The Christmas market in Bolzano Photo: stock.adobe.com/Antonio Gravante
From our editorial team
When the days get shorter and the light warmer in Italy, many cities are transformed into stages for Advent.
Garlands of lights stretch across narrow alleyways, the piazzas smell of almonds, wax and warm wine. Christmas markets are younger in Italy than in northern Europe - but perhaps that is precisely why they are a little more charming, honest and peaceful.
Bolzano in South Tyrol: the origin of everything
In Piazza Walther, lights twinkle above the rooftops and the scent of strudel and fir wood wafts through the air. The Bolzano Christmas market was the first in Italy in 1990 - a meeting place between the Alps and the south. Wooden toys, candles, felt, nativity figures - all handmade, all with a history.
Open: 28 November 2025 until 6 January 2026
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Merano in South Tyrol: a walk along the river
Photo: stock.adobe.com/lorenza62
Hut after hut line the Passer promenade, with the mountains glowing in the background. Here you can stroll through the cold with a warm mulled apple wine, listen to music and look out over the water. Merano is not a spectacle, but a safe bet for a festive Christmas atmosphere.
Open: 28 November 2025 until 6 January 2026
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Photo: stock.adobe.com/e55evu
Trento in Trentino: mountain air and craftsmanship
The squares in the old town centre smell of cheese, honey and wax. Fairy lights hang between the wooden huts and the view of the Dolomites looms over everything. Trento is the epitome of an Italian winter wonderland - small, clear, authentic. And there are actually two markets here, in two squares.
Open: 21.11.2025 - 06.01.2026
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Verona in Veneto: Bridge with market
Photo: stock.adobe.com/Marco
When Advent begins, the Piazza dei Signori is transformed into a village of wood and light. Verona celebrates with a German partner, the classic Christmas market (Nuremberg), but in Italian style. In principle, the entire city centre becomes a Christmas market.
Open: 21 November to 28 December 2025
Florence - Christmas with style
Photo: stock.adobe.com/e55evu
Piazza Santa Croce smells of cinnamon and chocolate, and garlands of lights twinkle between the Renaissance façades. The market is small but tasteful - Florence celebrates Advent like a well-composed piece of music: subtle, elegant, warm.
Open: 15 November to 21 December 2025
Rome - Baroque and magic
Photo: stock.adobe.com/e55evu
Piazza Navona is Rome's stage for December. Children's merry-go-rounds spin, street performers play, nativity figures stand next to candy floss. When the sun goes down and the fountains sparkle in the light, one thing is clear: Rome can also do winter - just the Roman way.
Open: 1 December 2025 to 6 January 2026
