Italian Christmas markets & Christmas villages 2026

Tuscany Christmas Markets 2026

The Best Christmas Markets and Festive Towns to Visit

 



Christmas is one of the most magical times to visit Tuscany. From traditional German-style Christmas markets and Alpine-inspired wooden chalets to medieval piazzas filled with festive lights, artisan gifts and seasonal food, this region of Italy offers plenty of wonderful towns to experience the Christmas spirit.

Whether you are planning a winter getaway, looking for unique Christmas presents, or simply want to enjoy a glass of mulled wine while wandering through a beautifully decorated Italian town, these are some of the best Christmas markets and festive events to visit in Tuscany in 2026.

Here is our guide to the best Christmas markets in Tuscany for 2026, town by town, with dates, locations and highlights.

 

 

Tuscany Christmas markets & Christmas villages - Florence Siena Lucca Montepulciano Arezzo Empoli Pisa
20Oct

Please check the official event websites before travelling, as opening days, times and individual activities may change.

 

 

 

1. 🎄 Arezzo - Christmas Village


Arezzo Città del Natale - Villaggio Tirolese


  • Dates: 14 November 2026 – 6 January 2027 (11th edition). The Tyrolean Village in Piazza Grande is reported to run from mid-November to 27 December; Santa's House is open 15 November – 24 December.
  • Location: Piazza Grande, Piazza San Jacopo, Piazza Risorgimento and other locations in Arezzo's historic centre.
  • Highlights: Large Tyrolean village with wooden chalets, artisan crafts and local & Alpine food; Christmas lights and projections on the historic buildings; ice rink and Ferris wheel; Santa's House; Brick House Art with LEGO-brick exhibitions and workshops; the "Bosco delle Emozioni" in Il Prato park, with an Eurochocolate area; traditional markets in Piazza San Jacopo and Piazza Risorgimento; Christmas Bus Tour; over 150 exhibitors.
  • More Info: https://www.arezzocittadelnatale.it/ & https://mercatininatalearezzo.it/villaggio-tirolese

Arezzo is one of Tuscany's biggest Christmas destinations in Tuscany, Italy and an excellent choice for a full day of festive activities. The medieval setting of Piazza Grande makes the market particularly atmospheric after dark, when the historic buildings become part of the light show.

 

2. 🎄 Empoli - Christmas Village


Empoli Città del Natale


  • Dates: 14 November 2026 - 10 January 2027 (in 2025 the markets were open on weekends)
  • Location: Piazza della Vittoria and Piazza Farinata degli Uberti, Empoli
  • Highlights: Around 70 chalets and stalls with food and handmade crafts; light installations and projections on buildings; the large glass Christmas tree; Santa's world, ice rink, funfair and miniature train.
  • More Info: https://www.empolicittadelnatale.it/

Empoli is a good alternative to the larger tourist destinations, particularly for visitors staying in the Florence area or along the route between Florence and Pisa. Check the final 2026 programme before planning your visit, as the details may differ from previous editions.

 

3. 🎄 Florence Christmas market

Weihnachtsmarkt in piazza Santa Croce a Firenze

 


  • Dates: 14 November – 20 December 2026
  • Location: Piazza Santa Croce, Florence
  • Highlights: lorence's traditional German-style Christmas market brings more than 50 wooden stalls to one of the city's most beautiful squares. Browse international handicrafts, Christmas decorations, ceramics, gift ideas and seasonal specialities from different European countries. Look out for German sausages, pretzels, strudel, sweets and warming festive drinks.
  • More Info: https://www.facebook.com/mercatodinatalefirenze/

Known locally as the Weihnachtsmarkt, this is one of Florence's best-known seasonal markets. The impressive Basilica of Santa Croce provides a spectacular backdrop, and the market is easy to combine with Christmas shopping and sightseeing in the historic city centre.

4. 🎄 Montecatini Terme

Destinazione Natale Montecatini


  • Dates: 14 November 2026 – 6 January 2027
  • Location: Viale Verdi, in front of the Gambrinus, plus Piazza del Popolo, the town centre and the Pineta.
  • Highlights: The Christmas market in Montecatini Terme features artisan products, Christmas gifts, regional specialities and festive food from vendors across Italy. The wider Montecatini Città del Natale programme transforms the elegant spa town into a festive destination, with spectacular Christmas lights, video mapping on historic buildings, a large Christmas tree, the Enchanted Forest, the Ice Kingdom, Santa-themed attractions, an ice-skating rink and family entertainment. Children can also follow a Christmas trail around town, collecting stamps and discovering themed attractions.
  • More Info: https://www.montecatinicittadelnatale.it/ and https://www.babbonatalemontecatini.it/

Montecatini Terme is an excellent choice for a family Christmas outing. The market is part of a wider festive experience, while the town's elegant architecture and historic spa heritage provide a distinctive setting for the celebrations.

