Italy is reached with the arrival of the Christmas holidays thanks to the rooted tradition of Christmas markets. Between magic and Italian craftsmanship, the atmosphere is unique.
The Christmas markets in Italy with wooden houses, lights, decorations and festive melodies transform squares and historic centers into real themed villages. From the alpine squares of Trentino-Alto Adige to big cities like Rome, Milan and Turin, every corner offers handicrafts and typical products.
It’s not just about shopping: the Christmas market is a journey through ancient traditions, crafts and gastronomy.
10 Christmas markets not to be missed
From north to south, each Christmas market offers its own interpretation of this holiday with creations of local crafts and authentic flavors, turning Christmas into an even more special celebration.
Bolzano
Trentino-Alto Adige is considered the home of the Christmas markets par excellence. It is no coincidence that the market of Piazza Walther in Bolzano is among the most famous in Italy and abroad. Here, the party-decorated wooden houses offer handmade Christmas decorations, scented candles, wood products and warm and precious fabrics. There is no shortage of culinary delights such as vin brûlé, strudel and fried apples.
Merano
In Merano, the market on the Passirio river offers an experience similar to that of Bolzano, but with a more characteristic atmosphere. Among the illuminated houses, the festive sounds, the handicrafts and the inviting scents, you can breathe the true essence of the parties. This market is made up of small houses full of sweet and savoury South Tyrolean delicacies (such as donuts, strudel, vin brûlé, glühmi, speck and goulash) and craft stalls (where you can find Christmas decorations, candles, perfumes and handmade wool clothing).
Bressanone
Piazza Duomo in Bressanone turns into a fairy tale scenario with its magical Christmas market. The stalls of local handicrafts (with a rich variety of candles, ceramics, decorations, cribs and handmade products) and the facade of the Duomo create an atmosphere that really leaves you breathless. While shopping and let themselves be enveloped by the Christmas atmosphere, the most greedy can taste some typical products, from Tyrolean pancakes to krapfen, all accompanied by apple juice or vin brûlé.
Trento
Although not among the oldest, the city of Trento hosts one of the most suggestive markets in the area thanks to the setting of Piazza Fiera and Piazza Battisti. In addition to the Christmas decorations, carved wooden objects and hand-painted ceramics, the market is distinguished by its attention to products from zero kilometers. It is the perfect opportunity to taste and/ or buy potato tortel, dumplings, pastry creations and parampampoli.
Rovereto
A few kilometers away from Trento, Rovereto offers a Christmas market with a special atmosphere that takes you back in time thanks to the frame made of ramparts and ancient buildings. The stalls offer original handicrafts, from felt creations to wool garments and wood work. To these are also added displays of jewellery and design accessories. Among the local specialties offered by the stands there are salted products such as carne salada and polenta with sauce and sweet goodness such as jams and traditional biscuits.
Milan
In the big cities, the Christmas markets combine the charm of tradition with a cosmopolitan spirit. Among the many events not to be missed in Milan, there is the one with the “Village of Wonders” in the Indro Montanelli Gardens: in addition to attractions for young and old, you can find stalls of artisans that exhibit handmade jewelry, Fine design objects and Christmas decorations.
In the city center you can walk among wooden chalets typical of the Christmas markets and discover a wide selection of gastronomic delicacies, objects of various kinds and handicrafts, perfect to taste local traditions and make original gifts. Wide to Christmas decorations in wood, glass and ceramics, floral arrangements, traditional sweets and so on.
Turin
In Turin there are many markets, from that at Piazza Castello to that at Piazza San Carlo, even if the market of Borgo Dora remains one of the most suggestive because it is able to realize a real immersion in the Christmas atmosphere. Among the alleys and squares of this district, exhibitors offer unique pieces, such as statues for the crib and antiques as accessories of vintage furniture, vinyl and strange objects. For the most greedy, the gianduiotto and chocolate cakes are gifts.
Florence
Florence celebrates the arrival of Christmas with the market in Piazza Santa Croce inspired by the German tradition, the Weihnachtsmarkt. It is characterized by stands offering both international products and Tuscan handicrafts. Here you will find leather goods, artistic ceramics and handmade decorations, as well as the vin santo accompanied by cantucci.
Rome
The Eternal City is dotted with Christmas markets immersed in the traces of a glorious past, but the market of Piazza Navona is one of the unmissable appointments for both Romans and tourists. Among the Christmas lights reflected on the Fountain of the Four Rivers and the various representations of the Befana, you can buy blown glass decorations, handmade decorations, wooden toys, chocolate and sweets such as turrón and maritozzi.
Naples
Naples is the city of the Nativity scene. When talking about Christmas, it’s impossible not to mention the famous Via San Gregorio Armeno. Although it is not a Christmas market in the strict sense, this street is a paradise for nativity scene lovers. Skilled craftsmen work year-round to create unique figurines, from traditional figures to more modern characters. A visit is a must for those looking for a piece that makes their Christmas special. In addition, between a stand and the other, you can delight with Neapolitan delicacies.
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