Renaissance palaces wrapped in twinkling lights, glimmering snowflakes crowning narrow streets: this is Christmas in Florence.
And here, it’s not just boughs of holly decking the Tuscan halls, but dancing and prancing shoppers in Florence’s bustling holiday markets. From German bratwurst to English teacakes, spend a few chilly December days browsing Florence’s markets.
Here are some to explore:
Christmas Markets in Florence
1. Weihnachtsmarkt - The biggest Christmas market in Florence
Weihnachtsmarkt Market, the traditional German Christmas market, is arrived at its 21st edition. Craving a taste of Northern Europe in your holiday season? Then head to piazza Santa Croce, where you’ll find Weihnachtsmarkt, a bustling Christmas market with German-style wooden houses selling Christmas decorations, clothing, items for your home and many treats. Here, you won’t resist the urge to pick up some yummy snacks to take home (like locally made jams or sauces), not to mention the warm pretzels, wurstel or mulled wine with a slice of strudel waiting for shoppers ready to refuel their holiday spirit. Come and take a look at Santa Claus House right in front of the Basilica; all children are invited to enjoy exciting Christmas games and much more.
Piazza Santa Croce, November 23- December 22 2024, 10am – 11pm. Free admission
2.Fierucola dell'Immacolata
If alternative Christmas gifts are on your list, then head to piazza della Santissima Annunziata, where you’ll find a market in Florence’s historic center. Meander through stands selling organic food products and handmade crafts, sure to inspire unique gift ideas. Or if shopping isn’t the day’s objective, choose between games, workshops and demonstrations – events perfect for all ages.
Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, December 8, 2024, 9am – 7pm
3. Fierucolina di Natale
This one-day event is one you won’t want to miss, especially for you last-minute shoppers.
This ‘fashion and folklore’ holiday market (hosted in the stylish piazza Santo Spirito) offers a wide range of gift. You’ll get a taste of Florence’s alternative side while you peruse handmade items, food products, olive oil and clothing. A day dedicated to fun, handicraft and fascinating stories.
Piazza del Carmine, dates to be confirmed, 9am-7pm
4. Christmas Bazaar – Christmas market for charity
The 'Christmas bazaar', organized by Ailo - The American International League of Florence ODV with the patronage of the Municipality is the oldest Christmas fair in Florence, organized by ladies of different nationalities working intensely and with lots of joy to create a Christmas atmosphere. On sale there will be vintage clothing and accessories, costume jewellery, knitted and crocheted children's clothes, handcrafted Christmas decorations, books in Italian and English, toys, objects, shoes and bric-à-brac.
Roster Tepidarium, dates to be confirmed, 10.00 am - 6.00 pm
5. Nataleperfile – Christmas market for charity
The Christmas market is organized to raise funds for FILE – Fondazione Italiana di Leniterapia, the assosiation that helps seriously ill people and their families in the territory. The 19th edition will take place at Palazzo Corsini. You can enter for free from Lungarno Corsini n°8.
All the funds raised by Nataleperfile will allow us to support the free palliative care service for seriously ill people and their families.
Palazzo Corsini, dates to be confirmed, 10am-7pm
Christmas Markets around Florence
1. Empoli City of Christmas
Empoli City of Christmas is a Christmas event that every year transforms the city into an enchanted place, full of lights, colors and attractions for adults and children. Starting from mid November, the historic center fills with markets, ferris wheel, light shows and workshops for children, creating a festive atmosphere that involves the whole community.
Empoli, November 16 2024 - January 12 2025
2. Natalia, Fucecchio
Six days to savor the magic of Christmas at Fucecchio Castle in Corsini Park. Unmissable is the Santa Claus Parade starting from Piazza La Vergine at 6.30 pm where elves, dancers and fantastic characters will act as a backdrop for Santa Claus with his sleigh and reindeer. And on January 6th the Befana arrives!
Parco Corsini Fucecchio, 1,8,15,22 and 24 December 2024, and 5 January 2025