The Most Beautiful Christmas Markets In Italy

Be sure not to miss any of these beautiful Christmas markets.

No Christmas in Italy would be complete without Christmas markets, and although it's tempting to just visit the nearest one, some people organise expeditions to the most famous and beautiful Christmas markets in Europe to make their last minute purchases of gifts to put under the tree.

Christmas markets are not just a great place to find beautiful craft products, they are also a wonderful way to spend time with your friends and to sample some local desserts together with a glass of festive mulled wine.

So which are the most beautiful Christmas markets in Italy? Let's find out now.

TRENTO

Famous all over the world, the Christmas market in Trento is the first of the 7 markets we are listing here.

From November 18th until January 6th 2018 you can lose yourself among the many stalls in the Piazza Fiera and in the Piazza Cesare Battisti. You won't have any difficulty finding them, not only because they are just 5 minutes from the station, but also because you just follow the delicious aroma of hot chocolate!

MERANO

The Christmas market in Merano is one of the best known in Italy - famous for the cinnamon aroma that fills your lungs and nostrils as soon as you set foot in the city, as well as for its fantastic homemade desserts and its vibrant party atmosphere.

This year, the Merano Christmas market takes place from November 24th until January 6th 2018, and there is a new place to eat - stall number 63 will offer tasty fish dishes and other delicacies, such as grilled salmon and trout in bread, pan-fried mushrooms with cream and parsley sauce (vegetarian) or with bacon, and a sandwich of tofu balls and salad (vegan).

BOLZANO

From November 24th until January 6th 2018, Bolzano is filled with colour and the smell of spices. The Christmas market here has an important role in the community, and it is a celebration that brings people together to learn the skills of artisans and cooks.

MONTEPULCIANO

The village of Montepulciano will once again see the return of its Christmas market, which after the success of previous years, continues to be highly anticipated.

As well as housing 60 stalls where you can find original Christmas gifts, there is also a Santa's Castle (tickets can be bought on VivaTicket).

The market is open from 18th November until 7th January 2018.

NAPLES

If you are looking for a statuette for your crib display, you are sure to find an unusual one here. Via San Gregorio Armeno in Spaccanapoli is completely unique - it is an open air Christmas market that never closes all year round - in fact, this road is dedicated to celebrating Christmas 365 days of the year!

BOLOGNA

Starting in the second half of November and finishing the day after Christmas, the amazing Fair of Saint Lucia in Bologna is one of the oldest Christmas fairs in Europe.

Similar to Naples, Bologna has a very strong crib tradition, although it is less well known. In these markets you will find the most varied collection of Nativity statues made from different materials, from wood to papier mache.

CATANIA

From the beginning of December 2017 and continuing almost up until the end of January 2018 you can explore the stalls of artists and craftsmen in the centre of Catania. Apart from being the perfect place to buy Christmas presents, you mustn't miss the sweets here, they are truly amazing!