Winter may not be the first season that comes to mind when planning a trip to Italy’s wine regions — yet it’s one of the most atmospheric times of the year. With quieter roads, slower rhythms, and a festive spirit in the air, visiting in winter offers a completely different way to experience Italian culture, food, and wine.

Why Visit Italy’s Wine Country in Winter?

Planning a visit to your favorite Italian winemaking region during the winter months can be a surprisingly rewarding experience. While the tourist season is at its lowest point, the atmosphere becomes calmer, more authentic, and often more affordable.

During this time, you’ll find charming Christmas markets, cozy wineries, and snow-covered vineyards — a completely different yet magical side of Italy.

The Pros of Visiting Italy in the Off-Season

Traveling in the off-season comes with some clear advantages. You’ll benefit from lower rates on flights, hotels, and car rentals, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers. Fewer crowds also mean more personal experiences when visiting wineries, historic towns, and local restaurants.

You can take your time exploring, meet locals who are more relaxed, and enjoy a more intimate experience of Italian culture.

The Cons: What to Expect During Winter Travel in Italy

However, there are also a few challenges to keep in mind. Because of the seasonal lull, some wineries, restaurants, and agriturismi take advantage of the quiet period to close temporarily. Many Italians use this time to escape to warmer destinations, especially during the peak holiday period.

That said, in recent years, there has been more movement and activity even during the winter months, particularly in regions with Christmas markets, truffle festivals, and ski resorts, such as Piemonte, Veneto, and Tuscany.

Important Italian Winter Holidays to Remember

In Italy, the winter holiday season is taken very seriously, and knowing the main holidays will help you plan your trip more smoothly:

• December 8 – Feast of the Immaculate Conception
• December 25 – Christmas Day
• December 26 – Boxing Day / St. Stephen’s Day (Second Christmas Day)
• January 1 – New Year’s Day

During these holidays, it can be difficult to find available restaurant tables, taxi services, or private drivers, as many locals celebrate with their families. It’s also common for Italians to take a long weekend (known as a ponte) if a holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday.

When this happens, you can expect increased domestic travel, busier ski lifts, fully booked wineries, and heavier traffic in popular destinations.

Smart Travel Tip: Plan and Book in Advance

If you’re planning to travel around these dates, it’s best to do some research and make reservations in advance. Whether it’s a winery visit, restaurant booking, or driver service, planning ahead ensures a smoother experience.

Trying to “just pop in” during the holidays may lead to long waits or missed opportunities, especially in popular regions like Piemonte, Tuscany, or Veneto.

Winter Weather in Northern Italy: What to Expect

While winter in Northern Italy can bring chilly days, the weather is generally mild compared to other parts of Europe. Snowfall is occasional, and temperatures rarely drop below zero degrees Celsius, though it can happen — especially in higher elevations or during cold spells.

Packing wisely will make your trip much more comfortable. Be sure to bring:

• A warm winter jacket with a hood
• Gloves, a hat, and a scarf
• Comfortable boots suitable for walking — and for snow, just in case

Even during colder days, Italians don’t let the weather get them down. Weekends are often filled with outdoor activities — from farmers’ markets to Christmas festivals — where locals and visitors alike enjoy eating, drinking, and dancing outdoors. It’s the perfect way to chase away the winter blues and experience authentic Italian community spirit.

Christmas Markets in Northern Italy

Winter in Northern Italy truly shines with its Christmas markets (Mercatini di Natale) — festive gatherings filled with lights, laughter, and the scent of mulled wine in the air.

These markets, similar to those in Germany and Austria, feature:

• Traditional music and performances
• Warm dishes like roasted chestnuts, polenta, and local specialties
• The famous mulled wine, known as Vin Brûlé, often spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus — and sometimes given a cheeky “kick” of brandy or rum
• Artisan and handmade goods, including wooden crafts, jewelry, Christmas ornaments, cookies, and candies

Visiting these markets is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Italy’s holiday traditions and support local artisans.

The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Piemonte and Torino

Govone – Il Magico Paese di Natale di Govone

• When: Every weekend from 15 November to 21 December 2025
• Where: Govone, Piemonte
• A fairytale-like setting filled with lights, performances, food stalls, and Santa’s Village — one of Italy’s most beloved Christmas markets.

