Nestled in the serene embrace of Tuscany, Montalcino stands as a sanctuary for those seeking an extraordinary escape…
The Christmas markets in Tuscany are a festive and magical experience that draws visitors from all over the world. These markets are a great place to shop for unique gifts, enjoy traditional food and drinks, and simply soak up the Christmas spirit.
History of Christmas Markets in Tuscany
The tradition of Christmas markets in Tuscany dates back to the Middle Ages. These markets were originally held in town squares and marketplaces to sell goods and food in preparation for the Christmas holiday. Over time, the markets became more elaborate and festive, and they now feature a wide variety of attractions, including stalls selling Christmas decorations, food, and drinks; live music and entertainment; and traditional Christmas activities, such as nativity scenes and puppet shows.
The Best Christmas Markets in Tuscany
There are many wonderful Christmas markets to choose from in Tuscany. Here are a few of the best:
Weihnachtsmarkt in Florence center
The Weihnachtsmarkt, a traditional German Christmas market, will be held in Piazza Santa Croce in Florence from November 18 to December 17. Dozens of wooden stalls will sell traditional German food and drink, such as sausages, sauerkraut, pork shanks, and strudel. There will also be games and live music for children. In addition, dozens of European producers will exhibit handmade objects and Christmas decorations. This is a great opportunity to spend quality time and have fun with your dear ones.
November 18, 2023 to December 17, 2023. 10 am – 10pm from Monday to Friday. 10 am – 11 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Mercato nel Campo di Siena
Every first weekend of December, the Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy, transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The city’s annual Christmas market, known as the Mercato nel Campo, is a celebration of Tuscan food, drink, and culture.
The market features over 160 stalls selling a wide variety of products, from traditional Tuscan delicacies to handmade crafts. Visitors can sample local specialties such as pasta fresca, formaggi all’olio, miele allo zafferano, ricciarelli, cavallucci, and panforte al cioccolato. There are also stalls selling DOP products such as Cinta Senese pork, Terre di Siena extra virgin olive oil, Pecorino Toscano cheese, and San Gimignano saffron.
For art lovers, the market offers a variety of unique objects, including books and drawings on local art and history, glassware, stationery, wrought iron accessories, and hand-painted ceramics. There are also stalls selling Christmas-themed items, such as gifts, nativity sets, and decorations.
The market is a great place to experience the medieval atmosphere of Siena. Visitors can watch artisans at work, such as bookbinders, weavers, and furniture restorers. The market also offers a variety of activities for children, including workshops, cooking shows, and live performances.
Here are some of the highlights of the Siena Christmas Market:
Delicious food and drink: sample traditional Tuscan delicacies, such as fresh pasta, cheese, saffron honey, ricciarelli (typical Christmas biscuits), cavallucci, and panforte al cioccolato (typical Christmas cake).
Handmade crafts: Shop for unique objects, such as books and drawings on local art and history, glassware, stationery, wrought iron accessories, and hand-painted ceramics.
Enjoy the medieval atmosphere of Siena and a variety of Christmas-themed activities.
The Siena Christmas Market is a great way to experience the magic of the holidays in Tuscany. You don’t wanna miss it!
December 2 and 3, 2023. 8 am – 8pm.
Tyrolean Village in Arezzo
The Arezzo Christmas Market is back for its 8th edition, from November 18, 2023 to January 1, 2024. This year, the market is even longer than ever, lasting for 53 days.
The market is located in Piazza Grande, the main square in Arezzo. It features over 100 stalls selling Christmas decorations, gifts, food, and drinks. Visitors can also enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the day.
This year, the market is particularly family-friendly. There are three “baite” (huts) for tasting typical Tyrolean products, such as beer, sausages, and dumplings. There is also a “Casa di Babbo Natale” (Santa Claus House) where children can meet Santa Claus and write letters to him.
Here are some of the highlights of the Arezzo Christmas Market:
The Christmas Village: this is the heart of the market, with over 100 stalls selling a wide variety of Christmas goods.
The Big Lights Show: this spectacular light show takes place every evening on the facades of the buildings in Piazza Grande.
The Christmas Gardenar: this garden features Christmas trees, plants, and other festive decorations.
The Casa di Babbo Natale: this Santa Claus House is a magical place where children can meet Santa Claus and write letters to him.
The Arezzo Christmas Market is a great way to experience the magic of Christmas in Tuscany.
It is a perfect place to shop for gifts, enjoy traditional food and drinks, and create lasting memories with your family.
November 18, 2023 to January 1, 2024
Lucca Christmas Market
The main event is the Lucca Christmas Market, which takes place in Piazza Napoleone and Piazza del Duomo. The market features over 100 stalls selling a wide variety of Christmas items, including gifts, decorations, food, and drinks.
Another popular event is the Winter Gardens, which are themed flowerbeds that are set up in the city’s most charming corners. The gardens feature green plants, lawns, and Christmas trees. The Winter Gardens are a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Finally, the Real Collegio hosts the Fashion in Flair for Christmas market, which features high-quality handmade products from Italy. The market is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
December 8, 2023 to January 6, 2024
Book a private driver with Talixo Tuscany to enjoy Christmas Markets in Tuscany in total comfort.
The tradition of Christmas markets in Tuscany dates back to the Middle Ages. These markets were originally held in town squares and marketplaces to sell goods and food in preparation for the Christmas holiday…
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