Temperatures are dropping, the smell of cinnamon is in the air, and Christmas markets are popping up everywhere. You can’t fully get into the holiday spirit if you haven’t visited a market or two! Luckily, Italy has some of the best around. It’s time to get festive at the top Christmas markets in Italy.
Pro Tip: Planning a holiday trip to Italy at Christmas? Bookmark this post in a “Florence Christmas” folder so you can easily find it. See our comprehensive guide to Florence, Rome, or Venice for more planning resources and our curated Christmas tours in Florence and Rome for a memorable trip. We also have a great post about spending Christmas in Rome if you’re heading there too.
The Best Christmas Markets in Italy
One of the highlights of spending the holiday season abroad is the opportunity to enjoy a local Christmas market. They’re the best place to get a feel for the local traditions, sample the local delicacies, and see the work of local artisans. So, zip up your coat, put on some woollen socks, and let’s explore the top Christmas markets in Italy.
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10. Bolzano Market and South Tyrol Area
Italy’s biggest and possibly most characteristic Christmas market is way up north in the South Tyrol area. This region is along the border with Austria and Switzerland, and you can instantly feel the collision of cultures. The town itself is heavily populated with German speakers, so expect the street signs to be in both Italian and German.
Dozens of wooden stands sell handcrafted local products like wool accessories, toys, and ornaments. Sample the mouthwatering delicacies like Vin brulè (hot mulled wine) as you shop. The main location of the market is in Piazza Walther, but it winds throughout the town. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the unique and special atmosphere!
Address: Piazza Walther | When: November 25th — January 6th (Closed on December 25th)
9. Bressanone Artisan Market
Just a short train ride from Bolzano is this other famous town in the South Tyrol area, Bressanone (also known as Brixen). The market is nestled around the impressive cathedral of the town and it’s known for its colorful artisanal products and holiday aromas that float through the air.
Save time to walk through the other parts of this town! You’ll feel transported to the neighboring countries while still enjoying your winter Italian dream.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 4 | When: November 25th — January 6th
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8. Merano Wooden Goods Market
Also in South Tyrol, Merano is a town known as a place for relaxation and well-being. They carry this way of life into the holiday season by hosting a market that captures the magic of Christmas.
Experience snow reaching the summit of the alpine peaks, community togetherness, and the smell of cinnamon and fresh pastries. The sparkling Christmas lights at night are enough to bring visitors, but they also do us a huge favor in selling locally made woollen and wooden goods, in addition to other local crafts.
Address: Piazza Terme di Merano | When: November 25th – January 6th
7. Rome Christmas Markets and Fairs
Although it used to be bigger in the past, the Christmas market in Piazza Navona remains the most popular. International goods, local delicacies, Christmas concerts, and even Santa himself can be found in this bustling square in the middle of Rome.
A new up-and-coming event on the Rome Christmas Market scene is the Wave Market – Christmas Edition, held at Lanificio on December 8th and 9th. If you wish to spend a day filled with local specialties, eco-friendly products, and fresh drinks, this is your best option in the Eternal City! Here you’ll find handmade artisanal decorations and gifts for the whole family!
Piazza Re di Roma is a quieter venue that usually hosts a small market, an ice skating rink, and live music performances. Perfect to spend a nice day with the whole family away from crowds.
Piazza Navona Market | When: early December— January 6th
Piazza Re di Roma Market | When: early December — January 6th
Wave Market – Christmas Edition | When: December 8th and 9th 2018
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Rome Guide for more info.
6. Florence Santa Croce Market
The famous Piazza di Santa Croce in Florence hosts the German Christmas Market every year. From Heidelberg, Germany, you will see dozens of wooden huts complete with both local and German crafts, accessories, and indulgences for your taste buds! Don’t miss the mulled wine, panforte (a dense, spiced fruitcake), and even bratwurst!
Address: Piazza di Santa Croce | When: November 19th — December 18th
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Florence Guide for more info.
5. Venice Markets and Ice Skating Rink
The Floating City dresses up for Christmas and opens an ice skating rink! Venice doesn’t have a proper market such as the other Christmas markets in Italy. Instead, you’ll find small stands selling gift ideas all around the city.
Campo San Polo is great for some action during the holidays. Head there to ice skate with your family and eat some frittelle, huge doughnut-like pastries filled with Nutella!
Address: Campo San Polo | When: December 8th – January 6th
4. Bologna Christmas Market
Of all the Christmas Markets in Italy, Bologna is far less crowded than the other, better-known festivals. Still impressive in size and offerings, this could be a good option to visit another important and striking city while conveniently avoiding the touristy crowds. There are two markets in Bologna – Fiera di Santa Lucia, located around Basilica di Santa Maria dei Servi, and the Fiera di Natale, on Via Altabella.
Fiera di Santa Lucia — Address: Basilica di Santa Maria dei Servi | When: November 18th – December 26th
Fiera di Natale — Address: Via Altabella | When: November 18th – January 6th
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3. Sant’Agata Feltria Christmas Village
Known as the “Paese del Natale”, or village, this town is in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Wander through the medieval buildings and narrow alleys and discover local manufacturers and artisans.
When hunger strikes, opt for some of the piatti dell’avvento – particular advent meals. You’ll see dishes like roasted chestnuts mixed with beans and spaghetti with sugar and walnuts.
Address: Piazza Garibaldi | When: December 4th, 8th, 11th, 18th
2. Cagliari Christmas Expo
Want to migrate south for the winter? No problem! The capital city of the island Sardinia hosts a true Christmas expo, only offering and showcasing local products of the island.
What better way to experience a different part of Italy? Taste the world-famous food, buy local products, and spend the colder months on an Italian island.
Address: Piazza Yenne | When: December 4th – December 16th
1. Naples Nativity Scene Extravaganza
If you’re in a group of people who think Christmas is over too quickly, Naples is the city for you! Famous for their nativity scenes, or presepi, they have a year-round Christmas market. Shops and entire streets offer the traditional figurines every month of the year.
Starting around mid-November, the street Via San Gregorio truly enhances the holiday feels! Get lost among the many market stands and shops selling local treats. Stroll down the narrow alleyways and then check out the live nativity scene is Piazza S. Gaetano.
Market — Address: Via San Gregorio
Nativity Scene — Address: Piazza S. Gaetano
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I am planning a trip to Italy and I will be there for the Christmas markets, thank you for this insightful blog. I am so excited!
You’re welcome! You’ll have an incredible time!