We are planning a two week trip to Italy with our 2 teenage children, and are trying to decide whether to go in the summer (crowds and heat), or going at Christmastime (cold weather, things may be closed for the holiday, but cheaper and less crowded). Any suggestions on which would be better? We hope to visit Rome, Tuscany/Hill towns, Venice and possibly Florence.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23284 posts
And you overlooked much shorter days in December. Rome, itself, will be just as crowded over the Christmas period with the Vatican really crowded. And cheaper may be relative. Given that we have been in Rome in July, I think it is easier to stay warm than to get cool. And Christmas is kind of special in that area so I would opt for Christmas but change your expectations for cheaper and less crowded.
Posted by
Austin
973 posts
Went to Venice and Milan last December, and returned from 4 days in Rome 2 weeks ago. Also spent 10 days in Rome in Sept. in 80's.. I vote for the winter because it wasn't as cold as I expected, except for the 2 rainy days in Venice. It did snow in Milan one day but with silk longjohns, gloves,scarf, jeans, and an Eddie Bauer parka, it was comfortable. We enjoyed walking everywhere.
Shorter days in the winter means that teenagers have to get up and going earlier than they might like ( at least in my family)so everyone can go together. Summer days are so much longer and with the added daylight to stay out longer as long as 2 stick together. I prefer empty space between the hot Italian sun, all those bodies, and me. Could be a result of too much sun in Texas.
Posted by
Americus, GA
28 posts
My husband and I have been to Italy twice in December and are heading back for the third time this year. We love it! Cuddle Duds or Lands End silk long underwear and layers for the warmer days makes it really comfortable. Much better than sweating! Who can enjoy the beauty of Italy sweating? Especially when there's a better way? The crowds are thinner too. We've never waited in line at a museum; I felt like I had a private tour of the Uffizi! St. Peter's (Rome) was a little crowded but not as bad as I've heard it can be in summer. Some things will be closed but it's a worthwhile trade off.