Italy’s Christmas markets feel like:
Chestnut and cinnamon. Mulled vino. Tapping artisanal talent for local, festive goodies. Gorgeous nativity scenes.
In a word (or three) –– pretty freaking charming.
If you’re ever on the fence about visiting Italy in the winter, rest assured that the line-up of Christmas markets on its own is one of the BEST reasons to be here this time of year.
That being said, it’s overwhelming to know which Christmas markets to choose, and which one is right for you.
We did the hard work of picking our faves, so you won’t miss an ornament!
Here are the markets where we get our Italian Fix on, come Christmastime:
Bolzano, Trentino Alto Adige
This is The Biggest Christmas Market in Italy, and it’s been bringing people in for years for good reason. Parked in the middle of the Dolomites, this area is squeezed between Austria and Switzerland –– which means that there’s a fab, festive fusion of Christmas culture that’s oh-so-frizzante. The town itself is gorgeous ‘n’ glowy with romantic lamps lighting the street, and a hint of spice in the air. You’ll find all of the 80+ vendors in this market under pretty little wooden huts, and be sure to try the classic Bolzano zelten cake here.
- Go here if you want: A family-friendly, endlessly entertaining day with kiddos
- Where it’s located: Piazza Walther
- When it’s open: November 29 – January 6
- Website: Click here.
La Città dei Balocchi, Lake Como
Lake Como is gorgeous on her own, but when the annual Christmas market sets up shop on her shores –– holy cannoli. The sparkling lights reflected on the water (that never really freezes) and through the mountains make for a total vision. This market features an open-air ice skating rink and you’ll find a fully stacked line-up of concerts and performances running throughout the season here!
- Go here if you want: A weekend getaway from Milan to pick up new prezzies!
- Where it’s located: Piazza Cavour
- When it’s open: November 23 – January 6
- Website: Click here
Weihnachtsmarkt German Market, Florence
Hailing from Heidelberg, Germany, we love that a little slice of Florence gets totally transformed and transports you to a different place altogether! This is our favorite spot to pick up both classically German and Florentine-made artisanal gifts and goods, amidst a gorgeously Gothic basilica backdrop. And obviously, the best part about uniting German and Italian culture in a Christmas market means that you won’t be shopping on an empty tummy. Save space for bratwurst and beer, traditional Heidelberg Lebkuchen cookies and spiced vin brulè, apple strudel and panforte (spiced fruit cake)!
- Go here if you want: A super culinary and craft-y experience
- Where it’s located: Piazza Santa Croce
- When it’s open: November 23 – December 22
Marché Vert Nöel, Aosta
Alright. There are Christmas markets. And then there are call-me-pretty Christmas markets that are downright swoonworthy. This is that market. Every year, this little Alpine town turns their Roman Theater into the base for their Christmas market, where you can stroll through 50+ little wooden chalets and awesome alleys to cozy into when you need some downtime. And of course, watch the performances put on throughout the season. You’ll find local goods like boiled wool and felt accessories, wooden handicrafts, handmade candles and soaps, lace and lots of sweetmeats. Delish.
- Go here if you want: A small-town vibe that’s easy to get around
- Where it’s located: Roman Theater
- When it’s open: November 23 – January 6
- Website: Click here.
Oh Bej! Oh Bej!, Milan
As you can probably tell, a lot of Italian Christmas markets are influenced by Germany or other European counterparts –– but the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Christmas fair and market in Milan is one of our top choices if you want a 110% Italian Christmas experience. It’s a super old tradition dating back to 1288, in honor of the city’s Patron Saint. You can pick up all kinds of Italian-made antiques, toys, traditional food (read: all the biscotti!), local honey, smoked chestnuts and local Christmas decor that’s totally unique to Milan.
- Go here if you want: A totally Italian take on Christmas
- Where it’s located: Castello Sforzesco
- When it’s open: December 7 – 10
- Website: Click here.
***
Want more insider intel on what to do and see in Italy during the winter? Check out these posts:
- The Top 5 Places to Visit in Italy in the Winter
- The Top 10 Spots in Northern Italy (And Why You Should Go)
- Ski Italy
What are YOUR favorite holiday traditions and Christmas markets? Pop them in the comments below. We wanna know!
One Response