Florence in December | Weather, Museums, Attractions & More
Florence, the capital province of the Tuscany region in Italy, is Europe’s open-air museum of Renaissance art. Landmarks like Florence Duomo, Palazzo Pitti, Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, and Boboli Gardens are all exceptional examples of classic European architecture and design. The interiors of these historic attractions also speak volumes of the opulence and history of the city of Florence. Their highly commendable collections of artworks include pieces by Michaelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, and many other renowned artists. Here’s all you need to know to plan your trip to Florence in December.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Florence?
Florence is one of the cheaper European countries to visit in December to experience the festive season with fewer crowds and greater discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings.
Why You Should Visit Florence in December
- Enjoy snow-free winters in Europe.
- December is part of the shoulder season in Florence, meaning lesser waiting times at tourist hotspots.
- Relish the Christmas & New Year festivities without the holiday season crowds.
- Check out the Christmas markets, go ice skating, watch the Light Festival, or attend Bryan Adams’ live concert!
- Flight tickets and hotels are cheaper as it is off-peak season.
What to Look Out for
- Carry an umbrella as Florence gets a few showers in December.
- Cover yourself well as December is chilly and windy in Florence.
- December days are only around nine hours long. So plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Tickets to tourist hotspots may run out soon owing to the festive season local crowds. So make sure you book yours well in advance.
- Due to restricted crowds, some attractions may require you to book a timeslot before visiting.
Overview of Weather in Florence in December
December marks the beginning of winter in Florence, with the days being cold and nights very chilly. The shortest days in Florence are seen this month, under a mostly clouded sky. It rains for around 5 - 8 days, but hardly ever snows.
Average Temperature: High - 11.1 ℃ Low - 2.6 ℃
Average Rainfall: 81.3 mm
Daily Wind Speed: 7 miles per hour
Average Daylight Hours: 9
Best Time to Visit FlorenceMore About Weather in Florence in December
Is Florence cold in December?
December marks the onset of winter in Florence with the temperature dropping as low as 2.6 ℃. The strong winds make the nights feel even more chilly.
Can you swim in Florence in December?
Cold swimming is the only option in Florence in December as the sea temperature is around 15 ℃.
Is it sunny in Florence in December?
December is generally cloudy in Florence. The days are the shortest of the year, with just about 9 hours of daylight and 3 hours of sunshine.
Is it rainy in Florence in December?
It rains for around 5 - 8 days in Florence in December, accumulating an average of 81.3 mm of rainfall.
Best Things to do in Florence in December
1. Uffizi Gallery
Art Gallery | Tourist Hotspot
Uffizi Gallery in Florence houses the world’s largest collection of Italian Renaissance art, amidst sculptures and paintings from the 12th to the 17th century. Some of the artists featured at the gallery include Michaelangelo, Caravaggio, Giotto, Botticelli, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and many others. The gallery is comparatively less crowded in December.
December Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM (Exit at 6:30 PM)
2. Florence Duomo
UNESCO Site | Tourist Hotspot
Florence’s most iconic Duomo is best known for the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, which is the third-largest church in the world. This Gothic church from the Renaissance also comprises five must-see attractions - Brunelleschi's Dome, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Santa Reparata Church, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Museum of the Opera del Duomo - which is all decorated during the festive season in December.
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3. Accademia Gallery
Art Gallery | Top Attraction
Home to Michelangelo’s David, the Accademia Gallery, is an 18th-century art school turned into a museum. Apart from classic paintings and sculptures, the Gallery also has a new section opened to be the Museum of Musical Instruments. Admire these artworks at your own pace in the less crowded month of December.
December Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:45 PM (Last entry at 5:45 PM)
from €20
4. Boboli Gardens
Open-Air Museum | UNESCO Site
The Boboli Gardens is a historic park that developed across 45 hectares of land, between the 15th and the 19th centuries. Today, it is the largest open-air museum in Florence, brimming with sculptures, fountains, and grottoes. Make sure to carry your umbrella, when you go strolling at the Upper Botanical Garden and the Viale dei Cipressi in December.
