikes and skiing tours, depending on what suits you best. 

7. Umbria: Picturesque Landscapes and Charming Villages

Umbria only has mildly cold winters compared to the rest of Italy in January. January still ranks as the coldest month, but Umbria has a more agreeable Mediterranean climate . The streets tend to quiet down, and the region’s monuments may appear shrouded in fog making for some haunting photos. This is a great place for those who wish to see landscapes and do landscape photography. Umbria has no shortage of places to take high-quality photos. 

8. Aosta: Winter Markets 

One of the most interesting craft fairs in Italy happens in January in Aosta. Check out the Fiera di Sant’Orso Craft Fair . It will take place from January 30 to January 31, and during this time, you will see all the craftsmen and artists display their crafts and artworks in the town of Aosta. This arts and crafts fair goes all the way back to the Middle Ages where it took place in Borgo di Aosta. This fair celebrates creativity and industriousness, and the event has many peculiar characteristics. You don’t find that the craftsmen sell here as much for commercial reasons and more as a desire to leave the workshop and show visitors their finest arts and creativity. 

9. Cinque Terre: Coastal Trails and Scenic Views

Cinque Terre offers an astounding number of hikes with wonderful scenic views, and many of them happen along coastal trails. If you want to try one with the best views in Italy in January, try Monterosso-Vernazza. Along the way to Monterosso al Mare, you will take in panoramic viewpoints and high forested paths. Enjoy some breathtaking coastlines along the way. 

10. Rome: New Year’s Eve in the Squares

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Uniflucht – Travel Agency (@uniflucht)

Rome hosts a cultural event during New Year’s Eve guaranteed to draw you in. Typically, the city hosts a gigantic concert and show. Especially if you’d like to kick off the New Year in the Roman fashion, you will have a memorable time spending New Year’s in Rome. They hold the music concert outside every year, and it lasts until 11 pm. After the music concert, they follow it up with a spectacular fireworks show at midnight. 

Festivals and Events in Italy in January

You can enjoy a number of festivals and events in Italy during the month of January. Let’s take a look at the most interesting ones to see during this time. 

Carnevale di Venezia

Held from January 27th to February 13th, Carnivale di Venezia happens every year in Venice, and it has gained fame for its elaborate costumes. You can trace this carnival dating back to the Middle Ages, but they abolished the carnival in 1797 when Francis II outlawed it, and they only revived it again in 1979. This event draws an estimated 3 million tourists every year, and the festival is one of both history and culture. During this event, one of the most important contests is known as maschera piu bella, which translates to “The most beautiful mask” contest. A panel of international costume designers and fashion designers judge the most beautiful mask contest. Traditionally, masks have always been one of the most important parts of the Venetian Carnival. 

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Festa Nazionale della Befana (@festadellabefana)

Celebrated on January 6 as the Feast of Epiphany, this has become a national holiday. If you want to experience a national holiday in Italy in January, this holiday celebrates the most popular folklore. The Befana has turned into a national icon, and she’s an old woman or a witch who delivers presents to the children of Italy during this time. The socks are filled with candy, and if you’re bad, receive a lump of coal. In the poorer regions of Italy, such as Sicily, you would receive a stick in your stocking. Instead of cookies and milk, the family typically leaves a glass of wine and food, typically regional foods for La Befana. This practice originated in Rome and dates back at least to the 13th century. No matter what part of Italy, this is one of the most interesting cultural traditions of the Bel Paese. 

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve in Italy is about food, friends, and family. Traditionally, Italians gather around a large table for a feast. Eating during this time symbolizes abundance. Some of the best places to spend New Year’s Eve in Italy include Rome, Milan, Venice, Genoa, and Rimini. Italy is one of the most popular places in Europe to spend New Year’s Eve. 

Is It Crowded in Italy in January?

In fact, January has become one of the best times to beat the crowds in the country since it is the peak of the low season. Along with the crowds lessening during this time, you can receive more affordable prices when you vacation in January. One of the most visited places during this time is the Carnival of Venice, which draws an estimated 3 million tourists every year. The Milan Fashion Show for Men’s Week is another event that is more crowded. With fewer crowds, you get more opportunities in Italy in January to meet with locals than if you came in July. 

What to Wear in Italy in January

We recommend you dress warmly if you decide to visit Italy in January

Because the January temperatures in Italy range anywhere from 32°F to 50°F, what to wear differs from the summer. You need to bring appropriately warm clothing. Having a warm turtleneck, cardigan, or pullover would make for a great choice beneath a jacket. Using a full-up fleece or a half-zip fleece is a good way to stay warmer. Like during the warmer months, you want comfortable shoes because you walk a lot in Italy wherever you go. You will also want rain gear, a hat and a scarf available for the days where you need them. Take along an adapter and a converter because Italy operates on 230V supply. Finally, you will want to bring a quality camera to capture some of the most beautiful places in the world. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Italy in January

Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions that you always hear when people want to visit during this month. Despite it being the low season, there’s always a lot to enjoy here. 

Is January a Good Time to Visit Italy?

Whether you should visit Italy in January depends on if you enjoy the crowds or wish to escape them. Budget travelers may especially see a benefit of visiting the country during this time, but you may not want to visit if you dislike the colder temperatures. Italy is moderately cold in the winter months, which isn’t for everyone.

Does It Snow in Italy in January?

Especially the northern parts of Italy will see snow in January. If you want to see snow during this time, check out Turin, Milan, or Bolzano. Turin has a reputation as the snowiest city in Italy, and it makes for a great place to go skiing. 

How Cold is Southern Italy in January?

The January temperatures in Italy in the south average around 60°F, but they can sometimes dip to 42°F on a few occasions. 

Which is the Warmest Place in Italy in January?

Sicily ranks as the warmest place in Italy in January with the city of Catania on the east coast of Sicily being the sunniest place in the entire country. The Italy weather in January depends on where you go with the north being colder. 

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Discover Italy in January: A Winter Wonderland Guide

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: December 1, 2023
• Post category: Italy

Italy in January is a captivating experience, offering a unique blend of winter charm and cultural richness. While the colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours may deter some travelers, there are numerous advantages to exploring Italy during this time of year. From smaller crowds and lower prices to the opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, January provides an authentic and unforgettable travel experience.

Key Takeaways

• Italy in January offers a quieter and more intimate travel experience due to smaller crowds.
• Accommodations and attractions are more affordable in January compared to peak travel seasons.
• Exploring Italian museums, churches, and indoor attractions is a great way to stay engaged during the colder weather.
• Coastal resort towns and outdoor activities may have limited services and closures during the low season.
• Top destinations to consider in January include Turin , Venice , the Amalfi Coast, Rome , and Palermo .

Weather in Italy in January

The weather in Italy varies in January, with different regions experiencing different temperatures and levels of precipitation. Northern Italy tends to be the coldest, with average temperatures ranging from -4 to 0 degrees Celsius (25 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit). Central Italy is slightly milder, with average temperatures around 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit). Southern Italy, on the other hand, enjoys the warmest temperatures, averaging around 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit).

In addition to varying temperatures, January is also a rainy month in Italy. The country experiences varying levels of precipitation throughout this time, with some regions receiving more rainfall than others. It’s important to be prepared for rainy days and to pack appropriate clothing and footwear when visiting Italy in January .

Here is a table summarizing the average temperatures and rainfall in Italy’s major cities in January:

Winter Activities in Italy

While the weather may be colder in January, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in Italy during this time. The winter season offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the Alps and Dolomites , where you can take advantage of the excellent conditions and beautiful slopes. Italy’s ski resorts attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

In addition to winter sports, museums and cultural sites are open and less crowded during the low season, making it a great time to explore Italy’s rich history and art. You can visit famous landmarks like the Colosseum in Rome , the Uffizi Gallery in Florence , and the Doge’s Palace in Venice without the usual crowds.

Don’t forget to indulge in Italian cuisine during your visit in January. Warm up with hearty soups and stews, such as minestrone and ribollita, which are popular winter dishes in Italy. Pair your meal with a glass of red wine to complete the cozy culinary experience.

Advantages of Visiting Italy in January

Despite the colder weather, there are several advantages to visiting Italy in January . One of the main benefits is the smaller crowds, especially towards the middle and end of the month. This allows for a more intimate and authentic experience, with fewer tourists and a greater chance to interact with locals. January is considered the low season, which means lower prices for accommodations, attractions, and even shopping during the sales season. It’s a great time to explore museums, churches, and other indoor attractions.

In addition to the smaller crowds and lower prices, visiting Italy in January provides an opportunity to witness the local culture without the influx of tourists. You can participate in traditional festivities such as La Befana, where children leave out stockings for a friendly witch to fill with treats, or festivals celebrating the patron saint of animals, St. Anthony Abbot. These unique events showcase Italy’s rich cultural heritage and allow you to engage with the local community in a meaningful way.

Furthermore, January is a time when Italy’s natural beauty truly shines. The landscapes are often blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. The countryside takes on a serene and tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re hiking through the snow-covered hills of Tuscany or exploring the charming villages of the Italian Alps, the beauty of Italy in January is truly captivating.

Disadvantages of Visiting Italy in January

While there are advantages to visiting Italy in January , there are also a few disadvantages to consider. The most obvious drawback is the cold weather, with possible rain and snow in some areas. This can limit outdoor activities and make it difficult to enjoy coastal areas or the countryside. The temperatures in Northern Italy can be particularly frigid, ranging from around -4 to 0 degrees Celsius (25 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit). Central Italy is slightly milder, with average temperatures around 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit), while Southern Italy experiences temperatures averaging around 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit).

Another limitation of visiting Italy in January is the impact it has on some coastal resort towns. During the low season, these towns may have limited hospitality services, with ferry or boat services either limited or not available at all. This can restrict access to certain areas and attractions. Additionally, farm activities and hiking may be limited due to agricultural rhythms and trail closures during this time of year.

Despite these challenges, with proper planning and preparation, visiting Italy in January can still be a rewarding experience. It allows for a more intimate and authentic encounter with the local culture, as there are fewer tourists to contend with. Plus, the low season brings with it lower prices for accommodations, attractions, and shopping, making it a budget-friendly time to explore this beautiful country.

“Italy in January may have its limitations, but for those seeking a unique winter experience and a chance to immerse themselves in the true essence of Italy, it can be an unforgettable adventure.”

Best Places to Visit in Italy in January

Italy offers a plethora of captivating destinations to explore during the month of January. Whether you’re seeking picturesque mountains, historical landmarks, or serene coastal towns, there is something for every traveler’s taste. Here are some of the best places to visit in Italy in January:

Nestled near the majestic Alps, Turin is a perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its close proximity to ski resorts, visitors can indulge in thrilling adventures on the slopes. The city itself boasts stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a mix of adventure and culture.

January is an excellent time to experience the enchanting city of Venice without the usual summer crowds. Take a stroll along the canals, visit the iconic Piazza San Marco , and immerse yourself in the rich history and Venetian art. Don’t forget to sample traditional dishes like frittelle and galani at the famous Carnevale di Venezia.

The Amalfi Coast

If you’re in search of a peaceful seaside retreat, the Amalfi Coast is a must-visit destination in January. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, explore the charming coastal towns such as Positano and Ravello, and savor the local cuisine. Experience the beauty of the Amalfi Coast without the bustling summer crowds.

Rome , the eternal city, offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture. In January, you can explore iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum , the Vatican City , and the Trevi Fountain without the usual tourist crowds. Take advantage of this quieter time to delve into the city’s fascinating past and indulge in authentic Roman cuisine.

Located in the beautiful island of Sicily, Palermo is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. In January, you can visit the colorful Christmas markets, sample delicious street food, and relax on the stunning beaches. Palermo provides a delightful mix of traditions, architecture, and culinary experiences.

Whether you’re drawn to the snow-capped mountains, the enchanting canals of Venice, the picturesque coastline, the ancient ruins of Rome, or the vibrant streets of Palermo, Italy in January has a multitude of destinations to cater to every traveler’s desires.

Activities and Events in Italy in January

Despite the colder weather, there are still plenty of things to do in Italy in January . From winter sports to cultural festivities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top activities and events to look out for:

Skiing and Snowboarding

If you’re a fan of winter sports, Italy offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the Alps and Dolomites . With stunning slopes and breathtaking landscapes, you can carve your way through the snow and experience the thrill of the mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there are options for all skill levels, along with ski resorts that provide equipment rentals and lessons.

Museum Visits

January is the perfect time to explore Italy’s rich history and art. With fewer tourists, museums and cultural sites are less crowded, allowing you to take your time and fully appreciate the masterpieces on display. From the Vatican Museums in Rome to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, you can immerse yourself in Italy’s artistic treasures and delve into its fascinating past.

Festivals and Traditions

Italy is known for its lively festivals and unique traditions, and January is no exception. One of the most famous festivities during this month is La Befana, celebrated on January 6th. Children eagerly await the arrival of La Befana , a friendly witch who brings gifts and sweets to those who have been good. In addition, various cities and towns hold festivals in honor of St. Anthony Abbot, the patron saint of animals. These events often feature parades, animal blessings, and traditional food.

So, while the weather may be chilly, the activities and events in Italy during January offer plenty of opportunities to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring museums, or joining in the festivities, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories in this winter wonderland.

Italian Cuisine in January

Italy is known for its rich culinary traditions, and January offers a chance to indulge in some delicious winter dishes. Traditional Italian cuisine reflects the seasonality of ingredients, and this time of year is no exception. In January, Italians enjoy comforting and hearty dishes that provide warmth and nourishment during the colder months.

One popular winter dish is minestrone, a vegetable soup made with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as beans, tomatoes, and leafy greens. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that is often enjoyed as a starter or a main course. Another traditional dish in January is ribollita, a Tuscan vegetable and bread soup that is cooked until it becomes thick and hearty.

Italy is also known for its abundance of citrus fruits during this season. Sicily, in particular, is famous for its juicy oranges, which are often used in a variety of dishes and desserts. The refreshing and vibrant flavor of citrus adds a burst of sunshine to the winter months.

Traditional Winter Recipes

Here are a few traditional winter recipes to try in Italy:

• Polenta: A comforting dish made from cornmeal, often served with meat ragu or cheese.
• Caponata: A Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and capers, usually served as a side dish or appetizer.
• Ossobuco: Braised veal shanks cooked with vegetables, white wine, and broth, served with gremolata.
• Torrone: A sweet nougat made with honey, almonds, and egg whites, often enjoyed during the Christmas season.

“Italian cuisine in January is a celebration of the season’s offerings and a reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage. From hearty soups to citrusy desserts, there is something to satisfy every palate.”

In addition to these traditional dishes, January is also a time for Italians to enjoy cozy meals at home with family and friends. It’s a time to gather around the table, savor the flavors of the season, and share stories and laughter. Italian cuisine in January is a reminder of the importance of food as a means of bringing people together and celebrating life’s simple pleasures.

How Italians Spend January

January is a month of traditions and cozy winter activities in Italy . Italians take this time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the winter season. It is a period for families to come together and celebrate the holidays, creating lasting memories. One of the most cherished Italian traditions in January is the Epiphany, which falls on January 6th. This day marks the visit of the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus and is celebrated with a variety of customs across the country.

During this time, Italians may also take advantage of the lower tourist numbers to explore their own country. Museums and historical sites are open and less crowded, making it the perfect opportunity to delve into Italy’s rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s a visit to the Colosseum in Rome or the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, January provides a quieter and more intimate experience.

Winter activities are also popular among Italians during this time. In the northern regions, where the mountains are covered in snow, skiing and snowboarding are favorite pastimes. The Italian Alps and Dolomites offer breathtaking slopes and picturesque landscapes, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Winter sports enthusiasts can indulge their passion while enjoying the crisp mountain air and stunning views.

“January is a time for Italians to appreciate the beauty of Italy’s landscapes and indulge in the country’s rich culinary traditions.”

Italian Lifestyle in January

The Italian lifestyle in January revolves around warmth, togetherness, and embracing the charm of the winter season. Italians gather around the table to enjoy hearty winter dishes, such as ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup, or polenta with sausages. These comforting meals provide nourishment and warmth during the colder months.

In addition to the culinary delights, Italians also celebrate various local festivities. One of the most notable events is the Carnevale di Venezia, a two-week-long carnival in Venice known for its stunning masks and elaborate costumes. This vibrant celebration brings the city to life with music, parades, and masquerade balls.

Overall, January in Italy offers a glimpse into the authentic Italian way of life. It is a time to appreciate the beauty of the countryside, enjoy delicious food, and partake in age-old traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Italy in January offers a unique experience for travelers seeking a winter getaway. Despite the colder weather, there are several advantages to visiting Italy during this month. Smaller crowds, lower prices, and the opportunity to experience the local culture without the influx of tourists make it a worthwhile destination.

While the weather may be cold and unpredictable, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. From skiing in the Alps to exploring Italy’s rich history and art in museums and cultural sites, there is something for everyone. January also brings unique festivities and delicious winter cuisine, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the country’s traditions.

Whether you’re a skiing enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Italy has something to offer during its winter wonderland. Embrace the magic of Italy in January and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy’s winter season.

What is the weather like in Italy in January?

January in Italy is characterized by cold temperatures, possible snowfall, and shorter daylight hours. The average temperature ranges from -4 to 13 degrees Celsius (25 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit), depending on the region.

What are the advantages of visiting Italy in January?

Some advantages of visiting Italy in January include smaller crowds, lower prices for accommodations and attractions, and the opportunity to experience the local culture without the influx of tourists.

Are there any disadvantages to visiting Italy in January?

Yes, there are a few disadvantages to consider when visiting Italy in January. The main drawback is the cold weather, which can limit outdoor activities and make it difficult to enjoy coastal areas or the countryside. Some services may also be limited during the low season.

Where are the best places to visit in Italy in January?

Some popular destinations to visit in Italy in January include Turin, Venice, the Amalfi Coast, Rome, and Palermo. Each offers its unique attractions and experiences.

What activities and events can I enjoy in Italy in January?

In January, you can enjoy activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the Alps and Dolomites, exploring museums and cultural sites, and participating in unique festivities such as La Befana and celebrations of St. Anthony Abbot.

What kind of cuisine can I expect in Italy in January?

In January, you can enjoy hearty winter dishes such as soups and stews, roasted meats, chestnuts, and delicious desserts like panettone and pandoro. Italy is also known for its abundance of citrus fruits during this season.

