Winter is a fantastic time to visit because there are a lot of things to do in Florence in December, when the city glows with Christmas lights.
Even though most people travel to Florence during the high season (from spring to late summer), winter is a fantastic time to visit because there are a lot of things to do in Florence in December. You’ll discover that in Florence, it doesn’t get too cold, and Christmas decorations are taken very seriously in the city of the Renaissance.
As a matter of fact, Florence locals love embracing the Christmassy atmosphere, strolling around the city center with their family and friends, eating comforting food, having hot drinks, and buying gifts for their loved ones.
Visit the Santa Croce Christmas Market
Every year, the city organizes a traditional German Christmas market in Piazza Santa Croce. Most Florentines visit it, as it’s a great occasion to get together. You can enjoy a warm drink, like mulled wine or hot chocolate, or you can drink beer or juice. Have a hot dog or a typical Florentine sandwich, or you can snack on something sweeter like cake or candy apples. Looking for non-touristy souvenirs? Purchase candle holders, Christmas tree decorations, or comfy scarves or gloves.
Go See the Nativity Scene
Every year, Santa Maria del Fiore displays a nativity scene in front of the Duomo. This scene is very particular to Florence because it was made by a local artist with local materials. Although this scene is very popular, at this time of the year, you can see Nativity scenes in most churches.
Have a Warm Drink in the City Center.
Italy’s national drink is coffee, but tea and hot chocolate have become more popular in the last few years. The perfect time to enjoy these hot drinks is the Christmas season, when you can sit down in front of the fireplace or in a warm café as a break from your afternoon walk and sip hot beverages.
Go to a Performance at Teatro del Maggio
If you love ballet or opera music, this is a great time to book a show at the theatre Teatro del Maggio at the Leopolda station. Teatro del Maggio is a beautiful theater that opened in 2011 and is worth checking out. You can go to enjoy a traditional Christmassy Nutcracker ballet performance, or catch an Italian opera by Puccini or Verdi.
Visit a Museum
December is the perfect time to visit a museum or an exhibition you’ve been meaning to visit. The most popular museums are the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia delle Belle Arti, the Bargello and the main cathedrals (Santa Maria del Fiore, Santa Croce, Santa Maria Novella and more). If you like a mix of modern and ancient art, visit the family-friendly Palazzo Strozzi Museum.
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