December Timings: Daily from 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM) Closed on the 5th, the 25th, and the 26th of December
from €20
5. Palazzo Pitti & Palatine Gallery
Museum | Historical Monument
The Palazzo Pitti is the largest museum complex in Florence. The list of museums at the Palace includes the Royal Apartments, the Palantine Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Treasury of the Grand Dukes (the Silver Museum), the Porcelain Museum, the Carriage Museum, and the Museum of Costume and Fashion. You will find shorter queues at these museums in December.
December Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 1:30 PM to 6:50 PM | Closed: 25 December
6. Museo del Bargello
Art Museum | Historical Monument
Museo del Bargello is housed in a 13th-century palace, which is the oldest public building in Florence. It is an art museum having one of the largest collections of Renaissance sculptures like Donatello’s marble statue of David. It also holds collections of ceramics, enamels, textiles, tapestries, waxes, ivory, silver, armor, and coins. Make sure the museum is open on your desired dates in December before booking.
December Timings: 8:15 AM to 1:50 PM
7. Palazzo Vecchio
Town Hall | Top Attraction
Florence’s town hall, Palazzo Vecchio is a museum with a viewing tower and patrol watch walkway. A Medieval fortress built over Roman ruins that houses artworks from the Renaissance period is definitely a building that encapsulates Florentine history. Do make sure to visit this place in December when there are fewer crowds.
December Timings: Friday to Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM | Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
from €17
8. Medici Chapels
Tomb Museum | Top Attraction
The museum and the burial place of the Medici family are together called the Medici Chapels. They were built next to the Basilica di San Lorenzo by Michelangelo and Buontalenti between the 16th and 17th centuries. The main highlights of the attraction are the Chapel of the Princes and the Sagrestia Nuova (New Sacristy), both of which are less crowded in December.
December Timings: Wed - Fri 1:15 PM - 6:50 PM | Sat - Mon 8:15 AM - 1:50 PM
9. Siena Cathedral
Church | Historical Monument
Siena Cathedral is a church with an opulent facade, interiors decorated with white and green marble, and admirable examples of renaissance art. While the Piccolomini Library features Pinturicchio’s frescoes, Sienese paintings from the 13th to the 18th century can be found in the Crypt, the Museo dell'Opera, and at the Baptistry of San Giovanni. Explore the cathedral without much waiting time in December.
December Timings: Mon - Sat 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) | Sundays and Dec 25th: from 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
from €12
10. Day Trip to Pisa
Day Trip | International Landmark
A trip to the historic city of Pisa is mandatory for any Italian holiday. While you are in Florence, this becomes even more convenient. In one day, you can see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Piazza Dei Miracoli, and even drop by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Gimignano on your way. Choose from the many half-day and full-day trips offered in December.
from €24
11. Wine Tasting at Chianti
Day Trip | Culinary Experience
A bus ride from Florence to Chianti is a scenic one with hilly greens, some historic landmarks, and insta-worthy photo points on the way. Get the ultimate experience of the Tuscan countryside, walking through the vineyards and tasting wine at the traditional wineries. Do remember to take home a few bottles of wine as Christmas gifts while you visit in December.
Day Trips from Florence
12. Day Trip to Cinque Terre
Day Trip | Nearby City
Discover the Italian coastal city of Cinque Terre, which is only a coach ride away from Florence. The colorful fishing villages, narrow cobbled lanes, and picturesque viewpoints of the city are sure to mesmerize you. Do try out the authentic Italian seafood while you are there in December and if you do not mind the cold beach waters, do dip in for a swim too!
from €24Festivals in Florence in December
Weihnachtsmarkt Santa Croce
Venue: Piazza of the Basilica di Santa Croce, Florence
Dates: 28th November 2022 - 20th December 2022
The Weihnachtsmarkt market at Santa Croce is a 500-year-old annual Christmas tradition in Florence. From 10 am to 10 pm every day, the Christmas market is lined with wooden stalls selling festive delicacies, novelties, and gifts. Here you will find local treats like bratwurst, pretzels, chimney cake, and mulled vine, amongst Dutch crepes and waffles and Austrian pastries.
Know more
Florence Ice Village
Venue: Garden of the Fortezza da Basso, Florence
Dates: 3rd December 2022 - 15th January 2023
To mark the festive season in Florence, the Garden of the Fortezza da Basso is transformed into a Christmas theme park, every December. The highlights of the Ice Village are a large ice rink and a giant Ferris wheel, running from 10 am to midnight every day. The park also hosts a plethora of events and activities for people of all age groups.
