Weather in Florence 🇮🇹
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
10°C
Rain Days
12 days
Sun Hours
6 hrs
Humidity
65%
Europe › 🇮🇹 Italy › Florence
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Florence?
4/10
Fair
December is a fair time to visit Florence (4/10). Average highs of 10°C and 6 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 12 potential rain days. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Florence's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.
vs November:14°C avg high
Florence in December rewards travelers with average highs of 10°C and overnight lows around 3°C. Expect around 12 rainy days, so a compact umbrella is worth carrying. With 6 daily sunshine hours on average, conditions are cool and bracing, well suited for active days on foot.
10°C
50°F
Avg High
3°C
37°F
Avg Low
12 days
97 mm total
Rain Days
6h
per day avg
Sunshine
65%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Florence in December
The 7°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 1 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 12 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 50°F average high, 37°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Florence in December
Morning3°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon10°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening6°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Florence in December means dressing for 10°C days and 3°C evenings. Layering is key: a thermal base, mid-layer fleece, and a windproof outer jacket for 10°C highs that feel colder in the wind. Evening temperatures settle at 3°C, a modest 7°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. European cobblestones reward low-profile walking shoes over flip-flops or heels, with cushioned trainers or leather walking shoes being the practical choice. A compact foldable umbrella weighs almost nothing and earns its keep across 12 potential rainy days.
Local tip: Florence's cobbled streets turn slippery in the rain. Waterproof walking shoes with a non-slip sole outperform fashionable footwear on wet stone, and you'll cover significantly more ground in comfort.
Events in Florence in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Florence, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Florence in December
Based on 10°C average highs and 12 rainy days
- Warm jacket (down or fleece)
- Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
- Sweaters and lined trousers
- Scarf and lightweight gloves
- Compact folding umbrella
- Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Florence in December
- Vigorous walking tour of the UNESCO heritage districtMidday (12-2pm)The 10°C peak temperature provides ideal conditions for brisk sightseeing walks
- Cycling the riverside or park circuitAfternoon (1-4pm)Cool dry air makes long cycling sessions comfortable without overheating
- Explore hilltop viewpoints and fortressesMorning for clear viewsCold-weather atmospheric clarity gives the longest sightlines of the year
- Open-air Christmas or seasonal marketsAfternoon into eveningCool temperatures make festive outdoor markets genuinely atmospheric
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months
Why is Florence cool in December?
In December, the Azores High weakens and retreats southward, allowing Atlantic storm tracks to cross the Mediterranean and bring the city its seasonal rainfall. Temperatures average 10°C during the day and drop to 3°C at night as cold continental air occasionally pushes in from the north. This is the rainy season that keeps the region's landscape green through spring. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Florence in December
In December, Florence experiences average highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). Expect around 12 rainy days and 6 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 7°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 1.
Florence typically sees 12 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 97mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Florence typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Florence in December. Temperatures can drop to 3°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is important with 12 rainy days expected. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
December can be a challenging time to visit Florence due to cold temperatures that rarely climb above 10°C. Indoor attractions, cultural sites, and covered markets are the strongest options this month. If your dates are flexible, the drier or milder months offer significantly easier travel conditions.
The average high temperature in Florence in December is 10°C (50°F), and the average low is 3°C (37°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 7°C (44°F). The day-to-night range of 7°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Florence is generally July. July offers the most sunshine at 14 hours per day and only 4 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 30°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around July gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Florence, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 6 sunshine hours and 12 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Florence suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 10°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. Cosy cafes and cultural venues make ideal retreats on overcast days.
December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Florence, with an average 6 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are July, August, and June. July is the hottest month (30°C avg high); January is the coolest (9°C). From here, temperatures fall 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 14°C high, 13 rain days), December is cooler and drier. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9°C | 2°C | 10 | 6h | View |
| February | 11°C | 2°C | 10 | 7h | View |
| March | 14°C | 4°C | 10 | 9h | View |
| April | 18°C | 7°C | 12 | 10h | View |
| May | 22°C | 11°C | 10 | 12h | View |
| June | 27°C | 16°C | 7 | 13h | View |
| July | 30°C | 18°C | 4 | 14h | View |
| August | 30°C | 19°C | 5 | 12h | View |
| September | 25°C | 15°C | 9 | 10h | View |
| October | 19°C | 11°C | 12 | 8h | View |
| November | 14°C | 7°C | 13 | 6h | View |
| December | 10°C | 3°C | 12 | 6h | View |
January
10 rain days, 6h sun
9°2°
February
10 rain days, 7h sun
11°2°
March
10 rain days, 9h sun
14°4°
April
12 rain days, 10h sun
18°7°
May
10 rain days, 12h sun
22°11°
June
7 rain days, 13h sun
27°16°
July
4 rain days, 14h sun
30°18°
August
5 rain days, 12h sun
30°19°
September
9 rain days, 10h sun
25°15°
October
12 rain days, 8h sun
19°11°
November
13 rain days, 6h sun
14°7°
December
12 rain days, 6h sun
10°3°
Other Months in Florence
Plan Your Trip to Florence
Nearby Destinations
Cities within 500 km with comparable weather conditions
Data Sources for Florence
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.