17 Best Places To Visit in Italy in winter

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Are you thinking about visiting Italy in winter? Then, this article is for you!

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and it should be on everyone’s travel bucket list!

While most visitors chose to come to Italy in summer, the country has also a lot to offer during the winter months.

Italy is blessed with several climates which means that depending on where you chose, you can either get some snow or some winter sun.

italy in winter
florence in winter

⏱️ IN A RUSH? Here is what you need to know about Italy in Winter

🌡️ Average temperature: 13°C – 55°F

🌞❄️ Climate: Winter sun in the South – Snow in the North

TOP 3 Places to visit in Italy in winter:

🏛️ Rome 🌋 Catania ⛷️ Courmayeur

It’s also a much better time if you like to stay away from the crowds. Most tourists have left and you get to enjoy all the attractions without having to queue for hours.

In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know about the weather at this time of the year and the best places to visit in Italy in winter.

Weather in Italy in winter

italy in winter

Italy is one of the best European countries to visit in winter.

The temperatures and weather vary a lot between the South and the North which means that you can get pretty much anything you want.

Northern Italy is known for its cold and snowy weather. That’s where you’ll find most of the ski resorts. 

For example, the average temperature in Turin and Milan is between 3°C and 8°C (37°F to 46°F).

In Southern Italy, you will get to enjoy some winter sun and mild temperatures (up to 16°C / 61°F).

This is an excellent place if you want to escape the cold of the winter.

No matter what, you should always plan to take a good coat and winter clothes.

Best places to visit in Italy in winter

Now that you know everything about the weather and temperatures, it’s time to discover where to go!

Visiting Italy during the winter is always an excellent idea.

It’s one of the most touristy countries in the world and it can get incredibly crowded in summer.

If you choose to visit in winter, you will get to discover some of the most famous spots without the crowds. This means no hassle and no waste of time!

Also, accommodation is usually much cheaper in winter (though this is not applicable for Christmas or in the ski resorts)

You can find below the best places to visit in Italy in winter.

1. Rome

trevi fountains rome

The capital city, Rome, is one of the most famous cities in Italy (and in the world).

While most people choose to visit during spring or summer, winter is actually an excellent season to discover the Eternal City as well.

Most tourists have gone home which means you will get to spend more time with the locals and discover what the city is really like!

It will also be much easier to visit the famous landmarks and museums as it’s less crowded and the queues are much shorter.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Rome in winter:

  • Christmas celebrations. As you can imagine, Christmas is a big deal in Rome. That’s where you can find the Vatican so it’s only normal that there is a lot going on in December and January. The Christmas masses in Rome are a beautiful thing to see. As there are hundreds of churches around the city, you’ll find plenty! There are also a lot of things happening on the 6th of January, for the Epiphany.
  • Nativity scenes. Rome is the perfect place to find beautiful nativity scenes. The largest is located in St Peter’s Square and is well worth a visit.
  • Christmas markets. You will find loads of small Christmas markets and lights all around the city. Piazza Navona is a particularly good spot for that.
  • Ice skating. There are many ice skating rinks that pops up around the city centre of Rome. The most famous one is located by Sant’Angelo Castle.
  • Visiting the Colosseum. This is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks so it won’t be surprising it made the list! In winter, the queues are much smaller so it makes it easier to visit. You should still book your ticket online to avoid wasting time.
  • Vatican museums. This is the perfect winter activity in Rome. Firstly, it’s indoor which means that you will escape the cold. Secondly, it’s nowhere as crowded in winter as it is in the summer, which makes the experience more pleasant.

READ MORE: The Perfect Rome 3 day itinerary: exactly how to spend 3 days in Rome, Italy

2. Venice

Venice in winter

Located in Northern Italy, Venice is known as the most romantic city in the world.

Entirely built on water, Venice is incredibly unique. There is nothing quite like it.

Unfortunately, it’s also known for being a place overrun by tourists. This is not the case during the winter months! 

While in spring and summer, it can get very crowded, Venice in winter is very pleasant.