How do Italians spend January?

Italians use January as a time to relax, gather with family for holidays, explore their own country, and participate in local festivities. It’s a time to appreciate the beauty of Italy’s landscapes and indulge in the country’s rich culinary traditions.

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Italy in January – What to Expect, Places to Visit + Tips

January is the first full winter month and temperatures start to bite. With temperatures that start to bite and the Christmas festivities just over, Italy in January is less crowded and quieter.

After all the December frenzy, the tourists will be mainly concentrated in the ski resorts and winter holiday regions such as Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia, and Valle d’Aosta.

I wouldn’t dismiss, however, the art hubs like Rome and Florence. Even though you might find some cloudy and rainy days, the most popular Italian cities are always a good trip idea.

Quite chilly all over, January in Italy is the time for a tranquil vacation made of museum visits, comfort foods, pampering thermal treatments, and adrenaline winter sports. Read on to find out what to expect from Italy in January and our tips for a smooth holiday.

Table of Contents

Festivals and holidays in January in Italy

• January 1st. New Year’s Day sees all schools and offices closed. Shops might run slightly different hours and restaurants will likely offer a fixed menu for a fixed price. Many landmarks are also closed. If you are in Italy for New Year’s Eve, join the many local celebrations.
• January 6th. Traditionally, this day it’s celebrated with the event of the Three Kings or Three Magi visiting the newborn baby Jesus. In Italy, this is celebrated for children with the Befana, an old woman who delivers candies to good children and charcoal to bad kids traveling on her brush.
• January 17th. This is the day of Saint Anthony Abate and is celebrated in many towns in Sardinia with bonfires and a shared night dinner in the streets with all the townspeople.

Traveling for Christmas instead? Discover what to do in Italy in December !

Befana in Italy – A traditional song: La Befana Vien di Notte (video + lyrics)

This is a famous song about the Befana inspired by an old nursery rhyme.

La Befana vien di notte con le scarpe tutte rotte, il vestito alla romana, viva, viva la Befana!

Tutta notte sola, sola, sulla scopa vola, vola… Tutta notte sola, sola, sulla scopa vola, vola…

Quando dormirai nel letto lei ti volerà sul tetto… Quando dormirai nel letto lei ti volerà sul tetto…

Se tu appendi il tuo calzino lei ci mette un regalino… Se tu appendi il tuo calzino lei ci mette un regalino…

Ai bambini molto buoni porterà dolcetti e doni… Ai bambini molto buoni porterà dolcetti e doni…

Se non ti comporti bene lei ti porterà carbone… Se non ti comporti bene lei ti porterà carbone…

Che magnifica magia… Notte dell’Epifania.

La Befana vien di notte con le scarpe tutte rotte, il vestito alla romana, viva, viva la Befana! La Befana vien di notte con le scarpe tutte rotte, il vestito alla romana, viva, viva la Befana!

Weather in Italy in January

There is no other way around it, in January in Italy, the cold starts to bite. In most regions, January is the coldest month of the year.

Just like for all seasons, there’s a sharp difference between the temperatures of northern and southern Italy. In the northern regions, the climate will be much colder than in Sicily, for example, but it’s safe to say that nowhere in Italy in January you will be wearing a t-shirt.

Below, I give you a quick overview of Italy’s weather in January divided into macro-areas where I mention the largest cities and main tourist hubs.

Weather in January in northern Italy

In January, northern Italy gets very cold. Peaks are covered with snow and in high altitudes, temperatures get often below zero.

Here are the temperatures of the main cities in northern Italy in January:

• Milan: high 7°C (44°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Turin: high 8°C (46°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Aosta: high 6°C (43°F) – low -4°C (24°F)
• Venice: high 7°C (44°F) – low 0°C (32°F)
• Verona: high 6°C (43°F) – low -1°C (30°F)
• Bologna: high 6°C (43°F) – low 1°C (34°F)
• Ravenna: high 7°C (44°F) – low 0°C (32°F)
• Trieste: high 8°C (46°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Trento: high 8°C (46°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Bolzano: high 7°C (44°F) – low -4°C (24°F)
• Genoa: high 12°C (54°F) – low 6°C (43°F)

Weather in January in central Italy

Less chilly than in the northern cities and definitely warmer than in the Dolomites, also in central Italy the weather is cold and shouts for heavy clothes.

Here are the temperatures of the main cities in central Italy in January:

• Rome: high 12°C (54°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Viterbo: high 10°C (50°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Florence: high 11°C (52°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Siena: high 8°C (46°F) – low 2°C (35F°)
• Pisa: high 11°C (52°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Lucca: high 10°C (50°F) – low 2°C (35°F)
• Perugia: high 8°C (46°F) – low 1°C (34°F)
• Assisi: high 8°C (46°F) – low 1°C (34°F)
• Arezzo: high 7°C (44°F) – low 1°C (34°F)
• L’Aquila: high 6°C (43°F) – low -1°C (30°F)
• Campobasso: high 8°C (46°F) – low 3°C (37°F)

Weather in January in southern Italy

Even though snow is a rare sight, in southern Italy in January you might find quite a few rainy days. The city and province of Avellino in the Campania region see particularly cold weather, rain is quite common, and snowy days don’t really come as a surprise.

Here are the temperatures of the main cities in southern Italy in January:

• Naples: high 13°C (55°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Caserta: high 12°C (54°F) – low 4°C (39°F)
• Salerno: high 13°C (55°F) – low 7°C (44°F)
• Bari: high 13°C (54°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Foggia: high 11°C (52°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Lecce: high 13°C (55°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Alberobello: high 10°C (50°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Ostuni: high 12°C (54°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Reggio Calabria: high 13°C (55°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Matera: high 10°C (50°F) – low 3°C (37°F)

Weather in January in the Italian islands

January climate in Sicily and Sardinia is mild and it would be pleasant if it weren’t for more than occasional rainfalls. Days in January can get also sunny and freezing. After windy days, you can get close to the coast to enjoy the view of some pretty spectacular rough seas and high waves.

Here are the temperatures of the main cities in the Italian islands in January:

• Palermo: high 15°C (59°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Agrigento: high 15°C (59°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Catania: high 15°C (59°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Taormina: high 15°C (59°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Siracusa: high 15°C (59°F) – low 8°C (46°F)
• Ragusa: high 12°C (54°F) – low 6°C (43°F)
• Cagliari: high 14°C (57°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Sassari: high 13°C (55°F) – low 5°C (41°F)
• Palau: high 12°C (54°F) – low 9°C (48°F)
• Nuoro: high 11°C (52°F) – low 3°C (37°F)
• Oristano: high 13°C (55°F) – low 7°C (44°F)

Is January a good time to visit Italy?

If freezing temperatures, humid days, rainfall, and some snow don’t scare you, there are many good reasons to visit Italy in January. The cities are quiet, locals have retrieved their normal routine after the Christmas holidays, and you can really visit your destination at your own pace.

If you are wondering about the pros and cons of traveling to Italy in January, read on.

Is it worth visiting Italy in January? Pros and cons

• Lower prices in hotels and flights.
• Wider availability in hotel rooms.
• Smaller lines at the landmarks’ entrances.
• Convenient shopping sales.
• Lousy and cold weather with possible rainfalls and cloudy days.
• Some places and activities are not recommended (Cinque Terre, boat rides, Amalfi Coast)
• Some hotels, restaurants, and attractions might be closed, especially in little touristy areas.

Is everything open in Italy in January?

In January, some places are closed because of a lack of tourism while others are because of the holiday. January 1st, in fact, is New Year, and many landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums in Rome, the Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell’Accademia, and the complex of Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral in Florence,

In January, you might find some places closed because in many places it’s low season and also because some areas are hardly accessible with bad weather.

For example, in the Cinque Terre , some hiking routes will be closed because unsafe when it rains too much. Most beach resorts shut down after the summer season and in January are empty.

Things to do and best places to visit in Italy in January

Welcome the new year.

If you can make it to Italy on December 31st, you can join the celebrations for New Year’s Eve, some of which continue also the following days. In fact, winter holidays in Italy don’t end with New Year’s Eve but on January 6th with the Epifania.

In the first week of January everywhere in Italy, there still are the winter festive vibe and celebrations. Schools are closed, shops are open and so are the offices, which close only on January 1st and 6th.

In some places, you might even find New Year’s celebrations carrying on from December 31st through the first day of January. A few years ago in Rome there were concerts and live shows all day along the river and in the city center. Each year this is different and it depends on the local municipalities.

Visit the Dolomites and the Alps

Ski and winter sports lovers will be in their heaven in Italy in January. In fact, the northern alpine regions of Italy are the ones experiencing the highest tourist season this time of the year. While cities like Rome and Florence attract a smaller number of visitors in January than in December, regions like Trentino-Alto Adige and Valle d’Aosta will teem with ski fans.

January is one of the best seasons to visit the Italian Dolomites and Alps because the snow has reached just the right amount for all the winter sports. Ski resorts are up and running and everyone is enjoying the treatments and the activities organized for adults, children, and kids.

Some of the best places to visit in the Italian Dolomites and Alps in January include Bolzano , Bressanone and Madonna di Campiglio in Trentino-Alto Adige, Aosta and Cogne in the Valle d’Aosta region on the border with France, Ravascletto near Udine in Friuli Venezia Giulia, the Presolana mountains in the Lombardy region near Bergamo, and Cortina d’Ampezzo near Belluno in Veneto.

Explore Rome

Even though not in its busiest tourist season, Rome’s landmarks are never really empty. The weather is not as cold as in the northern regions and while there might be some rainfall, you can also find some beautiful sunny days.

If you are not afraid of cold temperatures, you are going to really enjoy Rome in January. Landmarks will be less busy, allowing you a better experience, restaurants won’t be so crowded so you will have a better chance to find availability, and hotel rates will be slightly cheaper than the previous month and for sure than the imminent spring season.

And if it pours, don’t worry, there is plenty to do in Rome when it rains .

Visit Florence

Florence is rather freezing in January but its beauty really never fades away.

Go around its museums and galleries such as the Uffizi, and palaces such as Palazzo Pitti and Palazzo della Signoria.

Admire the stunning sacred architecture in churches such as Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral or Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo Basilicas.

You can also take some easy day trips by train to Pisa , Siena , and Lucca.

Don’t miss our tips on great Florence restaurants and the best hotels in the city.

Visit Bologna

In January, you might find Bologna cold and misty, but certainly never lacking in style and elegance. Explore the central Quadrilatero neighborhood, walk along the porticoed streets, visit important landmarks such as San Petronio Basilica, Piazza Maggiore, the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca, and Torre degli Asinelli tower.

The Emilia Romagna region are also famous for its culinary tradition made of lasagna, tortellini stuffed pasta, Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma ham, and Bologna is a great stop for tucking into the local delicacies.

Don’t miss our guide to spending one day in Bologna .

Explore Turin

Turin is a beautiful royal city and everything there was built to make its former royal family comfortable and at ease.

Much of the roads of the city center are covered with porticoes to allow for pleasant walking even if it rains, its architecture is elegant and classy, and its cultural heritage rich and fascinating.

Visit the Royal Palace and the Egyptian Museum, duck into San Giovanni Battista Duomo to see the Holy Shroud, and sip on a warm bicerin coffee .

Go shopping

From around the 7th of January, Italian stores kick off one of the biggest sales of the year. You can find the winter collection of all the brands offered at very convenient prices.

Since it’s getting towards the end of the autumn/winter season, it’s possible that you won’t find every item in the collections, but you are still going to find great clothes at great deals.

Apart from clothes, winter sales cover also shoes, accessories, lingerie, and even the typical Christmas cakes left over from the holidays that are just ending. Actually, you are going to find pandori and panettoni discounted right after Christmas!

Try winter dishes

Italy is famous for its diverse food. The diversity doesn’t only concern the different regions but also the different seasons. Get warm and cozy with a delicious ribollita soup typical from Florence and Tuscany with cavolo nero, beans, and savoy cabbage.

In Trentino and other northern Italian regions, enjoy a hearty meal with canederli served in hot broth or a dish of warm polenta with sausages or porcini mushrooms.

Some of the foods to eat in Rome in winter include saltimbocca alla romana cutlets and bucatini amatriciana , while in Bologna, the cold weather won’t make you feel guilty for wolfing down a dish of ragout lasagne.

Check out our article on what to eat in Italy and where !

Relax at your favorite thermal baths

With winter at full speed, there is hardly something more pleasant to do than soaking in the warm and therapeutic waters of the thermal baths scattered in many regions of Italy.

Some of the coolest thermal centers you can book to relax, detox, and regenerate after the gargantuan meals of the Christmas holidays include the wonderful Bormio on the foot of Stelvio Pass and the peaks of Ortles and Cevedale, the sulfurous water springs of Pozza di Fassa in Trentino, the thermal baths of the medieval town of Castrocaro in the Emilia Romagna region, Terme di Saturnia in Tuscany, and the historical Terme dei Papi in Viterbo, an hour drive from Rome.

January is also a great time to go offbeat in Italy. You can visit beautiful regions like Marche and Abruzzo, you can explore the countryside of the Umbria and Lazio regions. Some day trips from Rome are easy to plan and will take you to truly gorgeous places.

Even though the most famous ski resorts are in the Dolomites and the Alps, the Apennines in central Italy offer fantastic winter holiday opportunities. The mountains of the Majella National Park in Abruzzo come with breathtaking views and great ski resorts such as Majelletta We in Chieti province.

The Marche region, too, is very fascinating in winter. Apart from several ski resorts such as the one of Monte Piselli near Ascoli Piceno and the one of Monte Nerone in Piobbico near Urbino, you can enjoy the local Christmas markets until around January 6th and discover the small towns and villages.

Visit Sicily

In Sicily, you will likely find a mild Mediterranean climate. Even though rainfalls are quite common in January in Sicily, the mild temperatures make it easy to walk around and visit places.

Some of the cities and towns you can visit are Palermo, the most “Arab” city in Italy for its rich cultural heritage and history, Catania for its architecture and delicious cuisine, Agrigento for its Greek Valle dei Templi, and the charming town of Cefalù for its New Year’s Eve celebrations on the beach and in the streets.

January in Sicily is low season, so you are likely to find a good availability of rooms in the local hotels and affordable prices. I recommend planning quite in advance so that you have time to change your schedule or itinerary if you find something closed.

Explore Naples

If in summer Naples is hot and crowded, in January it becomes quiet and more enjoyable. The weather is cold but not freezing. With the highest temperatures ranging around 13-14°C (55-57°F) and an average of 8 days of rain, in Naples in January you can plan a mix of outdoor and indoor activities.

Walk around the streets of the city center, across the famous Spaccanapoli road, or get to the seafront promenade for some fresh air. If it rains, it’s time to visit the city’s museums such as the archaeological museum, the stunning Royal Palace, Museo del Tesoro di San Gennaro, and Museo Civico di Castel Nuovo known as Maschio Angioino.

Go to Sardinia

I originate from Sardinia, so I’m fully aware that my island mainly evokes beach holidays and summer fun, but if you go for the celebrations in honor of Saint Anthony on the night between the 16th and the 17th of January, you are in for something really cool.

In many towns in Sardinia, they celebrate Sant’Antonio Abate festival by lighting up bonfires in the main streets and squares.

You will find one of the most fascinating celebrations in the town of Mamoiada, in Nuoro province. Here, the ancient masquerades of the Mamuthones will parade along the streets and perform their primordial dance around the town’s bonfires in the evening until late at night.

And if you are traveling to Italy in February , you will find the Mamuthones again parading and dancing around the streets of Mamoiada for Carnival.

What pack for Italy in January

• Umbrella. Wherever you are going, rainfalls in January are common.
• Skincare. Pack a good moisturizing face cream because the cold weather makes the skin dry.
• Hand cream.
• Backpack or crossbody bag. Handy whether you are going to the mountain or visiting a city.
• Warm clothes and shoes.

What to wear in January in Italy

• Coat or heavy jacket. A coat is necessary all over Italy in January. If you are heading to a ski resort in the Dolomites, your coat or jacket will need to be heavier than if you are visiting Rome or Sicily.
• Boots or ankle boots. Perfect in case of rain.
• Camper-style sneakers or other walking winter shoes.
• Long-sleeve underwear top. In case of very cold weather, I suggest a thermal top.
• More long-sleeve tops. These are great for layering in case you are in a restaurant with the heating on at full speed.
• Warm trousers. For the mountains or other outdoor activities, consider padded sporty trousers.
• Warm pajamas or nightgown for the night.
• Scarf, har, and gloves.

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Italy in january: all you need to know to plan the perfect trip.

All you need to know to plan a trip to Italy in January. January weather in Italy, best places to go in Italy in winter, what to pack, what to book in advance, practical travel tips

January is the heart of winter in Italy , a month of grey sky, rain and cold temperatures, in many parts of Italy accompanied by at least a dusting of snow.

How cold Italy gets in January surprises many.

Yhe country is, after all, famous for mild weather and for being a year-round destination, Italian fashion being associated more with summer dresses than heavy coats.

Indeed, if compared with the rigid arctic winter of let’s say Canada or parts of the US, Italy is indeed mild, even in the middle of January.

However, don’t let this comparison fool you.

In January in Italy, you will need a warm coat, scarves, hats and gloves and, depending on your destination, you may get snow: a dusting or even a lot!

In this guide to Italy in January, I will go through what to expect during the first month of the year in various Italian destinations .

I hope this will help you plan your winter trip to Italy at best!

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Table of Contents

Is January a good time to visit Italy? Overview

January is a peculiar time to visit Italy and how good or bad it is, varies widely on what you are expecting and hoping to get from your Italy trip.

January is a great month to visit Italy if you are interested in city breaks, museum visits and indoor attractions.

It is also a good month for traveling to Italy on a budget.

Aside from the first week of the month, January is low season in Italy and this means smaller crowds and lower prices.

January is not a good month to visit Italy if you are hoping for dinners out, time on the coast, cycling trips or if you want to visit Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.

Need to know : The first week of January, up to the 6th included, is the holidays in Italy. At this time, crowds can be really intense and prices are up. After the 6th, low seasons starts and prices and availability improve.

Here is more detailed information about Italy’s most popular destinations in winter.

What is January like in Italy’s most popular destinations?

Is january a good time to visit rome.

