Does It Snow in Milan? Essential Guide to Winter in Milan

If you’re planning to visit Milan in the winter, you’re probably wondering if “does it snow in Milan?” and if Milan gets snow when winter arrives. Milan is Italy’s most fashionable, known for its lively atmosphere, high-fashion houses, incredible shopping, and magnificent architecture.

In Milan, winters are cold and the days are brisk. It averages around 10°C (50°F) from December to February. Is Milan truly a winter fairy tale, or does the stylish city manage to stay snow-free? Stay with me and I’ll let you in on Milan’s snowfall facts, and the best things to do and places to stay in Milan in winter.

Quick Facts on snow in Milan

• Milan sees between one to seven snowy days each year, on average.
• The height of snow season in Italy happens in January. Next is December and then February.
• Milan’s snow depends on its location, how high above sea level it is, and its distance from the sea.
• The best time to see snow in Milan is between December and March.
• Though Milan receives snow sometimes, the southern and central Italy areas usually don’t get a lot of snow.

❄️ Snow in Milan: Average snowfall in Milan

Milan isn’t usually snowy in the winter, although it can get light snow. The city averages 1-7 snowy days yearly, most likely in January and February. Though snow is rare in November, December, and March, it can still happen.

Does it snow in Milan at Christmas?

A white Christmas is rare in Milan. Snow falls about every 2-3 years, and it’s often just a light layer.

Does it snow in Milan in November?

November snow is unusual in Milan. The city gets rain, wind, and mild weather. Sometimes there are hailstorms and thunderstorms. Snow in Milan in November is not expected.

Does it snow in Milan in December?

December sees some light snow in Milan. Once, in 2009, there was a big snowfall of 30 cm (12 inches)! But heavy snow like that is uncommon. Most Decembers go by without much snow in Milan.

So, I guess you could say that it doesn’t usually look like a winter wonderland.. But, Milan is close to beautiful winter areas, like the Italian Dolomites and ski resorts. They’re all just a short train ride away!

❄️ Things to do in Milan in Winter

Speaking of train rides—there are plenty of things to do in Milan in winter! During this time of year, Milan comes alive with a mix of activities and sights. The city doesn’t get much snow, but the nearby Alps offer winter sports fun. Places like Cervinia and Cortina are just a short drive away.

Explore Milan’s cultural gems like the Duomo and the Castello Sforzesco. For those who love to shop, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit. It’s also lit up with Christmas lights at night.

If you love art, make sure you visit Milan’s many museums, including the Pinacoteca di Brera. Don’t forget to see “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci. It’s a true masterpiece.

Snow resorts near Milan

The Alps and Dolomites near Milan are great for winter sports. Some top snow resorts to visit from Milan are:

• Cervinia: Known for its world-class skiing and stunning views of the Matterhorn
• Cortina: A charming alpine town that hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and offers a range of winter activities
• Courmayeur: A picturesque ski resort in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps
• Madonna di Campiglio: A well-developed ski resort in the Dolomites, popular for its slopes and après-ski scene

These resorts offer a chance to see the stunning Italian Alps. Enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in winter just a short way from Milan.

🚂 Day Trips from Milan in Winter

Day trips from Milan in winter are a great way to explore nearby places! Milan’s location is perfect for visiting places like the Italian Alps and Lake Como. In winter, these places turn into picturesque wonderlands. You can also travel to historic cities like Verona to see Italy’s cultural side.

Scenic Lake Como is perfect for a day trip. You can walk by the lake, visit pretty villages, or take a boat tour. The views of the snow-capped mountains are breathtaking! For a longer walk, there’s the Lake Como Greenway, a 6-mile trail with beautiful sights.

Verona is another great choice to visit with its link to Shakespeare and Roman history. It’s just over an hour away by train. You can see the Romeo and Juliet balcony or enjoy the local food in the city’s center.

Looking for something more thrilling? Try the Bernina Express to Tirano! It’s a scenic train ride that lets you see views of the Swiss Alps! In Tirano you can explore and see even more of the Swiss Alps.

If you want a memorable day trip from Milan in the winter, places like Verona, the Italian Alps, and Lake Como will definitely be memorable getaways.

🏨 Where to stay in Milan in Winter

Choosing where to stay in Milan in winter can make your trip much better and cozy. Milan has a wide range of accommodations and variety that are great for winter and suit different tastes and budgets.

If you want convenience, pick a hotel in Milan’s heart, close to sights like the Duomo. This makes shopping, eating, and enjoying the city’s culture easier. It’s a great base to explore Milan, especially in winter.

Top Winter Accommodations in Milan

• BUDGET: Porta Romana Milano — A cozy accommodation in a convenient location with easy access to major attractions like San Babila Station and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, making it perfect for exploring the city.
  
• MID RANGE: Dream Suites Milano — Stylish and modern apartment suite in the heart of Milan, featuring contemporary design and top-notch amenities. Dream Suites Milano is chic and comfortable, and a perfect for a place to stay in Milan in the winter.
  
• LUXURY: Grand Hotel et de Milan — A historic five-star luxury hotel located near the Duomo, offering elegant interiors and impeccable service. The Grand Hotel et de Milan is one of the most beautiful hotels in Milan!

No matter where you stay, a warm and inviting place to stay is key to enjoying winter in Milan. A place with cozy rooms and great service will make your trip special. It turns winter in Milan into a beautiful experience.

🎄 Final Thoughts: Does it snow in Milan?

Milan is not known for lots of snow, but it does get some in winter. Light snow sometimes happens in Milan, especially in January and February. Chances for a white Christmas or big snowfall are low while spending winter in Milan. But, you might see a snow flurry or light dusting!

Remember to pack warm clothes for your trip to Milan! It gets chilly in the winter. However, you’ll love the city’s culture, shopping, and food any time of year. Winter in Milan has less crowds, which is nice. Also, Milan is close to the snowy Alps and Dolomites. This makes it a great place for a winter trip in Italy!

As for if it snows in Milan — snow in Milan is not common, but it’s truly special when it happens. It changes the look of the city and brings a special winter magic.

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