The Ultimate Italian Christmas Market Guide That’ll Make You Book a Trip Now
When most people picture Christmas markets, Germany or Austria usually spring to mind. But Italy has its own brand of festive magic that rivals Europe’s best. From Naples’ nativity-lined streets to Verona’s romantic piazzas filled with the scent of gingerbread, Italy is fast becoming a must-visit festive destination.
In fact, Google searches for “Italy at Christmas” have risen by over +5000% in the past month, while “Italy Christmas markets” has attracted 378,000 searches in the last year.
Starting from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, towns and cities across Italy sparkle with lights, markets, music, and centuries-old traditions. Heather Green, Head of Product at Citalia, shares her insight on the best Italian destinations for Christmas markets in 2025.
Verona (17 Nov – 26 Dec)
- Piazza dei Signori transforms into a romantic Christkindlesmarkt-inspired fair.
- Expect horse-drawn carriages, twinkling lights, and the famous illuminated star at Piazza Bra.
- Don’t miss the Festa di Santa Lucia on 13 December, when 200+ stalls fill Piazza Bra with pandoro, music, and processions.
Naples (30 Nov – 6 Jan)
- Via San Gregorio Armeno bursts with handcrafted presepi (nativity scenes).
- Indulge in local treats like struffoli (honey-coated dough balls) and roccocò biscuits.
- Nearby, the castle at Lettere becomes a fairytale Christmas village.
- Christmas Eve is marked by La Vigilia di Natale — Naples’ famous Feast of the Seven Fishes.
Turin (1 Dec – 6 Jan)
- Skate at Palaghiaccio Massari, enjoy concerts in San Carlo, and wander under the Luci d’Artista lights.
- Day-trip to Piedmont’s hidden gems, like floating nativity scenes in Santa Maria Maggiore.
- Taste local chocolate specialties: gianduja, cremini, and savoury bagna cauda.
Milan (6–9 Dec)
- Piazza del Duomo sparkles with its giant tree and market stalls.
- Experience Oh Bej! Oh Bej!, a 500-year-old fair at Castello Sforzesco, filled with sweets, toys, and gifts.
- Try authentic panettone in its birthplace, from historic bakeries like Pasticceria Marchesi or at festive stalls.
✨ Whether it’s sipping vin brulé in Verona, tasting panettone in Milan, or strolling Naples’ nativity streets, Italy’s Christmas markets promise festive magic like nowhere else.
👉 For more festive inspiration, visit Citalia’s guide.
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