January is the coldest month of the year in Rome and very much a winter one, but not an unpleasant one to visit the Eternal City.

The first week of the month is still a festive period in Rome, with big crowds and Christmas decorations in the shops, while the following weeks are quieter and a nice time to see Rome at its quietest.

January is a good time for museum visits, shopping and food however, not a great one for outdoor dining (way too cold) and for prolonged time outside.

You can find my full guide to Rome in January here.

What is Venice in January like?

Venice is January is cold and humid however, it is also immensely romantic, quiet and charming.

The weather is hit and miss at this time and you will need warm coats, boots, scarves and a hat.

While rain and clouds are frequent, Venice in January can also treat you to glorious sunny days, when the city properly shines

Personally, I love Venice in January.

You will need to plan your day to accommodate rather short daylight hours however, thinner crowds mean you will be able to pack quite a lot in a short time.

During our last winter trip to Venice, we stayed for 3 days: you can see our favorite Venice itinerary here .

Need to know: Venice in winter sometimes sees the phenomenon of acqua alta (high tide, this is when Venice floods).

This can be a nuisance or a dramatic event for the city, depending on intensity. If going to Venice in winter, keeping an eye on the weather and water forecast is useful.

Is Cinque Terre in January worth it?

January is not a good time to visit Cinque Terre .

In January, Cinque Terre paths tend to be closed, rain is frequent and many hotels and tourism services shut, the season starting again later in the year, towards mid-March.

If visiting Cinque Terre in January, the best time to go is early in the month. During the Christmas festivities, the towns have lovely nature scenes and they themselves look like one, Manarola being home to the biggest Nativity scene in the world!

This is not a time for hiking or the sea but the nativity scene can be nice if visiting Cinque Terre with kids .

What is Florence like in January? How cold is Tuscany in winter?

January is not a bad time to visit Florence .

The city can get cold and you will need to wrap up well.

However, January is Florence is relatively quiet and this means museums and church visits are easier, the lines diminishing massively especially after the festivities are over.

January is also a wonderful time to sample Tuscan food, which warming, filling, and perfect with a glass of local red!

The Tuscan countryside gets chilly in January and you can also get snow at higher altitudes.

You can still visit hilltop villages, however, January is a time for museums more than outdoor pursuits so I would stick as close to Florence and to Tuscany’s main cities (Siena, Lucca, Pisa) as possible.

What is Lake Como like in January?

Honest answer? Not great!

Lake Como is a lovely area, with lovely views and pleasant towns, but it is not a place with much to do and, in January, this can be a problem, the view of the lake only entertaining anyone for so long.

If you only have January to go to Lake Como, your best bet is the first week of the month: during the Christmas festivities, the town of Como itself is lovely and you also have a nice Christmas market that can make the day there worth it.

What is the Amalfi Coast in January like?

The Amalfi Coast is not at its best in January. Actually, it is pretty far from it!

While the area is always beautiful, the Amalfi Coast is very much a good weather destination, one you want to enjoy when the sun hits the water and when you can sit outside for dinner.

January doesn’t really allow you to do that.

At this time, the weather is cold, rainy and grey and tourism services operate at minimum capacity, many being closed altogether.

You cannot swim or go boating on the Amalfi Coast in winter which makes this time especially hard if you are planning on visiting the Amalfi Coast with kids.

If this is the only time you have to visit, your best bet is to stay in Sorrento, which is lovely, and go during the Christmas festivities, celebrated here with lovely displays and nativity scenes.

Italy in January, need to know dates

January in Italy sees some festivities that can impact on your travels.

1st January – a national holiday. Most attractions, including the Vatican and the Colosseum , are closed on this day

6th of January : Epiphany, a national holiday. This marks the end of the Christmas festivities (it is the last day for most Christmas markets), some attractions may close.

Good to know! January is usually the season for sales and it is one of the best month to visit Italy for end of season shopping!

What to pack for Italy in January

Italy is cold in January so you will need to pack a coat, scarf, gloves, woolen sweaters and winter shoes.

You can find my packing list for Italy in winter here however, these are your must have:

• All your travel documents (passport, Visa, Insurance, etc)
• Broken in walking shoes (find  my shoe recommendations here)
• Clothing essentials
• Jeans / long trousers / pants
• Long sleeve tops (short sleeves for layering only)
• Warm sweater
• Coat, scarf, gloves, winter
• A good crossbody bag as a day purse (find my favorite crossbody bags for travel here )
• Travel adapter
• Italian phrasebook
• Portable travel umbrella
• Phone/Camera

What to book in advance in Italy in January

Italy is relatively quiet in January however, some of its most famous attractions stay crowded and advance booking is recommended.

I recommend you book as soon as your trip is confirmed and you opt for tours and tickets with good cancellations options like the ones I recommend below via GetYourGuide

Last Supper, Milan : often booked out weeks in advance, book as soon as your trip is confirmed via their official site  here  or via GetYourGuide  here , which offers excellent cancellation options.

Colosseum, Rome : the  official site  releases tickets 30 days ahead. However, guided tours are usually available on GetYourGuide  here or from selected providers like LivTours (my favorite, they are excellent!)

Vatican, Vatican City, Rome : tickets sell out fast and operate on a time slot system. You can get them on the  official site  of the museums, GetYourGuide  here or you can opt for a guided tour with a reliable provider such as LivTours : I highly recommend them as the museums are vast and easily overwhelming, without a guide.

The best things to do in Italy in January

These are some of my favorite places to visit in Italy in January and things to do.

• Enjoy Venice without the crowds
• Explore Florence’s many museums
• See Rome’s city center without the crowds
• Explore Abruzzo and its snow-dusted mountain villages
• Taste all the glorious Emilia Romagna food with local food tours (tortellini, parma ham, parmigiano are perfect winter foods!
• Defrost in stunning Sicily

Visiting Italy in January with kids

January is a tricky time to visit Italy with kids as you be limited in the number of outdoor activities you can do and even afternoons at the playground will have to fight with the possible rain.

Itis however possible to enjoy Italy in winter as a family.

These are some of my favorite family activities in Italy for kids :

• Discover the family-friendly side of Milan
• Explore child-friendly Venice
• Find out why we love Florence with kids
• Discover why we think Rome with kids is simply the best
• Warm-up taking a pizza-making class for kids
• Have fun taking a kid-friendly mosaic class in Rome
• Discover the magic of Italy’s Christmas Witch, la befana !

I hope you found this guide to Italy in January useful. Happy travel planning!

About the author : Marta Correale is an Italian mama of 2, born and bred in Rome. Avid traveler, Marta graduated in Classics at the University of Rome and married her love for history and travel in a career as a travel writer. She is the writer and editor behind Learning Escapes, family travel blog about cultural travel with kids, the creator of the successful travel sites Mama Loves Rome , an in-depth travel site about her native city of Rome, and Mama Loves Italy , a comprehensive resources with travel guides, tips and advice for families planning a trip to Italy with kids.

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

Privacy Overview

Is Italy in January a Hidden Gem? Unveiling why winter is the right time!

Is January a good time to visit Italy for an affordable and crowd-free Italian getaway? Here are our local expert tips on what to do in Italy in January.

Last Update: July 8, 2024

• Destination

Italy in January , often overlooked due to its colder weather and the holiday lull, remains an uncharted place for many travellers seeking quieter streets. The snow-topped landscapes and unique experiences are away from the bustling tourist masses. January in Italy is perfect to unwind and embrace a slow travel style. 

While it might not fit the traditional image of an Italian vacation, the month holds its own charm, beckoning explorers with fewer crowds, enticing ski resorts, and a chance to delve deeper into the authentic Italian lifestyle.

Should You Consider a January Visit to Italy?

The weather in Italy during January, admittedly cold and at times wet, dissuades some from exploring its riches. Yet, for the intrepid traveller, this season offers a serene environment where city streets are not overcrowded, allowing you to savour iconic destinations like Rome or Florence at your own pace. While December might carry the festive cheer, January extends an invitation for tranquil exploration, especially after January 6th, marking the shift from the holiday ‘high season’ to a serene low season.

Key takeaway | Italy in winter

Within this guide, you will get to know things about Italy in winter that will help you plan a great trip. This guide is about:

• Why Italy in January is perfect to skip the crowds

Weather in Italy in January

• Where to go and where to stay
• How to get around Italy in January
• Holiday celebrations in Italy and sights that are closed in January
• Places we recommend spending some time in January
• Best food to try in the low season
• What locals do in January
• Best experiences in Italy in January
• What to wear when it is cold

This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links ( read our Cookie Policy ), and useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you. Click on it will help us run this website for you, for FREE, funding our project and continuing to travel, informing curious explorers.

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Is January a good month to travel to Italy?

Yes, January is a great month to explore Italy. Most of the attention in winter in Italy is around the Skii destinations, which are in the north of the country. Some of the best chalets in Italy are around the Alps and Dolomites area, which border with Switzerland, France, Austria and Slovenia.

If you are not among ski-trippers, we get that, and you might love the much higher temperature of Southern Italy, exploring Palermo, Napoli, or the cute villages of Puglia .

If we ring the bell in some ways, check out some of our most inspiring guides visiting Italy in winter:

Cruising in Italy: A 7 Night itinerary to explore the best of Italian coast

Getting to Puglia: A guide to Puglia airports and connections

Positano or Sorrento | Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?

Where to stay in the Dolomites | DETAILED On a budget and first timers guide!

A guide to Dolomites in Summer: 15 things to do, places to go and stay

10 reasons why visiting italy in january is a fantastic idea.

• Fewer Crowds
• Local Experience
• Sale season in Italy

Immerse in Local Life

Skiing paradise.

• Get a discount on accommodation and activities

Unique Festivities

Mild climate in the south, cultural exploration, in january, there are no crowds.

Experience the tranquillity as tourist numbers dwindle, particularly after January 6th, allowing you to explore iconic cities like Rome and Florence with fewer crowds.

You will feel a more intimate experience

 Embrace the chance to feel like a local and encounter more Italian and European tourists, providing an authentic atmosphere.

It’s the sale season

Enjoy Italy’s renowned sale period, offering the best shopping discounts of the year, similar to the sales in July.

January provides an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in popular destinations and experience life as a local resident.

Explore some of Europe’s premier ski resorts during this ideal time for skiing and winter sports enthusiasts.

Flexibility in Travel Plans

January allows for flexible travel plans, adapting to your preferences and schedule.

Depending on the area you visit, January can be the most affordable time to explore Italy. Outside ski resorts, expect great deals on accommodations and airfares.

The main cities are often overcrowded, leaving few nice places available, visiting Italy in January you can have accommodation almost for yourself at a fraction of the price. We also consider the colder months the perfect time to plan a workcation in Italy , spending some time between experiences once you are done with work.

In January, Italy’s festive spirit mellows after the New Year’s celebration s. Capodanno on January 1st and L’ Epifania on January 6th mark the major festivities. The latter, known as the Epiphany, is cherished with local traditions like La Befana, a symbol of gift-giving.

Actually, you must know that planning a trip after the 6th of January might lead to quieter places and discounted prices for accommodation and activities. In the South, visiting Sicily , you can witness the picturesque celebration of Saint Agatha, Patron of Catania. The religious procession sees fireworks and culinary delights, making it particular also for locals.

Another festivity is the Venetian Carnival , which kicks off in late January, showcasing elaborate masked balls, vibrant parades, and street performances. This ancient tradition brings Venice alive with a sense of mystery and splendour, drawing crowds from all over the world.

Enjoy milder temperatures in Southern Italy, where it’s warmer compared to the north, offering a pleasant atmosphere. Afterall, we have often referred to Southern Italy as the perfect destination to chase the winter sun in Europe . If you are looking for more of these destinations, make sure you read this guide .

Engage in cultural explorations, discovering hidden gems, art, history, and culinary delights with fewer tourists around. Visiting Italy in January unveils a unique side of the country, blending serenity, local essence, fantastic shopping opportunities, and a myriad of experiences waiting to be explored.

If you are interested in local traditions, it might be the right time to experience the Venetian Carnival without the crowds. Not many know that this special occasion kicks off in late January but sees more locals than tourists around.

Italy’s geographical diversity paints a varied picture of the weather in January. Northern regions brace for snow, with temperatures hovering near freezing. Central Italy, though chilly, presents milder conditions compared to the north. The south, while relatively warmer, still maintains a brisk atmosphere, perfect for exploring without the scorching heat of summer.

In January, Italy experiences its chilliest weather, marking it as the coldest month of the year across the nation. However, the temperature spectrum varies significantly based on the region you’re in, offering diverse climatic conditions.

Italy’s weather in January by regions

Northern Italy encounters a bone-chilling atmosphere, especially at higher altitudes where snow becomes a common sight. Temperatures tend to linger around the freezing point, hovering at approximately 0°C (32°F).

Central Italy also embraces the winter chill and occasionally witnesses snowfall. Here, temperatures typically average around 9°C (48°F), presenting a moderately cold ambience.

Southern Italy boasts comparatively milder weather during January, albeit not suitable for beach outings. With temperatures hovering around 13°C (55 °F), this region experiences a bit of warmth, accompanied by more sunshine compared to other parts of the country. However, it also encounters relatively higher rainfall during this time compared to other seasons.

Several Italian cities, such as Milan, Florence, and Parma, amplify the winter cold due to a blend of humidity and chilly temperatures, making the climate feel even colder than indicated by the thermometer readings.

Temperature in Italy in January

• Northern Italy: -4-5°C (25-45°F)
• Central Italy: 5-13°C (40-55°F)
• Southern Italy: 10-16°C (50-60°F)

Is Italy Snowing in January?

While the northern mountainous regions of Italy, like the Alps, Dolomites or Apennines, may have snow in January, most major cities and destinations further south receive little, if any, snowfall during January.

On average, Rome gets no snow accumulation in January. However, mountain view day trips from Rome can offer scenic winter snowscapes. Milan has light snow at times, with January averaging just 2 days of measly snowfall.

Popular ski towns will have the most January snowpack, which is great news for winter sports enthusiasts! Destinations like Courmayeur, Bormio and Cortina d’Ampezzo offer superb skiing among the Italian Alps all January long.

Coastal regions primarily get cold winter rains rather than snow. Cities like Florence may get a dusting of snow once or twice the entire month. Venice averages just 1 day per January, with snow flurries mixing amidst winter showers.

So, while the far northern mountains collect decent powder, heavier snow is not common in metropolitan travel destinations during Italy’s slightly milder winter month. Check regional forecasts to know what to expect weather-wise!

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Positano or sorrento | where to stay on the amalfi…, where to stay in the dolomites | detailed on a…, a guide to dolomites in summer: 15 things to do,…, best places to visit: unveiling the hidden gems.

Italy in January unveils its quieter, more intimate side across various locales:

• Dolomites (ski areas): Offering a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, complemented by alternative activities for non-skiers. Read about the best places in the Dolomites .
• Emilia Romagna Towns: We had a blast exploring the cute villages of Emilia Romagna . The central region is perfect if you want to spend an extended time in Italy in winter. Even though it is very cold. We suggest taking as a base Bologna , rent a car, and get day trips.
• Rome: An opportunity to explore iconic monuments minus the bustling crowds. Looking for an itinerary of Rome in winter? Read this!
• Florence: Despite the cold, it presents a chance to immerse in art and culture. Florence in winter is magical; read our itinerary .
• Venice: Discover the city’s charm with fewer tourists, embracing local experiences. Interested in Venice in winter? We have a guide ready for you!
• Naples: The southern city is one of the most popular in Italy, and in winter is perfect. If you are on a budget, make sure to write down Naples on the list of places to visit in January . Explore the Spanish Quarter or stroll on the promenade, as the sun is always up in Naples.
• Sicily: Experience the island’s charm without the summer crowds, exploring historical sites.
• Milan: Indulge in world-class shopping during the January sales, accompanied by cultural experiences. Looking to spend a few days in Milan in January ? Read our guide .

Where to go for outdoor activities

Italy in January offers a plethora of stunning destinations for skiing and various winter sports, ensuring a memorable experience for enthusiasts. Here are some top locations to consider: Italy in January is a winter wonderland, offering a variety of stunning destinations for skiing and other winter sports. Here are some top locations to consider:

If you are looking for Skiing and Winter Sports

The Italian Alps

Courmayeur:

• Skiing: Known for its extensive ski area, with varying difficulty levels catering to both beginners and advanced skiers.
• Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking panoramas of Mont Blanc, making the skiing experience even more spectacular.

Cortina d’Ampezzo:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Renowned for its well-groomed slopes and challenging terrains suitable for skiing and snowboarding.
• Winter Sports Events: Often hosts international winter sports events, attracting professional athletes and sports enthusiasts.

Val Gardena:

• Ski Resorts: A haven for skiers with access to the Dolomiti Superski area, providing numerous interconnected slopes.
• Winter Activities: Apart from skiing, opportunities for snowshoeing, ice skating, and winter hikes abound.

Madonna di Campiglio:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Offers diverse terrains suitable for different skill levels, complemented by modern ski lifts.
• Après-ski Scene: Bustling nightlife, cosy bars, and gourmet restaurants contribute to a vibrant après-ski atmosphere.
• Olympic Connection: Hosted events during the 2006 Winter Olympics, boasting quality slopes and modern facilities.
• High Altitude: Enjoy consistent snow cover due to its high altitude, ensuring excellent skiing conditions.
• Duty-Free Zone: Known for duty-free shopping, Livigno is also an excellent skiing destination with extensive snow parks and cross-country ski trails.
• Freeriding: Appeals to free-riders with ample off-piste opportunities and adrenaline-pumping descents.

What to eat in Italy in January

January takes into the Italian home traditions and dishes and recipes handed down by generations. These are the most common things you should try while in Italy.

• Zuppa di Farro: A hearty farro soup, often infused with beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, serves as a comforting winter staple. Its wholesome flavours embody the essence of traditional Italian comfort food.
• Risotto ai Funghi: Indulge in the velvety richness of risotto flavoured with earthy mushrooms, a dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. Its creamy texture and depth of taste make it a winter favourite.
• Piping Hot Cioccolata Calda: As the temperatures drop, indulge in a cup of thick, velvety hot chocolate, a staple during Italy’s chilly winter months. This luxurious treat is often accompanied by whipped cream or served alongside indulgent pastries.
• Polenta e Osei: A traditional Lombard dessert, this sweet treat features cake-shaped marzipan birds perched atop a bed of creamy polenta, offering a unique blend of textures and savours.

