Trentino-Alto Adige is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy throughout the year, but during the month of December its main towns are lit up for the holidays. There is a strong tradition of Christmas markets, which attract thousands of tourists from all over Italy every year. There is nothing better than walking among the little wooden houses and Christmas lights. Find outnwhere the main Christmas markets are located in Trentino-Alto Adige and all useful information for your visit.
Where the most beautiful Christmas markets are in Trentino
Trentino is known for hosting some of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in Italy.
Starting from the capital, Trento, and passing through the main medieval villages of the province, you will be spoilt for choice.
Trento
The Trento Christmas market is one of the most famous in the region, located in the heart of the city, in Piazza Fiera to be exact. The dates planned for are from 22 November 2024 to 6 January 2025. Here you will find more than 90 stalls offering handicrafts and local gastronomic specialities. An ice skating rink, a ferris wheel and a beautiful Christmas Garden will also be set up in the city.
Canale di Tenno
Canale di Tenno is a small medieval village that hosts a unique Christmas market. The dates for 2024 are from 7 to 15 December. The cobbled streets are filled with Christmas lights and sounds, creating a magical atmosphere. Other events on the programme include the Shepherds’ Procession on 24 December and the Living Crib, organised for Boxing Day. The festivities then end on 6 January with the Feast of the Epiphany.
Avio
The Avio market is held in the picturesque Avio Castle, until 22 December 2024. This market is famous for its organised events and choral music concerts. In addition, every Sunday you can take advantage of walks to the historic centre of Avio and the old town of Sabbionara. Shuttle services have also been organised to get to the castle.
Rango
Rango is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and its Christmas market never disappoints. Open on weekends until 22 December, it can also be visited on 26 December and from 28 to 31. It offers a wide range of handcrafted products, with a focus on wooden objects and toys, and culinary specialities.
Campitello di Fassa
In Campitello di Fassa, the Christmas market takes place from 7 December to 5 January 2025, during weekends for the first part of the month and then continuously to 5 January. Located in a breathtaking Alpine setting, this market is famous for its Christmas-themed decorations. Here you will find the horse carousel, Christmas tree and ice fountain. You will find the fair open from 3pm to 7pm.
Riva del Garda
Also on the shores of Lake Garda there are plenty of things to do at Christmas. The market runs from 6 December to 6 January 2025, and will focus on food and wine products from the Region. Between wine tastings and cold meats and cheeses, there are plenty of opportunities to warm up from the winter cold. There is also an attraction in the village that children will love: the Grinch House in Bastione di Riva del Garda.
Where to find the best Christmas markets in South Tyrol
Christmas markets in South Tyrol are famous for their enchanting and often snowy atmosphere. Between typical products and Christmas carols, there are many places you should visit.
Bolzano
The Bolzano Christmas market is one of the largest and most famous not only in South Tyrol, but in the whole of Italy. Located on the historic Piazza Walther, the market takes place from 28 November, daily until 7pm. The stalls offer a wide range of handcrafted products and local delicacies. This year there will be no less than 98 stalls located in the historic centre of Bolzano.
Merano
Merano is famous for its market, which stretches along the river Passirio. From 29 November to 6 January 2025, stalls offer typical South Tyrolean products, such as mulled wine and traditional sweets. There are many events and workshops for children, while for adults there will be guided tours and, on 5-6 December, there will be the appearance of the ‘fearsome’ Krampus.
Brixen – Bressanone
Brixen’s Christmas market is also worth a visit. It takes place in the beautiful Piazza Duomo, from 29 November to 6 January 2025. This market is known for its atmosphere and illuminated decorations. Besides the famous little houses, it is worth checking out the programme to attend workshops, theatre performances, processions and parades.
Vipiteno
Sterzing also offers a Christmas market that seems straight out of a fairy tale. From 29 November to 6 January 2025, the streets of the old town centre fill with stalls selling local handicrafts and culinary specialities. Not to be missed is the bell concert on the Torre delle Dodici.
Brunico
Finally, the Bruneck Christmas Market, which takes place in the heart of the town, should not be overlooked, from 29 November to 6 January 2025. With a breathtaking Alpine setting, this market offers unique handicrafts and gastronomic delights. Some of the noteworthy events and attractions are the wooden marbles track, the Christmas barn, traditional music concerts, the St Nicholas parade and the living nativity scene.