It will be a bit cold so you need to make sure to pack a good coat and hat but you will get to enjoy the place (almost) to yourself.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Venice in winter:

  • Visiting the Doge’s Palace. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. Located by St Marks Square, the Doge’s Palace is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Venice and its previous rules. It’s also a great place to escape the cold as you will be mainly inside. To do that, make sure to book your ticket in advance. You can also opt for a guided tour.
  • Visiting La Fenice Opera House. This is another indoor activity that is perfect for a winter visit. It’s one of the most beautiful opera houses in Italy. Make sure to book your ticket online.
  • Walking tour. The best way to explore a city is to start with a walking tour. This is the case while visiting Venice in winter as well. The local guide will tell you everything you need to know about the history of Venice and the famous landmarks. He will also give you some insider tips to enjoy your visit. 
  • Day trip to Murano and Burano. These colourful islands near Venice are popular day trips. You can easily get there by taking one of the local vaporettis. Once on the islands, have a stroll around to discover the beautiful houses and go see some artisanal glassblowing. You can also book a day tour from Venice for this.

3. Florence

florence in winter

Last but not least: Florence.

Located in Tuscany, this sumptuous city is known for being the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

If you love art and culture, Florence will be your paradise!

It’s a great place to visit in Italy during the winter because most tourists have left. This means you get to discover what the Tuscan capital is really like! Fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation… winter is the perfect time!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Florence in winter:

  • Discovering the Christmas decorations. Florence is very well decorated in December and you will enjoy discovering all the lights. If you head to the Duomo, you’ll also find beautiful Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
  • Christmas markets. Italy is also home to some wonderful Christmas markets. If you’d like to get some festive food and mulled wine, head to Weihnachtsmarkt in Santa Croce Square.
  • Visit the Duomo of Florence. The cathedral is the most famous landmark in Florence and no matter what, you have to visit it. To do so, make sure to book your ticket in advance.
  • Visiting the Uffizi Gallery. This is one of the most famous museums in the world and a must-do while in Florence. It’s a particularly good activity in winter as it’s indoor (you’ll escape the cold) and it’s not as busy as during the summer months. You will find incredibly famous paintings such as The Birth of Venus (Botticelli). Make sure to book your ticket in advance here.
  • Going to see Michelangelo’s David. David is the most famous sculpture realised by Michelangelo and you’ll get to discover it in Florence. It’s located in the Accademia Gallery. You have to book your ticket in advance to be sure to get to see it.

4. Naples

naples things to do

Looking for a place to visit in Southern Italy in winter? Naples will be the perfect destination.

Known for its culinary culture (it’s the birthplace of the pizza after all!) and its friendly inhabitants, Naples is perfect for people who want to enjoy some winter sun and have an interest in history.

Naples was founded by the Greeks and later on became a very important Roman city. It also played an important role during the unification of Italy, the enlightenment and WWII.

Its historic centre has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Naples in winter:

  • Walking tour of the historic centre. With all the civilisations that built Naples, the city is an absolute paradise for history buffs. There is so much to discover! The local culture is also particularly interesting. If you want to discover more about this, make sure to join the local guided tour of the historic centre.
  • Discover the food. Neapolitan food is known as the best food in Italy. That says a lot about how good it is! The best way to experience the local delicacies here is to eat street food. Not only is it cheap but it’s also delicious. Make sure to get a pizza fritta for lunch and a Sfogliatelle for breakfast or afternoon snack. The Neapolitan Baba is also a must-try!
  • Day trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum. It would be impossible to visit Naples without going to Pompeii. Located only 1 hour away from Naples, Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. It’s literally an open-air museum. A must see!
  • Day trip to the Amalfi Coast. This popular summer destination is also a great place to visit during the winter. Of course, it’s unlikely you’ll go swimming at this time of the year but you can still discover the beautiful landscapes and colourful villages without the crowds.
  • Naples Underground. Located in the heart of the historic centre, Naples Underground is the perfect place to visit if you like unusual sights. It has played a very important role as an air raid shelter during WWII. You will also get to discover a Greek-Roman aqueduct that was found in one of the flats nearby.

READ MORE: Day trip from Naples to Pompeii

5. Courmayeur

Courmayeur, Italy in winter

Italy is widely known for its endless amount of skiing during the wintertime and that’s exactly what you will get in Courmayeur.

This small alpine resort is located in the Aosta Valley, at the foot of the famous Mont Blanc.

