More blogs
Italy is infamous for its rich traditions, incredible food and lust for life unmatched anywhere else in the world. So what better place to celebrate Christmas, a time synonymous with being with family, eating, drinking and having a merry old time, than in Italy? In this blog, we'll give the rundown on the best Italy Christmas markets spanning every corner of the country including:
- Christmas Markets in Florence, Italy
- Christmas Markets in Rome, Italy
- Verona Christmas Market
- Milan Christmas Market
- Turin Christmas Market
- Venice Christmas Market
- Bologna Christmas Market
- Bolzano Christmas Market
- Christmas Markets in Naples, Italy
- Christmas Markets in Cortina, Italy
- Christmas Markets in Lake Garda, Italy
- Christmas Markets in Bergamo, Italy
How to Plan a Trip to Italy's Best Christmas Markets
Are there Christmas Markets in Italy?
Yes! Italy goes all out for Christmas with Christmas markets popping up in every major city and town. Each Christmas market in Italy puts its own twist on Christmas magic making it a super fun way to explore Italy’s regional diversity.
Where is the most Christmassy place in Italy?
For a classic Christmas in Italy, we recommend heading North to the Trentino-Alto Adige region that borders Switzerland and Austria. In this picturesque Italian region, you'll see the classic symbols of Christmas like lights, Christmas markets and a good chance of snow.
How many Christmas markets are there in Italy?
The simple answer? There are too many Christmas markets in Italy to count! Making it an excellent choice for your Christmas getaway.
What's the biggest Italy Christmas market?
The Bolzano Christmas Market claims the title of Italy’s biggest, stretching across the Piazza Walther and featuring hundreds of stalls. This Christmas market in Italy is famous for its Alpine character, mulled wine, and handcrafted goodies.
What's the oldest Italy Christmas market?
Bolzano’s Christmas market again takes the crown as the oldest Christmas market in Italy, drawing inspiration from Germany’s centuries-old holiday markets. It dates back to 1991 (which has nothing on the German Christmas markets), establishing a tradition that has since blossomed across the country.
Where is the Best Christmas Market in Italy?
Naturally, this is a bit of a subjective question. If you want a commercial Christmas market with hundreds of stalls and lots of Christmas activities on offer, choose Milan or Rome. For a smaller, more authentic Christmas market experience choose one in a smaller town like Turin or Bologna for some Italian Christmas magic.
1. Christmas Markets in Florence, Italy
When: 28 Nov - 20 Dec (10 am-10 pm)
Kicking off our list of Italy's best Christmas markets is the Piazza Santa Croce Christmas Market, the biggest in the whole city. At the market, you can marvel at the huge Christmas tree set up in the beautiful Piazza del Duomo and a unique terracotta Nativity scene set up in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Shop for jewellery, small furniture, local produce and contemporary art.
Notable Highlights at the Florence Christmas Market in Italy
- Kürtőskalács or chimney cake slathered in cinnamon or chocolate.
- The Festival of Lights a light festival where Christmas trees are planted around the Duomo, inside Palazzo Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Palazzo Medici Riccardi and Piazza San Firenze.
- Illuminations: As part of the lights festival, you'll also see Florence's favourite city's monuments and piazzas in Florence lit up with video mapping and projections.
- The Florence Ice Village with its towering Ferris wheel and the longest skating rink in Europe is a must for families.
- The live orchestra performance at Palazzo Vecchio at 6 pm on 12 December.
The Best Hotel Near the Florence Christmas Market
Arte' Boutique Hotel | Via Camillo Cavour 14, Florence, 50129, IT | ★★★★
A cosy hotel that feels just like a B&B and is within walking distance of the Florence Christmas Market and other key attractions.
2. Christmas Markets in Rome, Italy
When: 1 Dec - 6 Jan (11 am-7 pm)
Another top choice for Christmas markets in Italy is Rome which has multiple Christmas markets dotted across the city. The most iconic is the Piazza Navona Christmas Market, set in one of Rome’s most famous squares. Surrounded by Baroque fountains, street performers, and historic architecture, this Christmas market is full of stalls selling Christmas decorations, nativity scene figures, and artisan goods. The charm of Piazza Navona at Christmas is enhanced by the traditional carousel at its centre – perfect for children and adults alike! At the Piazza Navona at Christmas don't miss the Christmas workshops for kids and the live performances of Christmas music and folk songs that you can't help but dance along to.
