My wife and I just had the urge to plan a trip to Florence for Christmas. Maybe we just didn't feel like decorating our house this year. Anyway, anybody have any rants or raves about Florence for the holidays? Does everything shut down and it's impossible to find an open restaurant?

Dan,<BR><BR>I've spent the Christmas break in Florence twice and enjoyed it both times. As you would expect, most things are closed on Christmas Day but many of the restraunts that cater to tourists are still open. Not "haute cuisine" but it will get you through the day. Fortunately, many things open up again on the 26th since Boxing Day doesn't seem to be a holiday in Italy. Because Florence is so much like a museum just to walk through, you can enjoy a walking tour and admire the buildings without the huge crowds everywhere. If you haven't been to Florence, I hope you take this opportunity to enjoy it!<BR><BR>

It sounds like a lovely idea to me. I've never been there in winter, but always thought it would be wonderful to be in Italy at a really odd time of year. wouldn't expect it to be too "Christmassy" though.

We spent last Christmas in Milan, and had a fabulous time. It snowed, and we had a lovely Christmas eve just wandering around the streets - we saw the Last Supper on Christmas Eve, and then went to mass on Christmas morning in the cathedral. It was lovely. <BR><BR>I think you'll have a fabulous time, but I would recommend that you make some preparations for if/when many places are closed. Be sure that you have plenty of books, snacks, coffee, etc. in case you find many things closed on Christmas. Then you'll be able to enjoy some walks around the town and then retreat to your room & relax!

I'd say the chance to find a restaurant that is open for Christmas is very slim. Unless you both love the solitude and look forward to wandering around endless of empty streets, Christmas is not the time to be alone in Italy. But it could be a great time if you plan it well. I recently found some Christmas activities for my family through www.italywithus.com/christmas, you may want to check it out.

Hi Dan<BR><BR>In my estimation ANY time in Florence is a good idea (except maybe August). Go and enjoy. I'm envious.