Here’s a curated list of the best Christmas markets in Tuscany to help you embrace the holiday spirit this season.
Christmas markets have become a cherished tradition in Italy, inspired by the long-standing and vibrant markets of Austria and Germany. These enchanting markets are now present throughout the country, allowing you to enjoy their festive charm without needing to cross the Alps!
The highest concentration of Christmas markets in Italy can be found in the Dolomites, particularly in the Bolzano province. However, if you’re in Tuscany, you’ll be delighted to know that there are many nearby markets where you can experience the holiday spirit!
This page features a selection of the finest Christmas markets in Tuscany for you to explore this holiday season.
Please note: The dates and specifics for Christmas markets are provided by the organizers and are subject to change. Always check the official event websites for the most current information.
Arezzo Christmas Market
Arezzo hosts one of Italy’s largest Tyrolean-style Christmas markets, acclaimed as the biggest by its organizers.
The market is set in the picturesque Piazza Grande, surrounded by historical buildings, creating a stunning backdrop. Stalls and vendors from Italy, Germany, and Austria offer a delightful array of crafts and local specialties.
This market features a charming Tyrolean village with wooden huts selling crafts and delicious food. There’s also Santa’s House (Casa di Babbo Natale) and a dazzling light show. New this year is a Lego Brick House designed with a Christmas theme, located inside Palazzo della Fraternita’ in Piazza Grande.
Known for its size and quality, the Arezzo Christmas Market is a must-visit.
Arezzo makes a lovely base for exploring Tuscany and is just over an hour’s drive from Florence.
Montepulciano Christmas Market
- Where: Piazza Grande, Montepulciano
- When: November 16, 17, 23, 24, 30; December 1, 6-8, 14, 15; December 21 – January 6, 2025
- Official site: nataleamontepulciano.it
Montepulciano is one of the most charming towns in Tuscany throughout the year, and it shines even brighter during the holiday season thanks to its lovely Christmas market that brightens up the main square during winter’s darkest days.
The Montepulciano Christmas market transforms the stunning Piazza Grande into a large Christmas Village with wooden huts selling crafts and festive treats. For children, there’s Santa’s Castle (Castello di Babbo Natale), featuring interactive activities and, of course, the chance to meet Santa himself.
In Italian, we refer to Santa as Babbo Natale, and you can learn more about him here.
Montepulciano is a fantastic town that is worth visiting, and you can find my complete guide to Montepulciano here to help plan your trip.
Montepulciano is easily accessible by car, taking about an hour from Siena and around 1.5 hours from Florence.
Lucca Christmas Markets
- Where: Piazza Napoleone / Lucca town center
- When: November 26, 2024 – January 6, 2025
Lucca is an excellent destination for families, particularly during the Christmas season. The town hosts charming Christmas markets and even has an ice rink.
What makes the Christmas markets in Lucca special is that there are several markets throughout the town, making the entire city center feel festive.
The markets boast various booths selling crafts, local delicacies, and artisan products. Babbo Natale (Santa) is expected to be in Piazza Napoleone, where children can deliver their letters to him personally.
You can find my guide to Lucca with kids here.
Christmas Market in Florence
- Where: Piazza Santa Croce, Florence
- When: November 21 – December 17
If you happen to be in Florence during Christmas, you’ll be delighted to discover a small yet charming Christmas market that adds a magical touch to the beautiful Piazza Santa Croce.
The market features wooden huts offering festive foods (including traditional items like mulled wine) and local Tuscan specialties, along with an opportunity for kids to meet Santa.
In addition to the market, Florence will also host several festive events this year, including the lighting of the Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo, accompanied by music, festivities, and a small parade, as well as a light show and an ice rink at Fortezza del Basso.
Empoli Christmas Market
- When: November 16, 2024 – January 12, 2025 (selected dates; refer to the official site)
- Where: Piazza della Vittoria / Piazza Farinata degli Uberti
- Official site: empolicittadelnatale.it
Located not far from Florence, the lesser-known town of Empoli hosts a delightful Christmas market known as “Città del Natale.”
The Empoli Christmas market is a major event featuring traditional stalls along with exciting attractions such as carousels for children, a “mattoncini village” (a Lego-like area), snow (!), a Christmas train, Santa’s house, parades, and mesmerizing light shows.
Empoli is less than an hour’s drive from Florence, making it a fantastic opportunity to explore a less touristy side of Italy!
Special Highlight: Christmas at Castelfalfi
Christmas at Castelfalfi is a unique celebration in the medieval borgo/resort of Castelfalfi (Montaione), featuring Christmas markets, live performances, street food, and a variety of activities for children, including pony rides, puppet shows, and the chance to meet Santa!
Good to know! If you’re not staying in Castelfalfi, it’s also home to one of my favorite places in Tuscany: Tenuta Chiudendone, a stunning property with beautiful accommodations, grounds, and breathtaking views. I highly recommend considering it for your stay!
Other Christmas Markets in Tuscany Worth Noting
As of now, not all Christmas markets in Tuscany have been confirmed. However, based on previous years, keep an eye on the following towns: Siena, Montecatini Terme, Forte dei Marmi, Pietrasanta, Abbadia San Salvatore, Cortona, and Greve in Chianti.
Planning to spend Christmas in Italy? You might also enjoy:
- Florence at Christmas
- Rome at Christmas
- The best places to visit in Italy in December
- Italian Christmas Traditions
- Christmas Eve traditions and foods in Italy
- How to say Merry Christmas in Italian
- How to say Happy New Year in Italian
The Best Christmas Markets in Tuscany – Pin This!