Notable Highlights at the Rome Christmas Markets
- Traditional Italian Nativity Scenes: Piazza Navona is known for its nativity scenes, from classic designs to quirky, contemporary variations.
- Pippo the Befana: Kids (and adults) will love Pippo, a unique performance by local actors, bringing to life the story of Befana, Italy’s Christmas witch.
- Artisan Crafts: Browse handmade candles, leather goods, and intricate ornaments crafted by local artisans – these make wonderful keepsakes or gifts.
- Food Stalls: You’ll find Roman favourites like porchetta sandwiches, castagnaccio (a traditional chestnut cake), and warming vin brulé (mulled wine) to keep you cosy.
The Best Hotel Near the Rome Christmas Markets
Hotel de Russie | Via del Babuino 9, Rome, 00187, IT | ★★★★★
Stay in the heart of Rome at this luxurious yet welcoming hotel, located just a short walk from Piazza Navona. Perfect for soaking up the festive spirit and exploring nearby sights.
3. Verona Christmas Market
When: 24 Nov - 24 Dec (10 am-9:30 pm)
Verona’s Piazza dei Signori Christmas Market is a wonder to behold, hosted in partnership with the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market in Germany. Expect a magical mix of Italian and German Christmas traditions, set against the romantic backdrop of Verona’s cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The market is packed with stalls selling Bavarian-style Christmas decorations, Italian crafts, and a variety of delicious Italian treats.
Notable Highlights at the Verona Christmas Market
- German-Inspired Stalls: From handcrafted nutcrackers to gingerbread houses, the market’s German influence is everywhere.
- Italian Christmas Treats: Sample Italian specialities like Pandoro (a star-shaped sweet bread), Verona’s signature dessert, and warming polenta e ragu for a hearty winter meal.
- Christmas Star of Verona: This gigantic illuminated star arches from the Roman Arena into Piazza Bra, creating a dazzling festive display.
- Concerts in Piazza dei Signori: Live performances by local choirs add to the festive cheer, especially on weekends.
The Best Hotel Near the Verona Christmas Market
Due Torri Hotel | Piazza Sant’Anastasia 4, Verona, 37121, IT | ★★★★★
A grand hotel near Piazza dei Signori, Due Torri Hotel combines elegance with comfort. Enjoy proximity to the market and easy access to Verona’s historical gems, making it a perfect spot for a festive city break.
4. Milan Christmas Market
When: 1 Dec - 6 Jan (10 am-8 pm)
Milan pulls out all the stops for Christmas with the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Market held in the grand surroundings of Castello Sforzesco. This historic market is full of character and charm, with stalls laden with hand-carved toys, jewellery, and Milanese delicacies. It’s not Christmas in Milan without a slice of panettone, and you’ll find every flavour imaginable here, from classic to chocolate-filled twists.
The Best Things to See at the Milan Christmas Market
- Traditional Panettone: Enjoy this classic Italian cake in every form, from the rich, fruity standard to inventive versions packed with chocolate and cream.
- Schiacciata alla Fiorentina: Don’t miss this moreish flatbread, often topped with olive oil and herbs, adding a savoury touch to your wanderings.
- Handmade Gifts: Browse stalls for traditional crafts, leather goods, and hand-painted ornaments – ideal for thoughtful presents.
- Castello Lights: The castle itself lights up for the season, adding a magical backdrop to your market experience.
The Best Hotel Near the Milan Christmas Market
Room Mate Giulia | Via Silvio Pellico 4, Milan, 20121, IT | ★★★★
A stylish boutique hotel located steps away from the Duomo and Castello Sforzesco, making it ideal for visiting the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Christmas market 2024.