Winter Wine and Cheese Pairings

• Full-Bodied Reds: Embrace the bold flavours of Italian wines during winter. Reds like Barolo, Amarone, or Chianti Classico Reserva complement the richness of winter dishes, offering a flawless harmony of taste.
• Robust Cheeses: Pair these wines with robust Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino Toscano, or Taleggio. Their distinct flavours add depth to culinary experiences.

Culinary Experiences and Local Food Festivals

• Truffle Hunting Excursions: Engage in truffle hunting experiences in regions like Piedmont or Umbria. These immersive adventures offer insights into the prized delicacy and often conclude with tasting sessions.

How to get around Italy in winter

You have many ways to travel around Italy in January . Of course, renting a car is the easiest way, and it gives you freedom of travel. However, you must know that you need a sturdy car, perhaps with 4×4 wheels, especially when visiting northern Italy or the Dolomites area. Be prepared for snow or even road closures. Some motorways in Italy require you to have winter tires from November to April. If you are looking to rent a car, check the offers with Rental Car and DiscoverCars .

If you don’t want to drive you can always planning carefully the itinerary, with a mix of flights, trains and buses. There are direct connections with high-speed trains between the major cities. You can get from Rome to Naples in under one hour and from Florence to Bologna in 35 minutes. Check the routes with Italo Treno (Cheaper) and Trenitalia . However, this requires you to book in advance.

What to wear in January in Italy

Italy’s winter weather requires packing the right cold weather attire when visiting in January. Temperatures often hover around 10°C during the day, then dip below freezing at night, so layering is key.

We recommend packing the following essentials:

• Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Sweaters and fleece jackets for insulation 
• A warm winter coat (and gloves, hat, scarf)
• Waterproof shoes with good traction and insulation
• Multiple pairs of warm socks
• Bring an umbrella as January has frequent rain or snow showers

Dress in layers that you can easily peel on or off as you transition between outdoor and heated indoor spaces. Choosing breathable fabrics packed for warmth yet versatility will keep you comfortable amidst January’s variable Italian weather.

With the proper cold weather clothing, your winter trip will allow you to enjoy Italy’s sites without freezing or ruining your travels battling the elements. Just remember to pack for sub-freezing conditions and have your warmest winter wear ready!

FAQ | Italy in January

U003cstrongu003eis january a good time for italyu003c/strongu003e.

Yes, u003cstrongu003eJanuary is an excellent time to visit Italyu003c/strongu003e if you want to avoid the summer crowds and high season prices. As one of the quieter months, January offers a more relaxed pace, better value accommodations, fewer lines at top attractions, and a cosier atmosphere overall.

u003cstrongu003eIs January the Coldest Month in Italy?u003c/strongu003e

While January is typically one of Italy’s coldest months, especially in the north, the winter weather is relatively mild compared to other European destinations. u003cstrongu003eJanuary temperatures average 10°C in Rome and 4°C in Milan and Venice.u003c/strongu003e Bundled-up sightseeing is manageable with proper layers.

u003cstrongu003eIs Italy Expensive in January?u003c/strongu003e

January is considered the off-season, so you’ll often find major discounts on hotels and flights. Restaurant and attraction prices also tend to dip slightly during this slower tourism month. u003cstrongu003eOverall, Italy is far more affordable for visitors in January than peak season.u003c/strongu003e

u003cstrongu003eWhat Month is Best for Italy?u003c/strongu003e

The best month depends on your travel priorities – there is no definitively u0022perfectu0022 time. However, to beat the extreme heat and crowds,u003cstrongu003e we recommend May, September and October as ideal times with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.u003c/strongu003e

u003cstrongu003eIs Florence Cold in January?u003c/strongu003e

Yes, Florence and central Italy can get quite cold in January. Average temperatures are aroundu003cstrongu003e 7°C during the day and often dip below freezing at night.u003c/strongu003e Come prepared with warm layers, gloves, scarf and hat to explore the city comfortably.

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We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Italian Trip Abroad and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way . You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross Italy and get on the most insane adventures. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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Italy in January – The Best Things to See & Do

Home > Blog > Italy in January – The Best Things to See & Do

January is one of the most interesting times to  visit Italy . The weather is cold, the tourists are few, and there is still a lot of  holiday cheer . Italy during the winter may not be how you picture this country. However, from top to bottom, Italy has natural scenery, cultural displays, and plenty to do. If you prefer cheaper prices, fewer tourists, and some holiday spirit, here’s what you should see and do in Italy during January.

BORMIO HOT SPRINGS

Cold weather isn’t always a favorite, but it happens to be perfect for hot springs. Italy is dotted with these warm, natural spas, and January is a great time to visit them. Bormio is located right on the Swiss border, and is home to Bagni di Bormio, a spa amongst the Alps. It’s situated in the mountains and has water temperatures around 37 to 43 °C all year. It’s considered a wellness retreat, especially because the water is filled with natural minerals. Enjoy the natural pools and the actual spa which has saunas carved from natural stone.

GROTTA DELLE NINFE HOT SPRINGS

If you want a more kitschy hot springs experience, visit Grotta delle Ninfe in Cerchiara. You’ll need to enter a cave to spend time soaking in the 30°C water. The entry fee is cheap, and you’ll probably be surrounded by in-the-know locals who are trying to benefit from the healing properties. The sulfur-carbon in the water is said to cure skin diseases and rheumatoid arthritis, so it’s worth a shot if you’re suffering!

CASCATE DEL MULINO

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the hot springs at Cascate del Mulino. They are located in the Maremma hills, and are visited mostly by locals. Waterfalls carved out the rock that forms the natural pools, and the water within them stays at about 37.5°C all year. As you soak in the tiered baths, you’ll realize how quiet it is, because hardly any tourists ever go.

AEOLIAN ARCHIPELAGO, SICILY

If you’re  visiting Sicily , make your way to Thermae of Vulcano, located on the Aeolian archipelago. These baths are well-known for their soothing mud, which you’ll see everyone covered in. This natural spa is known for its volcanic views of beaches, the sea, and volcanic rock. It’s an extra special place for hot springs as you’re actually bathing in a volcanic crater.

SKIING IN TURIN

Did you know that Italy is actually a skiing destination? The northern city of Turin is considered the gateway to the Alps, and is a popular spot to hit the slopes. Winter sports lovers usually use this city as a homebase before taking to the mountains. It’s scenic, has a well-known foodie scene, and is perfectly located near the best mountains.

SKIING AT CERVINIA

If you’d rather stay on an actual ski resort, Cervinia is a great choice. It’s well-known and loved by intermediate skiers, but has runs for all levels. It’s not a luxury resort, but it does offer some of the best skiing in the Alps. You’ll find 4,000 mountain peaks in the area, and Cervinia will offer beautiful views of them all.

MARCHÉ VERT NÖEL, AOSTA MARKET

This may be a  Christmas market , but it sticks around until the 6th of January. You’ll find it in the stunning alpine town of Aosta, which is also home to a beautiful Roman theater. During the market, the entire town is decorated for the holidays, and wooden stalls line the streets. There are handmade crafts, live music, entertainment, and historical presentations. You’ll find craftsmen hard at work on their inventory, and locals who’ve been attending the market for years. Grab a mulled wine and wander the cobblestone alleyways when you need a break from shopping.

BOLZANO, TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE  

For 30 years, Bolzano market has been a staple in Italy’s Christmas market community. The place is massive, with food stalls, a children’s market, and 80 exhibit stalls. It runs until January 6th and will probably be pretty crowded with locals. Their main focus in on tradition, with a touch of modern activities. You’ll find a live nativity scene, a giant Christmas tree, and stall upon stall of Christmas candies and cakes. Shop for handmade crafts, decorative candles, ornaments, and stationary. Visitors can watch craftsmen work on their projects, to see what goes into the making of the souvenirs for sale. If you’re hungry, there are plenty of options, but make sure to try the apple fritters, Strudel, sweets, and mulled wine. This is a great place to bring children as there is a puppet theater, horse-drawn carriages, miniature train, and a merry-go-round.

TRENTO, TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE

Found in Trento, this famous Christmas market is open until the 6th of January. It’s one of the biggest too, requiring two separate places to host it, Piazza Fiera Square and Piazza Cesare Battisti Square. During the market, the streets are lined with wooden huts decorated in Christmas lights. Vendors sell local products, seasonal snacks, and homemade crafts. It’s one of the top places to shop for Christmas gifts. And, it happens to function with an environmentally-friendly mission, so it’s the most sustainable too.

CARNIVAL OF FOIANO DELLA CHIANA

This festival is one of the oldest in Italy, and can be enjoyed throughout January and February. Each Sunday, the streets of Chiana are filled with activities, performances, and colorful mascots. This historic town in Italy can be found in Arezzo province, and is off the usual tourist attract, except for this time of year. Watch as a massive parade led by puppet heads to the central square, just so it can be burned as a way to say goodbye to winter.

VENICE LIDO BEACH TRADITION

Once of Italy’s best-known traditions is an event that takes place at Venice Lido Beach. It happens on New Year’s Day, and gives spectators the chance to watch their friends plunge into the icy waters. The wild event is to celebrate the new year, but it’s great fun for people to watch their friends temporarily freeze.

TRASIMENO BLUES FESTIVAL

If you’re visiting the Umbria region of Italy, make sure to check out  this music festival . It takes place through the first week of January at Lake Trasimeno. Musical artists from all over the world gather here to celebrate a shared love for Blues. There will be plenty of performances, food, activities, and entertainment to be had. This is a great place to mingle with both locals and other tourists.

EPIPHANY FESTIVAL

This is one of the most important festivals in January, and it takes place on the 6th of the month. Epiphany is meant to represent the arrival of the 3 kings. During this celebration, children will hang stockings on the eve of Epiphany, waiting for La Befana. She is a good witch who comes around and delivers gifts and candy. The holiday is also celebrated by live nativity scenes and performances around the country. Since it’s a national holiday, many of the shops, museums, and tourist sites will be closed, so make sure to double check before making plans.

SAN ANTONIO ABATE

Typically celebrated on January 17th, the entire country is scattered with festivities. A great place to visit during this time is the Abruzzo region on the island of Sardinia. There will be plenty of events that include giant bonfires, music, dancing, and drinking. You can also find celebrations in the town of Nicolosi, which is located in  Sicily  near  Mount Etna . Right before dawn, monks share prayers to the Saint and to God. The entire day is full of ceremonies and parades. If you happen to be near Buti in  Tuscany , you can celebrate by watching the horse race.

FEAST DAY OF SAN SEBASTIANO

Celebrations on this day typically happen on January 20th around the country. Each destination celebrates a little differently, but you’re bound to have a good time no matter how you celebrate. If you’re in Mistretta, you’ll see a gigantic statue of the saint brought through town by 60 men. In Acireale, the parade is full of colors, singing, and a silver carriage. And, the city of Ortono loads a paper maché boat full of fireworks to be set off in front of their cathedral.

FAIR OF SANT’ ORSO

This woodcarvers fair takes place in the center of Aosta at the end of the month. It’s been around for over 1000 years, and features 700 woodworkers, entertainment, and restaurant specials. There are tons of wooden items for sale, making this a great place to pick up some souvenirs.

GALLERIA DORIA PAMPHILJ

Stick to the museums to stay warm while  in Rome  during January.  This gallery  holds the city’s largest collection of privately owned art. It’s owned by four different families who collaborated over the years to form an impressive collection. This isn’t one of Rome’s most popular museums, and it often gets overlooked. However, the lineup of 16th and 17th-century art is quite a site to see. The building itself is painted with ornate frescoes, and features walls of oil paintings, and halls of sculptures. It truly is a display of not just art, but also status and wealth of each family.

VATICAN MUSEUMS

Visit Rome  and stay warm by touring the Vatican Museums. There are more than 20,000 pieces of artwork there, so you’ll have plenty to keep you busy. The sculpture and Renaissance collections are some of the most loved by visitors, so don’t miss them. Other highlights include the gallery of maps, Sistine Chapel, and works by Raphael. This massive collection of religious artifacts and art have been collected by the Pope over the years. Everything is beautifully displayed and the architecture of the museums alone is worth the visit. Make sure to check out the Vatican Historical Museum, Collection of Modern Religious Art, and the Pinacoteca Vaticana art gallery.  

PASTA MAKING CLASS

Wherever you happen to be traveling, you’ll be able to locate a pasta making class. This is a great indoor activity to do when the weather is cold. Learn how to craft ravioli, linguini, and more of your favorite Italian dishes. It’s the perfect souvenir to bring back home to impress your friends and family.  Find out more about our cooking vacations here. 

FLORENCE MUSEUMS

If you’re  visiting Florence  in January, you’ll have  plenty of museums to keep you busy . In fact, this city is famous for its art, so you might never have to step foot outside. Start off at the Uffizi Gallery to see famous works by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Botticelli, and Giotto. Check out the Museo Galileo, Palatine Gallery, Palazzo Publico, Palazzo Pitti, and Bargello, all of which are renewed in Florence. And, don’t forget to spent time at Accademia Gallery, where you can see  Michelangelo’s David statue .

VENICE MUSEUMS

Spending time in Venice?  You’ll want to explore the romance of the city’s museums. The architecture of each one is enough to awe you, but the history and beauty of the works make the experience. Start off at Ca’Rezzonico, a museum from the 18th century that displays paintings and sculptures over three floors. There’s  the Doge Palace , which is a small museum displaying stunning artwork. Check out the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which is one of the country’s top modern art museums. And, don’t forget Galleria dell’Accademia, which is flooded with Venetian treasures.  Discover more things to do in Venice here.

Italy in January is an interesting time because there are cultural events, fewer tourists, and interesting scenery. While the weather may be cold, it gives you a chance to enjoy the indoor activities and museums that Italy has to offer. If you want to see the country in a whole new way, January is a great time to visit.  Get in touch with us today  to start planning your vacation. Happy travels!

Why not take a look at our other monthly guides for Italy created to help you get the most from your next vacation:

• The best things to see and do in Italy in February
• The best things to see and do in Italy in March
• The best things to see and do in Italy in April
• The best things to see and do in Italy in May
• The best things to see and do in Italy in June
• The best things to see and do in Italy in July
• The best things to see and do in Italy in August
• The best things to see and do in Italy in September
• The best things to see and do in Italy in October
• The best things to see and do in Italy in November
• The best things to see and do in Italy in December

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

Other Blog Posts You Might Like

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Italy in May – The Best Things to See & Do

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Step 1 of 4

Italy Tours & Vacations

Cruise canals, peruse piazzas, veer towards the Vatican and polish off the perfect pizza.

Italy may be one of Europe 's most-visited countries, but finding your way around Venice’s canals, choosing the best place for gelato in Rome and knowing your agnello from your agnolotti are skills best learned from locals. Between tasting balsamic vinegar in a traditional acetaia in Modena and sailing past pastel-hued cliffside villages on the Amalfi Coast to sampling local wine in Tuscany's vineyards and admiring lesser-known Renaissance art in Florence, one thing's for sure: you won’t be going hungry.

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Italy at a glance, capital city.

Rome (population approximately 2.87 million)

Approximately 59 million

(GMT+01:00) Amsterdam, Berlin, Bern, Rome, Stockholm, Vienna

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Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type L (Italian 3-pin)

Learn more about Italy

Culture and customs.

With the Renaissance, opera, Vespa, Valentino, slow food, espresso, the Colosseum, and the Sistine Chapel, the culture of Italy is as rich as its food. And with iconic cities like Rome, Venice, Florence, and Naples showcasing historic gems around every corner, it's easy to see why Italians are so very proud of their heritage. Italy drips with sensational artwork, ancient icons, ornate architecture, and historic sights. The streets are filled with people and places that exude character and charisma, and the famous Italian artists, inventors, and public figures who have contributed so much to the world are openly adored and celebrated.

In general, Italians value family, food, and the enjoyment of life. Good quality food made with the best ingredients is preferred over processed products and fast food. Eating is a pleasure to be enjoyed with friends and family, not a necessary inconvenience. Respect for the family unit is paramount, with many families choosing to live close to each other for life. Community is also an important element of Italian life and this can be seen in neighbors enjoying a passeggiata (an after-dinner stroll and chat).

Italians certainly live their lives with passion, and this is evident in their zealous approach to driving, passionate following of football (soccer) matches, and exuberant social life. It's common to see Italians debate politics, fashion, sport, and current affairs with ferocious verve, which can sometimes be quite confronting for people from meeker cultural backgrounds. But lying underneath the bold, animated exterior of most Italians is a deep, passionate love of life itself.

History and government

Rise of the empire.

The rise of the Roman Empire has been the subject of much fascination, intrigue, and interest from scholars, artists, travelers, and students around the world. The modern world owes a lot to this civilization, with many important scientific inventions, art movements, architectural triumphs, and philosophical ideas being born from Roman civilization – most notably during the Renaissance.

Founded sometime around 750 BC, Rome is still considered one of the most important and enduring cities in the world. Home to such famous citizens as Julius Caesar, Emperor Augustus, Claudius, Nero, Mark Antony, and Marcus Aurelius, Rome has enjoyed the great highs of dominating the Mediterranean region and the artistic triumphs of the Renaissance, but also the lows of the Great Fire of Rome, which ended up destroying a large part of the city. Rome has survived natural disasters, political turmoil, feuding families, plagues, and fierce wars.

Spanning centuries, the story of Ancient Rome is full of dramatic twists and turns and explains how tourist icons like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Circus Maximus, and Palatine Hill came to be.

The Renaissance

The time of the Renaissance in Italy (15th to 16th century) marked the clear transition from the Middle Ages to Modernity. The social and cultural revolution began in Florence, which was under the rule of the Medici family, and spread south to Rome. During this time, there was a reinvigoration of the arts, literature, science, invention, and political theory, which influenced all of Europe – all centered in Italy.

People in protest

After the Renaissance, Italy was unified with Sardinia in 1861, becoming the Kingdom of Italy. After World War I, Italy came under the fascist rule of Benito Mussolini, who ruled until 1943. Siding with Nazi Germany in World War II, the Italian Army suffered many losses and ultimately surrendered in 1945. After a referendum in 1946, Italy became a Republic and flourished during the 1950s and 1960s. The post-war period marks a time of economic progress for Italy, also largely reflected by the rest of the world's increased economic stability during a period of relative peace.

