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Winter time Christmas and New Years in Europe

I'm thinking about a trip with my husband to Europe perhaps during Xmas and New Years. I'm not looking for snow so much but more temperate weather but with a nice european holiday feel. We have been in Paris during Xmas and NY.

Any suggestions?

Posted by
2201 posts

We've been to Paris in late October and Rome/Tuscany the week before Christmas.

Italy was magical that time of year. The Tuscan villages were having Christmas fairs. Rome, Florence and the small towns were decorated for the season. It was uncrowded. We walked right into the Uffizi, there were no lines. The last Saturday before Christmas was crowded in the heart of Rome, but our Walks of Italy Guide said the crowd was mostly residents finishing up their shopping. It was a festive atmosphere.

The temperatures in Tuscany were pleasant. Most days we didn't need a sweater or jacket. Afternoons climbed into the '60s and a few mornings there was just a little frost.

Paris is much further north, so it is probably colder. I know in October a light jacket felt good during the day, with a sweater or heavier coat needed if walking the city at night.

Be sure to check the holiday schedule for any places you want to visit. Museums, cafes, etc. may have shortened hours or be closed some days.

Posted by
276 posts

In 2013, my then-fiancé/now-husband and I flew into Rome on December 28 and spent New Year's there before heading to Orvieto, Assisi, Florence, Cinque Terre, Venice, and Milan. All the Christmas decorations were still up, and we loved being in Rome for NYE. Rome and Orvieto were pretty temperate; obviously it got colder as we moved further north. CT and Venice were quite chilly, but we had the CT hiking trails completely to ourselves and Venice was magical without all the crowds. I personally think that's a great time to travel!

Posted by
7051 posts

Are you specifically asking about Italy or would anywhere in Europe do? And what kind of weather do you prefer?