Winter travel in Italy

I have travelled several times to Italy in February, The weather can vary, but "50's" seem to be about the temp. We took a nicer medium weight jacket and a fleece or other layers to put underneath. You might consider an outer layer that is water repellent, it can rain, on rare occasion snow a little. We spent most of our time in cities, fewer tourists than other times of year, we really enjoyed the pace, nice meals, less crowded museums. The only drawbacks would be a hit or miss on being able to dine outside, some smaller venues that depend on tourist trade may be closed, you may see this in Lake Como, and in Venice, at that time of year, you can get some flooding, but they deal with it well, and it can actually have it's charm.

Pual-thanks for the feedback. I appreciate. I've heard-I guess depending on the severity of the winter-that it can get pretty chilly. We have some friends who have lived in Vermont now are currently in Milan. They said it can be quite cold and then know given their time in Vermont. We might go with a heavy jacket just to be sure and bring layers. Brent

Jeepers, a jacket?!? I went to Milan in December and it was snowing on our approach, below 29 degrees, and when the day warmed up it was wet and cold. A regular winter coat was more appropriate than just a jacket. I wore the coat unbuttoned when the wind died down or the sun came out. Even if you allow for my thin southern blood, a coat means you can sit down on a bench or chair without chilling your bum. Being on the water is usually chilly, too. I'd take a few layers!

Brent, I've never travelled to Italy in the winter, but based on Italian news footage I've seen over the last few years, it will likely be cold and possibly with snow in the north. I agree with the others that it would be a good idea to pack clothes for layering, as well as some "wet weather gear". Lago di Como probably won't be too pleasant at that time of year. Happy travels!

Brent, One other point to mention regarding winter weather in Italy. Based on the news footage I saw last winter, there was some severe winter weather in some areas, which caused disruptions in rail service and on the roads. Be sure to build some "flexibility" into your schedule, just in case the same thing happens this winter.

I agree that Lake Como would be better in warmer months. Be prepared for cold and wet weather. Maybe you will be lucky and it will be mild.

Thanks to all of you for the feedback. We are "wimpy" retired Vermonters, but I'd rather spend winter exploring the cities/museums etc. of Italy than being in Vermont. Definitely will be bring a heavy coat and layers. Thanks again.

Dress like you were going to Burlington, Vermont. If it is warmer than you thought, so much the better.

Great advice coming from someone who lives in Green Bay and understands cold weather. Thanks

thanks