Top Winter Destinations to Visit in Italy

Italy is a part of the world that you might readily associate with blistering hot summer sunshine. You might think, perhaps, of a balmy summer evening spent dining by the sea on the Amalfi Coast, perhaps – or a stroll around Venice with your sunglasses on.

However, there are plenty of locations in this part of the world that are appealing when the weather is cold. Let’s take a look at a few of the best of them.

The Dolomites: A Winter Sports Paradise

The Dolomite mountains are truly spectacular when they’re blanketed in snow during the winter months, and they should be included on any Italy guided tour at this time of year. There are a number of world-class ski resorts here, including the famous Dolomiti Superski area, where there are more than 1,200 km of piste to explore – either on skis, a snowboard, or a pair of blades. There are also plenty of excellent apres-ski activities to enjoy, including restaurants, bars, and incredible spas.

Venice: The Enchanting Winter Carnival

Venice is a city that’s uniquely charming during winter. This appeal is clearest when the famous Carnival of Venice is in town, during late February. You can don a mask and a costume, and become an entirely different person. At this time of year, the tourist traffic tends to be lighter, too – which means you’ll have more space to really enjoy the city around you.

Rome: Historical Wonders Minus the Crowds

The same can be said of Rome during winter: the Eternal City is much easier to enjoy when there are fewer people in it. You can explore the Vatican, the Colosseum, and a range of other enormously popular tourist attractions, without having to contend with the crowds. There are a number of special seasonal events and festive markets to enjoy, too.

Sicily: Mild Winters and Rich Culture

If you’d rather avoid the really cold weather, Sicily, with its Mediterranean island climate, is an excellent choice. The island offers plenty of amazing ruins to uncover, as well as gorgeous little local markets where you can enjoy some of the cultural treasure that truly distinguishes the place. On top of that, there’s the famous food and drink that make Sicily so special. At this time of year, the pace is even more relaxed, making it a great choice for tourists looking to unwind.

Turin: A Blend of History and Winter Festivities

Turin during winter is a sight to behold, thanks to the incredible Luci d’Artista light displays, the rich baroque architecture, and the marvellous Christmas markets. You can also use a trip to this city as a staging ground for an adventure in the nearby Alps.