A Complete Guide to Visiting Florence in December

If you’re coming to Florence in December, be prepared for less-crowded streets, lots of holiday spirit, and mulled wine on chilly nights – what could be better?

Here’s what you need to know about coming to visit Florence this time of year:

• Where to stay in Florence in December?
• What’s the weather like? Is it likely to be raining or snowing?
• What to pack for visiting Florence in December?
• Is December a good time to visit Florence?
• What food is in season in December in Florence?
• What are some things to do in Florence in December?

Our top recommendation for where to stay in Florence in December is San Giovanni. It’s the central district around the Duomo, which is much less busy this time of year. With fewer people around, it’s easier to enjoy the landmarks and see the sights.

Staying here also puts you right in the middle of Florence’s holiday displays. The Christmas lights and decorated trees around the cathedral square are some of the city’s highlights in December, and you’ll be able to enjoy them just by stepping outside in the evening.

Because everything is within walking distance, San Giovanni is practical too, especially when the weather is colder and you don’t want to spend much time in transit.

The first day of winter is December 21. So actually, most of December is a fall month (yeah, that seems weird to me too). Don’t be fooled though, you can definitely feel winter settling in with the drop in temperatures.

It seems to rain a little less in December than in November, and the days can be clear, sunny and crisp.

It can snow in Florence, but it’s pretty rare.

Most of the time, it snows in January and February, which are the coldest months here. But every once in a while, Florence is blessed with a little December snow… and when it happens it adds the best holiday touch to the city.

Temperatures during the day average in the low 50s °F (low teens °C), and in the evenings it gets quite chilly, with lows dropping into the mid-30s °F (single digits °C).

Packing tips for December in Florence

Here’s the deal, you’ve heard it said before “make sure to pack layers”, but what many people don’t realize is that the difference between packing that extra sweater or leaving it behind, may just ruin your trip.

Now, I would not classify myself as a “cold weather person”. I’ve spent most of my life avoiding freezing temperatures. But winter in Florence? Surprisingly tolerable.

The secret is simple: I bundle up (probably more than is necessary), but layers are truly my best friend. And the best part is, if you get warm, you can always peel one off.

So yes – pack the layers, you seriously won’t regret it. Also while you’re at it, toss in some wool socks, a hat, gloves, a scarf and a good pair of boots.

It’s ok if it’s not the most stylish. Half the time I’m waddling around the city with 50 layers on… but at least my toes aren’t icicles.

A good waterproof jacket, fingerless gloves, heavy pants (wool, cotton) are some of my must-haves.

What to wear in Florence in December

So, we’ve established that packing layers is important, but what’s the best way to put an outfit together for the cold weather?

I always like to start with a base of a long sleeve shirt, then I will usually do a cardigan or thinner sweater, and depending on how cold it is, put a larger sweater over top.

Then for pants, I like to opt for a thicker pair of slacks or jeans (I usually save the layer under my pants for January/February), and 2 pairs of socks – my feet tend to get especially cold.

Jackets are very important for this season, and I think it’s a good idea to have an insulated waterproof jacket, in case of unexpected weather.

Then add a thick scarf, a hat, and some gloves (I like fingerless so I can still use my phone), and you should be all set to brave the cold temperatures.

I think it’s safe to say December is one of my favorite months to be in Florence. As soon as the lights go up around the city center, the festive spirit of the season sets in, and I don’t think I’ve ever experienced anything like it.

There is a unique beauty to the city during this season – the lights twinkling against the historic buildings, the crisp air, the soft, peaceful atmosphere. Even the cold feels charming in its own way.

And with fewer tourists around (with the exception of the holidays), it makes for a great time to book the more popular museums and experiences around the city.

How crowded is Florence during December?

December marks the beginning of the low season (for the most part), and there’s a noticeable decrease in hotel and airline rates from the first weeks of November – excluding Christmas and New Years.

If you’re planning to see the top sights in Florence, consider a trip in December to take advantage of fewer crowds and better prices.

December is the real beginning of citrus season, and you can find oranges, mandarins, and clementines filling the markets around Florence. What better way to keep cold and flu germs at bay than to have a nice fresh-squeezed spremuta (juice) of Sicilian blood oranges?

December is also the time to fill up on some classic Tuscan comfort food, such as a steaming bowl of ribollita (thick vegetable stew), or zuppa toscana (think: the authentic version of that Olive Garden favorite – but 100x better). Perfect for keeping you warm and nourished when it gets colder.

My favorite wintertime pick-me-up is scalding cup of thick hot cocoa (my favorite is at Rivoire).

December holidays and special dates in Florence

Besides the obvious Christmas holiday dates, there are a few other important Florence events in December to note:

December 8 – Immacolata

In Italy the Catholic holiday of December 8, the Immaculate Conception, or Immacolata, is celebrated. Many shops will be closed, but major sites and museums are open.

If the 8th falls near a weekend, you can expect it to be busy in Florence.

Christmas Tree Lightings

The main Christmas tree in Florence is in the Piazza del Duomo near the cathedral, but there are usually also trees in Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza San Firenze and in front of Palazzo Medici Riccardi and Palazzo Vecchio.

These tend to be lit in the first week or two of December, close to the Immacolata which marks the start of the holiday season. In 2025 the Christmas tree will be lit on December 6 2025. The event, florencelightsup, will also take place on the 6th, with various light shows around the city.

Christmas Markets

The main Christmas market in Florence is held in Piazza Santa Croce early in December. It’s called the Weihnachtsmarkt, and it is a traditional German-style market, with stalls selling food and handmade gifts – complete with dazzling Christmas decorations.

Weihnachtsmarkt di Firenze is open from November 15 – December 21, 2025.

There are also various smaller markets taking place around the city, including:

• Florence on Ice Village – (November 28 – January 31)
• Ailo Firenze – Ippodromo del Visarno
• Natale per File – Palazzo Corsini (December 12-14)
• Collegio on Ice – (until January 31)

Free Things to do in Florence in December

Luckily, there are many free things to do during this season in Florence. Some free events to note include:

• Christmas Experience (Casa Ruffino): December 13-14 +20-21
• Nativity Scene Expedition (Rivoli Hotel): from December 5
• Crafts and Cocktails (Ditta Artigianale) from December 18

Getting in the Holiday spirit in Florence doesn’t have to cost a lot! Take advantage of these free events, and take some extra time wandering around the city. The magic of the holidays are everywhere in Florence.

Don’t forget that on the first Sunday of each month you can access Florence’s state-run museums, archeological parks and cultural sites for free. This includes the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens, Galleria Academia and many more.

More ideas for things to do in Florence in December

So you’ve visited Florence before and are looking for something new to see… or you just love to explore. I’m the exact same way – and one of my favorite things to do is discover different Tuscan cities.

One day trip I love is a visit to Bologna. It’s the perfect destination for this time of year, there’s great food, and even better shopping – perfect for holiday gifts.

There’s also so much to do in Bologna including one of my favorite activities…cooking classes! There are lots of great options for classes and food tours in Bologna, showcasing handmade pasta and local delicacies.

Book your experience here, and enjoy Bologna in December.