What is your opinion on travel in Italy during January? Too cold? Attractions open?
ANything and everything---Itinerary suggestions? Thanks!

Dear flap,

Do you have any idea as to why you wish to visit Italy?

It is very hard to help you if we have nothing to work with.

ira

My main question is if you think its a good time to visit or not. Hows the weather? Are things closed down? I'm sure there won't be crowds. I'm sure spring is better but we CAN go in January if we want (work schedule) and spring is a maybe.
Main areas of interest are Rome, Milan, Venice but will take suggestions. Travel time is 3 1/2 weeks.

I spent 4 days in Rome last January and had a great time. The temp was high 40's to low 50's and generally sunny. Everything was open and there were no crowds even in the Sistine Chapel. The restaurants were welcoming and the hotel was a bargain. I am going again this January. At that time of year big cities are fine.

Rome is Atlanta, Milan is NYC, and Venice is DC--would you travel there in Jan.? I would wait until April.

Of course spring and fall are nicer weather but if you can only go in January, go! Main attractions should be open as usual. If you have 3 weeks, I would add Florence to the itinerary - in fact, IMHO there is much more of interest in Florence than in Milan.

bob - that's a pretty big generalization. I have been to Paris and England in January and loved them both. I am going to Spain this February.

I'd trade crowds and high-season costs for a few extra sweaters and a pair of gloves anyday.

Flapjacks - what is "too cold" for you? If you live in North Dakota, Italy will seem absolutely balmy!

For 3 1/2 weeks, you can see Venice, Florence, Rome, Milan, and then head south and see some of southern Italy as well (think Sorrento, Positano, Capri etc)...

Karen