Christmas to Italy
Christmas to Italy Travel Guide and itinerary tour
Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:
Christmas to Italy: Things to do.
Visiting Christmas to Italy
Review by Copywriter Travel Blogger Giuseppe Baldassarri.
Spending Christmas in Italy can be a magical experience, filled with festive traditions and unique celebrations. Here are some things you can do during Christmas in Italy:
1. Attend Midnight Mass: Christmas Eve in Italy is traditionally marked by attending Midnight Mass (La Messa di Mezzanotte). Visit a local church or cathedral and participate in this special religious service, which often features beautiful hymns and a festive atmosphere.
2. Explore Nativity Scenes: Italy is renowned for its elaborate nativity scenes, known as Presepi. Visit churches, town squares, or dedicated exhibitions to admire these intricate displays depicting the birth of Jesus. Some cities, like Naples and Rome, have famous and extensive nativity scenes on public display.
3. Enjoy Festive Meals: Christmas in Italy is a time for indulging in delicious food and festive feasts. Many families gather for a multi-course Christmas Eve dinner, known as La Vigilia di Natale, featuring seafood dishes like baccalà (salted cod), pasta, and traditional sweets. On Christmas Day, enjoy a lavish lunch or dinner with dishes like roasted meats, panettone, and other regional specialties.
4. Visit Christmas Markets: Explore the enchanting Christmas markets that pop up across Italy during the holiday season. Wander through the stalls selling crafts, decorations, and local products. Sample traditional treats like panettone, torrone, and mulled wine while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
5. Admire Christmas Decorations: Take a leisurely stroll through the streets and squares adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations. Marvel at the twinkling lights, intricate displays, and towering Christmas trees that grace many cities, such as Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples.
6. Experience La Befana: On the night of January 5th, the feast of Epiphany, the Italian folklore character La Befana visits children and fills their stockings with gifts or candy. Look out for parades or events featuring La Befana, especially in central and southern Italy.
7. Enjoy Ice Skating: In many cities, temporary ice skating rinks are set up during the Christmas season. Lace up your skates and glide across the ice, surrounded by the festive ambiance and beautiful cityscapes.
8. Participate in Local Traditions: Each region and city in Italy may have its own unique Christmas customs and traditions. Research local events and activities happening in the area you're visiting and participate in traditional celebrations like torchlight processions, carol singing, or live nativity scenes.
9. Take Day Trips: If you have the opportunity, consider taking day trips to nearby towns or cities known for their Christmas festivities. For example, visit Assisi in Umbria for its medieval-style Christmas market or head to the Dolomites for snowy landscapes and winter sports.
10. Reflect and Relax: Christmas is also a time for reflection and relaxation. Take some time to slow down, enjoy the company of loved ones, and appreciate the beauty and joy of the holiday season.
Remember to check local schedules and events, as customs and traditions may vary across different regions of Italy. Enjoy the warmth, hospitality, and unique Christmas spirit that Italy has to offer!
Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:
Itinerary of Christmas to Italy to discover the local food and wine specialties to taste.
Here's a sample itinerary for a Christmas trip to Italy that focuses on discovering local food and wine specialties:
Day 1: Rome
- Start your journey in Rome, the capital city of Italy. Explore the city's iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City.
- In the evening, visit the local Christmas market in Piazza Navona. Sample Roman street food like supplì (fried rice balls), porchetta sandwiches, and artisanal gelato.
Day 2: Florence
- Travel to Florence, known for its Renaissance art and architecture. Visit the famous Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo.
- Explore the Christmas market in Piazza Santa Croce. Taste Tuscan specialties such as crostini, pecorino cheese, and locally produced olive oil. Pair them with a glass of Chianti wine.
Day 3: Bologna
- Journey to Bologna, a culinary hub renowned for its exquisite cuisine. Take a food tour to discover the city's rich gastronomic traditions.
- Visit the Quadrilatero neighborhood, where you can find local food markets and specialty food shops. Taste regional delicacies like mortadella, tortellini, and balsamic vinegar.
Day 4: Naples
- Fly to Naples, a vibrant city in southern Italy famous for its pizza and street food. Explore the narrow streets of the historic center and visit the National Archaeological Museum.
- Sample authentic Neapolitan pizza from a traditional pizzeria. Try other local dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and pastries like sfogliatelle and babà.
Day 5: Palermo
- Travel to Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street markets like Vucciria and Ballarò.
- Taste Sicilian street food classics like arancini (rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), and cannoli. Don't miss the opportunity to try local wines like Marsala and Nero d'Avola.
Day 6: Milan
- Return to Milan for the final leg of your trip. Visit the upscale shopping district of Via Montenapoleone and see Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper at the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
- Explore the Christmas market in Piazza Duomo and indulge in Milanese delicacies like panettone and risotto alla Milanese. Pair them with a glass of Franciacorta sparkling wine.
This itinerary provides a glimpse into the diverse culinary traditions of Italy, from the rich flavors of Rome to the authentic street food of Naples and the unique Sicilian cuisine. Remember to check the specific dates and locations of the Christmas markets as they may vary each year. Buon appetito and enjoy your Christmas trip to Italy!