Most people take a holiday during the winter to get a well needed dose of winter sun. I can understand that but winter is a great time of year to travel, to actually enjoy winter! So, here are 3 reasons to have a winter holiday in Italy and forego a sun tan in favour of chillier temperatures, stunning mountain vistas, excellent skiing and numerous other examples of winter fun. Not only will it get you in the mood for Christmas but it will ensure you have a unique break that will linger in your memories much longer than a bog standard beach holiday. Simply, a winter holiday in Italy is definitely worth considering and here’s why…
Take to the slopes
Adorned in deep snow, like smooth icing atop a perfect Christmas cake, there’s nothing more magical than a mountain panorama during winter. The Italian Alps and Dolomites Mountains certainly fit the bill and are easily some of the most picturesque in all of Europe. With cosy log cabins nestled among the crevices and an endless choice of top notch ski resorts, there’s no better destination in which to enjoy a skiing or snowboarding holiday. I can’t lie; these types of breaks are rarely cheap but as an occasional treat, it is well worth considering! After all, there are plenty of options to tailor your holiday to your needs and priorities, whether you want a few days of fun or a week long escapade, from green runs to a more challenging domain.
Fun on the slopes isn’t limited to skiing and snowboarding though; there are many winter hiking trails, snow-shoeing expeditions and more to enjoy. Have a read of our more in-depth Italy Travel Guideand start searching for your break away online.
Experience city life in winter
Much of Italy is very seasonal and that optimum season is summer. This works in your favour for a winter holiday. The winter months still boast a thriving atmosphere but as a visitor, you won’t have to put up with the crowds.
Theatre and opera schedules are at their annual best, museums host interesting exhibitions and there is plenty of opportunity to mingle with the locals. Sure, some restaurants and hotels close for the season but there are still a great number which operate throughout the year. Obviously you will have fewer daylight hours to explore the cities, but this also allows for a completely different experience to summer travel; see the beautiful, historic monuments lit up and night!
Christmas isn’t quite as all-consuming in Italy as it is in other countries but many cities such as Trento still play host to excellent Christmas markets so you can enjoy tasty festive foods such as panettone, candied nuts and more! Traditionally, it’s nativity displays which take more importance here so you should expect to see some impressive examples.
Enjoy the variety of winter events
Another reason to have a winter holiday in Italy is the variety of great events taking place. It’s a time of year that often boasts a full calendar for many countries but Italy has some stand out examples. The most famous is perhaps Carnevale in Venice and as a city that is gradually drowning, what better excuse to head here sooner rather than later? If you aren’t planning to visit Venice, the celebration does take elsewhere across Italy. The actual carnival takes place 40 days before Easter but festivities tend to start much sooner with a sea of elaborate masks, costumes and parades! For sporting fans, the Marcialonga ski race is a major event on the winter calendar and the most important cross country ski event in the country.
For some slightly odder festivities, why not swing by at the 10 day long Wild Boar Festival which celebrates all things medieval as well as a delicious range of food and drink. Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception is another major event, marked by a national holiday with parades, church masses and feasts plus much more. This is just a taster of the many festivals at this time of year; find out about more taking place here.
So, here are just 3 reasons to have a winter holiday in Italy but the list, truthfully, is endless!
