1. Nativity scenes (Presepi)
Italy is famous for its passion for nativity scenes, which can be seen literally at every turn during Christmas.
You definitely don't want to miss the San Gregorio Armeno district of Naples, which is the epicentre of nativity scene production. Small workshops offer handmade figures, from classic biblical characters to modern satirical figurines.
Also interesting are the living nativity scenes (Presepi viventi).These live stagings of the nativity scene can be found in many villages, for example in Greccio in the Lazio region, where the first live nativity scene created by Saint Francis of Assisi took place.
2. Christmas markets
Italy offers romantic Christmas markets with regional specialities, handicrafts and Christmas decorations.the largest and most traditional Christmas markets inspired by Alpine culture can be found in Bolzano and Merano (South Tyrol). Try the local mulled wine (vin brulé) and sweet schola!
Don't miss Rome's historic Christmas market with carousels, musical performances and stalls selling nativity figures and sweets in Piazza Navona. What's it like there at Christmas? Check it out on our Instagram!
Of course, you'll also find magical Advent markets with handicrafts and gastronomic specialities from all over Europe in Florence, for example in Piazza Santa Croce.
3. Christmas lights and decorations
In Milan, a magnificent Christmas tree stands every year in Piazza del Duomo, accompanied by lavish lighting throughout the city.
In Salerno (Campania), you can't miss the famous "Luci d'Artista" (Lights of the Artists), a festival of light decorations that transforms the whole city into a work of art.
Turin is also worth a mention (and a visit). The city boasts its "Natale coi Fiocchi" - a unique light installation that combines modern art and traditional Christmas motifs.
4. Christmas concerts and masses
The biggest event is definitely the midnight mass at the Vatican in St Peter's Basilica, led by the Pope. It is necessary to book tickets long in advance, but even watching it on the big screens in St Peter's Square is an unforgettable experience.
Christmas concerts are also an unforgettable experience. for example, there are special Christmas shows and concerts at Milan's La Scala or Rome's Teatro dell'Opera.
5. Traditional Christmas dishes and sweets
An Italian Christmas is an opportunity to sample many local specialities:
- Panettone and pandoro: classic Christmas pastries that vary by region.
- Torrone: A sweet delicacy made from almonds and honey.
- Capitone: In southern Italy, especially in Naples, roasted eel is a popular Christmas dish.
- Struffoli: A traditional Neapolitan dessert made of small fried balls of dough covered with honey.
6. Feast of the Three Kings and Befana (6 January)
On the Feast of the Three Kings, a festive procession called the "Corteo Storico dei Magi" is held in Rome, where the figures of the Three Kings parade through the streets of the city. Befana, the witch who gives gifts to children, is the main attraction and can often be seen in markets or special performances.
7. Skiing in the Alps and Dolomites
Christmas in the Italian mountains has its own charm - as well as skiing and winter sports, you can also enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in the snow.in the evening, torchlight parades and firework displays are organised.
Cortina d'Ampezzo or Madonna di Campiglio offer Christmas markets right in the mountains.
And where will you go this Christmas?
