Holiday shopping in Italy is not rushed, but savored
Italians in Italy don’t like to rush things like in America… savor the day, and holiday… one at a time. Come the 1st of December though, Italians and visitors from throughout Europe will be ready to shop in Italy’s traditional Christmas Markets.
In Levico Terme, in Valsugana, the Historical Habsburg Park provides the fairytale location for the town’s spectacular Christmas Market. A magical scenery recalling the elegance and luxury of the 19th century awaits you. Here, every genre of local delicacy is sold in the typical wooden houses between the majestic trees.
As shoppers stroll along the park’s snow covered paths, listening to songs sung by the mountain choir, visitors can peruse the stalls, purchase local artisan products and enjoy a glass of piping hot Parampampoli, the typical Liquer of Valsugana, made with coffee, grappa, sugar and honey. Levico produces renowened local wines of the region which are served at some market stands. For little ones, there is an Elves’ House, creative workshops, mini train and petting zoo.
Between the Dolomites and Lake Garda, is Rango. By far one of the most beautiful towns in Northern Italy. From early December, the picturesque little streets of the historic center provide the magical setting for Rango’s world-famous Trento Christmas Market. Nestled at the foot of the Dolomites, this charming village in the Trento province of the Alto Adige region becomes a magical setting for this Christmas market which seems to be plucked right out of a fairytale. Because of its northern location, over the years the area has absorbed the best of both German and Italian cultures, which work perfectly around the holiday.
More info: www.visittrentino.info/en
Merano is the historic health resort and leisure centre of the South Tyrol region in Northern Italy. Its unique combination of the Mediterranean and Alpine climate offers a wide and diverse range of facilities for both summer and winter holidays.
When the temperature plunges, the first snows reach the summits of the surrounding alpine peaks and the tempting scent of delicious hot drinks and fresh pastries finds its way into your nose, then it’s Advent time in beautiful Merano.
From the end of November to the beginning of January, visitors can experience genuine Christmas magic in the romantic atmosphere: traditional handicrafts and wonderful culinary specialities, peaceful moments of cosy togetherness or a sociable hour or two with friends and family – the ingredients of the famous and extremely popular Merano Advent.
Rome is spectacular, so Christmas time is no different. The Piazza Navona hosts Rome’s largest and most traditional Christmas market. While the food, artistic gifts and souvenirs certainly do add their allure to this spot, it is truly the events held that make this Christmas Market something extraordinary. The kids can enjoy a life-size nativity scene and meet Babbo Natale (Father Christmas)!
This is just a very small start. All around Italy are enchanting Christmas festivities of holiday shopping delight to be enjoyed during this most wonderful time of the year.
For many more Christmas Markets through out Italy see these resources:
Italian Christmas Markets
