7 magical experiences to enjoy Florence in winter

Florence is a picturesque city year-round. But as the temperatures drop, the streets begin to clear of tourists, festive lights go up, and seasonal events make their debut. Take advantage of the best of Florence in winter by leaning into Christmas festivities, the delightful excess of Carnevale, and the chance to see Italian masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery without the crowds of high season. With this winter guide to Florence and the city’s rich history and warm hospitality backgrounding your trip, you won’t need to look any further for the perfect winter getaway.

Florence’s best winter activities at a glance

Romantic winter spots for couples in Florence: Stroll through the Boboli Gardens or check out panoramic views of the city from the Piazzale Michelangelo.
Unique events that take place in Florence in winter: Explore the festive lights of the Green Line Festival or sample award-winning beers at the Birraio dell'Anno festival.
The top things to do for kids and families visiting Florence in winter: Explore the interactive science exhibits at the Galileo museum or sign up for a gelato- or pizza-making class.

1. See Florence’s Green Line Festival light displays

Every winter, Florence comes to life during Green Line Festival (formerly F-Light), which, quite literally, casts a new light on the city’s many historic landmarks. Running through much of December and early January, this festival brings video mapping, light installations, and festive effects to over 15 iconic spots, including the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio, proving that even in the depths of winter, Florence is still a city of life and expression.

Why do it in winter?

These light displays are exclusive to the winter season and offer a unique way to experience Florence’s beauty after dark.

2. Visit the Santa Croce Christmas market

There are several Christmas markets in Florence, but the one at Piazza di Santa Croce is the most expansive. Inspired by German Christmas customs, stalls, and goods, this traditional market is full of homemade food and drink from German and Italian cuisine and even festive foods from the Netherlands, such as stroopwafels, and Hungary, such as spit cakes (layered cakes)

Why do it in winter?

Don't miss the opportunity to taste seasonal specialties like panforte (a traditional Tuscan Christmas cake) or German-inspired strudel during this once-a-year market.

Address

Piazza di Santa Croce, 50122 Florenz, Italy.

Opening hours

Usually between November 28-December 20, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.

3. Sample award-winning Italian beers at the Birraio dell'Anno festival

The Birraio dell'Anno is a Florentine beer festival held over a weekend in January. Staged at the Teatro Cartiere Carrara, it features 100 beer taps from across Italy. Sample as many as you can and vote for the best, and stay for the awards ceremony at the end of the festival. The festival is one of the best beer-tasting tours in Florence and an opportunity to learn more about the city’s craft beer scene.

Why do it in winter?

Escape the winter chill while discovering the depth and variety of Italy's hidden craft beer scene.

Address and dates

Teatro Tuscanyhall, via Fabrizio de André angolo, Lungarno Aldo Moro, 3, 50136 Firenze FI. Two daily sessions of around 5 hours each on Saturday, followed by a single session on Sunday.

4. Take a day trip to Siena or Chianti

To expand your understanding of the Tuscan region, take a weekend trip to Siena, where you can tour its medieval streets, visit the historical Piazza del Campo, nosh on panforte (spiced fruitcake) and holiday cookies such as ricciarelli (soft almond cookies), and visit the Siena cathedral. Or make the 30-minute drive to Chianti, the Tuscan region known for its wines and iconic rolling hills, and stroll through the charming town known as Greve. Pair it with a glass of authentic Chianti wine for the perfect nightcap.

Address

Piazza del Campo: Il Campo, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
Greve: 50022 Florence, Italy.

5. Explore Florence’s many museums

Florence is the city that sparked the Renaissance, the impact of which cannot be understated. Explore this pivotal moment in artistic history in museums like the Uffizi Gallery, one of the best museums in Florence showcasing the art, inventions, and stories of famous Florentines like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Or take a day to take in the Boboli Gardens, a historic outdoor museum filled with Renaissance sculptures, fountains, and manicured pathways. Originally designed for the Medici family, the gardens additionally offer panoramic views of Florence and a peaceful escape from the city.

Why do it in winter?

The winter season is the best time to visit Florence’s top museums without the rush and overwhelm of large crowds.

Address and opening hours

Uffizi Galleries, Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 8:15 AM-6:30 PM.
Boboli Gardens, 50125 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence. Winter hours: Open daily, 8:15 AM-4:30 PM.

6. Celebrate Carnevale

While not as renowned as the Carnevale celebration in Viareggio, Florence’s historical location adds electric energy to all festivities, including a historical parade that showcases masks and costumes, masquerade balls at Palazzo Vecchio, and street performances. You can’t miss the seasonal treats, including cenci (sugar-dusted fried dough strips) and fritelle di riso (fried rice balls).

Why go in winter?

Tied to the date of Easter, carnevale celebrations usually occur mid- to late-February.

Address

Palazzo Vecchio: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

7. Join a workshop or class in the Oltrarno District

The Oltrarno district is Florence’s hub for craftsmanship, where artisans carry on centuries-old traditions. Wander its streets to find workshops and classes specializing in leather goods, jewelry, paper marbling, and intricate woodwork. Many artisans are happy to share insights into their creative processes, and it can be a fun way to bring home a one-of-a-kind Florentine souvenir.

Address

Oltrarno District, Florence.

Opening hours

Workshop hours vary, but most are open Monday to Saturday, late morning to early evening.

FAQs

What is Florence like in winter?

Florence in winter is mild, with average temperatures of 37-59 F (3-15 C). It can get cold during the evening and in the late season, so wrap up before leaving the house.

What are the best things to do in Florence in winter?

Florence’s Christmas lights and festive markets are a must-see when visiting in December. Otherwise, winter offers a unique opportunity to explore iconic Florentine landmarks and world-class museums with fewer crowds.

What is the off-season in Florence?

Winter is the off-season. As a result, there are fewer crowds, and flights to Florence in winter are usually cheaper.

Is December a good month to visit Florence?

If you love Christmas, it’s a great time to visit, as the city celebrates with parades, feasts, and light shows. You can discover some of the best activities in the above winter guide to Florence, but there are many more hidden Florentine gems.

Is Florence or Rome cooler?

The cities of Florence and Rome are fairly similar in terms of temperature; however, Rome is on average typically a bit warmer than Florence.