Italy may be known for its summer glory, but during the winter, it transforms into a magical holiday wonderland. From snow-dusted Alps to cobbled streets of medieval towns, Italy’s Christmas markets are charming and a must-visit for festive travelers.
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Is there anything better than spending Christmas time in Italy? Imagine sipping on mulled wine (vin brulè), the scent of roasted chestnuts filling the air, and admiring the twinkling lights that decorate the streets in some of the most charming Italian towns. Visiting Italy in winter is pretty special, especially if you’re drawn to the festive cheer of traditional Christmas markets. Let’s explore some of Italy’s top Christmas markets.
Top Christmas Markets To Visit In Italy
There are so many Christmas markets in Italy that it’s hard to choose which ones to visit. Below is a list of my favorite markets that are definitely worth checking out.
1. Bolzano (South Tyrol)
Bolzano is located in the far northern region of Italy and lies at the foot of the Italian Alps. The Alps provide the perfect backdrop for Bolzano’s famous Christmas market, which is held in Piazza Walther. The market features twinkling lights, wooden stalls, and a large central Christmas tree. Because Bolanzo is so close to Austria, the market offers a blend of both cultures, from food to gifts and decorations.
My first time visiting Bolzano during the holidays was like something from a holiday postcard. What also stood out for me was the amazing people. They take pride in their handmade goods, so I couldn’t resist purchasing a few items to take back home with me.
What to Expect
The Christmas market has over 80 stalls selling wooden toys, ceramics, wool scarves, Christmas decorations, and local food and drinks. There are also many special events and activities, such as musical performances, children’s activities, and the Krampus Parade.
The Krampus Parade is rather interesting because it’s about an Alpine creature that punishes naughty children… sort of creepy, yes, but it’s a local tradition.
Insider Tips
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and take advantage of the panoramic views of the snow-covered Dolomites. Try the traditional Speck (smoked ham) and pair it with a glass of Glühwein.
Dates and Hours
November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025
Opening hours:
Monday-Thursday 11 am-7 pm
Friday-Saturday-Sunday-holidays 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
2. Bologna Fiera di Santa Lucia
Bologna is always worth a visit, especially because it is home to one of Italy’s oldest and most cherished Christmas markets. Its origins date back to the 16th century. The market is named after Saint Lucia, the patron saint of the blind and visually impaired. It’s held annually under the beautiful porticos of the Chiesa dei Servi di Maria (Church of the Servants of Mary), which adds a beautiful and historic backdrop to the festivities. The porticos (which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed) also offer shelter from the winter weather.
What to Expect
While the Fiera di Santa Lucia is largely about shopping for holiday goods, the Church of the Servi also hosts special services and events around the feast day of Saint Lucia on December 13th. There’s a mix of religious services and festive events that give you a taste of local Bolognese Christmas traditions.
If you are a collector of Nativity scenes, this Christmas market is surely for you as it is famous for its focus on Nativity scenes, which reflect the deep Catholic roots of the region.
Dates and Hours
November 17, 2024 – December 26, 2024
Daily from 9 am to 8 pm
3. Florence Christmas Market (Mercato di Natale di Firenze)
Florence’s Christmas market is held annually in Piazza Santa Croce, one of the city’s most beautiful squares. With the Basilica of Santa Croce as the backdrop, this location makes for a breathtaking experience.
The market is known as the Weihnachtsmarkt, which is inspired by Germany’s oldest market in Heidelberg. It’s been an annual event for over 20 years and is modeled after the traditional German Christmas market format, complete with crafts, holiday goodies, and German cultural influences.
Why the German influence in a Tuscan city? This is due to the longstanding popularity and tradition of German Christmas markets.
What to Expect
Since this market is influenced by German culture, you will find it hosted by vendors from Germany and other European countries, selling goods that represent their holiday customs. Customs such as wood stalls that sell unique items from the German culture. For example, mulled wine (Glühwein), sausages, gingerbread, pretzels and German artisanal crafts. As a side note, you can still experience Italian goodies as well, such as panettone and vin brulé.