 

5. 🎄 Natale a Montepulciano

Montepulciano Christmas Village - Santa Claus Village


  • Dates: 21 November 2026 – 6 January 2027. Open on selected days: 21–22 and 28–29 November; 5–8 and 12–13 December; then every day from 19 December to 6 January.
  • Location:Piazza Grande and Via San Donato, Montepulciano (Santa's Castle inside the medieval Fortezza)
  • Highlights: A festive Christmas village with wooden chalets selling artisan gifts, decorations, local products, seasonal treats and Christmas presents. One of the main attractions is the Castle of Santa Claus, with themed rooms and festive activities for children. The historic streets and Renaissance architecture make the town particularly beautiful during the Christmas season.
  • More Info: https://nataleamontepulciano.it/

Montepulciano is one of the most charming places in Tuscany for a Christmas outing. Combine the market with a stroll through the medieval streets, panoramic viewpoints and a meal featuring traditional Tuscan specialities.

 

 

 

6. 🎄 Pistoia Christmas markets & village

Pistoia Città del Natale


  • Dates: 25 November 2026 to 6 January 2027 ( the town has tendered for an ice rink from 28 November 2026 to 10 January 2027. The 2025 edition ran from 22 November to 6 January)
  • Location:Historic centre of Pistoia: Piazza del Duomo, Piazza San Francesco, Piazza Giovanni XXIII and Piazza dello Spirito Santo
  • Highlights: Christmas market stalls, handmade gifts, artisan products, festive decorations and seasonal food. The wider programme has featured Santa Claus attractions, a carousel, Christmas lights and activities for children.
  • More Info: https://pistoiacittadelnatale.it/

Pistoia is a lovely alternative to Florence if you prefer a smaller historic city. Its beautiful squares, medieval streets and impressive cathedral complex make it a worthwhile destination for a winter excursion.

7. 🎄 Pisa Christmas market

Pisa Città del Natale / Pisa Christmas Village


  • Dates: The 2026–2027 programme is expected to run from late November through 6 January, but the precise dates for individual markets should be confirmed with the organisers.
  • Location: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and the Logge dei Banchi in the city centre, plus Piazza Garibaldi, Via San Francesco and the coast (Tirrenia, Marina di Pisa)
  • Highlights: Permanent Christmas market in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II with craft and gift stalls; a smaller market in the Logge dei Banchi with a handmade nativity scene and Santa's House; additional craft markets in Piazza Garibaldi and Via San Francesco in the weeks before Christmas and at the Giardino Scotto on selected weekends; gospel choir, Christmas relay and the roaming Befana on 6 January. The family event "La Fabbrica di Babbo Natale" (Santa's Factory) was held at the Arsenali Repubblicani in late November and December in 2025, but its 2026 edition is not confirmed.
  • More Info: https://www.turismo.pisa.it/ and https://www.comune.pisa.it/

Pisa is worth visiting at Christmas even if you have already seen the Leaning Tower. Combine the festive market with Piazza dei Miracoli, the historic centre and a walk along the River Arno to experience a different side of the city.

8. 🎄 Siena Christmas market

Traditional medieval market - Mercato nel Campo


  • Dates: 4–8 December for Mercato nel Campo in Piazza del Campo, and 28 November 2026 - 31 January 2027 for Siena Incanta – Il Natale si accende
  • Location: Piazza del Campo, Siena
  • Highlights: A recreation of Siena's medieval "Mercato Grande", with around 150 stalls set up in the shell of Piazza del Campo following the rules of the 14th-century city statutes; typical Sienese and Tuscan food, wine and craft products; live craftsmen at work.
  • More Info: https://www.facebook.com/SienaMercatonelCampo/ and https://www.mercatonelcampo.it/ and https://www.visitsiena.it/natale-a-siena/

Siena is a wonderful Christmas destination in Tuscany for anyone who loves medieval architecture and traditional Italian food. Piazza del Campo, one of Italy's most recognisable squares, offers a memorable setting for the festive season.

9. 🎄Cortona Christmas market

Cortona Città del Natale


  • Dates: 6 December 2026 - 6 January 2027
  • Location: Historic centre of Cortona (Piazza Garibaldi, Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza Signorelli, Parterre gardens)
  • Highlights: A festive atmosphere in one of Tuscany's most picturesque hill towns, with Christmas decorations, illuminated historic buildings, seasonal markets, artisan gifts and food specialities. Family-oriented attractions and festive events have featured in previous editions.
  • More Info: https://www.cortonaeventi.it/cortonanatale/

Cortona is worth considering if you want to combine a Christmas market with a visit to a beautiful medieval town. Its elevated position offers wonderful views over the surrounding countryside, and its historic streets are especially atmospheric during the winter season.