While it is the best place to go for snow skiing, Courmayeur offers more than a winter ski experience. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Courmayeur in winter:

  • Skyway Experience. The most famous attraction in Courmayeur is the Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco in Italian). No matter what, you cannot leave this town without taking a trip there. It’s the highest mountain in Western Europe! You can take the cable car to Punta Helbronner station and enjoy the stunning views! Click here to see the latest prices.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding. Courmayeur is home to one of the best ski resorts in Italy. You can get a ski pass and hit the slopes!
  • Warm-up in a cute café. Courmayeur has adorable cafes located throughout with fresh coffee and pastries. Experience a true Italian cafe breakfast that will leave your taste buds watering!
  • Enjoy the local cuisine. The dining choices are endless and if you are a foodie, you’ll want to plan ahead. If you don’t you’ll find yourself mindlessly scrolling through endless delicious options. If you are planning to go to a high rating restaurant you can always call to plan out when the best time would come to get in. 
  • Shop on Via Roma, a vintage-style street full of name brand shops and items. It is located in the historic centre and has some great merchandise, food and drinks to purchase. 

6. Catania

Visiting catania in winter

Located on the Eastern coast of Sicily, Catania is the perfect destination if you are looking for some winter sun!

It’s the second-largest city on the island and there are so many things you can do here!

Catania is mainly known for its location, at the foot of Mount Etna.

It’s a great destination for people who want to go on a city trip while still getting the opportunity to take some more nature day trips.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Catania in winter:

  • Walking tour of the city centre. There are many things to discover in the city centre of Catania including the beautiful cathedral of Sant’Agata, the Piazza del Duomo and the Castello Ursino. Joining a walking tour is a great way to discover all these sites as well as interesting facts about Catania.

Did you know? Part of the city was covered by the lava from Mount Etna in 1669. The new city was rebuilt on top of the old one. Unfortunately, Catania underground cannot be visited anymore but you can see parts of it around the city.

  • Street food tour. The local food in Catania is absolutely delicious. There are so many things you should try. Arancini, granita… Catania truly is a paradise for all foodies out there! If you want to make sure to get the best dishes and bites, join this food tour.
  • Day trip to Mount Etna and Taormina. These are two of the most beautiful places to visit in Sicily and you can easily get there on a day trip.

READ MORE: Catania Food Guide: what to eat in Catania and authentic culinary experiences

7. Cagliari

Located in the southern part of Sardinia, Cagliari is a beautiful spot that many tourists haven’t discovered yet. 

When you go, you’ll find fewer crowds of people, and this isn’t from the lack of things to do here. 

This city is rich in culture and architecture. 

It has a historical beauty to it that you can view yourself with minimal distractions. 

Cagliari is also a main port for cruises in the Mediterranean, in fact, it’s one of the best!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cagliari in winter:

  • Walking tour of the Old City. This is an excellent way to discover more about the city and its history. The local guides are very friendly and will give you loads of tips to enjoy this little city on foot. There are Four City Districts for you to explore in Cagliari. Each has its own unique architecture, dining, shops, and outdoor activities.
  • Bike tour of Cagliari. If you don’t fancy walking, you can opt for a bike tour. It’s good fun!
  • Underground City. Many Italian cities have underground cities (Naples, Catania and more…), Cagliari is no exception and the great thing here is that the Underground can actually be visited.
  • Discover the local cuisine. As Cagliari City centre is quite small, shops and restaurants are all within a short walking distance. There are many restaurants where you can get traditional Sardinian food.
  • Pasta cooking class. If you’d love to be able to make delicious pasta back home, you can book a cooking class with a local. You’ll learn plenty, have fun and of course, get to eat pasta!
  • Wine tour of Sardinia. There are a lot of wineries in Sardinia and if you are foodie, you can join this cool day tour.
  • Check out the nightlife! If you aren’t exhausted from a full day of exploring the city, check out the great nightclubs and bars open throughout the evening. It is full of life, fun, and music. 

8. Alberobello

Alberobello in puglia italy

Located near Bari, in the Puglia region, Alberobello is one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy

Mostly known for their little white huts, named Trulli, Alberobello makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie scene. 

The houses are uniquely designed with whitewashed colours. In the wintertime, it is even more magical. 

With snow filling the ground, and the rooftops, it is a winter wonderland.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Alberobello in winter:

  • Just explore! This is a city to walk around and look at the buildings throughout. It is the perfect place to grab some incredible photos and see historical landmarks. If you are interested in learning more about the Trulli and the history of Alberobello, you can join a walking tour. It’s well worth it!
  • Discovering the beaches. The city is located in Puglia, which is one where you can find a beach with crystal blue water ( I mean it is picture-worthy). 
  • Food tour of Alberobello. Puglia is known as one of the best places in Italy in terms of food so if you want to discover all the local delicacies and listen to some folklore stories, joining a food tour will be the perfect thing to do.
  • Visit the Gargano National Park while you are here. You will find white rocks all around and a large white rock castle. Once you’re done exploring the National Park you can lay out of the white sandy beach until the sun goes down. 
  • Cooking class. If you love local activities, join this cooking class in a local farmhouse. You’ll learn how to make a 4-course meal and of course, will eat plenty!

