Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an end-of-year corporate event, Christmas markets and winter festivals are the perfect excuse to rediscover the joy of being together.
And the good news is — it’s not too late to plan your trip. But don’t wait too long: December in Italy is one of the most magical (and busiest) times of the year.
From the Trentino-Alto Adige Alps to Sicily, every region celebrates the season in its own way, blending lights, flavors, and centuries-old traditions.
In the north, the famous Christmas markets of Bolzano, Merano, and Bressanone remain a timeless favorite: wooden chalets filled with handmade crafts, choirs singing in the streets, the scent of pine and cinnamon, and mugs of steaming mulled wine.
Nearby, Trento and Vipiteno offer the perfect mix of fairytale atmosphere and winter adventure — ideal for those who want to combine shopping with a weekend on the slopes.
In central Italy, Christmas takes on a more artistic and spiritual soul.
In Arezzo, the “City of Christmas” turns the medieval square into a festive wonderland, complete with a Ferris wheel, light shows, and Santa’s house. In Gubbio, the world’s largest Christmas tree lights up Mount Ingino, visible from miles away. And in Perugia, the markets inside the ancient Rocca Paolina blend medieval charm with the sparkle of modern holiday lights.
Further south, Christmas is about traditions, flavors, and faith.
In Greccio, Lazio, the birthplace of the nativity scene, St. Francis’s vision is re-enacted every year. In Naples, a visit to Via San Gregorio Armeno is a must: here, artisans craft nativity figurines all year long.
In Puglia, the living nativity scenes of Tricase and Alberobello bring the story to life among the trulli houses, while in Sicily, festive markets in Catania and Palermo are filled with almond sweets, nougat, and cannoli.
And where there are no Christmas markets, other winter traditions fill the air with warmth.
In Tuscany and Umbria, locals celebrate the new olive oil season with tastings, fire pits, and toasted bread drizzled with green gold. In Cremona and Caltanissetta, entire weekends are dedicated to torrone (nougat) with fairs and concerts. Meanwhile, Salerno’s “Luci d’Artista” turns the entire city into an open-air art gallery of lights — one of the most spectacular displays in Europe.
Italy in December is a mosaic of experiences — ideal for those seeking authenticity, atmosphere, and a touch of wonder.
Perfect for a last-minute getaway or a small company trip, these winter celebrations remind us that the real luxury of the season is slowing down and sharing time together.
Just remember: the most charming towns fill up quickly, and by early December, Italy is already glowing with lights… and visitors.