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F-Light Festival (Firenze Light Festival)
Venue: All over Downtown Florence
Dates: 8th December 2022 - 9th January 2023
All of Florence gets lit up in colors throughout the festive season. The Firenze Light Festival is all about giant light fixtures, illuminated facade displays, and zazzy light shows across the city. The ‘Reflections’ themed light festival that begins with the Christmas tree lighting in front of the Duomo, is definitely something to look out for in December.
Know moreEvents in Florence in December
Massimo Ranieri Live Show
Venue: Teatro Verdi, Florence
Date: 5th December 2022
Italian singer, actor, and TV host, Massimo Raniera is bringing his theatric presence once again to the stages of Florence. His latest show titled ‘Il Nuovo Spettacolo’ is said to be an extraordinary experience taking the audience through a journey of cult songs, skits, dances, comedy sketches, and unpublished stories. Get ready to be enchanted by this master storyteller in December.
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Daniele Silvestri Concert
Venue: Theatro Verdi, Florence
Date: 7th December 2022
Italian singer, songwriter, and musician, Daniele Silvestri is performing live in Florence this December, as part of his first tour since the pandemic. The concert would be in two parts - the first with his new songs, and then the best of his works from 1994 - 2019.
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Bryan Adams Live Concert
Venue: Nelson Mandela Forum, Florence
Date: 8th December 2022
World-famous Canadian singer, musician, and songwriter, Bryan Adams, will be performing in Florence this December, as part of his ‘So Happy It Hurts’ Europe Tour. It is going to be Adams’ first concert in Florence after 28 years, making it a much-awaited event for locals and tourists alike. So make sure to buy your tickets well in advance.
Know moreKnow Before You Visit Florence in December
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) is used in Florence which is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+02:00).
- Currency: Euro | EUR | €
- Language: Italian
- Country code: +39
- Emergency number: Dial 112 for police, fire, and medical services.
What to wear in Florence in December
- Wear a poncho or raincoat while stepping out on rainy days.
- Waterproof boots are also advised on days with rains in the forecast.
- Gloves, scarves, and thick jackets to keep you comfortable in the cold and windy weather.
- Heavy woolen clothing is recommended as Florence is cold in December
- Florence is a city best seen on foot. So do wear comfortable walking shoes over a pair of thick socks.
What to Pack For Florence in December
- December is slightly rainy in Florence. So, do carry an umbrella, a poncho or raincoat, and a pair of rain boots.
- A comfortable pair of walking shoes is a must as there is a lot to explore in Florence on foot.
- Heavy woolen clothes and a pair of gloves to stay comfortable in the cold.
- Do remember to pack scarves and thick jackets for the cold and windy days.
- A few pairs of thick socks will keep you warmer on your Florence outings.
- 3-pin to 2-pin converter plugs with round pins for the C, F, and L type sockets found in Florence.
Getting Around Florence in December
- By Bus: Florence has a well-connected network of electric mini buses run by Autolinee Toscane that takes you all around Tuscany. They offer tickets digitally on the Tabnet app and via text message by sending “Firenze” to 4880105. Physical tickets are available at vending machines, authorized stores, and official ticketing offices.
- By Tram: Trams in Florence are available from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM. Although the connectivity is limited, it helps dodge peak traffic hours. Tram tickets can be bought physically at vending machines, official ticket offices, and registered retail stores.
- By Cab: You may be surprised to know that in Florence you cannot just wave down a cab running on the street and hop in. To get a cab, you must either go to the designated taxi stand at the nearest square or book one through your phone.
Taxi pre-boking numbers: 0554242 / 0554390 / 0554798 / 0554499
Taxi pre-booking app: Taxi 4242 app
Where to Stay in Florence in December
Whether you decide to stay in the historic center, residential areas, or outskirts of the city, Florence has a good variety of hotel and resort options for different budgets.
- Budget: Best Western Plus CHC Florence, Relais Lavagnini Florence, Hotel Bavaria
- Mid-Range: Hotel Botticelli, Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio, Starhotels Michelangelo Florence
- Luxury: Portrait Firenze - Lungarno Collection, IL Tornabuoni The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy
What to eat in Florence in December
Italian cuisine is one of the most loved around the world. Their food is mostly wheat-based and flavored with basic natural ingredients like salt, pepper, mushrooms, and chestnuts. Let's have a look at some of the staples of the city of Florence.
