Alpine Italy lights up for the Christmas season with some of the most interesting Christmas Markets on offer in Europe, combining Mediterranean flavours and German traditions, festive food and wine, gift ideas, decorations and local handicraft.
Here is a selection listed by region.
ALTO ADIGE (South Tyrol/ Süd Tirol)
Bolzano/Bozen: Alpine - Mediterranean Christmas
Savour the magic of Christmas in the traditional mercantile town of Bolzano, at the meeting point of north and south, where the cultures and traditions of central Europe and the Mediterranean. Bright lights, scents and sounds steeped in tradition pervade the medieval centre, with its romantic arcaded streets and picturesque lanes emanating their nostalgic atmosphere. Emotions are heightened by the backdrop of the Rosengarten Dolomites!
Venue Piazza Walther/Waltherplatz
Open from 24 Nov. 2016 to 6 Jan. 2017 (25 Dec. closed)
Bressanone/Brixen: Art and history
The venerable Cathedral with its 800 year-old Gothic cloister lends a unique aura to the Christmas market, taking place in the Cathedral square. You will be fascinated by the bustle of activity and the myriad of colours, seasonal aromas and music, or by the crib exhibition in the Episcopal Palace (Hofburg) emanating tradition and history. You can tour the village on horse-drawn carriage on Saturdays and Sundays during the pre-Christmas period.
Venue Piazza Duomo/Domplatz (Cathedral Square)
Open from 25 Nov 2016 to 6 Jan 2017 (25 Dec. closed)
Merano: Sensual Delights and Relaxation
Relish contemplative moments while rejuvenating body and soul. Discover traditional handicrafts at the Christmas market and savour local sweetmeats. A wealth of attractions for children! Enjoy a festival for the senses and leisure, enveloped in the magical pre-Christmas atmosphere of Merano.
Venue Passeggiata Lungo Passirio/Piazza delle Terme (with its ice-skating rink)
Open from 25 Nov 2016 to 6 Jan 2017 (25 Dec. closed)
Brunico/Bruneck: handicrafts and tradition
Discover traditional handicrafts and seductive delicacies ensconced between the four main gates of the medieval town walls. Should you wish to combine a visit to the Christmas market with winter sports, then the superb slopes in the Kron-Platz ski resort are just outside the town.
Venue Via Bastioni, Parco Tschurtschenthaler and at “Oberstadt”
Open from 25 Nov 2016 to 6 Jan 2017 (closed 25 Dec.)
VIPITENO/STERZING: LIVING TRADITIONS
The impressive "Zwölfer-Turm" tower built in 1486 watches over the Christmas market in this medieval mining town, itself at an altitude of almost 1,000 metres. It also features a special exhibition related to the history of mining in the nearby high mountains. The atmosphere is enhanced by the quaint town buildings with their characteristic bay windows.
Venue Piazza città/Stadtplatz (Town Square)
Open from 25 Nov 2016 to 6 Jan 2017 (25 Dec. closed)