There is also an ice skating rink in Cascine Park, a Christmas Ferris wheel, and workshops for children. Don’t forget to check out the live nativity scene in Piazza Santa Croce.
Insider Tips
As what seems to be the norm, go to the market around opening time to experience it without those lavish crowds. But I also strongly encourage seeing the market at night simply because of how beautiful it is. I would use the evening to people-watch, enjoy the festive lights, and just stroll around. Florence is a walkable city, so you could also walk to some of the lesser-known markets in the city.
Also, if you plan on buying items, bring your own shopping bag to hold them all.
Dates and Hours
November 18 to December 17, 2024
Weekdays 10 am to 10 pm, and weekends 10 am to 11 pm
4. Rome’s Piazza Navona Christmas Market
Rome’s Piazza Navona Christmas Market is one of Italy’s most famous holiday markets. It takes place in the beautiful Piazza Navona and is one of Rome’s oldest and most popular events.
What to Expect
Although its size has decreased over the years, it is still a pretty remarkable Christmas market. You can find seasonal goodies, handmade crafts, nativity scene figures, Christmas ornaments, sweets like torrone (a traditional Italian nougat candy) and maritozzi (Rome’s most iconic pastry), and roasted chestnuts. You will also find street art, musicians, and the annual arrival of La Befana, a traditional Italian Christmas witch who hands out sweets to children.
Insider Tips
I recommend visiting in the early evening, when the crowds are still pretty manageable. This is also a great way to watch the market come to life with its festive lights. If you happen to be in Rome for Epiphany on January 6th, you’ll have an opportunity to see La Befana, celebrated with small parades and special events for children. If you have at least three days in Rome, you could do a Rome in three days itinerary.
Dates and Hours
Opens first week in December and ends January 6, 2005
Hours are 10 am thru midnight
5. Naples Christmas Market & Via San Gregorio Armeno
Naples is another excellent place to visit as part of Christmas markets in Italy. Its approach is not the traditional type you find elsewhere. The main draw is the presepe-making (nativity scenes) culture. The presepe tradition here has a strong spiritual connection, and artisans take great pride in making elaborate nativity scenes.
What to Expect
You will find many traditional types of food in the markets but don’t expect any of the traditional German foods found in the other markets. Naples Christmas market is based on a local food experience, with items like struffoli (fried dough balls with honey), rococò (spiced biscuits), and pastiera (a wheat and ricotta cake traditionally served during Christmas).
The epicenter of nativity scenes is found by wandering down Via San Gregorio Armeno, often called Naples’ Christmas Alley. It’s a small, winding street in the heart of Naples’ historic center and is world-famous for its handmade nativity figurines, which have been a local tradition for centuries.
Insider Tips
If you’re looking to start your own presepe or add unique pieces, Via San Gregorio Armeno is the perfect place to do so. Many artisans will let you personalize your nativity figures. My personal tip is to start small. Purchase a few key figures (the Holy Family, some shepherds, and animals), then expand your collection with more characters and settings. Each year or whenever you can, you can return to add a new piece to your presepe.
Dates and Hours
December 1, 2024 to January 6, 2025
Hours are daily 10 am to 10 pm
(Please note that this year’s dates are not yet confirmed, and these are the dates and hours from 2023)
6. Milan’s Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Market
“Oh Bej! Oh Bej!” translates to “Oh, how nice! Oh, how nice!” in the Milanese dialect. This market’s origin dates back to 1510, when Giacomo Medici, a papal, arrived in Milan on St. Ambrose’s Day (December 7th, Milan’s patron saint) to boost local support for the Pope. During his visit, he distributed sweets, toys, and gifts to the children of Milan, which charmed the city’s people and inspired them to exclaim, “Oh Bej! Oh Bej!” Over time, this tradition evolved into a Christmas market that celebrates Milanese culture and the festive spirit of the holiday season.