9. Lecce

Lecce is also another town in Puglia that is known as one of the “Most Beautiful Cities”. 

Lecce is located in the southern part of Italy and it’s a great place to enjoy some winter sun! 

There are historical museums and landmarks throughout but the majority of this town will be soaking in the beauty and history. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Lecce in winter:

  • Lecce Cathedral. If there is one landmark to visit here it is the Lecce Cathedral. This magnificent church dates back to the 1100s and the 17th century. The detail and history have been kept up for years to keep the beauty of this Cathedral going. 
  • Roaming around town. The piazzas are a must here in Lecce. Those picture-perfect European alleyways you see on social media and wonder to yourself “where is that?”, this is where you will find them. Not only will you grab some great pictures but you’ll also find some great coffee and food here.
  • Walking tour. If you want to learn more about the history of Lecce, join the local walking tour. It’s super interesting! You can also opt for a food tour during which you will try some of the best local specialities and learn about the city too!
  • The Roman Theatre is another historical landmark not to miss here. It dates back to the 2nd century, with an indoor and outdoor area to explore. Inside you will find a museum-going over the history of the theatre.
  • Take day trips. There are a lot of cute towns and beautiful beaches near Lecce and winter is a great time to explore them. The crowds have left and you can fully enjoy the places. You can for example opt for this day tour that includes Alberobello, Polignano and Ostuni.

10. Madonna di Campiglio

Madonna di Campiglio. Italy in winter

This is another very large ski resort in Italy, that is highly popular with locals and tourists for high-end snow skiing. 

It is located in the valley of Brenta Dolomites Mountain. 

You can choose from miles and miles of different slope trails in this ski resort. 

The trails mostly range from intermediate skill to expert skill level. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Madonna di Campiglio in winter:

  • Skiing and snowboarding. This goes without saying but obviously the very best thing to do in Madonna di Campiglio in winter is hitting the slopes! You’ll find over 150km of slopes, mainly red but also loads of blue and black ones.
  • Go out in town and try out the restaurants and bars in Madonna di Campiglio. This town is accessible by walking, gondola or bikes. It is car-free, so enjoy the outdoor area, scenic views, and people around you. 
  • Guided tour. Find a guide to take you through the best trails and around the mountain ski resort. You can always choose to ski without a guide but guides will know the ins and outs of the trails, shortcuts, and even tell you a bit of history during your tour. 
  • Paragliding. If you aren’t afraid of heights, paragliding is a must-do in Madonna di Campiglio. Soar across the tops of the mountain and terrain below. You’ll get to see Italy from a whole new angle from above!

11. Val di Funes

Val di Funes, Italy in winter

Val di Funes is a beautiful town in Italy known for its rolling hills. 

Those beautiful green hills you see in the Sound of Music, well they aren’t these exact ones but the landscaping is almost identical. 

It is a quiet valley full of churches all around. 

Many walk from the villages into the valley where the churches are located throughout. 

Some steeples are so high that they can be seen over the rolling hills.

This town turns into a small snowy escape during the wintertime, enough to enjoy the outdoors and walk through the snow. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Val di Funes in winter:

  • Snowshoeing in the Dolomites. There are 9 different trails and hikes to choose from all ranging in difficulty and length. If you are an outdoor lover or love a good scenic hike, these trails will surely not disappoint. You can rent your snowshoes from a local shop or opt for a guided tour (this is recommended)
  • Skiing. Downhill skiing is not the main activity here as there is only 1km of slopes however it is an option. If you’d like to ski though, backcountry skiing will be a much better option. There are loads of trails that you can take and it’s a great way to discover the stunning views of Sud Tyrol.
  • Tiso Mineral Museum. There is a great Museum in Val di Funes highlighting the history of the alpine minerals. It is open to the public daily and is a great little taste of Italian history. 
  • Enjoy a picnic on the hill. The landscape of this valley is the perfect area to grab some picnic items and take them up to a spot of your liking. Of course in winter, there is snow everywhere so you need to be dressed according but if you have ski clothing, you’ll enjoy it! Relax on the hilltop, soak in the views, snap a few pictures and notice the relaxing calm this valley has. 

12. Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and has some of the oldest tombs located in its cathedrals. 

