Italy isn't nicknamed the "Bel Paese," or "Beautiful Country," for nothing. It is globally renowned for its warmth, from the musical quality of the language to the early-evening sunlight in September. Don't expect to take a summery jaunt in January, but do keep in mind that even in the relatively chillier winter months, destinations with temperate climates and tantalizing food are never too far away.
Main Advantages of a January Trip
- One of the top reasons to tour Italy in January is the almost alarming absence of tourists -- relatively speaking, of course. Major cultural capitals such as Rome, Venice and Florence are visited year-round, but you're far less likely to face the enthusiasm-crushing culprits of long lines, harrowing heat and suffocating crowds in January than in June or July. Lonely Planet has noted that Venice can be "surprisingly crisp and stunning" in January.
Heading down South
- You may not be able to sunbathe in the weeks just after New Year's, but the Amalfi Coast is still a worthy winter getaway. With its balmy Mediterranean climate, temperatures rarely drop below 50 degrees. Historic Pompeii is also easily accessible from the area and far less likely to be overrun with visitors than at other times of year.Also worth a visit in January is Taormina along the east coast of Sicily, which tends to stay on the warmer side. Perhaps best known for its annual film festival, the area is visually stunning at any time of year. It's also ideal if you're seeking an authentic taste of relaxed Mediterranean life: You'll be pleased to find few English speakers in the Messina region, particularly in January.
Further North
- In the province of Genoa, Portofino is a paradise for those who enjoy fishing. The sun sets late in this seaside town, and there's no shortage of other things to see and do if wintertime beach walks can leave you wanting. Sights such as the neo-Gothic Castello Brown (no website; Via alla Penisola 13a, Portofino; +390185267101) and the Benedictine Cervara monastery (cervara.it) are tranquil places to tour that will also feed the curiosities of history buffs.Remaining north of Rome, Tuscany is one of Italy's most highly trafficked tourist regions. Winter months are obviously chillier than their summer counterparts, and Tuscany is decidedly cooler than the other areas mentioned at this time of year. Its rolling hills, diminished crowds and orange skies, however, can make wearing a sweater or jacket the least of your worries. Temperatures still rarely drop below 40 degrees, and winter in Tuscany is one of the best times to "mangiare bene" (eat well). As it is hunting season, regional specialties like cinghiale (wild boar) are fresh, not frozen. Pair it with a plate of pappardelle pasta and warm up to your heart's content.
Packing Considerations
- Most anywhere you travel in Italy during the winter months, you're more likely to face rain than bone-chilling cold. Pack a pair of rain boots or sturdy water-resistant shoes, particularly if you're heading to Venice, where flooding can be a major concern in January. If you're concerned about fitting in fashion-wise, keep in mind that Italians tend to dress for the season rather than the weather. Even if you're enjoying a sunny winter beach stroll in Liguria or Sicily, skip the shorts and step up your look a bit -- it is the "Bel Paese," after all.
