Once you’ve decorated your home for the holidays, you might find yourself wanting to go somewhere else! If you have a case of wanderlust, why not pack your bags and head out for a wonderful winter holiday in Italy? Sail the ski slopes in Aosta or search for sunshine in Sicily! This list of Italian destinations for winter travel will have you packing your bags and booking plane or train tickets right away.

Places to Visit in Italy for Winter Holidays

Italy is rich in culture, tradition, and of course cuisine. You might associate Italian travels with the summer season, but this list will assure you of the country’s beauty year-round. Whether you’ve long dreamt of visiting Italy or have traveled extensively as an Italian or international tourist, I hope this list inspires you to try something new and embrace the holiday season with cheer.

8 Locations to Visit for Winter Holidays in Italy:

Bolzano

This capital city of South Tyrol is a wonderful place to spend your winter holidays. Visit the traditional Christmas market in Piazza Walther. As one of the best Christmas markets in Italy, you and your family will feel the holiday cheer with food, festivity, and fun. Take made in Italy souvenirs home for your family and friends. Nuremberg Christmas Markets may hold the title for best in Europe, but Italy has their own pride in the markets of Bolzano.

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Boario

If you are looking for a more relaxing holiday, Boario could be perfect for you. Relax into the thermal baths and enjoy a luxurious spa experience. What could be better than leaving the cold outside and booking a massage or spa treatment to celebrate this year?

Torino 

Chocolate-lovers, look no further! Turin is both the capital of Piedmont and an international destination for chocolate. Taste the best chocolate at Guido Gobino, Platti, and Peyrano. Bring home gianduja and other chocolate treats for your family and friends to share the sweetness of Christmas and the new year ahead.

Milano 

There’s so much to do with even only 24 hours in Milan, the capital city of the Lombardy region. While winter holidays up north are not known for a warm climate, the Milano scene is full of Christmas markets to warm you up with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The Obej Obej markets are a historic option and the markets along the Naviglio Grande are also delightful. The Christmas decorations at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II are second to none. The Swarovski Christmas tree is an annual tradition that sparkles throughout the season.

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Aosta 

If you fancy the ski slopes, Aosta is sure to provide the snow you need alongside a scenic holiday spirit. The area is not only a picturesque white Christmas, but full of activity this time of year. The regional cuisine will warm you up and energize you for skiing or walks in the Gran Paradiso National Park, a true winter wonderland.

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Venice

Immerse yourself in the local scene of Veneto’s regional capital of Venice. Escape the massive crowds of tourists and visit Venice for Christmas. Piazza San Marco will be set up with lights and festivities for tourists and locals to soak in the cheerful atmosphere. You may have to withstand acqua alta, or high water in this floating city, but you’re assured a memorable visit to one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.

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Naples

This might seem like an odd addition to the list, but there are plenty of reasons to visit Naples for Christmas. The historic center will be lit with Christmas lights and nativity scenes will be on display. There are also several cultural events and museums that won’t be as crowded by tourists as they are during other seasons. The regional cuisine will not leave you missing a thing, from pizza and panzerotti to pastries and cakes. Discover the world as described in Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan novels, recently made into an HBO series under the title My Brilliant Friend.

Palermo 

Would you trade a traditional Christmas tree for a palm tree? If so, enjoy the warmer temperatures of Southern Italy and the unique culture of Sicily. Palermo is the capital of this Italian island and has everything you need for a winter holiday, including Christmas markets and living nativity scene. Celebrate alongside locals, who will make you feel right at home anywhere you go. Take a day trip to Cefalù, a charming coastal city with plenty of art and architecture to fascinate travelers.

Let us know which one of these Italian destinations is your favorite! Or, if you are staying home for winter holidays, get started planning your summer holiday destinations in Italy. Safe travels and happy holidays to you and yours!

Photo Credits: 1) Bolzano Bozen 2) Flawless 3) Invisible Power 4) Pixabay