5. Turin Christmas Market
When: 1 Dec - 6 Jan (10 am-10 pm)
Next on our list of the best Christmas markets in Italy is the Turin Christmas Market 2024. Visit Turin this Christmas and be prepared to be mesmerised by the Baroque architecture and the Luci D'Artista, an outdoor modern art exhibit that lights up all of Turn's streets and piazzas. Although Turin has a few Christmas markets, we highly recommend the Borgo Dora market which has a Nativity theme this year and even has a Nativity Scene Museum next to the classic Christmas stalls. Another essential visit is to the Mercatino of Adisco where you can shop for beautiful Christmas gifts while donating to a good cause, since proceeds from sales go towards children suffering from rare and incurable diseases.
Notable Highlights at the Turin Christmas Market 2024
- Piedmont Chocolates: Turin is famous for its chocolate, and you’ll find luxurious pralines, truffles, and hazelnut-infused treats everywhere.
- Father Christmas' House at Stupinigi: Where kids can write letters to Santa and join in on fun Christmas activities
- Mulled Barbera: Try this Piedmont version of mulled wine, rich and warming, made with the region’s red wine.
- Turin Ice Rink: Great for families, couples and friend groups.
- Christmas Choirs: Live carol performances add to the cosy winter atmosphere, especially on weekends.
- Artisan Crafts: Pick up unique Christmas gifts like handwoven scarves to locally made pottery.
The Best Hotel Near the Turin Christmas Market 2024
Principi di Piemonte | UNA Esperienze | Via Piero Gobetti 15, Turin, 10123, IT | ★★★★★
For a luxurious stay near the Piazza Castello market, Principi di Piemonte offers elegant rooms and a spa to unwind in. With views of the Alps and a perfect location, it’s an ideal choice to fully enjoy Turin’s winter charm.
Book a Light on the Bus tour to view Turin's Christmas lights from a different (and cosier) angle.
6. Venice Christmas Market
When: 2 Dec - 6 Jan (11 am-7 pm)
Venice transforms into a winter wonderland with its main Christmas market in Campo Santo Stefano. The city’s canals and bridges are decked out with lights that exude romance and nostalgia, while the Christmas market stalls offer top-quality Venetian glass, lace, and other local crafts. In our opinion, it's definitely one of the most beautiful settings for a Christmas market in Italy.
Notable Highlights at the Venice Christmas Market 2024
- Venetian Glassware: Browse exquisite glass ornaments, vases, and jewellery crafted by local artisans – ideal for one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Live Christmas Music: Classical music performances often fill the air around Campo Santo Stefano, adding to the elegance of Venice at Christmas.
- Great Food: Sample seasonal favourites like fritelle (fried dough balls) and sarde in saor – a sweet and sour sardine dish.
- Ice Rink in Campo San Polo: For a bit of winter fun, head to the ice rink and glide under the Venetian sky.
The Best Hotel Near the Venice Christmas Market 2024
Ca’ Sagredo Hotel | Campo Santa Sofia 4198/99, Venice, 30121, IT | ★★★★★
A grand Venetian palace turned boutique hotel, Ca’ Sagredo is within easy reach of Campo Santo Stefano and offers the ultimate Venetian Christmas experience thanks to the opulent decor and breathtaking canal views.
7. Bologna Christmas Market
When: 25 Nov - 6 Jan (10 am-8 pm)
Bologna is known for its food, and its Christmas market is no exception. The Fiera di Santa Lucia is packed with traditional treats like torrone (nougat) and certosino (Bologna’s spiced Christmas cake), along with handmade Christmas decorations and candles. Held along the Portico of Santa Maria dei Servi, this Christmas market has a cosy, traditional feel, perfect for a winter’s day out.
Notable Highlights at the Bologna Christmas Market
- Certosino Cake: This spiced fruitcake is a local Christmas treat you must try.
- Torrone Stalls: Pick up some nougat for a sweet bite, perfect for munching as you wander.
- Crafts and Trinkets: Discover hand-carved Nativity scenes, candles, and locally made decorations.
- Carolling Choirs: Expect live carol singers on certain evenings, adding a cheerful note to your visit.
The Best Hotel Near the Bologna Christmas Market
Art Hotel Commercianti | Via de' Pignattari 11, Bologna, 40124, IT | ★★★★
Situated in the heart of Bologna, this boutique hotel is just steps from the Fiera di Santa Lucia making it a great base for soaking up Bologna’s Christmas spirit.