 

10. 🎄 LUCCA Christmas markets

Lucca Magico Natale (LMN)


  • Dates: 22 November 2026 – 6 January 2027 for the Christmas market in Piazza Napoleone
  • Location:Historic centre of Lucca, including Piazza Napoleone
  • Highlights: Light installations across the walled city; a Christmas village of wooden chalets in Piazza Napoleone with local products and entertainment; Santa Claus meetings and letters for children; concerts in historic venues.
  • More Info: https://turismo.lucca.it/lucca-magico-natale-2026/

Lucca is a lovely destination for a relaxed Christmas day out. Wander through the narrow streets within the Renaissance city walls, browse the market in Piazza Napoleone and enjoy the illuminated historic buildings. The combination of Christmas shopping, local food and winter walks makes it an appealing destination for couples and families alike.

11. 🎄 Grosetto christmas village

Natale a Grosseto


  • Dates: 13 November 2026 - 10 January 2027
  • Location: Historic centre of Grosseto: Piazza Dante (market), Piazza Duomo (Christmas tree) and the Medici Walls / Fortezza
  • Highlights: Christmas market stalls, artisan gifts, seasonal food and festive decorations. Grosseto's Christmas programme has also featured wooden chalets, charity markets, children's activities, Christmas lights and events around the historic centre and the Medici-era fortifications.
  • More Info: https://ilnataleintoscana.it/mercatini-di-natale-grosseto-2/

Grosseto is a good option for discovering Christmas in the Maremma area of Tuscany, Italy. Its historic centre offers a more local atmosphere than Tuscany's largest Christmas markets, and you can combine a visit with exploring the city's historic walls, traditional restaurants and nearby coastal towns.

12. 🎄 Pienza christmas Market

Pienza - Mercatini nell'Arte


  • Dates: 5–8 December 2026
  • Location: Pienza's historic centre, in the province of Siena.
  • Highlights: A seasonal market in one of Tuscany's most beautiful Renaissance towns, with artisan products, Christmas gift ideas, local specialities and festive stalls. Pienza is also famous for its pecorino cheese and its spectacular views across the Val d'Orcia.
  • More Info: https://www.comune.pienza.si.it/

Pienza is particularly appealing if you want to combine Christmas shopping with a scenic countryside excursion. Its historic streets and panoramic viewpoints make it one of the most photogenic towns in Tuscany.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Tuscany worth visiting? View Answer+

Yes, Tuscany is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy year-round, but it’s especially enchanting during the Christmas season. In winter, the crowds are smaller, the pace is slower, and the medieval towns glow with festive lights. You can explore Florence, Siena, Arezzo, and Lucca at their most authentic, enjoy local wines, and visit charming Christmas markets that make the region feel magical.

What is Tuscany like in December?view answer+

Tuscany in December is cozy, calm, and full of holiday spirit. You’ll find decorated streets, Christmas markets, warm trattorias serving seasonal dishes, and sometimes even misty hills or light frost in the countryside. It’s the perfect time for cultural sightseeing, food and wine experiences, and festive events. Most towns also host Nativity scenes, concerts, and Christmas villages throughout the month.

How often does it snow in Tuscany?view answer+

Snow in Tuscany is relatively rare, especially in coastal or lowland areas like Florence, Pisa, and Grosseto. However, in hill towns such as Siena or Montepulciano, and in mountain regions like the Apennines or Mount Amiata, you may see snow a few times each winter — typically between December and February. When it happens, it makes Tuscany’s landscapes look straight out of a fairytale.

Is Christmas a good time to visit Italy?view answer+

Yes, Christmas is one of the best times to visit Italy if you enjoy culture, lights, and festive traditions. Cities and villages across the country are beautifully decorated, with Christmas markets, concerts, and food fairs adding warmth to the winter days. In Tuscany, you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, fewer tourists, and plenty of holiday events and local festivals to experience authentic Italian Christmas traditions.

Where does it snow in Italy in December?view answer+

Snow is common in northern Italy — especially in the Alps, Dolomites, and northern Apennines. Popular snowy destinations include Cortina d’Ampezzo, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Val d’Aosta. In central Italy, you can find snow in Tuscany’s Monte Amiata, Abetone ski area, and parts of Umbria. Southern Italy rarely sees snow, except on mountain peaks.

Does Italy shut down in December?view answer+

Not at all, Italy stays lively in December! While some small rural hotels may close briefly after New Year’s, most cities and tourist destinations remain open. Restaurants, museums, and shops usually adjust hours around Christmas Eve (24 Dec) and Christmas Day (25 Dec), but Christmas markets, concerts, and winter events are in full swing throughout the month.

How many degrees is Tuscany in December?view answer+

In December, temperatures in Tuscany typically range from 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F). Coastal areas like Pisa and Livorno are milder, while inland towns such as Siena or Arezzo can be cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings. It’s best to pack a warm coat, scarf, and layers — perfect for enjoying those cozy Christmas markets and candlelit dinners.

 

 

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