From the late 1960s, Italians lived with political upheaval and uncertainty, marked by the ‘Anni di Piombo’ or ‘Years of Lead’. This time was marked by conflict and public protests, and in the years to follow, corruption, organized crime, terrorism, and government debt were prominent in Italy. This led to extremist incidents of political terrorism and crisis on the left and the right, with one terrorist group – le Brigaterosse (or the Red Brigade) – a key player in the turmoil.

In 1994, media mogul Silvio Berlusconi was elected to the office of Prime Minister but was forced to step down later in the year after losing support from his political partners. Social unrest died down a little after the turn of the millennium, but Italy’s political system remained fraught with instability. Undeterred, Berlusconi regained power on two separate occasions, both times amid controversy and scandal.

Currently, Italy is run under a unitary parliamentary republic system and has been since 1946. The final downfall of Berlusconi has marked a shift in Italian politics, with many parties vying for office, and alliances and coalitions the only way to do so.

Top places to visit in Italy

Oh, Venice. The city of romance, gondolas, Piazza San Marco and an endless maze of canals. With plenty of free time to eat, drink, shop and stroll, you’ll lose all sense of direction – but remember, getting lost in Venice is the whole point! Don't forget to sample a big slice of tiramisu (coffee-soaked sponge cake), the region’s specialty.

2. Cinque Terre

The footpaths between the villages on the enchanting Cinque Terre were once the only way to travel in the region. Hike along the rugged clifftops and discover olive groves, vineyards, breathtaking vistas, and five pastel villages perched on the coastline – each more colorful than the last. If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry – just jump on the train

3. Amalfi Coast

Discover southern Italy’s dazzling coastline of cliffside villages and rugged terrain by land and sea. You might like to hike the famous Walk of the Gods, sip Campari in Sorrento, or tuck into traditional pizza in Naples – the birthplace of pizza.

There's much more to Tuscany than Florence's impressive Renaissance art and architecture – though there'll be plenty of time to explore this! From rolling hills and fruitful vineyards to charming fortified towns with their relaxed vibes, the Tuscan countryside is the Italy that continues to draw you back; the one you fall in love with.

Italy’s enduring capital, the epicenter of the fierce Roman Empire – Rome is a living, breathing history book. Dive deep into the city’s most iconic sites – the Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps – and stumble upon the country within a city: the Vatican. Or simply sip espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes and watch life go by.

6. Taormina

If mainland Italy is the boot, Sicily is the football. The further south you go, the more relaxed Italians get – so immerse yourself in an island culture full of charm, and a cuisine packed full of arancini and granita. Take a day trip to the charming city of Taormina and visit the world-famous Greek theatre and cathedral, take a dip in pristine coves or enjoy lunch while looking at the imposing Mt. Etna.

Eating and drinking

Italy may be the food capital of the world (not exaggerating), but sometimes it can be difficult to know what to eat and where to go.

When eating and drinking through Italy, be sure to walk a street or two away from the tourist attractions to find a restaurant, as they often are cheaper and much more authentic than the ones close by. Be skeptical of menus entirely in English and those with pictures, as this is, again, not the authentic way. Also, bigger is not always better – often, the ‘hole-in-the-wall’ restaurants produce the best food. But above all, go with your gut and follow your eyes and nose, and you will be satisfied

Must try dishes and drinks in Italy

• Antipasto If any country knows its way around cured meat and vegetables, it’s Italy. Discover salami, olives, artichokes, anchovies, cheeses, grissini, and more, with each board changing depending on what region you find yourself in.
• Pizza If you were asked to describe Italy in one word, chances are someone would yell ‘pizza’. This carby dish of 100% joy is found all over, with regional specialties everywhere you go. And if you’re vegan? No stress – just ask for one of the vegetarian pizzas ‘senza formaggio’ (without cheese) and you’ll be set. Expect to be crucified if you ask for pineapple, though. 
• Pasta Different shapes, different sauces, and different preparations make this one of the world’s most versatile dishes. From a fiery penne arrabbiata and a creamy spaghetti cacio e pepe to a baked gnocchi alla romana, you really can’t go wrong.
• Gelato Traditional Italian flavors like bacio (chocolate hazelnut), amarena (sour cherry), and limone (lemon) are the perfect accompaniment to sightseeing on a hot summer's day. Stack the gusti (flavors) up on a cono (cone) or in a copetta (cup) for a quick snack.
• Wine Italy produces some of the world's best wine, so savor a glass (or three) of Chianti or Sangiovese with dinner. Most regions of Italy produce their own wine, but the area that everyone talks about is the one and only Tuscany.
• Aperitivo A classic Italian pastime, aperitivo hour calls for two things: to find a local restaurant or bar in the early evening, and to order yourself a drink. This is usually a light and dry tonic, but can be wine or a cocktail. It’s usually accompanied by some complimentary nibbles.

Read more about what to eat in Italy

Read more about what to drink in Italy

Geography and environment

Sharing borders with Switzerland , France , Slovenia , and Austria , Italy also encompasses the independent territories of San Marino and Vatican City and includes the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.

Home to mountains, volcanoes, islands, beaches, spectacular cliffs, and expansive stretches of coastline, the natural landscapes of Italy provide dramatic scenery as well as popular places to explore and relax for travelers. The major cities of Italy, although industrialized, still retain buildings, churches, and relics from the past. It's quite common to see modern shops housed in historic cobblestone streets and new Vespas perched beside piazzas.

In smaller cities and more isolated areas, rural life is a whole lot slower. Permaculture remains popular, with many Italians growing fruit and vegetables in their backyards. The traffic and frenetic pace of the cities give way to idyllic olive groves, vineyards, and farmhouses.

8 iconic Italian landscapes

• Capri Be blown away by the shimmering beauty of this sun-bleached island that sits in the middle of a mass of deep blue water. Home to luminous sea caves, stunning cliff faces, and whitewashed buildings, Capri is the perfect setting for a romantic escapade, a relaxing boat ride, or some serious sun-worshipping.
• Tuscany An enchanting mix of rolling green hills, vineyards, simple farmhouses, and charming villages, Tuscan landscapes are effortlessly beautiful. Whether you're cycling around vineyards, hiking through the countryside, or lying in a field of golden grass, Tuscany is made for life in the slow lane.
• Lake Como Lake Como is considered one of the most picturesque slices of Italy. A vast expanse of deep blue water set to a stunning mountainous backdrop dotted with rustic villas and wildflowers, Como is the sparkling jewel of Italy's north, naturally polished to perfection.
• Mount Vesuvius Sitting on the Bay of Naples, the austere beauty of brooding Mt Vesuvius offers a contrast to the luscious green landscapes of the Mediterranean. Mt Vesuvius is still active, but a hike to the summit is possible – and worth it for the views of the bay below.
• Amalfi Coast A journey along the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast offers panoramic sea views, and alluring towns perched on cliffs and beaches bathed in sunlight. Admire landscapes dotted with lemon trees and olive groves and enjoy the gentle sea breezes.
• Sicily Sitting under the watchful eye of moody Mt Etna, Sicily is a taste of authentic Italy. Surrounded by a sea of turquoise speckled with volcanic islands, Sicily boasts diverse landscapes of rocky mountains, rural pastures, ancient ruins, and villages steeped in history.
• The Dolomites Carpeted in wildflowers during summer and covered in a blanket of white snow during winter, the Dolomites are a breathtaking sight in any season. Whether you're hiking the trails during summer or skiing downhill during winter, you’ll soon realize why the Dolomites have such a mighty reputation.
• Le Cinque Terre A quintessential Italian sight, the Cinque Terre, or Five Lands, is a destination to be cherished. Walk the rocky path over steep cliffs and past character-filled villages perched beside the sea. Wander past shady trees, gardens, and groves as the sea reflects the sun’s rays. This is panoramic perfection!

Italians are known for their style and this is reflected in their designer fashion and furniture. Be prepared to part with money – shopping in Italy can get quite expensive – but the quality of handmade and tailored items is generally exceptional.

Things to buy

• Clothing Milan, Rome, and other big cities are packed with high-end designer fashion boutiques, chic outlets, and tailors. Wherever you are in Italy, you're guaranteed to get the latest fashions straight from the catwalks of Europe.
• Colorful ceramics Vibrant, hand-painted ceramic bowls, jugs, and glasses can be found in the shops and markets of the Amalfi Coast and Sicily – a perfect reminder of the Mediterranean. If you do happen to head to the island of Murano in Venice, be sure to check out their renowned glassware.
• Masks Venice is filled with shops selling elaborate, handcrafted masquerade masks. These colorful creations look great hung on walls and are a true Venetian keepsake.
• Leather footwear, bags and accessories Florence and Rome are hotspots for sourcing gorgeous handmade leather items. Splash out on an 'investment purchase' – a leather handbag that will last a lifetime. You deserve it.
• Italian foodstuffs Now, this one you’ve got to be careful with, but if you know your limits, you’ll be eating and drinking authentically when you arrive home. Infused olive oils, syrupy balsamic vinegar, local dried pasta, limoncello, and more – all (likely) fine to pack carefully in your luggage and take home. Be careful with anything fresh or unsealed, though, or you might be in for a hefty fine if you try to get them back home.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Festivals and events

Keep the ‘festa’ (or party) going in Italy with festivals and events all around the country. If there’s something going on in Italy, you know that food and drink is somehow involved, too.

Regata Storica di Venezia (Venice Historical Regatta)

For four days, Venice’s romantic gondolas take second place on the scenic canals to races featuring the world’s best rowers. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic event is held on the first Sunday of September each year.

Natale di Roma (Rome’s Birthday Celebrations)

Every April, Rome throws itself an epic birthday bash and parties like it’s 753 BC. Gladiator battles, historic re-enactments, equestrian events, parades, and concerts are all part of this three-day throwback to ancient Roman times.

Pasqua (Easter)

Beautifully decorated shop windows, colorful painted eggs, church services, parades, feasts, and fireworks make Easter a wonderful time to visit and immerse yourself in traditional Italian cultures. A huge Easter celebration mass is held at St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, followed by an address from the Pope at noon. Many festive recipes are also rolled out for Easter, including the colomba—a dove-shaped cake flavored with almond.

Each city may celebrate differently, but Carnevale festivities in the lead-up to Lent are always a raucous affair in Italy. Venice celebrates with masked parties. Viareggio opts for parades featuring floats, costumes, and enormous papier-mache puppets, and Turin hosts the Battle of the Oranges – a spectacular food fight with, you guessed it, oranges.

Verona Opera Festival

The country that gave the world opera hosts the oldest opera festival in Verona each summer in the historic Verona Arena, a massive first-century Roman amphitheater.

Read more about festivals in Italy

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Easter Sunday (Pasqua)

Liberation Day

Republic Day

Feast of the Assumption

All Saint’s Day

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

St Stephen’s Day

Please note that the dates of  Italy's public holidays  may vary.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Italy adventure, check out these books:

• The Name of the Rose – Umberto Eco
• I’m Not Scared – Niccolo Ammaniti
• The Divine Comedy – Dante Alighieri
• Naples ‘44 – Norman Lewis
• Call Me By Your Name – Andre Aciman
• The Sicilian – Mario Puzo
• Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire – Simon Baker
• A Thousand Days in Venice – Marlena de Blasi

Italy travel FAQs

Do you need a visa for italy.

Generally, you will not need a visa to travel to Italy for a period of up to 90 days. Some citizens of a select few nationalities may need to obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to Italy. For more information, contact the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 06/06/2023

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is tipping customary in Italy?

Tipping isn’t customary in Italy, but it is appreciated. Feel free to leave a small amount if the service has been particularly good. Some restaurants will add a cover charge or ‘servizio’ to your bill.

What is the internet access like in Italy?

Italy, like the rest of Europe , is well connected. Wi-fi is almost always available at larger hotels and guesthouses, either included in your room price, or for a small additional fee. Some smaller accommodations, such as rural guesthouses and homestays, may not have wi-fi available, or the signal may be patchy.

Many fast food chains, bars and restaurants also offer wi-fi connectivity, often with an access code located on a purchase receipt. Look out for the international wi-fi symbol, or politely ask a waiter if the option is available. Some major Italian cities also offer public wi-fi hotspots with registration.

If you do not have your own device, there are still some internet cafes in Italy’s major cities.

Can I use my cell phone while in Italy?

Cell coverage is generally good in Italy. Your best (and often cheapest) option is to purchase a local SIM card when arriving in Italy if your phone is compatible and unlocked.

There is also the option to activate global roaming with your service provider before leaving home. Check the roaming charges before you leave home, as this option can often be highly expensive.

What are the toilets like in Italy?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Italy.

Public toilets are not in abundance in Italy, so your best bet is to use the facilities in museums, galleries, department stores, train stations and restaurants. You may have to pay a small fee to use public toilets – ranging from around EUR 0.50 to EUR 2.

Can I drink the water in Italy?

Drinking water from taps in Italy is generally considered safe. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Italy?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in Italy. Smaller cafes, shops and markets may not accept credit cards, and smaller museums or galleries may charge an entry fee in cash only, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Italy?

ATMs are common in Italy, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities. Beware of transaction fees that ATMs charge and the conversion rates they may offer, as they are often much worse than what your card offers.

Is Italy safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Italy is mostly a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Same-sex relationships are legal and are largely accepted, with civil unions entrenched in law since 2016. Same-sex marriage is currently not legal. There are some anti-discrimination laws to protect sexual orientation and gender identity.

In more rural and regional areas, overt displays of affection can attract negative responses in smaller towns, which tend to be more conservative. Rome, Milan and Bologna have the largest gay scenes, and Florence and Naples have a handful of LGBTQIA+-friendly venues too.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or  ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

When is the best time to visit Italy?

Italy enjoys a temperate climate most of the year, with June, July and August the warmest months. Popular tourist spots get very busy and crowded during the European summer, but don’t let that deter you – the sun will be shining, and the gelato will be served icy cold.

The shoulder seasons of April–May and September–October offer great conditions for travel, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds at main sights and beaches. Even though it’s not as hot, you’re still set for some warmer conditions and more pleasant temperatures to walk around cities like Rome and Florence.

It can get quite cold in the winter months, especially in the north, with cities like Milan, Turin and Venice often seeing snow, fog and rain in December and January. Major coastal tourist spots like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre can be very quiet during winter with many establishments closing at this time, so it might be best to visit in the warmer months if these places interest you.

What is the weather like in Italy?

As you can tell from a world map, Italy is a pretty long country compared to its European neighbors. This gives it one of the more diverse climates in Europe , with mountainous zones in the north and dry arid landscapes in the south graced with all different types of weather.

Much of the inland northern regions have harsh winters and hot summers, while coastal areas of Liguria, Tuscany and the south of Italy generally fit that Mediterranean stereotype, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The east coast of the Italian peninsula is not as wet as the west coast, but in winter, the east coast is usually colder.

Generally, Italy’s hottest month in the south is August and can reach upwards of 104°F, while the north hits its peak in July and has slightly milder maximums. January is the coldest month throughout the country.

What to pack for Italy?

You’ll need to consider the time of year you want to travel, plus the places you’re travelling to so you can work out what you should wear in Italy.

In summer, loose-fitting cotton clothing like light t-shirts and shorts or light trousers, is recommended no matter what part of the country you’re in. During the transitioning seasons of April-May and September-October, packing a jacket and long pants is encouraged so you can layer, if needed.

Winter brings snow and sub-zero temperatures to the north of the country, so if you’re travelling in Milan or the Piedmont region, pack warm clothing, such as thermals and thick jackets. A scarf and gloves are encouraged too. For the south, you may not need all the heavy stuff, but having warm, windproof and waterproof gear is advisable.

If you wish to visit the Sistine Chapel and other churches and religious sites in the Vatican City and beyond, it is highly recommended that men and women wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, any time of year. If you are found to be wearing immodest clothing by security guards or staff, you will be denied entry.

Read more about weather in Italy

Is Italy accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, whatever physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help choose the most suitable itinerary and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Despite Italy’s charm and old-town feel, travelers with mobility and sight or hearing impairments may find it difficult to travel around the country independently. Old cobbled streets and pavements blocked by parked cars are the norm, making it difficult for wheelchair users.

Despite this, much of Italy’s public transport system is mobility friendly. The service ‘Sala Blu’ (Blue Hall) is provided to travellers who require assistance at the 14 main train stations around Italy. These services include providing a wheelchair, a representative to accompany you to your train, another to meet at the other end, lift service to get on and off the train, and free use of baggage trolleys.

Many of Italy’s most-visited attractions, like the Colosseum, Vatican museums and the Uffizi Gallery, are almost entirely wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts available. Venice may be considered the least accessible, but it is possible. Bridges between canals should be avoided, but vaporettos (or water taxis) can be used, especially the routes along the Grand Canal.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Italy you may find yourself staying in a:

Agriturismo (farmstay)

Your time in Italy is further enhanced with an agriturismo, or farmstay, experience. Immerse yourself in a picturesque setting overlooking the countryside, with food and relaxation the main focus.

How will I be traveling around Italy?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Italy, you may find yourself traveling by bicycle.

Whether it’s riding through fields of grass scattered with wildflowers or past quaint buildings down cobblestone lanes, taking a quick spin around town or tackling the towering Dolomites, two wheels open up so many options.

What better way to see Italy’s island of Sardinia or the Amalfi coast than on a small-group sailing adventure? Cruise past idyllic islands to fabulous shore stops dotted around the Mediterranean.

Does my trip to Italy support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Italy directly support our foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio.

Cooperativa Coraggio

Cooperativa Coraggio set up agricultural projects on unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in communities in Italy. Donations from our trips help their regeneration project on 22 hectares of land at Borghetto San Carlo Estate, located on the outskirts of Rome.  

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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13-Day Italy Sightseeing Tour of Rome, Lake Como and Sorrento

13 days, 2 countries and 15 cities

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12 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners

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Discover the Best of Italy, from the ancient treasures of Rome to Renaissance Florence and everything in between. Imagine staying overnight in a renovated Franciscan monastery in Assisi, lapping up the chic lifestyle on Capri, and taking a private guided visit to Pompeii to see a Roman city frozen in time.

