Winter In Italy - Is It Worth It? (Plus 4 Of Our Favorite Winter Destinations)
Many associate Italy with summer vacation; drinking aperol spritz next to the ocean, boating around Capri, or soaking up the sun at Lake Como. But those seeking a more relaxed (and often times more affordable) trip may consider the late Fall and Winter months. Though there may not be summer weather in much of the country, winter comes with less crowds, distinct seasonal beauty, and off-season pricing.
There’s a certain romance in the air when Italy sheds its summer sheen and embraces the quieter, cooler months of late fall and winter. An indescribable feeling we at the Isarti offices have always been drawn to. As the throngs of tourists dissipate and the landscape is painted with the soft hues of autumn and the crisp whites of winter, Italy reveals itself in a more intimate light. The allure of Italy in the off-season lies not just in its iconic monuments and cities, but in the quieter, more personal experiences that can be found when the crowds have gone and the country breathes a little easier. Here are 4 of our favorite Italian Winter destinations:
1. Emilia Romagna
While the region of Emilia Romagna is celebrated year-round for its rich culinary traditions and motorsport heritage, visiting during the late fall and winter months adds an extra layer of comfort and indulgence. As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, the region’s hearty dishes—like rich, slow-cooked ragù, velvety tortellini in brodo, and the iconic Parmigiano Reggiano, become even more irresistible. Bologna, often referred to as "La Grassa" (the fat one) for its culinary prowess, is quieter during this season, allowing you to explore its medieval architecture and charming, iconic porticoes at a leisurely pace.
Winter is also the season of festivals celebrating Emilia Romagna's gastronomic traditions. From truffle fairs in the hills around the beautiful little city of Modena to the celebration of balsamic vinegar, these events offer a deep dive into the region’s rich flavors. And with fewer tourists, you can enjoy these delights in their most authentic form, from sampling Prosciuto di Parma directly from the source to visiting ancient acetaie where balsamic vinegar is aged.
Emilia Romagna is also the birthplace of such legendary brands as Ferrari and Lamborghini, so even on the chilliest days of winter, a safe haven can always be a visit to the Enzo Ferrari museum in Modena where you can warm up while looking at beautiful cars and enjoying a hot beverage.
The region's main cities; Bologna, Parma, and Modena are all easily reach by train from Milan or Florence, and all of these cities offer great options for boutique hotels and rental options.
Our accommodation pick: Casa Maria Luigia (Luxury Bed & Breakfast), just outside Modena.
2. Milano
Milan, Italy’s chic and bustling northern metropolis, takes on a magical character in winter. The city, known for its cutting-edge fashion, world-class museums, and historical treasures, becomes less frenetic in the off-season, offering a more relaxed pace to explore its treasures. Imagine having the opportunity to stand before Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” without the summer crowds, or to explore the stunning interior and rooftop of the Duomo at your own pace. Milan's iconic shopping and entertainment districts, from the high-end Via Montenapoleone and Brera, to the youthful energy of the Navigli canal district, are dreamy in winter, offering a more relaxed city experience.
Winter is also when Milan's cultural calendar shines brightest. The famed La Scala opera house opens its season in December, attracting opera lovers from around the world. The city’s art scene also comes alive with exhibitions at the Pinacoteca di Brera and the modern art galleries scattered throughout the city. To top it all off, Milan’s winter lights and holiday markets transform the city into a festive wonderland, with an enchanting atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.
Our accommodation pick: Portrait Milano (5 star hotel), walking distance from Piazza del Duomo.
3. Piemonte:
The northern region of Piemonte, nestled in the foothills of the Alps west of Milan, is a region of rolling vineyards, misty mornings, and some of Italy’s finest culinary offerings. Fall and Winter is when Piemonte truly shines, especially for those with a penchant for truffles and wine. The celebrated white truffle of Alba is at its peak in late fall, and the region’s truffle markets are bustling with chefs and connoisseurs alike. This is the perfect time to sample exquisite truffle dishes in one of the region’s Michelin-starred restaurants, join a truffle hunt in the quiet, misty woods, or attend the world famous Alba White Truffle Festival.
Piemonte is also home to some of Italy’s most prestigious wine making, boasting such specialties as Barolo and Barbaresco. Touring the vineyards and cellars in winter offers a unique, intimate experience, often accompanied by warm hospitality and the chance to taste powerful, structured reds and regional foods by the fireplace. Snow-capped mountains serve as a stunning backdrop, adding to the region's charm.
Piemonte's capitol city, Torino, is an easy train ride from Milan. However an even better way to explore the region, in our opinion, is to rent a car and bounce from vineyard to vineyard and town to town at your own pace.
Our accommodation pick: Casa di Langa (5 star eco-resort), in the countryside south of Alba.
4. Alto Adige / South Tyrol
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