It’s that time of year when many are looking to plan a festive trip to a Christmas market, enjoying the holiday spirit while exploring quaint stalls with a cup of mulled wine. Europe offers a plethora of options, but one stands out for its unique charm.
While Italy may not be the first place that comes to mind for Christmas markets, Verona hosts one of the most enchanting ones. Known for its association with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona transforms into a cheerful city during the holiday season, attracting visitors with its historic allure.
Running from November 21 to December 28, the Verona Christmas market at Piazza dei Signori enchants locals and tourists alike with over 200 stalls selling traditional gifts, artisanal goods, and seasonal delights in the picturesque setting of one of Italy’s most stunning cities.
Adorned with Christmas trees and twinkling lights, the market exudes a festive ambiance filled with the scents of gingerbread and mulled wine. A highlight unique to Verona is the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride, offering a magical experience as you pass by illuminated palaces.
One of the main attractions is the striking star installation at Piazza Bra, a renowned sight in the city perfect for capturing festive moments. The Verona market draws inspiration from the famous Nuremberg Christmas market in Germany, considered the origin of this beloved tradition.
Ideal for Christmas shopping, the market’s cozy cabins offer a variety of handmade souvenirs, ceramics, jewelry, soaps, liquors, wooden crafts, and woolen items. Visitors can also savor a range of flavors, from hot pearà , a creamy sauce with pork sausage and bread, to sausage sandwiches, bretzels, and bratwurst.
Indulge in sweet treats like luxury chocolates, mulled wine (vin brulè), and a craft ale. Don’t miss the chance to taste Verona’s signature Christmas cake, pandoro, a fluffy sweet bread akin to panettone, created in 1894 by pastry chef Domenico Melegatti.
Apart from the market, Verona hosts a variety of festive events including Christmas concerts, theater performances, ballet shows, and an International Exhibition showcasing nativities from around the world. The city also offers activities like the Verona Christmas run, New Year’s Eve celebrations at Piazza Bra, and a New Year’s concert, along with attractions for children like the House of Santa Claus, the Enchanted Forest, and ice-skating rinks at Piazza Sacco e Vanzetti.
Visitors have lauded the Verona Christmas market, with one TripAdvisor reviewer stating, “I eventually found it, and there was a Christmas market going on, and the buildings around it are beautiful – well worth a visit.”
For those considering a festive winter escape, direct flights from London to Verona start from £20, with a flight duration of just under two hours.