Italy Christmas Trip Guide for the Best Christmas Holidays
Want to make Christmas unforgettable? Italy is the ultimate Christmas escape that combines festive magic with Italian allure.
Imagine spending Christmas in Italy’s iconic cities twinkling with Christmas lights, cosy markets and giant Christmas trees that make you feel like you’re in a Christmas wonderland.
From the famous Campo Santo Stefano in Venice to the charming markets of northern Italy, there’s no shortage of things to do.
And if you fancy a magical walk, head to Naples’ San Gregorio Armeno where every street becomes a nativity scene gallery. Or dress up warm, head out further and visit Italy’s old towns at night for an extra dose of Christmas magic.
The Italian Christmas season is full of things to see, eat and do and it’s the ultimate place to spend the holidays. So, grab your scarf, save room for panettone and get ready for a Christmas in Italy that’s as full of surprises as a Christmas stocking.
Best Locations to Enjoy the Christmas Festivities in Italy
Italy at Christmas time is full of magic. Whether it’s gazing at the giant Christmas tree in Florence, visiting the Christmas market at Campo San Polo or marvelling at the nativity scenes in Naples’ San Gregorio Armeno, there are endless ways to celebrate Christmas in Italy.
Take in the Christmas lights and decorations as you stroll through Italian cities, absorb the Italian traditions and exchange gifts with new friends. And of course, look out for La Befana, the Italian version of Santa Claus who brings gifts with a bit of flair.
Not sure where to start? Here are the best things to do in Italy to make your Christmas holiday unforgettable.
1. Milan
Milan at Christmas is where tradition meets sparkle.
Touring the Christmas markets in Milan is a must during the festive season, especially the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Fair, dating back to 1288 and the Banco di Garabombo, a charming local Christmas market.
Not to be beaten, the city’s huge Christmas tree in Piazza del Duomo is the centrepiece of its own popular Christmas market, shining bright across the fashion capital of Italy.
Full of Italian delicacies, handmade crafts and treats you’ll want to wrap up as souvenirs, a visit to these markets is one of the best ways to spend Christmas with your loved ones.
Don't forget to indulge in panettone, the sweet bread loved throughout Italy, while browsing the Christmas market stalls for everything from food to gifts.
Need a break from all that shopping and feasting? Stroll down Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to admire its majestic glass dome furnished with lights and ornaments, along with its large Christmas tree.
From Christmas decorations to local markets, it's a must to spend Christmas in Milan, Italy. It’s a stylish holiday getaway full of sparkle and a dash of history.
2. Venice
Christmas in Venice, Italy is an enchanting experience, where the city’s canals and ancient architecture become even more magical.
During the festive season, the Piazza San Marco will be twinkling with lights and snow, making you feel like you’re stepping into a real-life postcard.
Take in the views from the Ponte di Rialto where the city’s historic heart is reflected on the water below. And don’t miss Ghetto Ebraico the world’s first Jewish ghetto, which tells a special story of Venice’s diverse past – a great place to learn about Venice's past while embracing the local festive traditions.
To get the full experience, a Venice Christmas Day tour is a must. It’s the only way to hear the stories behind each landmark and learn the history while basking in the holiday cheer.
From the Christmas tree in San Marco to the quieter canals that come alive with lights, Venice at Christmas is one of the most romantic places to spend Christmas.
3. Rome
Walking through their many piazzas such as Piazza Di Spagna or St. Peter's Square on Christmas Eve, the life-sized Nativity scene and twinkling Christmas tree add a magical touch to the heart of Catholic tradition.
And no trip to Rome is complete without an evening in Piazza Navona’s Christmas Markets - a funfair with traditional food, handmade gifts and Christmas delicacies.
Get lost in the twinkling lights of Piazza del Popolo, Palazzo Firenze and Via dei Condotti. As you wander through cobblestone streets and designer-lined alleys, you’ll see displays that outshine even the biggest trees. You won’t want to miss Rome’s Festive Sights and Christmas Lights.
For those looking for an authentic Italy Christmas, attend a Christmas Baroque Concert or a Christmas Opera Concert in Rome where the music will transport you straight into the festive mood.
4. Florence
Florence is pure magic at Christmas in Italy, where every cobblestone feels like a step into a Renaissance Christmas card.
Start at Piazza Santa Croce where the Christmas markets come to life with local crafts, gifts and seasonal treats. From handmade decorations to Tuscan goodies, these stalls ooze with Italian tradition that you can’t resist.
And Florence’s Christmas magic doesn’t stop at the markets - this city is lit up in December like nowhere else. If you want to see Florence in all its shining glory, then a Christmas Lights Photo Walk is a must.
This guided walk takes you to the city’s most beautiful lit-up spots - Piazza della Signoria, the stunning Duomo and the iconic Ponte Vecchio, all while sharing top photography tips so every shot is a winner. Plus, you’ll discover hidden spots and local secrets only a Florentine can reveal.
Perfect for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day wanderings, spending time in Italy, Florence is like a fairytale come true.
5. Trentino and the Italian Alps
Looking for a white Christmas in Italy? Look no further than Trentino and the Italian Alps.
Imagine spending Christmas Day surrounded by snowfall, mountains and villages all dressed up for the season. Here, you can ski, snowshoe and have an exhilarating winter Christmas experience.
Trentino also has holiday traditions involving La Befana, the equivalent of Santa Claus in Italy, and some of the best Christmas markets where locals in traditional costumes bring that old Italy magic to life.
Whether it's shredding the snow or just taking in the winter wonderland, Christmas in Trentino and the Alps is pure Italian Xmas heaven.
6. Bari
Southern Italy is the place to be for a balmy Christmas and Bari brings its own special sauce to the festive season. Christmas markets with a Mediterranean twist, bustling piazzas and a festive atmosphere as warm as the December sun.
Bari’s streets and squares are full of holiday cheer – from twinkling lights to the scent of southern treats that add a pinch of spice to the traditional Italian festivities.
A Christmas Tour in Bari is a must for anyone who wants to experience the city’s exclusive holiday magic. Only available during this season, the tour takes you into the heart of Bari, to visit the Citta Vecchia, Christmas markets filled with local delicacies, and traditional Pugliese crafts.
If you’re spending Christmas Eve here, Bari’s mix of Southern charm and Christmas spirit makes it the perfect place to celebrate the holidays.
7. Naples
Naples really comes alive at Christmas as history, holiday cheer and southern Italian charm all combine in a unique celebration.
Imagine strolling through Naples’ narrow streets with twinkling lights above and the scent of traditional Neapolitan sweets in the air.
For a Christmas walk to remember, start at Piazza San Domenico Maggiore where the pastries and treats will delight your taste buds.
Then dive into the heart of Naples’ Christmas scene at Via San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its handmade nativity scenes, a Neapolitan speciality.
Explore the city’s beautiful churches like Gesù Nuovo and Santa Chiara which are bathed in centuries of holiday tradition.
Opt for a Christmas Time Tour in Naples to check out all the festive sights and secret spots the locals love.
8. The Dolomites
For a Christmas that’s more snowflakes and slopes than twinkling lights, the Dolomites are calling.
Located in the north of Italy, this mountain range is a winter paradise with some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe.
Glide down fresh powder surrounded by towering jagged peaks – it’s like stepping into a snow globe.
But the Dolomites aren’t just about adrenaline, après ski here is all about mountain huts, Italian food and warming up with a mulled wine. The villages are full of alpine calm with decorations, markets and the smell of delectable treats in the air.
9. Verona
If you’re in Verona from November to January, don’t miss out on the Christmas magic here.
Notable landmarks such as Arena di Verona and the beautiful Piazza Bra are waiting for you. Take the Funicolare to get to a lovely hilltop spot at Castel San Pietro and enjoy the view of the city’s lights.
Visit the Christmas markets in Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Barbieri dedicated to Santa Lucia and find special souvenirs, treats and Italian goodies for your friends and family.
With a local guide by your side, explore Verona's Christmas Markets and Main Historical Sites now.
10. Cinque Terre
Experience a unique Christmas in Cinque Terre where the wild beauty of Italy’s coast meets the holiday season.
Hike the Riomaggiore-Manarola trail during the Christmas season for an experience like no other. As you walk along this scenic path, you’ll see Cinque Terre’s towns all lit up and decorated - it's truly a sight to behold in the Italian Riviera.
The scent of the sea air mixes with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, making every step feel more like Christmas. Once you get to Manarola, enjoy a glass of Sciacchetrà, the region’s holiday wine, and take in the views of the coast.
There’s nothing like Christmas on a Cinque Terre tour – it’s peaceful, festive and full of Italian charm.
11. Alberobello
Have a Christmas like no other in the fairytale town of Alberobello, famous for its trulli – white-washed houses with conical roofs and the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, a beautiful historic church in the centre of town.
Walk through the snowflaky streets lined with trulli, twinkling with lights, each one decorated for the season.
Explore Villa Donnaloja where 19th-century elegance meets festive cheer and visit Casa D’Amore in Piazza Re Ferdinando – the symbol of Alberobello’s history and Christmas spirit.
Take a wonderful Christmas tour around Alberobello now.
12. Lake Como
Looking for a relaxing Christmas? Ditch the busy city streets for lake views in one of Italy’s most romantic places, Lake Como.
Walk along the lake’s edge as the Christmas lights flicker on the water and the mountains are blanketed in snow just beyond.
Check out tiny markets selling Italian festive treats, mulled wine and unique gifts.