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13 days itinerary trip from Rome to Rome visiting 2 countries and 15 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Fast-Track to the Vatican Museums

Explore Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi and Florence 

Discover Venice, Milan and San Gimignano

Visit Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica, the Colosseum and the Sistine Chapel in Rome, the excavations at Pompeii, the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, a glassblowing factory in Venice, Lake Como and the Florence American Cemetery and Memorial

View Juliet's Balcony in Verona, St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, the Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo in Florence

See the ancient sites of Rome and the Abbey on Monte Cassino

Scenic Cruise Ferry to the Isle of Capri, private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return cruise to the Isle of Capri

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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A departure is shown as 'Definite Departure' once it has reached a minimum number of guests. That particular departure will definitely run, barring any extraordinary circumstances. We update these regularly, and you can book any departure. While it is highly unlikely a departure doesn't meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made if this is the case. If there are ever any changes to your departure, we will contact you.

How can I book flights for my tour? What about extra hotel nights?

You can add flights and extra hotel nights directly through Trafalgar, so that everything is taken care of, leaving you to relax and enjoy your tour. If you're booking online, once you've selected your travel dates and room type, you'll be offered an option to add extra hotel nights and flights. Alternatively, you can call us to book and one of our travel experts can advise on your options.

How much is the deposit for a Trafalgar tour?

On most of our departures, you can secure your trip today with a low deposit from just $200.

What are the different kinds of experiences available?

Each Trafalgar tour has a carefully-selected range of included experiences to help immerse yourself in a destination. But did you know that every tour also has a Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience? Be My Guest Experiences are the original local travel experience, letting you step into the lives of hosts who will share stories about their families and communities. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences that give back to the local communities, which support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours also include a selection of Optional Experiences which are available for an additional cost, allowing you to make your trip your own.

Can I join a Trafalgar tour as a solo traveller?

A guided tour is the perfect way to solo travel. You'll meet like-minded people traveling with Trafalgar, and you'll relax knowing you can travel with ease, forming genuine connections as you go. To find out more solo room types and pricing select your preferred departure date and continue to the next page.

Where can I find room options?

Once you've selected your preferred departure date, on the next step add the number of guests to review the available room options and find the one that suits you best.

How can I apply my past guest discount?

It's great to have you back on board - the loyalty of our guests means everything to us. To access your Global Tour Rewards discount, please confirm the name and date of your past trip once you've added your passenger details. The discount will be applied before you book.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Discover italy, from the majesty of rome to the magic of venice, to the artistry of florence and beyond, italy delivers an experience like no other..

Is it the historical wonders? The rich, lush vineyards? The scent of the lemon trees in Sorrento? Or, how about the amazing food? Whatever entices you to bella Italia, chances are one visit won't be enough!

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As a treasure trove of artistic and historical wonders, Italy offers timeless beauty and cultural richness. In the central Tuscany region, the streets of Florence are filled with Renaissance architecture, with a skyline dominated by the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, a Gothic art masterpiece. Within the northern Lombardy region, the fashion mecca, Milan, offers an abundance of art galleries and museums, with the most sought-after sight being The Last Supper, a mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea in the central Lazio region, Rome is home to the ancient Colosseum, an amphitheater that played host to gladiatorial games, and the Pantheon, a former Roman temple. Perched atop cliffs that overlook the Bay of Naples in the southwestern Campania region, the coastal town of Sorrento is known for its lemon groves, notably some of the best lemons in Italy, they are used to produce the splendor that is Limoncello, a lemon-flavored Italian liqueur. Take a gondola ride through the romantic canals of Venice to explore one of the most unique cities in the world, built on more than 100 islands in the northeastern Veneto region. Savor the sweet symphony of Italy's gastronomic legacy and culinary mastery that spans centuries, with authentic Italian gelato, pasta, and pizza.

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• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
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• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
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Plan your perfect trip to Italy with these 5 incredible itineraries

Sep 3, 2024 • 12 min read

Experience the best of Italy with one of these itineraries, with stops in beautiful places like Siena. Shutterstock

Whether it’s your first visit to Italy or you're returning for more, building the perfect itinerary means choosing iconic places you want to see  and under-the-radar destinations you want to explore.

We’ve created five different Italian itineraries, ranging from 5- to 10-day trips, covering the top cities, idyllic islands and southern stretches . Have more time? Slow down and add days at various stops, or add multiple itineraries together to create the perfect two-week or even three-week adventure.

Highlights of Italy

Allow at least 10 days Distance: 930km (577 miles) 

From the haunting canals of Venice to Napoli backstreets, this classic tour provides a whistle-stop introduction to Italy's greatest hits . As you work your way down the boot you'll encounter Roman ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, baroque piazzas and mouth-watering regional cuisines in spades.

Venice: 2 days

With its achingly photogenic canals, stunning palazzi (mansions) and slender black gondolas, Venice gets you in the mood. If must-see Piazza San Marco , with its mosaic-encrusted basilica , and Palazzo Ducale are too crowded, seek out exceptional art in Fondazione Querini Stampalia and Peggy Guggenheim Collection . Scour seafood stalls at Rialto Market , bar-hop along Fondamenta dei Ormesini and snack on cicchetti (Venetian tapas).

Next stop:   Take a train from Venice to Bologna (1.5 to 2 hours).

Bologna: 1 day

Italy's culinary capital and home to Europe's oldest university, Bologna has a gloriously preserved medieval core. Some 20 towers loom over the red-brick centro , whose streets are lined with porticoes and crammed with delis, bars and trattorias. Check out the colossal Basilica di San Petronio, admire art in the Pinacoteca Nazionale , and chow down in the busy Quadrilatero district.

Next stop:  Take a train from Bologna to Florence (40 mins).

Florence: 2 days

Two days is not long in Florence , Italy's peerless Renaissance city, but it's enough for a breathless introduction to its signature sights : the Duomo , with its famous red-tiled dome; the Galleria degli Uffizi , home to one of the world's greatest art collections; and, of course, Michelangelo's muscular David in the Galleria dell'Accademia .

Next stop:  Take a train from Florence to Pisa (1 hour).

Pisa: 1 day

Head west to Pisa to see if the Leaning Tower really does lean (spoiler: it does, a lot). The Torre Pendente is the star of a trio of medieval sights on Piazza dei Miracoli , an elegant grassy square 2km (1.2 miles) north of the train station. Alongside the Torre, you can applaud Pisa's pristine 12th-century Duomo and the stubby, cupcake-like Battistero . Squeeze in a walk along the city walls .

Next stop:  Take a train from Pisa to Rome (3 hours).

Rome: 3 days

The Eternal City where all roads lead, Rome has more than enough to keep you occupied for a lifetime . In three days you’ll be able to visit headline sights like the Colosseum , Pantheon and Vatican Museums (home of the Sistine Chapel), while also having time to lap up the colorful street life around Campo de' Fiori and explore the atmospheric Trastevere neighborhood.

Next stop:  Take a train from Rome to Naples (1.25 hours on the fast train, 2.5 hours on the regular line).

Naples: 1 day

With Mt Vesuvius brooding on the horizon, Naples is fiery, fun and endlessly addictive. Where else can you pair electric street art with priceless finds from Pompeii in the ancient-treasure filled Museo Archeologico Nazionale ? Gorge on the world's best pizza in any number of popular pizzerias. End the day on an operatic high with a performance at Teatro San Carlo .

Northern grandeur

Allow at least 6 days Distance: 395km (245 miles) 

Cut a swathe across northern Italy, taking in aristocratic villas and Renaissance frescoes, contemplating Shakespearian drama and sipping cult wines along the way. From Milan the road winds east, passing through a string of historic towns en route to Padua near the Venetian Lagoon and Adriatic Coast.

Milan: 1 day

Start in style in Milan , Italy's fashion and finance capital. Marvel at the architectural excess of the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper before perusing contemporary art in a former 1910 distillery and browsing designer styles in the boutiques of the Quadrilatero d'Oro . Dine on risotto alla milanese (saffron and bone marrow risotto) and toast the road ahead with a canal-side aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) in the Navigli area.

Next stop: Drive 2.5 hours from Milan to Mantua.

Mantua: 1 day

Embrace Mantua , a prosperous Lombard town renowned for its Renaissance architecture and aristocratic palaces. Chief among these is Palazzo Ducale , the vast residence of the Gonzaga family that ruled the city for centuries. Contemplate the Palazzo’s dazzling frescoes and compare them with the playful images that adorn Palazzo Te , a second Gonzaga palace that was often used for love trysts.

Next stop: Drive 1 hour from Mantua to Sirmione.

Sirmione: 1 day

Soak up lake life in Sirmione , on the southern tip of handsome Lake Garda . Walk beneath the crenelated walls of 13th-century Rocca Scaligera and lunch on a vine-covered restaurant terrace. Explore the impressive Roman ruins of Grotte di Catullo , then flop lakeside at Aquaria Thermal SPA .

Detour: Stride out on walking trails around the mountaintop ruins of Rocca di Manerba (2–5 hours).

Nex stop: Drive 45 minutes from Sirmione to Verona. 

Verona: 1 day

Dedicate the next day to Verona , the setting for Shakespeare's romantic tragedy Romeo and Juliet . Admire archaeological and art treasures in the Museo di Castelvecchio and go to the city’s Roman Arena – if you're visiting in summer, catch an opera performance here. Modern art awaits in the Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti .

Next stop: Drive 50 minutes from Verona to Vicenza. 

Vicenza: 1 day

Take to the streets of Vicenza to inspect the trail-blazing designs of 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio. His tour de force is La Rotonda , a villa on a hill overlooking the city, but you can also marvel at his work at the Teatro Olimpico and Basilica Palladiana . For a different style, the baroque Palazzo Leoni Montanari has a wonderful collection of Italian art and Russian icons.

Next stop: Drive 45 minutes from Vicenza to Padua.

Padua: 1 day

Amble around Padua , a rich, dynamic university city. Its star turn, for which you’ll need to book ahead, is the Cappella degli Scrovegni , a northern Sistine Chapel showcasing a celebrated cycle of frescoes by Giotto. Afterwards, you can bone up on the city’s prestigious medical history at Musme and join the pilgrims at the Basilica di Sant’Antonio .

A taste of Central Italy

Allow at least 7 days  Distance: 243km (150 miles) 

Rolling hills crowned by medieval towns, verdant vineyards of the Chianti area and Italy’s fourth-largest lake await. Immerse yourself in classic Renaissance scenery on this tour that meanders through southern Tuscany and neighboring Umbria.

Whet your appetite for the road ahead with a couple of days in Florence. Take in the Renaissance masterpieces of the Galleria degli Uffizi and the architectural splendors of the Duomo. Spend some time checking out the street life around Piazza della Signoria and go face to face with Michelangelo’s David .

Next stop : Drive 45 minutes from Florence to Chianti.

Chianti: 1 day

Dedicate day three to pottering about the vineyards and wine estates of Chianti . Stop off for a tasting at Greve in Chianti, the main town in the Chianti Fiorentino (the northernmost of the two Chianti districts), before lunching on prime steak in Panzano in Chianti and admiring contemporary art at the Castello di Ama .

Next stop: Drive 1 hour from Chianti to Siena. 

Siena: 1 day

With its medieval palazzi and lordly Gothic architecture, Siena is a sight to compare with any in Tuscany. To admire it from above, climb the Torre del Mangia , the slender tower that soars over Palazzo Pubblico and the sloping Piazza del Campo . A short walk away, Siena’s 13th-century Duomo is one of Italy’s greatest Gothic churches.

Next stop: Drive 1 hour from Siena to Lago Trasimeno. 

Lago Trasimeno: 1 day

After four days on the road, take a mid-trip time out at Lago Trasimeno . The placid waters of Italy's fourth-largest lake are a soothing sight, especially if enjoyed from the medieval turrets of Castiglione del Lago, one of several laid-back towns draped along its shorelines.

Next stop: Drive 45 minutes from Lago Trasimeno to Perugia.

Perugia: 1 day

The next stop is Perugia, Umbria's regional capital and a lively student city. It's quite a climb to the hilltop center but worth the effort as the Gothic cityscape unfurls before you. Stroll Corso Vannucci and peruse the masterpieces of the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria before adjourning to Piazza IV Novembre and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo .

Next stop : Drive 30 minutes from Perugia to Assisi.

Assisi: 1 day

To finish off, make the pilgrimage to Assisi . This small cobbled town, a major day-trip destination, is centered on the Basilica di San Francesco , a mighty church complex whose upper church shelters a celebrated fresco cycle by Giotto. Down below, the frescoed, dimly lit lower basilica leads through to St Francis’ tomb .

The south coast

Allow at least 7 days Distance: 110km (68 miles) 

From the tumult of Naples to the dreamy seascapes of the Amalfi Coast , this "best-of" summer tour offers world-famous ancient ruins and classical art accompanied by boat rides, island charm and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Naples: 2 days

Kick-off with a blast of urban energy in Naples . Feast your eyes on Pompeiian mosaics and stunning classical sculpture at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale , stop by to see the astonishing Cristo velato  (veiled Christ) statue at the Cappella Sansevero , and tuck into to-die-for pizza in Spaccanapoli, the heart of the city’s historic center.

Detour: Hit the road west on a road trip to uncover the Italian mainland's first Greek settlement and one of the world’s most dangerous supervolcanoes in the Campi Flegrei (factor in an extra day).

Next stop: Take a train from Naples to Pompeii (35 minutes).

Pompeii: 1 day

Catch the Circumvesuviana train and head round the bay to Pompeii . Italy's most complete archaeological site is a unique place showcasing the remains of an entire ancient city caught in its death throes. Walk the city streets and see the world’s first "Beware of the Dog" sign as Mt Vesuvius looms menacingly on the horizon.

Next stop: Take a train from Pompeii to Sorrento (30 minutes).

Sorrento: 1 day

Continue down the coast to the sunny seaside town of Sorrento . There are few sights here; rather, the fun is hanging out on the colorful streets, admiring the bay views and browsing the stores selling ceramics and ornate marquetry. Knocking back a shot of locally made limoncello , a liqueur made from plump Sorrento lemons, is non-negotiable.

Next stop: Take a boat from Sorrento to Capri (25 minutes). 

Capri: 1 day

Capri , the most famous of the islands in the Gulf of Naples. Here you can gasp at the otherworldly blue light of the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) and poke around ancient ruins at Villa Jovis . For magnificent seascapes, take the chairlift from Anacapri to the summit of Monte Solaro, the island's highest point.

Next stop: Take a boat from Capri to Positano (30 minutes).

Positano: 1 day

The best way to get to Positano , the Amalfi Coast's most Instagrammable and expensive town, is by sea. As you approach it, you'll see its steeply stacked houses cascade down the hillside in a riot of peaches, pinks and terracottas. Once on dry land, hang out on the beach and stroll its vertiginous streets – a delight to walk at sunrise or sunset – fringed with voguish shop displays.

Next stop: Take a bus from Positano to Amalfi (40mins).

Amalfi: 1 day

The end of the road is Amalfi, the coast's de facto capital with its striking Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea , colorful ceramic shops and busy seafront. It's not a big place so you can take your time strolling around the sun-filled piazzas or taking a hike . 

Detour: Head up to Ravello to check out its ravishing gardens and the best views on the coast (3 hours). 

A slice of southeast Sicily

Allow at least 5 days Distance: 297km (185 miles) 

Stretching from the black lava streets of Catania to the ancient Greek temples of Agrigento , this Sicilian tour showcases spectacular baroque beauty in the island's gourmet southeast. En route, pass through a string of honey-hued towns set amid citrus and olive groves shot with limestone cliffs and rocky canyons.

Catania: 1 day

Lorded over by Mt Etna, baroque Catania is an inspiring starting point. Soak up the town's distinct black-and-white 18th-century architecture over breakfast at Caffè Prestipino on Piazza del Duomo and take a theatrical mooch around fish market La Pescheria . Don't miss spectacular Chiesa di San Benedetto and the dizzying rooftop climb at Chiesa di San Giuliano on enchanting Via Crociferi.

Detour: Assuming the weather and volcanic activity is game, hike to Mt Etna's four crater summits with a guide (factor in an extra day).

Next stop : Drive 65 minutes from Catania to Syracuse. 

Syracuse: 1 day

Birthplace of Archimedes (the mathematician of "Eureka" fame), Syracuse was considered the most beautiful city in the ancient world. Still today, it’s a legendary looker with a stunning central square, Piazza del Duomo , and a magnificent Duomo . Remnants of its earliest days, including a magically intact 5th-century BCE Greek theater, can be found at the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis .

Next stop: Drive 40 minutes from Syracuse to Noto. 

Noto: Half day

Noto comes as the first of a trio of baroque towns whose beguiling looks result from rebuilds after an earthquake in 1693. Noto is the belle of the ball, boasting one of Sicily’s most striking streets, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, and an eye-catching basilica, Cattedrale di San Nicolò . This beautiful town positively glows in the early evening sunlight.

Next stop: Drive 45 minutes from Noto to Modica. 

Modica: Half day

Stick with the baroque theme in Modica , a once-powerful medieval town now best known for its grainy artisan chocolate. Search out Duomo di San Giorgo in upper town Modica Alta. Join locals for an afternoon passeggiata (stroll) on Corso Umberto I; buy a cannolo oozing ricotta at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto and chocolate gelato to die for at Caffè Adamo .

Next stop: Drive 25 minutes from Modica to Ragusa. 

Ragusa: 1 day

Fans of the Inspector Montalbano hit TV series might recognize some places in Ragusa . To find these, head to Ragusa Ibla (the historic center) where labyrinthine lanes weave past rock-grey palazzi to Piazza Duomo, a frequent shooting location. From the sloping, sun-drenched square, stairs lead up to the town's signature cathedral, the Duomo di San Giorgio.

Next stop: Drive 2.5 hours from Ragusa to Agrigento. 

Agrigento: 1 day

Finish your tour on a high in Agrigento, home to a series of ancient Greek temples – the world's finest outside Greece. Pick of the bunch is the Tempio della Concordia , the headline act in the Valley of the Temples , Agrigento's sprawling archaeological park which encompasses the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas.

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After spending 25 days in Italy, here are 10 things I recommend to every tourist who visits

• My husband and I spent nearly a month exploring Italy .
• We saw a variety of landmarks, from the canals of Venice to the ruins of Rome.
• A few events, including a cooking class in Florence, stand out as the best things we did in Italy.