It is a beautiful city filled with history and unique architecture. 

Locals in Sicily are known as being very friendly and welcoming to others, including tourists. 

It is the largest luxury city in the world with elegant landscaping, large mansions, and palaces throughout. 

The weather during the wintertime stays pretty mild. It rarely gets cold enough here to snow. There are a lot of sunny days and opportunities to be outside and enjoy the city. 

It’s also a much quieter time to visit. Most tourists have gone and you really get to discover what the local life is like. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Palermo in winter:

  • Street Food tour. Street Food is huge in Sicily and it’s definitely something you need to experience. Arancini, granite… there are so many delicious things to try! If you are a foodie and want to discover the best local street food, you should consider joining a local food tour. The local guide will make you try some delicious sicilian foods and tell you story about the city.
  • Old Town Bike Tour. If you are a bit of a history buffs who loves to have fun then opt for a bike tour around the Old Town. It’s such a fun way to discover the city while learning plenty!
  • Walk around in the Botanical Gardens of Palermo. This is a semi-large space in Palmero shaped in a square and designed for walking paths in all different directions. 
  • Capo Street Markets. Palermo is known for its amazing markets. Here you’ll find delicious fresh products and local products. No matter what, make sure to visit at least one of them. The markets on Capo Street are particularly well known. If you want to learn more about the markets, you can also choose to join a market tour of Palermo.
  • The Palermo Cathedral is an obvious must-see. With intricate detail, rich history, and artifacts this building is captivating. 
  • Archaeological Museum. Many people go to Italy to experience the rich history, beautiful cathedrals, old palaces, and large mansions. Italy is truly a place for history nuts. When visiting Palermo, you need to check out the Archaeological Museum. This museum holds artifacts from decades before and ancient Greek Art. 
  • Day trip to Agrigento. Palermo is located a couple of hours from Agrigento and the Valley of Temples. This is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Europe and is a must-see in Sicily. If you have a spare day, make sure to go on a day trip to Agrigento.

13. Amalfi Coast

Positano in Italy

Located near the beautiful city of Naples, the Amalfi Coast is a hot tourist area year-round in Italy but winter is definitely the best time to visit if you want to stay away from the crowds.

Most tourists come here in summer, spring or even autumn but in the wintertime, you get to enjoy a bit more of an authentic experience. 

The Amalfi Coast is a coast surrounded by large mountainous terrain. Along the coast are some small towns and beaches to explore with great restaurants, bars, and shops. 

There is no limit to luxury or high-quality items along Amalfi Coast. You can find high-quality hotels, restaurants, and shopping. 

Here are some ideas of things to do on the Amalfi Coast in winter:

  • Visit the town of Positano and look at the picture-worthy homes on the mountainside. You can capture the draw-dropping view of the pastel homes staggered alongside the mountainside. It is the picture-perfect moment you only see in photos. 
  • The town of Amalfi is another town along the coast to explore. It is larger than the other towns along the coast, with the only town to have its own Cathedral. Find dining options here to enjoy the views and the fresh Italian food. 
  • Tour the Emerald Cave (Grotta dello Smeraldo) located just outside of Amalfi. The guide takes you around the cave in a boat pointing out historical and geographical landmarks. The cave is lit up by natural emerald light which is beautiful in and of itself. 
  • Sorrento. Sorrento is the main town on the Amalfi Coast and a great place to visit if you like to roam around cute towns. You can easily get there from Naples with the circumvesuviana train.
  • Day trip to Capri. Capri is one of the most famous islands in Italy and you can easily get there from the Amalfi Coast. You can book a boat tour here.

14. Turin

Turin, Italy in winter

Turin is the capital of Piedmont Italy but used to be the capital of Italy itself. 

This city has a large military history dating back to the Romans. 

It is known for its delightful cuisine and world-class dining areas. The Swiss Alps are located off in the distance towards the Northside of the city. 

It is a remarkable sight to see when the sun starts to set.

