Christmas in and around Milan: markets, delights and magic

The Indro Montanelli Gardens near Porta Venezia are home  to the  Villaggio delle Meraviglie, one of the most popular and long-lived events in the city. Access is totally free of charge. It is the first theme park in Milan dedicated to Christmas, where the House of Santa Claus, the elves market, the stalls with sweet and savoury delights, the skating rink, flying sleighs, entertainment corners and many shopping opportunities welcome everyone. An unmissable event if you decide to spend Christmas in Milan!

The splendid setting of Piazza Duomo and its magical Christmas tree is home throughout the festive season to markets: sixty-five wooden chalets unwinding over an area of about 1200 sq.m. with enchanting decorations and colourful lights are a symbol of Christmas. A truly broad range of goods on show includes local craft products, clothing, typical local gastronomy produce and regional confectionery specialties. A joyful and heart-warming event that the people of Milan themselves look forward to!

Roasted chestnuts, desserts, pancakes and mulled wine are on the menu at the Oh Bej, Oh Bej fair, the traditional appointment held on feast day of Sant'Ambrogio. This event boasts a very ancient tradition and today welcomes hosts about 400 exhibitors ranging from print and book sellers to second-hand dealers, toy makers, artisans, sweets, honey and chestnuts, as well as musicians, jugglers and street artists. Extending along the perimeter of the Sforzesco Castle, the fair is a symbol of Christmas traditions and today even welcomes international stands.

If you decide to take a trip outside Milan and want to catch the Christmas spirit, you can visit the evocative markets in Piazza degli Alpini, Bergamo, selling sweets, local produce and handicrafts, or immerse yourself in the fascinating atmosphere of the City of Toys in Como and its stalls, shows, the ice skating rink and the enchanting, magical light show promoted by Magic Light Festival. Don't miss the ancient Borgo di Gromo - one of the most beautiful villages in Italy in Val Seriana, the House of Santa Claus in Bergamo set up in the spaces of the ancient Palazzo Scacchi Filisetti, where magic and emotion, joy and fun await young and old alike.