The best Christmas traditions in Italy: the most enchanting cities and villages to visit

In Italy, nature, cuisine, and popular traditions come together in a way that few other places in the world can match. During the Christmas season, this beautiful country offers enchanting glimpses into age-old customs that continue to be preserved and passed down through generations.

Join us as we explore a selection of villages and towns where Christmas traditions remain a cherished link to the past.

Matera: the nativity scene and the bagpipers

Visiting Matera during the Christmas season has a unique charm. It feels like stepping into a postcard, surrounded by the city’s iconic stone dwellings, twinkling lights, and decorations carefully arranged by local shopkeepers.

On December weekends, visitors can experience Matera’s living nativity scene, a 4-kilometre route through the streets of what has been dubbed the “Jerusalem of Southern Italy”.

During the same period, the sound of traditional bagpipers fills the air, as they perform along the town’s historic streets.

The Natalecci of Gorfigliano

In the small village of Gorfigliano, in the province of Lucca, one of Italy’s most distinctive bonfire traditions takes place on Christmas Eve – the Natalecci. These towering pyres are created by weaving juniper branches around a central chestnut pole.

At 6:00 pm, as the church bells ring, the bonfires are set alight, creating a mesmerising spectacle visible from the highest hills of the village.

According to tradition, the longer the flames burn, the more prosperous the coming year will be. Both villagers and visitors gather to witness the event and exchange wishes for the year ahead. This is believed to be one of Italy’s oldest customs, with some accounts tracing the origins of the Natalecci back to 100 BC.

Rome and the midnight mass on Christmas Eve

Every Christmas Eve, the traditional Midnight Mass is celebrated. Attending the service in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, one of the papal basilicas, is a deeply moving and meaningful experience for believers.

Tickets must be booked well in advance. The atmosphere is further enhanced by a towering Christmas tree that lights up the square and the sound of church bells ringing out across the city.

Candelara and the Festival of lights

For the past two decades, the village of Candelara, in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, has hosted a charming and vibrant Christmas market dedicated to candles. Beyond its many stalls, the Candelara market is a spectacle in itself: every evening, artificial lights are switched off to allow thousands of flickering candle flames to illuminate the streets.

Throughout the festival weekends, visitors can also enjoy a variety of performances and entertainment across the village.

Milan, the birthplace of panettone

From Milan to South America, via Eritrea and Canada, this delicious Christmas treat has become a global favourite.

The origins of panettone can be traced back to Milan. While various legends surround its creation, it was Angelo Motta who modernised the recipe, shaping it into the iconic dessert we know today.

Enjoying panettone in Milan is undoubtedly one of the best ways to honour this quintessential Christmas delicacy.

Salerno and the Luci d’Artista

The Luci d’Artista in Salerno is a much-anticipated festive event that captivates both locals and visitors every year. Throughout the city centre, stunning light installations designed by artists illuminate the streets, transforming Salerno into a magical winter wonderland.

Each year, the designs and the artists behind them remain a well-kept secret until the grand unveiling. Strolling along Corso Vittorio Emanuele and through the enchanting Piazza Flavio Gioia, visitors can admire glowing sculptures and dazzling spheres, creating a truly mesmerising atmosphere.

Gubbio and the magnificent Christmas tree on Mount Ingino

Every year, on 7 December, the town of Gubbio becomes the stage for the lighting of the world’s largest Christmas tree – though it is not a traditional decorated fir.

This extraordinary display is a pathway of lights stretching from the houses at the foot of the mountain all the way up to the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo at the summit of Mount Ingino, where the star of this spectacular Christmas tree shines.

The tree is illuminated almost entirely by energy generated from a photovoltaic system. For those looking for a unique gift, it is even possible to sponsor one of the lights on the Gubbio tree and dedicate it with a personalised message.

The Dolomites and traditional Christmas sweets

The natural beauty of the Dolomites, with their majestic peaks and breathtaking landscapes, provides a stunning backdrop for Christmas celebrations. During the festive season, the villages and towns of South Tyrol come alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and traditional Christmas markets.

Christmas in the Dolomites is a truly enchanting experience, made even more special by the delicious festive treats typical of the region:

• Zelten: a rich sweet bread made with figs, almonds, and honey. This Christmas delicacy delights the palate with its unique combination of deep, authentic flavours.
• Lebkuchen: traditional spiced biscuits, often shaped like trees or stars, infused with the warm aroma of cinnamon.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini