Christmas 2022: must-see markets in Italy (and beyond)
In December, throughout the Italian peninsula, but also in the Maltese archipelago, the characteristic Christmas markets are set up, brightening up the streets with lights, scents and melodies. A magical time to enjoy the wonderfulChristmas atmosphere, but also to be surrounded by ancient traditions, local treasures and secret customs, in the most picturesque places in Italy and the Mediterranean.
The long, joyful Advent days fill the streets of Italy’s most beautiful cities with lights, Christmas stalls, craftsmen at work designing shepherds and nativity scenes, the perfect place to feel the magic of this time of year and connect with the child hidden in everyone’s soul.
Christmas markets are a unique opportunity to explore the soulful places of Italy, enveloped in a sweet and sparkling atmosphere, to discover craftsmanship, flavours and traditions enhancing Christmas festivities.
But where are the best Christmas markets in 2022? Here is a selection of cities you cannot miss!
Via San Gregorio Armeno
Accommodation in Naples, Campania
During the holiday season, enjoy a stroll through the heart of Naples, where Christmas takes on a special flavour. At Christmas time, the whole soul of Naples is enclosed within a few hundred metres: San Gregorio Armeno must be experienced in all its splendour during the festive season, when passionate artisans, the smell of incense, the lights and thousands of faces of the nativity scene characters mingling with those of the international jet-set make this street the true hub of Naples, a crossroads of Christmas emotions.
Christmas markets in Piazza Duomo
Accommodation in Milan, Lombardy
In Milan, the city of panettone, Christmas is a triumph of colourful markets. The largest market in the city takes place in Piazza Duomo with dozens of wooden chalets filled with Christmas tree balls, stockings and decorations.
On 7 December, the day of Sant’Ambrogio, the city’s patron saint, visit the Oh Bej! Oh Bej!’ fair, the city’s most important market. You will find antiques, sweets and delicacies with a Christmas aftertaste, toys and Christmas decorations, amidst smiling children and happy grown-ups.
Verona’s ‘Christkindlmarkt’ style markets
Accommodation in Verona, Veneto
When the city of Romeo and Juliet’s legendary love meets the traditions of European and specifically German Christmas, famous for its warm Christmas spirit, the streets of Verona give life to one of the most beautiful and characteristic Christmas markets in Italy. Little houses inspired by the Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg are the setting for ice-skating rinks and plenty of local products, such as mulled wine and spicy flavours, to try for a taste of Christmas gastronomy.
Christmas markets in Florence
Wooden chalet in Piazza Santa Croce? At Christmas you can! In one of Italy’s most charming squares, Christmas markets with a Renaissance aftertaste come to life. A Christmas village is set up in the square, enriched by lights and stalls with many craft exhibitions.