Italy in November and early December

No one has any idea what the weather will be like then. It will be cooler, darker, etc. Go to one of the weather sites for average temps. But remember to have averages we must live the extremes. Also, mid-Dec prices go up because of the holidays especially in Rome.

I have been in those cities in November and December, it is usually pleasant but with some possibility of rain, fog in the north, snd chilly nights. A medium-weight jacket, plus rain she'll or raincoat, should suffice.

From your pseudonym I am guessing you are used to cold weather. As Zoe said, overall in Italy it's fine, but gloves, rain protection, and layers are in order. I find Gortex shoes are nice along with Smartwool socks.

December is our favorite time in Venice. On the 8th, in Italian cities everywhere, the Christmas lights come on. (The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a national holiday.) Crowds are lighter until a few days before Christmas.

You will not need shelter in an igloo.
In Florence expect temperatures in the 30's F at night and low 50's F during the warm hours.
Add 5 degrees in Rome, subtract 5 degrees for Venice. These are just averages, but I recommend you check the forecast on www.wunderground.com just before you leave.

I've been in those places in February. I'd guess that early winter (yeah, I know it's technically fall) is not going to be any colder or rainier. Definitely Milan and Venice were colder, but only marginally, as Roberto said. There were days when I went out in short sleeves and wished I had sandals, there were days that I was glad for a cup of hot chocolate (so good) and my rain poncho served me well. I liked the lower prices on accommodations, but more than that, I liked that there were a lot fewer tourists and more locals out and about. If the leaves are off the trees in Rome, you'll be able to see the beautiful buildings they often hide. If you encounter acqua alta (flooding) in Venice, think of it as an adventure; wade through it (unless like me you've got your luggage with you), see how the city and its residents cope with it and take photos. The "worst" weather I encountered was snow in Rome (first time in 25 years) and even with the city covered in 2-3 inches, it wasn't very cold, and it sure was beautiful . . . and fun.

Thank you all so much for your replies. I know that I can check Wunderground for average temps but it is good to hear from fellow travelers what it actually feels like when you are there.

Wunderground will give you actual high/low temps and more for each day for the past several years. That's what I use to get an idea of what the extremes are. It takes a little patience to get to the day-by-day results, but they are there. . . . more informative than any individual experience. BTW October weather isn't alway perfect either ☺☺