Florence edges it in January. Florence averages 2–9°C with low crowds; Venice 0–8°C with low crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Florence and Venice
The verdict for January
Cold, quiet and the cheapest month to see the Uffizi.
+Lowest crowds + lowest prices
–Cold, with grey, wet days common
January is Florence at its quietest, with cold, often grey days and very few tourists. It is a strong month for the Uffizi, the Accademia and long lunches, without the queues or prices of the warmer months.
Cold, quiet and genuinely local.
+Lowest crowds + lowest prices
–Cold, with fog and occasional acqua alta
January is Venice at its quietest and most atmospheric, with fog rolling over the canals and very few tourists. Acqua alta (high water) is possible, so pack accordingly, but the empty squares make it worthwhile.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month