Last September, my husband and I kissed our pups goodbye, boarded a plane, and spent an unforgettable 25 days exploring Italy .

Though we loved the entire vacation , a few experiences stand out as the best things we did. Here are 10 things we recommend to any tourist visiting Italy.

We escaped the crowds of Venice by exploring nearby islands.

Venice is an absolutely beautiful city , but with all the other tourists, the tight streets and narrow canals can start to feel too crowded after a while.

So, my husband and I boarded a ferry to Lido, the barrier island separating Venice from the open sea.

Here, we rented bikes, rode along the beach for some stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, and boarded another ferry to Santa Maria del Mare.

Once we arrived, we biked to the fishing village of Pellestrina and sampled the freshest-tasting seafood I've ever eaten.

I highly recommend visiting the surrounding islands if you have the time to leave Venice's city center and want an authentic, less-touristy experience.

We hiked the Dolomites.

As an avid hiker, I knew I had to take a trip to the Dolomites.

We rented a car for this leg of the journey and saw stunning, bright-blue lakes and climbed the mighty northern Italian mountains.

The hike to Lago di Sorapis was the highlight for me, though I'd definitely say it's a tough climb (we saw a woman with a sprained ankle being helicoptered from the summit).

For beautiful lake views without the steps, I recommend checking out Lago di Braies, which is accessible by car.

The boat tour of Cinque Terre was amazing.

The five coastal towns of Cinque Terre are colorful and charming, but they're also tiny and can get pretty crowded.

We went on a small-group boat tour to avoid the tourists and see the Cinque Terre. It was admittedly one of the more expensive splurges of our trip, but we were out on the water and observing the towns for three hours.

Plus, the boat anchored in a few spots so we could get out, swim in the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea, and explore some caves.

The boat captain seemed knowledgeable about the area and answered all our questions — and for the last hour of the tour, he pulled out snacks and prosecco.

I won't ever forget Brunelleschi’s Dome in Florence.

We saw a lot of churches during our month in Italy, but none were as awe-inspiring as the Florence Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.)

When we went, it seemed that the best way to see inside and avoid the long line was to climb the dome itself.

But be warned: There were a lot of steps, and it was narrow inside.

Still, climbing the dome allowed us to see the interior frescoes up close and get the most enchanting city views.

My husband and I loved the cooking class we took in Florence.

While in Florence , we signed up for a Tuscan cooking class.

Our chef walked us through how to make different kinds of pasta from scratch and had us help him cook chicken cacciatore, salad, and homemade gelato.

Learning to cook was fun, but we also enjoyed the camaraderie with other tourists sharing their travel experiences.

We swapped stories and suggestions for the remainder of our trips and received recipes to try back home.

We biked the Appian Way in Rome.

Rome is full of unbelievable ruins, but observing them in a moment of solitude among the roar of traffic and flood of people can be hard.

To escape the hustle and bustle, my husband and I rented bikes and rode them far down Rome's oldest roads along the Appian Way.

Though the roads were initially full of people, the longer we rode our bikes, the fewer tourists we saw. I also recommend visiting the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and Villa di Massenzio.

Visiting smaller towns was a nice break from the tourists.

Rome , Florence, and Venice are Italy's heavy hitters, but I wanted to experience less-touristy Italian culture.

That's why my husband and I planned some day trips to smaller towns with fewer tourists: Siena, San Gimignano, Bracciano, and Orvieto.

My favorite memories in Italy were sitting at a café, sipping espresso or an Aperol spritz, and watching the day go by.

We visited Pompeii.

Nothing could have prepared me for the sheer size of Pompeii.

Exploring the archaeological site reminded me of how much damage the Mount Vesuvius eruption really did.

Though we spent five hours exploring the vast city, it felt like we barely scratched the surface.

I recommend getting an audio guide and going at your own pace.

The Path of the Gods was unforgettable.

For most travelers, the Amalfi Coast is the ultimate place to relax and unwind.

For me, it meant waking up at 6 a.m., going to a small town far off the beaten path, and hiking down the mountainside on the Path of the Gods .

It was one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever done, as I got sweeping views of the sea and the towns of Praiano and Positano.

We even met a flock of goats being shepherded by an adorable farm dog. Just be warned: The strenuous hike ends with roughly 1,700 unforgiving steps down to the city.

Relaxing on the island of Capri was a great way to end the trip.

The island of Capri is a major tourist spot during the Amalfi Coast's busy season. We beat the crowds by getting the first ferry out in the morning and returning on the last boat of the day.

Once we arrived, we went to the small town of Anacapri to ride the chairlift to Capri's highest point and see some magnificent views.

We also left time to hike down the Instagram-famous Via Krupp to a small beach, enjoy a few cocktails, and swim in the sea.

After nearly a month of intense traveling, I needed to lie on the beach in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

This story was originally published on January 14, 2024, and most recently updated on August 27, 2024.

• Main content

The Best Destinations In All Of Italy For A Honeymoon, According To Travelers

I taly is regarded as one of the most romantic destinations in all of Europe, which is likely why the country welcomes over 85 million international visitors per year. Many of the people flocking to Italy are newlyweds because of its charming reputation as a place for lovers. However, Italy is one of the largest countries in Europe, with over 300,000 square kilometers of space to explore and many potential locations to consider for your once-in-a-lifetime trip. 

From Amalfi Coast beaches to vineyards in Tuscany, there are thousands of beautiful places scattered across Italy, and it can be difficult to choose just a handful to visit during your getaway with your new spouse. That's where the Islands team is stepping in to help. We curated this list of dreamy Italian locations by using the opinions of real travelers on forum websites. Based on their responses and further research into the offerings of each area, the Islands team determined the very best destinations in all of Italy for a honeymoon to help you find the perfect place in the country to fall in love all over again. 

Read more: Couples Will Swoon Over These Romantic Destinations In Fiji

The city of Venice is nicknamed La Serenissima, which translates to "Most Serene."This characterization makes it one of the most appealing places to plan a honeymoon in all of Italy. Instead of streets with cars weaving throughout the city, Venice has its distinctive canals and boats. This unique atmosphere is enough for the Floating City to be considered an extremely romantic destination.

There are all different types of activities in Venice that are great for lovers. You can take a ride in a gondola down the canal at sunset. It is one of the cutest things to do in Europe and a fantastic option for a couple's photograph to remember your honeymoon. However,  budget travelers might want to avoid Venice's gondolas because they are quite pricey. 

Alternatively, you can check out Venice's esteemed culinary scene at one of the many long-standing eateries. For example, Cantino Do Spade is a classic Venetian restaurant that has been serving customers for 536 years and counting. There is something innately sweet about dining in a place with so much history between its walls. 

Lake Como is an ideal location for a honeymoon because it is surrounded by such pure, mountainous beauty that you can just walk around and be fully entertained. One former visitor on Reddit described Lake Como as the most beautiful place that they had ever visited in their life. They're not alone either, many people regard this region as one of the prettiest parts of Europe. It's also frequented by celebrities, like Taylor Swift, who stayed in a super fancy Lake Como hotel with her boyfriend . 

This iconic Italian province is only about an hour away from Milan on the train, so it's very easy to reach if you're flying into the major international Milan Malpensa Airport. Once you arrive, there are tons of cute villages to explore around the lake that can be reached by a quick and affordable ferry ride. A user on Rick Steves' Europe recommended staying in Varenna and visiting the neighboring towns like Menaggio and Bellagio on day trips. Inside each of these lakeside towns, you'll find an array of opulent villas (many of which have been used in films) that are the perfect setting for stunning photos with your new husband or wife, such as Villa Monastero and Villa Balbianello. 

Spending your honeymoon on any Italian island already sounds like a dream, but it's even more unimaginably perfect in a place like Capri. While some people complain that Capri is crowded with visitors, ruining the magic, this is really a testament to how much people truly love the destination. Plus, many travelers believe it's well worth dealing with the masses to experience all the benefits of staying here for your honeymoon. 

One Reddit user explained, "The chairlift to the bar at the top of Capri was one of my favourite things from the whole trip. Yes it's packed near the port but dies down." The chairlift that left such an impression on this traveler takes you up to Mount Solaro, the highest viewpoint on the island. It's a breathtaking spot to watch the sunset over the ocean with your spouse. 

Capri is located near some of Italy's most iconic natural attractions, making it a great locale for first-time visitors or anyone who appreciates nature. The most renowned Capri site is the Blue Grotto, a cave filled with bright blue water. There are many other enchanting things to do outdoors on Capri as well, such as visiting the Faraglioni Rocks and Arco Naturale.

The Amalfi Coast

The natural magnificence of the Amalfi Coast is only compounded by the fact that there are so many honeymoon-worthy activities around this beloved Italian region. There are a number of different towns on the Amalfi Coast to stay in, such as Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, and Praiano. The most cost-effective way to get the most out of a trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast is by staying in one of these villages and doing day trips to the rest of them. One Reddit user highly recommended staying in Praiano's  La Barbera hotel for a couple's vacation, saying, "As far as the Amalfi coast, we would highly recommend staying in Praiano at La Barbera. The people we met there were incredible and so very helpful in very way. The room had a private balcony overlooking the coast and breakfast was included every day. It was the most romantic place we stayed." 

There will be plenty for newlyweds to do on the Amalfi Coast besides spending all day in their gorgeous hotel room, though. Authentic Italian cooking classes are extremely popular and you can learn how to make anything from gnocchi and tiramisu to pizza and Bolognese sauce. Alternatively, the Amalfi Coast offers a wide variety of private boat tours and wine or limoncello tastings. Sporty couples will also have easy access to one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world on the Amalfi Coast -- the Path of the Gods. 

Cinque Terre

Not every honeymoon has to cost a fortune to be cherished for a lifetime when there are places like Cinque Terre on the planet. This Italian coast is just as dreamy as the country's most famous regions, but it's a much cheaper alternative that's a better fit for honeymooners on a budget. It costs around $1,066 per person for a one-week trip to Cinque Terre for absolutely everything from accommodations to food, which is quite reasonable for a luxurious honeymoon compared to other destinations in Italy. There are several  adorable villages in Cinque Terre to choose from, including Vernazza and Manarola. 

Cinque Terre is most esteemed for its colorful landscapes, but there are actually a lot of things to do around the area, in addition to admiring the coast and architecture. The region is home to a variety of relaxing beaches that are surrounded by cliffs where you can recharge with your lover, such as Vernazza Beach, Riomaggiore Beach, and Monterosso Beach. It's also a fantastic honeymoon destination for foodies because there are plenty of establishments to try homemade Italian cuisine. One Reddit user recommended , "Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola is amazing. They have a great wine that's locally made and the tiramisu is the 2nd best I had in Italy."

Newlyweds simply hoping to relax their honeymoon away at a luxury resort will adore the Italian island of Sardinia. This is the place where many locals apparently take their vacations, as one Reddit user explained , "Sardinia is literally the paradise on earth for every Italian." The 9,300-square-foot piece of land in the middle of the Mediterranean is absolutely packed with 5-star accommodations that are so nice you'll never have to leave the grounds unless you really want to. 

For example, Hotel Pitrizza, Costa Smeralda has a glowing track record. One visitor on Trip Advisor gushed about the accommodation saying, "They made us feel at home with their kind and hospitable attitude. The property itself is very unique with less than 60 rooms on a bay of at least 20 acres. Beautiful gardens, incredible scenery and amazing emerald waters." While staying at one of these exceptional, high-end hotels doesn't come cheap, it's so worth it if it's in your honeymoon budget to treat yourself that extensively. 

Rome is the legendary capital of Italy and the largest city in the country, with a population of over 2.9 million, so it should come as no surprise that it is teeming with fun things to do for newlyweds. With 2,777 years of history under its belt, Rome is an especially good destination for history lovers because there are so many ways to dive into Italy's culture around the area. There is the Colosseum, an ancient arena where gladiators once fought and one of Italy's biggest attractions. Rome also has the Vatican Museums, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum to explore. 

Soaking in the history and culture gives Rome a sense of timeless romance. After all, who doesn't want their own version of a kissing photo in front of the famed Trevi Fountain? Just follow all the rules of visiting the Trevi Fountain while you're getting the shot. 

Home to some of the best restaurants in the world, Rome is a great fit for foodies on their honeymoon adventure. One user on Reddit urged visitors to take a food tour in the city saying, "For Rome especially I HIGHLY recommend doing a food tour the first couple days you're there, and using that as a resource to ask about other restaurants. The guides are super happy to recommend other highlight places in your area after the tour and they are usually great about knowing the best spots currently in the city."

One Reddit user describes Sicily as, "an absolutely magical destination for a romantic getaway, filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic culture." This characterization seems abundantly accurate. The southern region offers a diverse array of activities that can work for any type of couple on their honeymoon.  

Adventurous honeymooners can get their fill of excitement with a hike up Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest active volcano in all of Europe. On the other hand, couples going for a more chill atmosphere during their time in Italy will have countless picturesque beaches and villages to check out in Sicily. There are eight major cities in the region and hundreds of smaller towns around the area to dive into. Out of all of the options, the same Reddit user recommended that travelers on a honeymoon spend time in Catania, Taormina, and Siracusa for their cultural appeal and landscapes.

A solid dose of Italian culture is guaranteed for couples who spend their honeymoon in the city of Florence. Anyone with a passion for the arts will be thoroughly entertained in this Italian city. It's known for housing some of the most famous museums and artworks on the entire planet. 

At the Accademia Gallery in Florence, you'll come face-to-face with one of the most treasured pieces in all of history -- Michelangelo's 520-year-old David statue. Inside the Uffizi Gallery, you can easily spend hours walking around the hallways to spot hundreds of thousands of illustrious artworks from masters of the craft, such as Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Titian. In addition to these well-known art galleries, there are tons of other cultural activities for couples in Florence. 

One traveler said visitors should plan to go to Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo on their honeymoon. The Reddit user advised , "The Boboli Gardens are very romantic and a little stroll through time." They also shared that watching a sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo made a big impression on them, and the restaurant up at the top is nice for dinner once it gets dark. All in all, you won't be bored when you spend your newlywed trip in Florence. 

There is pretty much no better honeymoon destination in the world for wine and food lovers than Tuscany, Italy. Couples will be spoiled for choice when it comes to tastings because there are so many guided tours to help you appreciate the area. For instance, this small-group wine-tasting tour takes you on a journey past the olive groves and vineyards of the Tuscan countryside to two Chianti wineries. It makes getting a feel for the region effortless without doing all the legwork of getting around by yourself.

The Tuscany region has a wide variety of accommodation options for honeymooning vistitors to choose from. There are fancy castles that make you feel like you're living out a fairytale fantasy and homely guesthouses where you can just cozy up. As with many of the bigger destinations, there are quite a few options for towns to visit during your wine-filled Tuscany honeymoon. 

One Reddit user talked up Siena , stating, "Siena is a must if you are in Toscana espascialy [sic] for honeymoon. Great restorants [sic], nice piazza, bars, architecture, history, romantic." Alternatively, if you're in the mood for a quaint-feeling atmosphere, another traveler recommends San Gimignano instead. Another person explained, "San Gimignano area is my favorite in Tuscany. Very clean, very beautiful, not as big as Siena but more romantic."

Searching for a slightly more affordable and less tourist-filled version of Italy's famous Lake Como region? Lake Garda is the answer to your prayers for your honeymoon. Just a week in Lake Como will likely run you around $3,268 as a couple, whereas extremely budget-conscious travelers in Lake Garda can spend as little as $555 per week. Besides the fact that it is economically friendly, Lake Garda is rich in stunning sights, and as one Reddit user put it , "Almost all the spots around Garda lake are beautiful, you cannot go wrong." 

Even better, there is a wide range of things to do around the area that could appeal to honeymooners. There are interesting cultural landmarks, such as the Archaeological Site of Grotte di Catullo and the 13th-century Scaligero di Sirmione Castle.The same Reddit user recommended things like taking the cable car from Malcesine to Monte Baldo, renting out a boat, or taking a soak in the thermal pools at Aquaria Thermal Spa as some of their favorite things to do around Lake Garda. 

Outdoorsy married couples will find everything they're looking for in a honeymoon on the island of Ischia off the coast of Naples. There are a bunch of outdoor activities and natural attractions for spouses around Ischia. You can start with a rejuvenating dip at the island's Baia di Sorgeto hot springs. Then, you can follow that up by roaming the exquisite Giardini La Mortella botanical garden where you'll come across more than 3,000 types of unique plant life. 

Plus, there are so many scenic Ischia beaches to lounge on with your husband or wife for hours. A traveler on Reddit highly recommended Spiaggia di Citara, specifically saying , "Head to Spiaggia di Citara, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, known for its clear waters and lovely surroundings." The other great thing about staying in Ischia for your honeymoon is the food scene; there are 36 different amazing Michelin-star restaurants on this one island. 

Even though it is a fairly small space, there are many impressive, welcoming hotels around Ischia. One user on Reddit suggested that newlyweds splurge for a stay at Excelsior Terme, explaining , "Excelsior in Ischia Porto is in a perfect location (easy walk to the castle, includes private beach, pool and spa, easy walk to the main street & port with loads of restaurant options)."

The Dolomites

While most people assume that their honeymoon in Italy will involve warm weather and sunny beaches, another type of romantic Italian getaway can appeal more to mountain people: the Dolomites. It is a mesmerizing mountain range in far Northern Italy near the border of Austria. It has a slightly colder climate than other parts of the country and temperatures can fall as low as 23℉ in the Dolomites during the dead of winter. 

As such, it is one of the best places in the country for snow sports. During the winter months from December to March, the region transforms into a world class skiing destination with endless high-end resorts to choose from, like Val Gardena and Kronplatz ski resorts. Even people who aren't expert skiers can enjoy the Dolomites in the winter, because as one Reddit user suggested , "If you can't ski, just take the gondola up, have a spritz, and stare at the sassolungo all day. It's really that pretty."

The Dolomite mountains still have many things to do during the warmer parts of the year as well. There are a bunch of hiking trails that wind through the landscapes and can be appropriate for any skill level. If you just want to get great views in the Dolomites without breaking too much of a sweat,  one traveler on Reddit advised, "Do the Cadini de Misurina and Tre Crime de Lavaredo hikes. Easily two of the most epic views for relatively little effort."