It gets quite cold in Turin in winter. After all, it has hosted the Winter Olympics before so it is definitely a snowy place but it’s still a great destination for people looking for a winter city break.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Turin in winter:

  • The Turin Egyptian Museum is a fun way to learn the historical and educational background of the Egyptians. It has display cases of artefacts and collections from hundreds of years. It’s the most famous museum in the city and well worth a visit if you are interested in Ancient Egypt. Make sure to book your ticket in advance.
  • Royal Palace. As previously mentioned, Turin used to be the capital city so it’s only normal you’d find a royal palace here. It’s absolutely stunning and a great place to discover beautiful examples of Italian art.
  • Walking tour of the city. Turin was a very important city in Italy and there are so many things to know about it. The best way to discover more about Turin and its role is to join a walking tour. The local guide will also give you many tips to enjoy the rest of your stay. Make sure to wear a hat and a good coat though as you’ll be outside and it can be a bit cold.
  • The National Cinema Museum is located in the Mole Antonelliana tower. This museum houses large collections of movie reels, props, books, and other miscellaneous objects. This museum is five stories high with a different theme on each level. 
  • Palace of Venaria. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most famous landmarks in Turin. It is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a must-see!
  • Food tour. If you love Italian food and want to try the very best dishes, you could choose to join a food tour, patisserie tour or even take a cooking class!
  • Discover the wine bars in town. The delicious wine tastings are a must-do in Italy. Turin has great choices of wine cellars and tastings to choose from. The wine is made fresh every day from the grapes of Italy. 

15. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d Ampezzo in winter

Cortina d’Ampezzo is located in the Dolomites and is a large ski resort for locals and tourists to visit. 

It is known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites” due to the beauty of this area and where it is located in the Dolomites Heritage Center. 

This destination offers sporting activities, skiing, and history. The snow is abundant during the wintertime, which is why this is the perfect destination to ski.

It will also host the 2026 Winter Olympics so that gives you an idea of how great this place is if you are looking for a skiing holiday in Italy.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo in winter:

  • Winter sport. Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the best ski resorts in Italy so winter sports are the main activities here. You’ll find hundreds of kilometres of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. If you’d rather explore at a slower pace, you can also opt for cross-country skiing.
  • Take a guided tour through the Dolomites. Snowshoeing in the Dolomite Mountain with a guide is an amazing way to discover the area. They will take you through the valleys and the peaks, all while soaking in the living nature surrounding you. 
  • Shop around in the Cooperativa di Cortina. You can find everything from fancy wines to winter gloves here. This shopping area has been open for over 100 years giving shoppers a high-quality experience every time. 
  • Take a bus tour along the Dolomites and sightsee on your way up the mountainside. This is a fun ride to take up the mountain with gorgeous views and a bit of a drop-off on one side. Don’t be scared, these are professional tours and enjoyed by many.
  • Discovering stunning views. The best viewpoints in the area are Lagazuoi, Monte Cristallo and Tofana di Rozes. They boast breath-taking views of the Dolomites.

16. Livigno

Livigno in winter

Livigno sits right on the border of Italy and Switzerland. 

The snow is endless here during the wintertime, the beautiful ski town is one to enjoy year-round with family or friends, but in the wintertime, the abundance of white snow fills the ground. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Livigno in winter:

  • The Mottolino Gondola takes you up the mountain to the top of the ski slopes. If you haven’t ridden a Gondola, I encourage you to take this fun trip up the mountain for fun or to ski. 
  • Take a ski tour through the mountains with a professional guide to show you the Livigno experience.  
  • Chiesa di San Rocco is a religious and historical part of Livigno. It is a small church with a lot of rich history to experience. 

17. Milan

milan in winter

Located in Northern Italy, Milan is one of the best cities to visit if you love fashion or are looking for a girls trip in Europe!

Milan is home to two airports and there are a lot of low-cost flights that go there. For this reason, it’s an excellent destination if you are on a budget and looking for a cool winter city break in Italy.

Unlike other destinations mentioned here, Milan is quite a cold place in winter. It’s very close to the Alps (which is why you can also visit it on your way to a ski resort) so temperatures tend to be under 10C.

That having been said, there are loads of indoor activities you can do and it’s nothing a good coat and hat can’t fix.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Milan in winter:

  • Visiting the Duomo of Milan. Located in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Milan is the most iconic landmark in the city. As you stand in front of it, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of this unique white gothic building. To visit it, you’ll need to buy your ticket in advance. It also includes access to the rooftop terrace that boasts some of the best views of the city.
  • Visiting La Scala Theatre. This is one of the most famous Opera houses in the world and no trip to Milan would be complete without visiting it. The interior is absolutely stunning!
  • Discovering the Last Supper, one of Da Vinci’s most famous paintings. Yes, you’ve read that right! If you love art and are looking for the ultimate experience in Milan, then this should be on top of your bucket list. Make sure to book your ticket in advance though. It doesn’t get too crowded in winter but better to be on the safe side.

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