Feeling festive? Dive into the Italian festive spirit by visiting a Christmas Market. Christmas is a magical time in Italy, and if you're lucky enough to be planning a holiday, you'll have a lot of questions: what do Italians eat at Christmas? Where do locals visit at Christmas time? It can be hard to find the best things to do when you're used to Christmas back at home, but don't worry: we've got you covered! From north to south, here are some ideas for magical Christmas markets you can visit in Italy.
In this brief guide, we present some of the most traditional markets scheduled, providing you with dates and locations (we still recommend checking the official websites of the individual municipalities to stay updated on any changes).
Trento and Merano
The Christmas market in Trento is one of the most famous in Europe. Between Piazza Fiera and Piazza Mostra, you can enjoy winter specialties such as polenta brustolada (grilled polenta) and treccia mochèna (a plaited pastry). Of course, a glass of mulled wine (vin brulè) is a must!
Dates and times:
From November 22, 2024, to January 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (subject to special openings and closings).
Just a hundred kilometers north lies the market of the spa town of Merano. With the arrival of the first snow and cooler temperatures, Merano transforms into a magical place. The sparkling lights and traditional huts along the Lungopassirio create a unique, truly Christmas atmosphere. Here, children can enjoy ice skating, pony rides, or join baking workshops.
Dates and times:
From November 29, 2024, to January 6, 2025, starting from 10:00 AM (closed on December 25).
Verona
The city of Verona is not just Romeo and Juliet! During the festive season, in addition to lights and decorations, around a hundred exhibitors will bring the area behind Piazza Erbe to life, including Piazza dei Signori and its courtyards (Cortile Mercato Vecchio and Cortile del Tribunale), making the holiday season even more special.
Numerous activities will animate Christmas in Verona: from the Christmas Passport (a special document to be stamped at key market points) to the Christmas tree-shaped carousel, Santa's house, a Nativity scene exhibition, musical events, and even the Christmas Run (a non-competitive 5 or 10 km race).
Dates and times:
From November 15 to December 26, 2024: Sun-Thurs from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Fri, Sat, and holidays from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Special hours: December 24, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; December 25, from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM; December 26, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Milan
In the city of Milan, the traditional wooden huts will fill Piazza Duomo from December 1, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
However, the event that truly captures the essence of Milan during this time of year is the “Oh bej, oh bej!” fair, held from December 7 to 10 at Castello Sforzesco. This fair is one of the city’s oldest traditions, dating back to 1288, and is dedicated to the patron saint, Sant'Ambrogio. The name “Oh bej, oh bej!” is more “recent”, originating in the 1500s. It is said that Giannetto Castiglione, a delegate of Pope Pius IV, was sent to Milan to reignite the city's devotion to the saints. As he neared the city, Giannetto, fearing an unfriendly welcome, prepared numerous boxes filled with sweets and toys. Upon entering Milan, he distributed these gifts to children, who joyfully exclaimed “Oh bej, oh bej!” (“Oh beautiful!”).
Naples
Our roundup of the most traditional Christmas markets wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Naples and its famous market on Via San Gregorio Armeno. This street is brimming with artisans showcasing their works, making it an interesting place to visit year-round, but it truly comes to life during Christmas. Along the street, you can admire stunning traditional Nativity scenes, purchase handmade gifts, and enjoy delicious Neapolitan street food, from fried calzones stuffed with ricotta to mustacciuoli, and even pizza a portafoglio (it closes in on itself on its two sides just like a wallet, “portafoglio” in Italian).
Dates and times:
In Naples, festivities traditionally begin on December 8, for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and continue until Epiphany on January 6.
These are just a few of the many Christmas markets that light up Italy during the festive season, but almost every city has its own magical corner where the Christmas spirit comes alive. Whether it's Verona, Merano, Naples, Trento, Milan, or any other city, each market offers moments of joy, traditions to discover, and... flavors to savor!
Happy Holidays from Cesarine!