Christmas Markets of Italy - Tour Overview

This afternoon, we‘ll discover Bolzano during the merriest time of the year with a scrumptious walking / food tour. Our local guide will lead us through the historical center of this charming alpine town that, during the holiday season, literally transforms into a fairy tale setting. Festive aromas fill the streets, the town is decorated with shimmering Christmas lights and decorations and an overall romantic and magic atmosphere surrounds you.

The next morning, we’ll head out into the Sarentino Valley to a wonderful location in the middle of nature for a cooking class. Gastronomy in South Tyrol is something you don't want to miss! On one hand there is solid genuine country cooking; on the other, there are the specialties of the Mediterranean gastronomic tradition. Taking part in a cooking class is a great opportunity to dive into the local culinary tradition. 

After our cooking class, we’ll head further north to Merano. Here, you’ll watch the sun set over the mountain tops as you enjoy free time at this quaint village Christmas market.  In the booths of merchants and craftsmen you can admire and buy regional and typical handicrafts, candles, Christmas decorations, perfumes, warm clothes of all kinds, such as sweaters, hats, scarves and slippers. It is important to know that only local products and handmade pieces are offered here! 

We’ll return to Bolzano late this evening where you’ll be on your own for dinner. 

Next, we‘ll cross the border into Austria for the day! 

Gateway to the Austrian Alps, medieval Innsbruck is a city steeped in mountain history and tradition. On this full-day tour from Bolzano, we’ll reach Innsbruck in comfort by bus and visit the city with ease. You will also find the biggest and first Swarovski crystal shop because the Swarovski family originates from Innsbruck. You’ll enjoy time for lunch on your own and strolling at your leisure in the local Christmas Market. 

On our return to Bolzano, we’ll stop at Vipiteno / Sterzing for a short visit of the old city center where we’ll join in the festive atmosphere of the local Christmas Market.  

On day six, we’ll say our farewells to Bolzano, the mountains, and the snow and make our way south by train to Florence. Take a moment during this three-hour train ride to marvel at and appreciate the exquisite beauty of the Alto Adige winter landscapes! 

Next, we’ll meet up with our local guide for a tour of Florence with a focus on the Christmas theme - both historically and artistically. We’ll visit the Uffizi Gallery with an eye on how the birth of Christ was depicted in art over the centuries. We’ll also visit the churches of Santa Maria Novella to view the various nativity scenes and presepe around Florence. 

Lunch will be at our favorite enoteca with a tasting of Tuscan wines. 

The remainder of the day will be at your leisure to visit the Christmas market in Piazza Santa Croce and do some Christmas shopping in the local boutiques of Florence.

On our final day, we’ll travel out into the Tuscan countryside to have lunch with an Italian family at their own winery. 

After lunch, we’ll continue on to Siena, one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. This medieval jewel is a favorite destination because of the fascinating and legendary atmosphere that pervades the entire city, starting right from its foundation. Enjoy free time to shop the Christmas market in the Piazza del Campo and the local shops of Siena. We’ll all gather again for an aperitivo in a Sienese palazzo before we head back to Florence. 

Alas, the end must come.....  

On Day Nine, with all your Christmas goodies in hand, departure will be via a group shuttle to the Florence Airport.