8. Bolzano Christmas Market
When: 29 Nov - 6 Jan (10 am-7 pm)
Bolzano, nestled in the Dolomites, hosts Italy’s largest Christmas market in Piazza Walther. This Italy Christmas market blends Italian and Austrian traditions, with stalls brimming with wooden toys, woollen hats, and Apfelstrudel. The alpine setting, complete with snow-capped mountains, makes it feel like a true winter escape.
Bolzano Christmas Market 2024 Highlights:
- Tyrolean Specialities: From speck to apple strudel, savour traditional mountain treats while taking in the crisp air.
- Handmade Wool Goods: Stock up on cosy winter accessories like scarves and hats, crafted locally.
- Alpine Choirs: Join in the festive spirit as local choirs sing carols throughout December.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: For a magical touch, enjoy a scenic ride through the decorated town square.
The Best Hotel Near the Bolzano Christmas Market
Parkhotel Laurin | Via Laurin 4, Bolzano, 39100, IT | ★★★★
Located near Piazza Walther, Parkhotel Laurin combines classic elegance with a central location, offering easy access to Bolzano’s market. It’s an ideal retreat with a lovely garden and cosy atmosphere after a day exploring Italy’s largest Christmas market.
9. Christmas Markets in Naples, Italy
When: 1 Dec - 6 Jan (10 am-8 pm)
Naples is famed for its nativity scenes, and its Via San Gregorio Armeno Christmas market is the place to go for intricate, handcrafted presepi (nativity figurines). Artisans line the streets, selling everything from traditional Mary and Joseph figurines to unique, quirky characters you’ll only find in Naples. This Christmas market is a delightful mix of Naples’ old-world charm and buzzing atmosphere, with food stalls dishing out sfogliatella and pastiera to keep you fuelled as you wander.
Notable Highlights at the Naples Christmas Market
- Presepi Shopping: Take home a unique nativity figure, hand-carved by Naples’ famous artisans.
- Delicious Street Food: Try Naples’ favourite festive treats like sfogliatella – a flaky, ricotta-filled pastry – and struffoli, little fried dough balls drizzled with honey.
- Live Workshops: Watch artisans at work, crafting everything from miniature nativity scenes to hand-painted ceramics.
- Musical Performances: Expect traditional Neapolitan music and live performances throughout December, adding to the festive vibe.
The Best Hotel Near the Naples Christmas Market
Decumani Hotel de Charme | Via San Giovanni Maggiore Pignatelli 15, Naples, 80134, IT | ★★★★
Right in the heart of Naples’ historic centre, this charming hotel is just steps from Via San Gregorio Armeno. With its cosy rooms and historic decor, it’s an ideal base for immersing yourself in Naples’ lively Christmas atmosphere.
10. Christmas Markets in Cortina, Italy
When: 6 Dec - 6 Jan (10 am-7 pm)
Closing our list of the best Italy Christmas markets is Cortina d’Ampezzo, which transforms into a magical alpine escape during the Christmas season. Along the Corso Italia, Cortina’s Christmas market is lined with cosy wooden stalls filled with Tyrolean crafts, woolly winter accessories, and regional treats like speck and freshly baked strudel. Wandering through this picturesque Italian Christmas market with snow-dusted mountains as the backdrop, it's lovely for couples wanting a romantic Italian holiday.
Notable Highlights at the Cortina Christmas Market
- Alpine Specialties: Warm up with traditional bites like strudel and speck, perfect after a day in the snow.
- Handmade Crafts: Discover unique, Tyrolean-inspired ornaments, hand-knitted scarves, and mountain-themed souvenirs.
- Breathtaking Views: The snow-capped Dolomites that surround the market make the setting alone a reason to visit.
- Ice Skating Rink: The nearby outdoor rink is a hit with families, letting you skate surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
The Best Hotel Near the Cortina Christmas Market
Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa | Via Rinaldo Menardi 42, Cortina d'Ampezzo, 32043, IT | ★★★★★
This luxurious alpine retreat is only a short distance from Corso Italia, offering a grand view of the Dolomites from every room. With elegant, mountain-inspired decor and a world-class spa, Cristallo is the perfect place to unwind after exploring Cortina’s winter magic.