- Lasagna: Lasagna is a dish you will find on every menu across Florence. It is authentically made by layering homemade pasta sheets with a meat sauce béchamel sauce known as ‘Ragu’ and Mozzarella or Parmigiano - Reggiano cheese.
- Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini E Tartufo: As the name suggests, this classic Florentine dish is tagliatelle pasta with mushrooms and truffle. Made with long, flat strips of homemade pasta and two types of mushroom - truffle and porcini - this is a must-try while in Florence.
- Schiacciata Fiorentina: The dessert that Florence is most famous for, Schiacciata Fiorentina, is a slightly yellow sponge cake dusted with powdered sugar, trademarked by a stenciled fleur-de-lys of cocoa on top. Do try it at one of the local cafes when you visit in December.
Hacks & Tips to Visit Florence in December
- While making your bookings, do look for the best discounts on air tickets and hotels as December is part of the shoulder season in Florence.
- If day trips to other cities are on your itinerary, ensure you make your bookings well in advance, as they may run out soon.
- When visiting neighboring cities in December, remember to check out the Christmas markets and festivities in those cities too.
- Since most museums and top attractions are within walking distance from each other, you may plan your itinerary clubbing them together.
- Look into discounted and combination tickets for attractions before booking to get the best deals and save some money.
- Although Florence is windy and chilly in December, the is less chance of seeing snow.
- It is advised to keep yourself fully covered and warm while stepping out as December in Florence can be very cold.
- Although Florence receives only a few showers in December, it is better to carry an umbrella while stepping out.
- Rooms in Florence come with 2-pin sockets which use C-type, F-type, and L-type plugs. Remember to carry a converter plug if your electronic items and chargers have a different pin type.
- If you are a woman returning to your hotel alone at night, taking a cab may be your safest means of transport.
Explore Florence Through the Year
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Florence in December
December is a good time to visit Florence and experience the festive season with fewer crowds and greater discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings.
Florence is packed with many historic sights, magnificent churches, and a myriad of renaissance museums. In December, you can also enjoy the Christmas festivities in the city and explore the cities of Pisa, Chianti, Cinque Terre, and Siena as well.
December marks the onset of winter in Florence with the temperature dropping as low as 2.6 ℃. The strong winds make the nights feel even more chilly.
Florence is cold in December with the maximum temperature going up to 11.1 ℃.
Cold swimming is the only option in Florence in December as the sea temperature is around 15 ℃.
December is generally cloudy in Florence. The days are the shortest of the year, with just about 9 hours of daylight and 3 hours of sunshine.
Heavy woolen clothing is recommended to be worn in Florence in December. Gloves, scarves, thick jackets, and thick socks are needed to keep you warm and comfortable. It is advised to carry water-repelling clothes like raincoats, ponchos, and rain boots for the few rainy days as well.
It rains for around 5 - 8 days in Florence in December, accumulating an average of 81.3 mm of rainfall.
If visiting in December, Florence is one of the cheapest European countries to go to. Since it is the shoulder season, you can expect to get great bargains on airfare and hotel tariffs, if you book in advance. Moving around in buses or by foot will also help you stay within budget.
The crime rates in Florence are pretty low, with occasional instances of pickpocketing or theft. However, some parts of the city may not be so safe at night, especially for women. Remember 112 is the emergency contact number for police, fire services, and medical help.
December in Florence although chilly, offers tourists a lot of indoor attractions to truly experience Renaissance art and architecture. With fewer crowds, you can comfortably visit the Florence Duomo, Palazzo Pitti, Palazzo Vecchio, Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, Museo del Bargello, and Medici Chapels in December.
December in Florence is packed with opera performances and live music concerts. Massimo Ranieri’s spectacular show and the Bryan Adams concert are two events not to be missed out this December.
The average temperature in Florence during December ranges from 2.6 ℃ to 11.1 ℃.
The Christmas festivities like the Ice Village and the Weihnachtsmarkt market are the highlights of Florence, in December, while the Light Festival lights up the entire city.