Florence weather in December
“Green, wet, atmospheric. Bring proper waterproofs.”
Roughly 12 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Florence brings crisp winter conditions with daytime temperatures around 11.8°C (53°F) and chilly nights dropping to 3.5°C (38°F). Expect moderate rainfall totaling roughly 104mm spread across 12 rainy days, so wet weather is common. Sunshine is limited to about 5.6 hours daily, creating those moody, atmospheric Florentine afternoons perfect for indoor exploration. The Arno often reflects grey skies, and the city takes on a quieter, more introspective character.
This is peak holiday season in Florence. The city decorates festively, and Christmas markets fill the piazzas with seasonal charm. Crowds thin considerably compared to summer and autumn, giving you breathing room at major attractions like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery. The atmosphere feels intimate rather than touristy—locals reclaim their city, and you'll experience Florence more authentically. December also means lower accommodation prices and shorter queues.
For 2026 travelers, December is ideal if you prefer fewer tourists and don't mind cooler, wetter weather. Book indoor activities like museums and galleries in advance. Pack layers and waterproof gear. The mild temperatures make walking manageable, and the reduced crowds make this one of the best months to visit Florence if you value experience over sunshine.
Skip Piazzale Michelangelo tourist crush and climb to San Miniato al Monte for the same view with Gregorian chants at 5:30pm daily. Real Florentines drink Negroni at Rivoire but eat lampredotto tripe sandwiches at Nerbone in Mercato Centrale before noon closure. Never order cappuccino after 11am. The Oltrarno artisan quarter still has gold-leaf gilders working street-level workshops on Via dei Serragli.
What to pack for Florence in December
December in Florence requires layering for temperatures between 3–12°C. Waterproof outerwear is essential with 12 rainy days typical. Comfortable walking shoes that handle wet streets are crucial. Bring accessories to trap warmth and stay dry.
- Lightweight wool sweater or merino base layer
- Waterproof rain jacket or trench coat
- Dark jeans or thermal leggings
- Waterproof walking boots or leather loafers
- Wool scarf, beanie, and insulated gloves
What to pack for Florence in December
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Packable rain jacketAmazon · shop this
- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Waterproof dry bagAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
We may earn a small commission on any purchase — it doesn't change the price you pay.
Where to stay in Florence
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Florence across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Estimated December trip to Florence
Peak season prices — book early or shift by 2–3 weeks to save. Rule-based estimates from a couple based in London — actual prices vary.
We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no cost to you. Estimates use rule-based averages; check partner sites for live pricing.
Delayed flight to Florence?
Flights to Florence in December can be delayed by storms. Claim up to €600 if yours is 3+ hours late. EU regulations cover flights departing from or arriving in the EU/UK.
Check compensation eligibility →Free check · Only pay if you get paid · Powered by Compensair.
Plan your Florence trip
Handpicked services from partners we trust. One tab for everything you'll need after the flight is booked.
Compare rooms in Florence on Booking.com.
Skip-the-line tickets, day trips, food walks and guided tours.
Skip-the-line tickets across Italy — Colosseum, Uffizi, Vatican.
Compare fares with cashback on every booking.
Instant data on arrival — no roaming charges, no SIM swap.
Flexible monthly coverage for trips of any length.
Compare 900+ rental brands with free cancellation.
Book a driver in advance — fixed price, no queue.
We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no cost to you.
Things worth doing
Explore the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Museum indoors, visit Christmas markets in Piazza della Signoria, attend classical concerts in historic churches, wander through quieter neighborhoods like Oltrarno.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Florence. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Florence
While December has its own character in Florence, the data-backed best months to visit Florence are March, April, June. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across an 11-year climate record (2015–2025).
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for FlorenceOther places with a similar climate right now
Florence in December — FAQ
Q01Should I visit Florence in December?
Should I visit Florence in December?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Florence averages a high of 12°C (53°F) and a low of 4°C (38°F), with 104mm of rainfall across roughly 12 rainy days. April-May and late September beat the 'ferragosto' August dead zone when Florentines flee to the coast and half the trattorias shutter for three weeks.
Q02What temperatures should I expect in Florence during December?
What temperatures should I expect in Florence during December?
The average high temperature in Florence during December is 12°C (53°F), with an average low of 4°C (38°F). These figures are averaged from 11 complete years of daily records (2015–2025, Open-Meteo Archive). January morning fog off the Arno hits 2C; leather markets on San Lorenzo half-close, but Fiorentina steak season peaks and Trippa stalls at Sant'Ambrogio thrive.
Q03Is December a rainy month in Florence?
Is December a rainy month in Florence?
Florence averages approximately 12 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 104mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days. November brings Arno flood anniversary tension every year; drainage grates get uncovered and Ponte Vecchio jewelers move stock upstairs after heavy rains.
Q04How should I dress for Florence in December?
How should I dress for Florence in December?
For Florence in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on 11 complete years of weather averages for this specific month. Compression socks for the 463 stone steps up Brunelleschi's Duomo which has no elevator and no rest platforms.
Q05Is December a busy travel month for Florence?
Is December a busy travel month for Florence?
Tourist crowds in Florence during December are typically moderate. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely. Skip Piazzale Michelangelo tourist crush and climb to San Miniato al Monte for the same view with Gregorian chants at 5:30pm daily. Real Florentines drink Negroni at Rivoire but eat lampredotto tripe sandwiches at Nerbone in Mercato Centrale before noon closure. Never order cappuccino after 11am. The Oltrarno artisan quarter still has gold-leaf gilders working street-level workshops on Via dei Serragli.