Tuscany at Christmas? It’s like stepping into a holiday card, only better. With twinkling lights, festive cheer and enough local treats to make your taste buds do a happy dance, it’s a perfect destination for families. Here are three tips to make your holiday adventure in Florence (and surroundings) extra merry.
1. Get your jingle on: markets, ice and holiday cheer
Tuscany transforms into a holiday wonderland, especially with its lively Christmas markets and charming local festivals. A must-see is the annual tree lighting in Florence’s piazza Duomo on December 8 at 5.30 pm—it’s the official “holiday season is here” moment! On December 1, the Ice Village at the Cascine Park is touted to open, complete with a Ferris wheel offering stunning views and an ice rink where you can show off your best (or most creative) skating moves. Through December 22, Florence’s Weihnachtsmarkt brings a slice of Germany to Italy, with mulled wine, pretzels, strudel and hearty wurst. Other towns like Siena, Arezzo, Lucca and Empoli also host cozy markets, where you can snack on roasted chestnuts, sweet ricciarelli cookies and other local treats.
2. Window shopping with a side of magic: holiday lights + sweets
One of the simplest pleasures of Florence during Christmas is a leisurely stroll through the city’s historic streets, where the holiday decorations are nothing short of magical. Via Tornabuoni, in particular, is famous for its dazzling displays. Stop by piazza della Repubblica to take a spin on the festive carousel, then head to Caffè Gilli for a rich hot chocolate and a pastry to fuel your wanderings. Also make sure to keep an eye out on some of Florence’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Palazzo Vecchio and Ponte Vecchio, which are lit up with creative light installations and projects thanks to the Green Line Festival.
3. Hit the high notes: Christmas concerts for your ears
Tuscany’s holiday music scene is as enchanting as its scenery. If you’re in the mood for something iconic, catch the Concerti di Natale coi Tre Tenori at the Auditorium di Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio, where you’ll hear some of Italy’s finest classical music. And don’t miss The Dream Gospel Choir from Harlem, performing on December 19 at Teatro Verdi for a Christmas concert that will lift your spirits higher than Santa’s sleigh.
Tuscany’s holiday magic isn’t just in the sights. It’s in every festive detail, every bite and every note of music. What’s not to love?