Methodology

This collection of the best destinations in Italy for a honeymoon was developed by browsing lists of the most romantic places in the country. The top choices among those recommendations were further researched by the Islands team by reading traveler's reviews on forum websites like Reddit. After determining which destinations were most enthusiastically recommended by real people, we did a deep dive into the best things to do around each area. The cities or regions with the most recommendations and couple-friendly things to do were finally organized into a list of the top 13 best places for a honeymoon in Italy.

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• Winter Vacations

15 Best Warm Places to Travel to This Winter

Leave the cold behind with a trip to one of these warm-weather destinations.

Sure, the winter months have their perks — skiing, sledding, snowman building, and the holidays, of course. But the cold! Oh, the cold. It digs deep under your skin, straight to your bones, chilling everything from your toes to your chattering teeth. Fortunately, several warm destinations can offer a much-needed respite from the frigid air.

From island getaways to sizzling cities, here are the best warm-weather places to visit in December, January, and February.

• Best tourist destination: The Bahamas
• Underrated hidden gem: Panama Highlands
• Best for families: San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best for couples: Rangiroa, French Polynesia
• Best for solo travelers: Bangkok

Read on for our full list of recommendations for places to travel to this winter.

The Bahamas

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Sometimes, you just need to get away from the cold and not think about a single thing. And that's exactly what you can do in The Bahamas , an island chain that's about a three-hour flight from New York City. There are several beautiful destinations to choose from — New Providence Island, Grand Bahama Island, and the Exumas (with their famous swimming pigs) come to mind. Many of the archipelago's inhabited islands are home to some of the country's best all-inclusive resorts , making it an ideal winter getaway for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Panama Highlands

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While Panama has its share of splendid coastlines, the country's vast interior should not be overlooked, especially for a winter vacation. Temperatures in the highlands are generally in the 60s and 70s year-round, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Visitor-favorite activities here include bird-watching and, for more adventurous types, crisscrossing the verdant mountains via the famous hanging bridges of Boquete. The region is also home to a stellar coffee scene worth exploring. Book a stay at The Haven , an adults-only wellness resort that makes a great base if you're looking to do a local coffee tour.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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If you want to combine some time under the sun with cultural enrichment, look no further than the capital city of Puerto Rico , which has long stretches of white-sand beaches, and historic attractions like the famous Castillo San Felipe del Morro fort. Visitors will also find lots of places to sample delicious Puerto Rican food — make a reservation at Cocina Abierta and thank us later. In San Juan, it's best to go boutique, so check into the O:LV Fifty Five hotel, which features a rooftop pool and bar offering the best views in town.

Rangiroa, French Polynesia

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Though French Polynesia comprises more than 100 islands, a select few (like Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea) get most of the attention. If you prefer to visit somewhere a little less crowded, try the quiet, sparsely developed atoll of Rangiroa. Located about an hour from Tahiti by air, the island has plenty of pristine beaches and a massive lagoon brimming with sea life. Stay at the Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa , which boasts stunning overwater bungalows and villas with private plunge pools.

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Winter happens to be the best time to visit Thailand , especially its capital city, Bangkok. The weather is balmy year-round thanks to the country's tropical location, but the winter months offer slightly more comfortable temperatures, with highs rarely exceeding 90 degrees. To get the most out of this massive city, it's best to book a lengthy visit or hire a local guide — there are tons of tour options available through Airbnb Experiences , for instance, that focus on food, culture, and photography. Don't miss out on the city's canals, either, which you can tour on a long-tail boat. Make your home base the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok , a long-running honoree in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards .

Ambergris Caye, Belize 

With nonstop flights available from several U.S. cities — including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, and Miami — getting to the Central American nation of Belize is easier than you think. And while the country's interior is filled with lush, verdant landscapes home to ancient temples, monkeys, and even a few rare jaguars, the real star is the coast.

To experience the white-sand beaches at their best, make your way to Ambergris Caye. Belize's largest island is known for its water sports, including diving and snorkeling around the nearby Belize Barrier Reef and its famous Great Blue Hole . For a luxe visit, book a few nights at Alaia Belize , which provides easy access to the beach as well as a swimming pool that's suspended six stories above the main access corridor, with portholes in the bottom that offer aerial views of the property.

Mexico City 

Jorge Castro / Travel + Leisure

Though winter in Mexico City won't have the tropical heat you might expect from the rest of the country — temperatures tend to top out in the upper 60s or low 70s this time of year — it still provides a balmy alternative to snowy U.S. locales. The capital is flush with cultural attractions , including first-rate museums like the stunning Museo Frida Kahlo , incredible shopping at both high-end stores and local markets, and some of the best restaurants in the world (we're looking at you, Pujol ). Make your home base Las Alcobas , a luxury hotel offering lavish guest rooms and a tranquil spa — the perfect place to relax after a day of urban exploration.

Key West, Florida

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Key West is a true delight during the winter months, as the average high temperature doesn't fall below 75 degrees. It's the perfect place for fruity cocktails on the sand, sunset strolls down lively shopping streets, and slice after slice of tangy Key lime pie. Make the most of your time here by booking a stay at the historic Casa Marina Key West , a Curio Collection by Hilton property that finished an extensive renovation in spring 2024. Through the hotel, you can book local food tours, golf outings, and sailboat cruises, or simply sit by the pool and soak in all that Florida Keys sun.

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If you're seeking an African safari this winter without the crowds of a classic destination like Kenya , try the less-traveled terrain of Namibia . Located on Africa's southwest coast, the country offers seclusion, otherworldly landscapes, and near-guaranteed warm weather. It's also the perfect place to see animals like lions, elephants, leopards, and rhinos in their natural environment. There are several outfitters to choose from, but Natural Selection is top-notch, offering numerous safari camp options, including the famed Shipwreck Lodge on the Skeleton Coast.

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When the first cold snap hits, book a flight to Dubai . The desert oasis offers not just warm weather but a mind-boggling array of things to do, from swimming in the Persian Gulf to shopping at some of the world's most luxurious stores and dining at multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. Visit Burj Khalifa , the tallest building in the world at over 160 stories, via an elevator that travels at an ear-popping 33 feet per second. Try Atlantis, The Palm — or Atlantis Dubai's latest addition Atlantis, The Royal — for your overnight stays, each property a veritable playground for those looking to indulge in the finer things in life.

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Pick an island, any island — or make it a multi-island trip to Hawaii . Start on Oahu , home of the vibrant capital city, Honolulu, and Waikiki Beach. Head to Kauai for a relaxed tropical vibe and scenic hiking and kayaking adventures. Hawaii Island offers the chance to view active volcanoes up close at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, while Maui is where you'll find some of the poshest resorts on the islands, complete with luxury spas and fancy restaurants. On each island, the Malama Hawaii program connects visitors with volunteer opportunities so you can give back to the local community. Some resorts will even offer special rates and discounts to those who participate, like third-, fourth-, or fifth-night free deals or packages with food and beverage credits.

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Just because Queenstown is New Zealand's most popular ski town doesn't mean it's not worth visiting when the weather is warmer. Queenstown's summer (December to February) is a great time to take on one of the area's popular hikes, check out the local wineries, or spend some time strolling lakeside in Queenstown Gardens. A scenic trip up the Skyline Queenstown gondola is definitely in order, as is a bungee jump or two if you're feeling brave enough (no pressure!) Whether you choose to indulge in a luxurious stay at one of Queenstown's top resorts — Eichardt's , Rosewood Matakauri , and The Carlin are among the best — or the city is just part of a larger adventure in New Zealand, the weather will likely be between 68 and 86 degrees during these months.

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Lest we forget, it's also summer down under between December and February, with Sydney temperatures hovering around the 65-to-78 degrees mark. Translation: It's beach time! Pack your swimsuit and head to Bondi Beach to see the surfers do their thing or go for a swim at the famous Bondi Icebergs ocean pools (pictured above). If it's too crowded, try the Bronte Baths or Wylie's Baths a few suburbs south in Bronte Beach and Coogee Beach, respectively. Treat yourself to a luxury stay downtown at The Langham, Sydney , or the Park Hyatt Sydney , both located in the historic "The Rocks" neighborhood and within walking distance of Sydney Harbour.

Buenos Aires

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If you've been waiting for an excuse to learn to tango in Buenos Aires , winter is a wonderful time to head south, with temperatures between 64 and 75 degrees. There's no shortage of dance clubs if you'd like to try out your moves — or tango shows if you'd prefer to leave it to the professionals. Besides dancing, the city is known for its food and wine scene, with shops and tasting rooms selling bottles from Argentina's best vineyards. Stay in the super-luxe Faena Hotel Buenos Aires , home of the popular Rojo Tango dinner show , or Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt Buenos Aires , just a 10-minute walk from Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón (Evita) was laid to rest.

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Another southern hemisphere spot known for its wine regions is Cape Town , where winter (well, summer) temperatures tend to be between 68 and 78 degrees during the day. Head 40 minutes out of the city to the Stellenbosch wine region, home of Babylonstoren , a hidden-gem locals' favorite for its vineyards, garden cafe, and other agritourism efforts. Then, retreat to a luxury stay at The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa in Camps Bay, where you can indulge in a relaxing treatment or two and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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Sri Lanka Announces Free Visas for Travelers From These 35 Countries

Between Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO world heritage sites , its thriving wildlife, and pristine white sand beaches, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” has enough glimmer for everyone—and now, visiting the South Asia island nation, located off the coast of India, is about to get easier (and cheaper) for travelers from 35 countries.

On August 22, 2024, Sri Lanka Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardana announced a new six-month pilot program launching October 1 of this year, which will give eligible visitors free 30-day tourist visas. This will temporarily eliminate the $50 visa fee tourists are typically required to pay until April 2025. Tourists from the approved countries, including the US and the UK, will be issued free tourist visas upon arrival, Reuters reports .

The program coincides with Sri Lanka's peak travel season (which generally has the best weather), lasting from December to mid-April.

“The aim of the government is to transform Sri Lanka into a free visa country, much like Singapore , Thailand , and Vietnam to tap into the benefits of a rapidly growing tourism industry,” Gunawardana said after announcing the program at an August cabinet briefing. Here's everything travelers need to know about the new Sri Lanka visa program, according to tourism and immigration experts.

Why is Sri Lanka loosening travel requirements?

International travel to Sri Lanka has boomed in recent years, with nearly 1.2 million visitors from the beginning of this year to July alone (compared to just under 720,000 yearly visitors in all of 2022). Data from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka reports that tourism from the first half of 2024 generated over $1.5 billion in revenue for the country, around $625 million more than what the industry generated over the same period last year.

The bulk of this year’s visitors have come from India, with over 300,000 travelers, followed by Russia and the UK’s nearly 250,000 combined travelers (the second and third largest sources of arrivals this year, respectively), per data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority . All three nations are included in the free visa program.

The country piloted a similar six-month program in 2019 when it released free tourist visas in August of that year for US travelers, as an incentive to rebuild its travel economy following the April 2019 terrorist attacks in Colombo. The move to expand Sri Lanka’s embrace of travelers this year could play a similarly vital role in pushing past the economic and political hurdles that have persisted in the country since the pandemic and the 2022 financial crisis.

The new visa program is just one initiative Sri Lanka is taking to bolster its tourism industry, like the recent opening of the Pekoe Trail and the establishment of new boutique stays like Kayaam House and wellness hotel Taprana . Sri Lanka’s previously under-the-radar south coast has recently bloomed into a hub for luxury resorts, surf clubs, and scene-y cocktail bars attracting adventure-seekers and lifestyle travelers alike.

“Anything that makes travel cheaper and easier has a positive impact, especially as it shows visitors are welcome,” says Michael Pullman , a travel advisor at Wild Frontiers Travel . “Travelers are rediscovering [Sri Lanka as] a country that offers one of the best vacation experiences in Asia— the rock fortress of Sigiriya offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside; for world-class beaches, head to Bentota on the west coast or Tangalle beah on the southern coast; and wildlife lovers can seek leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and more in Yala National Park.”

Countries around the world are loosening travel restrictions to take advantage of the post-pandemic tourism boom: Japan , Italy , Turkey , and Thailand have launched new visa programs for digital nomads; Kenya has dropped of all visa requirements for visitors regardless of nationality; China has reduced visa requirements for US visitors; and six Gulf countries are pursuing a multi-national visa agreement.

“This initiative could give Sri Lanka an edge over its neighbors in an incredibly competitive market,” Armand Arton, Chairman of the Global Citizen Forum and CEO of Arton Capital, a financial advisory firm that facilitates secondary residence and citizenship programs, tells Traveler . “Sri Lanka may be able to become one of the most popular tourist hubs in Asia and reap the benefits that will follow.”

Which 35 countries are approved for free visas?

Travelers from the following countries will be approved for free 30-day tourist visas to Sri Lanka starting on October 1, 2024 until April 2025:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

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Italy is mulling a €25-a-night tax for tourists staying at its most expensive hotels to turn overtourism into economic gain

It feels great to be popular—until the fame gets out of hand. That’s become Italy’s battle this summer. 

With hundreds of millions of tourists flocking to the sunny European destination this summer, the uptick seems relentless. It’s now become a source of public anger across the region. 

Some of Italy’s most sought-after cities, such as Venice, have tried to address the issue with an entry fee and measures to curb big groups of visitors . 

While it’s early to gauge the success of those measures, the country looks determined to turn a corner on its overtourism problem. Its solution? Jacking up the fees tourists pay when staying at Italy’s most expensive hotels. 

The Italian government is mulling a hotel tax of up to €25 a night, the Financial Times reported Friday, to achieve the dual goals of deterring some visitors while filling cities’ coffers.

The measure will add to the existing tax in cities like Venice, where a charge of between €1 to €5 already applies to overnight stays. Those levies could go higher in Rome and are aimed at safeguarding the legacy and improving the quality of services amid higher demand, according to Venetian tourism’s official website .    

If the new proposal kicks in, it’ll have different tiers—for instance, the cheapest room will be charged €5, whereas rooms that cost over €750 a night will face €25 in fees, according to documents seen by the FT . 

The move could, in theory, bring in generous revenues for municipalities. Part of the funds would be used to tidy up cities by improving trash collection. 

However, tourism industry bodies are concerned that the potential fee goes too far, to the point of disincentivizing visitors.  

“If we scare travelers who come to us by giving the impression that we want to take what we can, we are not doing a good service to the country,” Barbara Casillo, the head of hotel industry representative Confindustria Alberghi, told the outlet. “We must be very careful.”

The trend of overtourism has gripped much of Europe—and particularly Italy—this summer. The likes of Amsterdam have also sought to clamp down on it by imposing a future ban on cruises . The mayor of Athens has spoken out about tourism in the city not being economically viable as it stands today. Affordable travel and accommodation options have spurred this trend over time, experts told Fortune . 

This, coupled with Italy’s sky-high public debt at 140% of its GDP, has put pressure on the government to ease its burden. Tourism, being one of Italy’s key industries, could be a way to do it. Airbnb has started collecting and remitting taxes on behalf of its short-term rental properties as of this year.  

The additional fees are only fair so tourists become “more responsible” as legions visit Italy annually, tourism minister Daniela Santanche wrote in a social media post. 

“Not all taxes are a tax,” she said.   

Still, policies addressing mass tourism must tread a fine line between making monetary gains and allowing hospitality and tourism to flourish. 

“The sector is making an important contribution to the country’s economy, especially with the growth of international travelers, after the difficult years of COVID,” Confindustria Alberghi’s president Maria Carmela Colaiacovo said in a statement earlier this month. 

“But foreign competition is strong and fierce, we need careful policies that do not compromise the competitiveness of our businesses and our destinations. We cannot be a mere ATM for municipalities.”

Italy’s tourism ministry plans to discuss the tax proposal and possible modifications to it with industry bodies next month.  

The Italian tourism ministry didn’t immediately return Fortune ’s request for comment.

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Budget Tours to Italy

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10 best Budget Italy tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Italy travel expert at TourRadar

Italy City Break - 5 Days

8-day best of italy: rome, florence & venice, 5-day best of italy: rome, florence & venice, north italy explorer: 7-days from milan to venice, classical italy, mamma mia - 13 days/12 nights, best of apulia region - 9 days (small group), italy from north to south, 6 day milan including visit to verona, lake garda, florence, pisa, lake como, bellagio, & lugano., italian scene (winter, 10 days).

• Visit iconic Venice and enjoy a local spritz
• Savor Bologna's unique flavors and sights
• Discover Florence, the Cradle of Renaissance

“Her knowledge is outstanding. Very good trip.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Admire the Pantheon by night
• Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain
• Taste authentic gelato at Spanish Steps

“I absolutely loved how informative and helpful the tour was.”

• Skip the line at St. Mark's Basilica in Venice
• Tour Tuscany's scenic churches and castles

“Was a great tour of so many cities. Would have liked a more detail itinerary at the beginning of the tour.”

• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year
• Try some Italian gelato
• Learn about Florence's history
• Taste authentic Italian food

“I loved everything about the places we visited and the hotels we stayed at. I wholeheartedly recommend this tour for anyone looking to experience Italy the true Italian way!”

• Glide on a gondola through the canals of Venice.
• Discover the secrets of Michelangelo’s Florence.
• Whisk through the striking Italian countryside.

“I have a good experience. She is accommodating, very helpful of the needs of the travelers.”

• Sightseeing
• Take a boat trip to Capri
• Explore Venice's canals
• Visit the famous city of Pompeii

“The tour was great.”

• Explore Bari Vecchia and its historic sites
• Admire Trani's Cathedral and Castel Del Monte
• Discover Matera, the city of stones

“The destinations and hotel accommodations were excellent. The tour would be much better just having a group of 20 or less.”

• Visit the ruins of Pompeii buried in volcanic ashes
• Sample gelato and indulge in delicious Tuscan wine
• Stroll the streets of Venice, the iconic ‘Floating City’

“The experience was amazing, and I would highly recommend it to anyone.”

• Shop in Lugano, the 'Monte Carlo of Switzerland'
• Explore Milan with a hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Walk through Verona and visit Juliet's balcony

• Step back in time and explore the streets of Rome
• Admire spectacular Sorrento at the Bay of Naples
• Explore the extraordinary St. Mark’s Square in Venice

“The tour was excellent and the tour director paolo consoli together with driver gianfranco were fantastic.”

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