11. Christmas Markets on Lake Garda, Italy
When: From 15 November 2024 to 6 January 2025
For the best Christmas markets in the lakes in Italy, Lake Garda's Christmas markets are a must-visit. The towns surrounding Italy’s largest lake transform into enchanting winter wonderlands with ice rinks, Christmas markets, stunning nativity scenes, and breathtaking waterfront views.
The Best Christmas Markets at Lake Garda:
- Verona: Go ice skating rink before checking out the international Crib Exhibition of Verona in Piazza Bra, where you can see over 400 Christmas nativity scenes from all over the world.
- Malcesine: A must for Christmas activities. At this Italy Christmas market, you'll find a 4D Cinema with Christmas-themed films, an ice rink and even a stage for fun live performances.
- Bussolengo: See twinkling decorations and meet Santa Claus's helpers, elves and artisans presenting their creations.
- Lazise: Visit the little church of San Nicolò to see its unique Nativity scene.
Don’t Miss:
- Boat rides on Lake Garda to soak up the festive scenery from the water.
- The Nativity Scenes (Presepi) dotted across the towns, with many featuring intricate handmade displays.
Best Hotel Near Lake Garda's Christmas Markets
Hotel Lago di Garda | Via Lungolago Conca d'Oro 11, Torbole, 38069, IT | ★★★★
A beautiful lakeside hotel with stunning views, offering easy access to the Christmas markets in Bardolino, Lazise, and Riva del Garda.
12. Christmas Markets in Bergamo, Italy
When: 24 Nov - 7 Jan (10 am - 8 pm)
Between Milan and Lake Como, Bergamo’s Christmas markets offer a magical escape steeped in history and charm. The main market in Piazza Dante is a highlight, filling the square with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and a 30-metre-tall Ferris wheel. Here you’ll find everything from handmade Christmas crafts to locally sourced delicacies.
Explore the Città Alta, Bergamo’s walled old town, where cobbled streets and medieval architecture set the scene for an enchanting Christmas experience. Don’t miss the Mercatino di Natale (Christmas Village) with artisan workshops, nativity scenes, and festive treats to savour.
Notable Highlights at the Bergamo Christmas Market
- Local Treats: Try traditional Christmas treats like polenta e osei, a sweet cake shaped like little birds, and warm mulled wine (vin brulé).
- Craft Workshops: Watch artisans create bespoke Christmas ornaments and gifts – perfect for a meaningful souvenir from your time at the Bergamo Italy Christmas Market.
- Città Alta Funicular: Take a ride on Bergamo’s historic funicular for stunning views of the city, especially magical at dusk when the Christmas lights glow.
The Best Hotel Near the Bergamo Christmas Market
Hotel Piazza Vecchia | Via Colleoni 3, Bergamo, 24129, IT | ★★★★
Located in Bergamo’s Città Alta, this is an affordable hotel with a great buffet breakfast. Great for fueling your day before visiting the Bergamo Christmas markets.
Will You Visit The Best Italy Christmas Markets?
And that's a wrap on our list of the top 10 Italy Christmas markets spanning all the big names to lesser-known gems. Whether you want to tick off multiple in one trip or focus your Christmas holiday on just one, we're confident that you'll be blown away by the sheer tradition and festive joy of Italy.
Gift a Hotel Stay in Italy with our Hotel Gift Vouchers
Want to gift a magical night away this Christmas? Our hotel gift cards are the easiest and best way to gift a hotel room to someone special. You just add some credit (anywhere between £25 to £10,000), choose an image or upload your own and choose a hotel gift card type. We offer:
- Luxury gift vouchers for hotels: printed on stunning gold cards and sent for free worldwide.
- E gift cards for hotels: sent straight to their inbox (a great last-minute gifting option).
- PDF hotel gift cards: sent to your inbox for you to forward or print and give in person.
Once they get their hotel gift certificate, they can choose from over 750,000 hotels around the world and all the biggest chains like Marriott, Hilton, ACCOR, Best Western and more. Whether they're an avid traveller and want to explore the likes of:
Or just fancy an indulgent night away in the UK, our hotel gift vouchers are valid for 2 years and give your loved one the power to choose. It's a truly special Christmas present that leaves happiness long after the 25th.
