Things to Do in Siena in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Siena
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Christmas markets transform the city from December 8-23, creating magical atmosphere with local crafts and traditional foods in Piazza del Campo
- Fewer tourists mean you can actually see the Duomo frescoes without crowds - wait times drop from 45 minutes in summer to 5-10 minutes
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to peak season, with luxury accommodations averaging €120-180 versus €300+ in July
- Clear winter light creates perfect photography conditions for the medieval architecture, especially golden hour shots around 4:30pm
Considerations
- Many restaurants close 3:00-7:00pm for winter hours, limiting lunch options if you arrive late - plan meals around 12:30pm or after 7:30pm
- Rain occurs 8 days on average, often as persistent drizzle that makes cobblestones slippery and outdoor exploration challenging
- Some countryside attractions and smaller museums have reduced winter hours or close entirely on weekdays
Best Activities in December
Duomo Complex and Museum Tours
December's low crowds mean intimate access to Piccolomini Library frescoes and unobstructed views from the cathedral floor. Winter light streaming through stained glass creates dramatic photography opportunities impossible during crowded summer months. The cathedral's heating system makes it a comfortable retreat from December's chill.
Tuscan Cooking Classes
December features seasonal ingredients like winter truffles, chestnuts, and preserved meats perfect for traditional recipes. Indoor activities become essential during rainy days, and cooking classes often include wine tastings with Chianti Classico. Local markets offer seasonal specialties unavailable other times of year.
Chianti Wine Region Day Trips
December is ideal for winery visits as harvest crowds are gone and vintners have time for personal tastings. Many estates offer special winter hours with fireplace tastings and seasonal food pairings. The bare vineyard landscape reveals the medieval castles and villages often hidden by summer foliage.
Medieval Museum and Palace Tours
Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum become cozy refuges during cold December days. The Allegory of Good Government frescoes are best viewed in winter's softer light. Torre del Mangia climbs are less crowded but require warm layers for the 400-step ascent to 87m (285ft) height.
Day Trips to San Gimignano
December transforms this UNESCO site into a winter wonderland with fewer tour buses and authentic local atmosphere. The 14 remaining medieval towers are dramatically framed against winter skies. Indoor attractions like the Collegiate Church become essential during December's variable weather.
Traditional Thermal Spa Experiences
December makes outdoor thermal pools at nearby Bagno Vignoni incredibly appealing as 52°C (126°F) waters contrast with cool air. Many spas offer winter packages combining thermal baths with massage treatments. The 45-minute drive through winter Tuscan landscape provides scenic photo opportunities.
December Events & Festivals
Siena Christmas Market
Local artisans sell handmade ceramics, textiles, and traditional sweets in wooden stalls around Piazza del Campo. Features live nativity scenes and traditional Tuscan holiday foods like ricciarelli cookies and panettone. Different from commercial Christmas markets - focuses on authentic Sienese crafts and regional specialties.
Feast of Santa Lucia
Traditional celebration where locals gather at Santa Lucia church for blessing ceremonies and community feast. Street vendors sell roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Offers authentic glimpse into local religious traditions without tourist overlay.