The towns around the lake, Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, become festive scenes from a postcard with Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
For a truly dreamy moment, hop on a boat tour across the lake and find peaceful coves and mountain reflections, made even more magical with the winter air.
Whether you’re sipping a glass of local wine by the fire or strolling through Villa Carlotta’s frosty gardens, Lake Como offers a serene and enchanting holiday experience that feels like a soft, snowy hug.
13. Lake Garda
Lake Garda is Italy’s holiday haven of relaxation, where you can unwind, sip and savour in total festivity.
Walk along the lakeside promenades in towns like Desenzano or Bardolino, where holiday lights adorn the streets and locals bring out the best of the season and artisan goods at tiny Christmas markets.
And just a short drive from Lake Garda, don’t miss Sirmione, the “pearl of the lake”, for a Christmas walking tour that brings history to life.
Imagine strolling through Sirmione’s medieval streets, past the Scaliger Castle and thermal baths, surrounded by festive cheer.
A Christmas Sirmione walking tour will take you through hidden corners and tell you stories of ancient Roman ruins, as the crisp air is filled with the smell of roasted chestnuts and spices.
Visit now to enjoy the ultimate peaceful Christmas where every moment feels like the first snowfall.
14. Pisa
Christmas in Pisa is where iconic landmarks meet festive fun for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Start your adventure at Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina. This Gothic beauty, all decked out in Christmas decorations, is like a holiday postcard that came to life.
Visit Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II where a giant Christmas tree dominates the square and holiday spirit is in full swing.
Make your way to Piazza delle Vettovaglie for a sensory feast: markets full of handmade goodies and local food.
Check out Piazza XX Settembre where the lights shine above and the city is bathed in holiday colours.
And finally, the grand finale is the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa itself, shining under the Christmas lights.
For the best experience, put on your walking shoes and join a Christmas walking tour in Pisa where the holiday spirit bends, tilts and towers.
15. Sorrento
Escape to Sorrento, where the holidays meet Mediterranean magic, and tour Sorrento during Christmas.
Explore the lively Piazza Torquato Tasso where the locals and tourists are basking in the festivities.
As you walk down the charming Via S. Cesareo, you’ll see festive window displays and snack on Italian treats that are too good to pass up.
Piazza Sant’Antonino is next on the list - a little square that feels like it was made for Christmas with its warm lights and cosy vibe.
Then it’s just a short walk to the Cathedral of Saints Philip and James where the lights and decorations make this ancient site even more enchanting.
And when you think it can’t get any better you’ll end up at the Chiostro di San Francesco. This peaceful cloister with a lovely nativity scene is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the season.
Tips for a Memorable Christmas in Italy
When visiting Italy during the Christmas holiday season, book in advance - accommodation and flights fill up fast during this national holiday period.
Also, don’t miss out on Italy’s traditional Christmas events and festivals, such as the Pope’s Christmas Eve 'midnight mass' and the Nativity scene art markets.
Foodies, get ready: Christmas in Italy is a sensory feast. Whether you’re invited to a Christmas Eve dinner or a Christmas lunch, bring a small gift for your host - it’s the Italian way. Expect to eat baked pasta, pasta in brodo, and baccalà, Italy’s version of comfort food.
Warm up with mulled wine or indulge in thick Italian hot chocolate that’s like a melted chocolate bar. For dessert, there’s panettone, pandoro, struffoli and torrone waiting to be devoured; these are the heart of Italian Christmas traditions.
Try the Italian specialities at the Christmas markets and don’t forget to bundle up, especially if you’re going north - it may be Italy but winter does get cold!
Christmas in Italy is the Gift That Keeps on Giving
As carols ring out through ancient streets and twinkling lights shine on piazzas, you’ll soon see why spending the Christmas period in Italy is a memory to cherish.
From the scent of mulled wine wafting through markets to the nativity scenes of Naples, every Italian Christmas holiday period
And if you’re lucky enough to stay around after Christmas Day keep an eye out for La Befana, Italy’s Christmas witch who visits on the Epiphany, for an extra dose of Christmas magic.
Whether it’s twirling a forkful of festive pasta, gazing at a Christmas tree or feeling the warmth of Italian hospitality, Christmas in Italy will amaze you like nowhere else. Here’s to a Natale filled with joy, laughter and Christmas traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do they celebrate Christmas in Italy?
Italy celebrates Christmas with nativity scenes, festive markets, midnight mass and big family meals on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Where is the best place in Italy for Christmas?
Rome, Florence and Naples are some top locations for Christmas in Italy, with twinkling lights, Christmas markets, nativity displays and festive traditions that make for a magical holiday.
Is Italy big on Christmas?
Yes! Christmas is a big deal in Italy, with religious traditions, festive events and family gatherings that go on for a month and capture the essence of the season.
Does it snow in Christmas in Italy?
Yes, especially in the north, in areas such as the Italian Alps and the Dolomites.