Christmas and Advent markets in Italy

Christmas markets in Rome

The Christmas markets in Rome are some of the largest and most popular in Italy. They are located in beautiful historical areas, just a short distance away from world-renowned landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain. The most famous Advent market in Rome is in Piazza Navona, situated on the site of Domitian’s stadium and featuring three magnificent fountains. During the festive season, the square is transformed into a bustling shopping area offering handicrafts, nativity scenes, and Christmas sweets. The markets also offer a daily music program and performances by street artists and acrobats. Apart from Piazza Navona, the Christmas village in the Cinecittà World amusement park is also worth visiting. It features several special Christmas shows and attractions for all age groups, making it an excellent place for families with children.

Christmas markets in Milan

The Christmas markets in Milan are a spectacular event that takes place every year. It’s worth visiting the markets during the first few days of December, as the city celebrates the feast of its patron saint on December 7th. To honor his memory and get in the festive spirit, locals organize the “Oh Bej! Oh, Bej!” Christmas market. Here, you can find a wide variety of local gastronomic specialties and various handicrafts. This three-day celebration is an excellent opportunity to buy original Christmas gifts. Another must-see Christmas market is located in Piazza Duomo, in front of the monumental Gothic Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, in the heart of Milan.

Christmas markets in Venice

If you’re searching for a romantic holiday atmosphere filled with lights reflecting on the water’s surface, then you won’t want to miss Venice’s Christmas markets. Every year, the city is transformed into a miniature Christmas village with stunning decorations and countless fairy lights that illuminate the streets and canals. Piazza di San Marco is especially festive, with cute wooden stalls and dozens of Christmas trees. There are also concerts and events for children. If you’re looking for an original Christmas gift, head to the Campo Santo Stefano markets. You’ll find stalls offering world-famous hand-blown Murano glass, carnival masks, and other Venetian crafts here. Local gastronomic delicacies include nougat with almonds, Verona panettone filled with fruit, and white truffle delicacies from Alba.

Christmas markets in Bolzano

The Christmas markets in Bolzano, situated in the Trentino-Alto Adige or South Tyrol region, are among the most distinctive in Italy. This region is located along the borders with Austria and Switzerland, and you’ll immediately sense the blend of Italian and “German” culture here. During Advent, the city is alive with the colors and sounds of Christmas. Hundreds of lights illuminate the streets of the historic center to the sounds of traditional carols. In Piazza Walther and the old town, you’ll discover the characteristic wooden huts of the Christmas market called “Christkindlmarkt,” where you can purchase typical glass, wood, and ceramic decorations, food delicacies, and excellent Christmas pastries like the Bolzano “Zeiten.”

If you’re traveling to Bolzano by car, you can stop at the Advent markets in Innsbruck on the way there or back.