Live Christmas nativity scenes, houses of Santa Claus, huge Christmas trees - Christmas markets in Italy are numerous, original and full of surprises. Moreover, not only centuries-old local traditions create a special flavor, but also just the rich imagination of the inhabitants. This article presents both classic and more than unusual fairs in Italy, where this year you can go shopping or just to enjoy the magical atmosphere of Christmas.
- We recommend reading: Holidays in Italy in winter
A few days remain until the opening of Christmas markets, and only in Italy there are about 400. The breadth and richness of the choice of even a spoiled European can lead to confusion. Cities and small towns will soon plunge into the atmosphere of bright lights, carol walks and small wooden houses. Many fairs have their own special, unique features, depending on the traditions, location and fantasy of the inhabitants. Christmas nativity scenes, Santa Claus and luminous trees - we present to your attention only a few noteworthy variations on the theme, from the most traditional to the most unusual and original.
Classics of the genre
Christmas markets Alto Adige (dell'Alto Adige) for the 20-year history of the event have already become considered classics. From November 29 to January 6 in the region you will not find a settlement that will not transform its streets and squares into a fairytale village at the foot of snow-capped mountains. With small wooden houses, colorful lights and Christmas songs. For example, in Bolzano, on the central square of Walter (Piazza Walter), Christkindlmarkt Christmas Market is located.
Having plunged in the aromas of cinnamon and spices, there you can buy Christmas tree decorations and wooden decorations, glass and ceramic products of local craftsmen, products traditionally made from boiled wool, as well as try Selten (local dessert), Christmas sweets and mulled wine.
In Bolzano, located in northern Italy, on the border of Austria and Switzerland, there are about 40 hotels where you can stay. Prices for a double room range from 60 to 110 euros per night. In the season from December to February, hotel rooms are sorted out in about 2-3 months.
Find a hotel in Bolzano.
You can also feel the magical atmosphere in Merano. Eighty brightly decorated houses along the Passirio River will present to the public the works of local craftsmen, Christmas tree decorations, wooden figurines and products made from traditional fabrics, including famous creations from felter. To see a slightly different fair, you can go a few kilometers from Merano - to Lagundo, "city of gardens" Alto Adige (dell'Alto Adige).
View Hotels in Lagundo.
In addition to the trading stalls, for the entertainment of residents in the city center, a large ice rink is flooded here, and everyone is interested in skating. And hungry, they go to the local confectionery, where they prepare wonderful biscotti, gingerbread with nine different flavors, selten, bread with dried fruits and apples, and also stollen, a typical German Christmas dessert with almonds, cinnamon, raisins, candied lemon and orange peel.
