While it used to be unthinkable to get away from home and family during the holidays, today more and more couples and families are deciding to take advantage of the Christmas season for short or longer trips to savor the holiday season in a different key. A very popular destination, thanks in part to the fairly mild winter weather, is Italy. Spending Christmas in Italy is a unique experience that combines deep traditions, evocative atmospheres and the chance to explore the extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage wrapped in the Christmas spirit.
This country, with its great cultural and food and wine background, is the perfect destination for a last-minute city break, especially during the holiday season. On these occasions, Tuscany and Florence prove to be a popular tourist destination.
So, here’s how to plan a last minute stay to spend a magical Christmas in Florence.
Why to choose Tuscany
Cities of art, picturesque villages and breathtaking views make Tuscany a truly complete region, rich in history, cradle of the greatest artists and careful custodian of one of the most extraordinary cities in the world: Florence. Spending Christmas in Italy and in Florence, perhaps taking advantage of the many Christmas Florence hotel deals, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays in an unparalleled Renaissance setting.
During the holidays, the city is completely transformed: Christmas lights create a charming atmosphere, markets enliven squares such as Santa Croce, and cafes come alive for a break with hot chocolate or tea. For those planning at the last minute, it is useful to look for solutions that often include special packages with unique experiences, such as gourmet dinners or personalized guided tours. This is not just a city to visit, but a place to fully immerse yourself in Florentine, Tuscan and Italian culture in its complexity and variety. The festive climate and art all around will do the rest.
What to do at Christmas in Florence
Depending on the length of your stay, you can plan your Florentine city break by including only the must-see attractions or expanding the program by spending time exploring streets and hunting for postcard views. Here’s what to do in the city so you don’t miss the best that Florence has to offer during the Christmas season.
Visiting Christmas markets
The Christmas Market in Santa Croce Square is a must-see. Inspired by traditional German markets, it hosts local and non-local handicrafts, Christmas decorations and gastronomic specialties, such as mulled wine and typical sweets.
Exploring the city
During festive times, most of the museums and monuments are open to the public; churches, such as the Duomo and Santa Maria Novella, host concerts and solemn masses: in short, the city, dressed in its festive garb, is ready to show itself in all its splendor.
Strolling along the Arno
The banks of the Arno River, illuminated by Christmas decorations, offer a romantic and evocative view. A walk along the Ponte Vecchio becomes even more magical during the Christmas season, with the lights reflecting in the waters of the river. It will almost certainly be crowded, but it is worth being around at dusk, when the color palette turns to blue and the atmosphere is enchanting.
Enjoying Tuscan cuisine
Florence is a foodie’s paradise, and winter is the best time to let Tuscan delicacies warm your heart and stomach, washed down with a good local wine. Full-bodied reds from the hills of Chianti and Val D’Orcia will be the best accompaniment.
Like any other Italian city, Florence offers a special atmosphere, rich in tradition, beauty and warmth. Whether you choose a classic destination or a lesser-known one, your Italian Christmas will be a journey of art, taste and holiday spirit.
All that’s left to do is pack your suitcase and let the wonder of Christmas in the Bel Paese transport you!
