Florence Christmas Market 2025

Florence might well be associated with the Renaissance period, but like all places in Italy, this Tuscan city sure knows how to throw a seasonal celebration. Picture sprawling piazzas brimming with character and quaint streets drenched in festive lighting, twinkling trees, and scenes from the nativity being played out before your eyes.

Throw in Italian Christmas traditions like La Festa dell’Immacolata and Il Presepe, and art, history, and holiday music, and this really makes it a true winter wonderland that you can visit on my Florence food tours.

If you’re visiting Tuscany in December and want to sample Florence’s foods, you couldn’t pick a better time to come, as the city’s Christmas markets will be in full swing. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect from Florence’s Christmas markets.

Florence’s Top Festive Markets You Can’t Miss

The Tuscan capital has its fair share of Christmas markets that will get visitors in the festive spirit, but these select few are the ones you can’t afford to miss.

Piazza Santa Croce Christmas Market is a German-style market, reminiscent of the likes of the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. Think wooden chalets with vendors selling all sorts of magical crafts as well as traditional snacks such as bratwurst and pretzels.

Even if you aren’t looking out for the Piazza del Duomo Fair, you’ll likely come across it anyway due to its popular location at the famous Piazza del Duomo. Here you can enjoy seasonal treats right next to one of the city’s iconic sites.

Foodies must focus their attention on the Mercato Centrale Christmas Corner, where you can sample some of Florences festive foods paired with a warm cup of mulled wine.

Savor Florence’s Holiday Culinary Delights

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Florentines are masters of food, and during Christmas, they know how to add a festive twist to traditional dishes. Many of these bites can be found at most of the city’s Christmas markets. If you’re struggling to find any of them, be sure to ask around the vendors to find out where they’re being sold, as they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.

Just imagine walking through the streets with a rich slice of panettone or a zesty piece of ricciarelli. You may also come across people enjoying a pairing of a nutty biscuit like cantucci with a sweet dessert wine such as vin santo and some roasted chestnuts.

This being Tuscany, wines play a big role in the experience, with spiced mulled wines like vin brulé and tart glasses of local Chianti wine.

Don’t forget to pay a visit to some of the artisanal vendors at Florence’s Christmas markets that offer a wealth of flavorful bites, such as handmade chocolates, crispy pasties, and some other secret festive specialties.

Hidden Christmas Gems in Florence

Florence has its fair share of well-known Christmas markets, but there are a few hidden gems waiting to be discovered if you know the right places to look.

The market around Piazza della Santissima Annunziata is my go-to for creative crafts and antiques, where local artisans sell a wide range of ceramics, leather goods, and ornaments.

Beat the crowds in the city center and check out some of the small-town Christmas markets in Florence like Scandicci and Fiesole, which are absolutely adorable and full of authentic Tuscan charm.

Tips for a Smooth and Joyful Visit

Visiting the markets is one of the best things to do in Florence at Christmas, and they’re especially delightful in the early evenings, when the atmosphere is particularly magical, with twinkling lights throughout.
If you’re short on time, focus on the markets in the historic center. They’re close together and easily walkable, making your visit much more convenient.
Be sure to dress for cold weather, as temperatures will drop, and grab a coffee or toasty hot chocolate to stay warm and cozy.
Don’t be afraid to bargain with vendors when doing your Christmas shopping in Florence, but do so with respect to ensure everyone walks away from the deal happy.
While Florence is a very safe city, keep an eye on your belongings, just in case pickpockets are operating in the area.
Those planning on doing a lot of shopping should bring a backpack with them to store all their purchases. While some vendors give bags out when you buy something, certain products may be wrapped up in paper instead, so you’ll want to keep them safe.
Don’t just come spend a day and rush through everything. Give yourself some time to explore each market at ease and get a feel for the city’s cultural traditions. You’ll also want some extra time to explore the main sights, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, dine at some nice restaurants, and sample street food including sandwiches like lampredotto.

Celebrate the Holidays with Florentine Flair

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If there’s one Italian city that truly comes alive during Christmas, it has to be Florence. With its perfect blend of art, history, and food, Florence’s Christmas markets offer visitors an unforgettable winter experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and join in on Florence’s local festive celebrations and experience the city’s welcoming atmosphere for yourself. While many places know how to celebrate the holidays, Florence hosts a spectacle to remember, and you’ll want to put it at the top of your list of Christmas destinations for 2025.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Florence Food Tours | Eating Europe. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/florence/ Eating Europe

Eating Europe. (2024, August 9). 7 must‑try foods in Florence. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/florence-food/ Eating Europe