It is a short celebration lasting only three days, full of handmade crafts, traditional Milanese food, toys and gifts, and antiques and collectibles.
What to Expect
This market gets incredibly buy, so you’ll want to plan your visit for earlier in the day.
Take the opportunity to explore the castle while you are there.
Dates and Hours
December 7th – December 10th, 2024
10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Italy And Its Christmas Markets
Planning your trip to Italy to visit the Christmas Markets in Italy is all about preparation to ensure a smooth and festive adventure. To really enjoy your holiday experience and soak up Italy’s Christmas spirit, there are a few key steps to consider beforehand.
1. Book Train Tickets in Advance
- Traveling by Train: Trains can get busy during the holiday season, so book your tickets early to secure the best prices and seats. For scenic routes, consider traveling to northern markets like Bolzano for beautiful views of the snowy Alps.
- Check for Deals: Look for seasonal discounts for travelers, or use apps like Trainline to compare prices and make bookings easy. Some markets, like Bolzano’s, can be easily reached by train from Milan or Venice, so plan your stops efficiently.
2. Choose Hotels Near Market Locations
- Proximity to the Markets: Staying close to the main Christmas markets saves you time and allows you to wander the stalls without worrying about long commutes. In cities like Florence and Rome, markets are located near the city center, so look for accommodations within walking distance. For example, staying near Piazza Navona in Rome or Piazza Santa Croce in Florence will keep you in the heart of the festivities.
- Booking Tips: Prices can rise during December, especially in popular cities, so book your hotel early. Websites like Booking.com offer flexible options for various budgets. Look for hotels that offer cancellation options in case your plans change. (It may cost a bit more, but it is worth it should you have to cancel.)
3. Public Transport Tips
- Metro and Bus Passes: Many cities like Rome and Milan have excellent public transportation systems, including metro and bus services. Purchase day passes or multi-day tickets to get around more efficiently. This is especially handy for visiting Christmas markets that are spread out in large cities.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Public transport can get crowded around market areas, so travel during off-peak hours to avoid large crowds, especially on weekends. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter.
4. Timing Your Visit
- Market Dates: Most Christmas markets run from late November to just after Christmas. For example, Milan’s Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Market kicks off in early December (around December 7th), while Florence’s Piazza Santa Croce Market typically runs through December. Double-check the dates before booking to ensure you don’t miss out on the full experience.
- Crowds: Try to visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds, particularly in tourist-heavy cities like Rome or Naples. Late afternoons are great for seeing the markets lit up by twinkling holiday lights.
5. Additional Travel Tips
- Pack Light: Italian markets are perfect for picking up gifts, decorations, and local goods. Pack light to make room for your holiday finds! A sturdy carry-on bag is excellent for navigating busy trains or cobblestone streets.
- Don’t Forget About Luggage Storage: If you’re checking out of your hotel or doing a day trip, many train stations in Italy offer luggage storage so you can enjoy the markets without dragging your bags along.
FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions on this topic.
What Are At Least 3 Things That Are Sold At Italian Christmas Markets?
Many items are for sale at Italian Christmas markets. The top three are local indulgences, nativity sets, and trinket gifts.
When Do Christmas Markets Start In Italy?
Christmas marks start as soon as the beginning of December, and some last through the first week in January.
Is Christmas A Big Deal In Italy?
Christmas in Italy is essentially the same as in other European Countries. Since Italy practices Catholicism, the setting up of presepe is widespread throughout the country.
Conclusion
Christmas markets in Italy blend tradition, local flavor, and festive cheer. From the inviting stalls of Rome and Milan to the artisanal crafts in Naples, each market offers a unique holiday experience. You can relax and browse handmade gifts, festive lights, and unique goodies. Planning your trip with insider tips—like booking train tickets early and staying near market areas—will make your visit unforgettable.
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