Do you think first-timers will enjoy Florence and Rome in mid-December?

I don't see why not. What is your concern?

Sure go a lot in December not too cold

less crowded still plenty to see

chance of frontal rain...

www.eurocheapo.com good city guides...

I am concerned it might be too cold or rainy to be able to meander comfortably in Florence, or go on a walking tour Ancient Rome, for example.

I have been in Italy twice in December (18 trips total). Rome and Florence to be specific and one of those trips was at Christmas.

LOVED the lack of crowds and bargain hotel prices, lack of lines, more residents than tourists on the streets. We did have rain both trips but it was just fine and a trade off I would happily make to avoid the maddening volumes of people during the months of May to October. My preference is November through end of March and possibly early April if not close to Easter.

Thanks for the nice responses! The trip is on!!!

Glad you are going. We had the most wonderful time in Italy in December/January a couple of years ago.

There were no crowds - but it was not deserted either so there was still a nice lively feel. We wandered everywhere, often sat in outdoor cafes (during the day at least). My mad family even swam on the Amalfi Coast.

We were lucky and had no rain.

Have a wonderful trip.

Hubby and I spent a fantastic Christmas in Rome a couple years back. It was warm enough to eat outside (lots of places have heat lamps) and it didn't rain a drop.