Torino – A Torino un Natale con i Fiocchi

• Where: Piazza Castello, Torino
• When: From 8 December 2025 to 6 January 2026
• Hours:
  • Monday–Friday: 12:00 – 21:00
  • Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 10:00 – 23:00
• A must-visit market in the heart of Torino, offering handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats, and a warm festive ambiance.

Mercatino di Natale a Borgo Dora

• Where: Via Vittorio Andreis 18/10 – Cortile del Maglio, Torino
• When: From 29 November to 23 December 2025
• Hours:
  • Weekends: 10:00 – 20:00
  • Weekdays: 15:00 – 20:00
• One of Torino’s oldest and most charming markets, with a mix of local artists, vintage items, and delicious street food.

Luci d’Artista – Torino Light Festival

• Where: Various streets in central Torino
• When: 25 October 2025 – 2 February 2026
• A spectacular open-air exhibition of contemporary art and light installations that illuminate the city all winter long. It’s the perfect evening stroll after exploring the markets.

Torino: The Heart of Piemonte’s Christmas Celebrations

As the largest city in Piemonte, Torino (Turin) truly comes alive during the holiday season. Its elegant streets sparkle with lights, festive music fills the air, and the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine makes every stroll magical. With several different Christmas markets and events, Torino offers something for everyone — from families with children to travelers seeking authentic local experiences.

Santa Claus Village in Piazza d’Armi

• When: 26 November 2025 – 8 January 2026
• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Where: Piazza d’Armi, Torino

The Santa Claus Village (Villaggio di Babbo Natale) is a must-visit for families and anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. The village features visits from Santa Claus, a large ice-skating rink, and street food vendors serving warm winter treats. It’s the perfect spot for an evening out in Torino during the Christmas season.

Traditional Christmas Market – Piazza Borgo Dora

• When: Late November 2025 – Early January 2026
• Hours:
  • Monday–Friday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Where: Piazza Borgo Dora 34, Torino

The Traditional Christmas Market of Torino is one of the city’s most beloved. Hosting around 100 vendors, this market is half indoor and half outdoor, offering a cozy yet vibrant shopping experience. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, local food products, Christmas ornaments, and much more.

I personally visit this market every year — it’s full of charm and tradition. If you go on a Sunday, you’ll also find the Torino Antique Market nearby, adding an extra reason to explore the area.

Ital-German Christmas Market – Piazza Solferino

• When: 8 November – 23 November 2025
• Where: Piazza Solferino, Torino

The Ital-German Market celebrates the roots of the Christmas market tradition, which originated in Germanic countries. Here in Torino, that festive spirit lives on with an Italian twist. Visitors can sample over 100 varieties of beer, along with traditional German food and holiday sweets — a delightful cross-cultural experience that combines Italian hospitality with German Christmas cheer.

Govone: The Magic Christmas Village of the Langhe & Roero

• When: Weekends and holidays, 19 November – 26 December 2025
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Where: Around the Castle of Govone, Piemonte

In the rolling hills of the Langhe and Roero, the Govone Christmas Market — Il Magico Paese di Natale di Govone — is one of the most enchanting in Italy. Set against the backdrop of the historic Castle of Govone, the market features dozens of artisans, local specialties, and holiday performances that attract visitors from all over the region.

Be prepared for crowds and limited parking — this market is extremely popular — but it’s well worth the trip. After exploring, stop by the nearby Trattoria Pautassi, a beloved local restaurant offering traditional Piemontese dishes and vegetarian options, all made with the warmth and authenticity that define this region.

Experience the Holiday Spirit of Piemonte

From the bustling Christmas markets of Torino to the storybook charm of Govone, winter in Piemonte offers a perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and festivity. Whether you’re sipping Vin Brûlé under twinkling lights, shopping for handmade gifts, or enjoying local cuisine, the season here feels truly magical.

So bundle up, grab your gloves and scarf, and immerse yourself in the cozy glow of Italy’s most heartwarming winter celebrations.