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Spend Christmas in Florence 2023 | Christmas Treats, Displays, Museums, and More!

Florence is the seat of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, a celebrated church in the Christian diocese. Needless to say, Florence is a delight during Christmas. Every corner of the city is lit with bright Christmas lights, vendors sell the best produce, and the people bring in the festival with a festive cheer. Here's why you should celebrate Christmas in Florence and all you can expect on your trip.

Why Spend Christmas in Florence?

Every year, there is a Christmas Eve mass at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore that you absolutely must witness with your own eyes.
Piazza del Repubblica is decorated with beautiful, colourful carousels around the street where you can take evening strolls.
Go to the Magi Chapel and see paintings showcasing important events from Christianity, like the Wise Men's journey to Bethlehem to witness the birth of Christ.
Many public squares, like the Piazza di Santa Croce or San Lorenzo Market, have kiosks selling the best Christmas-inspired goods you can take home as souvenirs.
Eat your heart out at Florentine bakeries that serve the best Christmas treats and food items made from the freshest ingredients from the Tuscan region.

Florence in December

Things to do in Florence during the Christmas season

Shop at seasonal Christmas markets

Drop by the magical Florence's Weihnachtsmarkt in Piazza di Santa Croce. This German-style market boasts wooden stalls with festive delights: Christmas decor, clothing, and gifts. Scents of warm pretzels, wurst, mulled wine, and strudel waft through the air. With 50 huts featuring crafts and European specialties, it's a festive haven. Kids can enjoy games at Santa Claus House and send letters to Santa.

Visit the Christmas markets at:

Piazza del Duomo | Find on Map
Giardino della Fortezza | Find on Map
Palazzo Corsini, Lungarno Corsini | Find on Map

Feast on Florence’s sweet treats

What even is Christmas without Florence's drool-worthy Christmas confections? Try Caffè Lietta's famed "Pirulo," enjoy Masha Innocenti's festive cake designs, and savor Pistocchi's unique chocolates. Indulge in Pasticceria Nencioni Falai's timeless classics and relish the artisanal delights at caffè Gilli and "Dolci e Dolcezze" for a sweet taste of the city's holiday spirit.

Find the best Christmas treats at:

Caffè Lietta | Find on Maps
Pistocchi | Find on Maps
Pasticceria Nencioni Falai | Find on Maps
Caffè Gilli | Find on Maps
Dolci e Dolcezze | Find on Maps

Shop Italian brands

Discover Florence's unique blend of cultural heritage and Italian style during the festive season. Explore Christmas sales at iconic spots like Via dei Serragli, known for local artisans. Indulge in luxury shopping on Via de’ Tornabuoni, featuring designer labels like Gucci and Prada, and find high-end brands such as Miu Miu and Armani on Via Roma.

Find the best Italian brands at:

Via dei Serragli| Find on Maps
Via de’ Tornabuoni| Find on Maps
Via Roma | Find on Maps

Christmas in Florence - Ponte Vecchio Bridge

Stroll the Ponte Vecchio bridge

Set off on a magical stroll along the iconic Ponte Vecchio Bridge, connecting Por Santa Maria and Via de' Bardi. Admire breathtaking views of the Arno River enhanced by the festive glow of Christmas lights. Submit to the holiday spirit as you leisurely shop amid the charming ambiance created by the bridge's historic shops.

Visit these stores at Ponte Vecchio

Boutique COI
Vacheron Constantin
Mannelli Pelletterie
Wilma Firenze

Go Ice Skating

Glide into Christmas with style at Cascine Christmas Village with Italy's largest ice skating rink, spanning over 1300 square meters. Set beside a grand Christmas tree, the rink invites visitors to indulge in the Christmas market, savor delectable treats and hot chocolate, meet Santa Claus, and ride his sleigh next to Santa's House. Feel the community come together at the rink.

Ride a Ferris Wheel

Literally elevate your Christmas experience in Florence with a ride on the 55-meter-high Ferris Wheel at Cascine Park's Christmas Village. From December 8, witness breathtaking views of Florence, a tradition continuing until June 10, 2024. Explore other Christmas-themed attractions, entertainment, and activities surrounding the Ferris Wheel until January 15.

Go on a Food Tour

Embark on a Christmas food tour in Florence, uncovering local treasures beyond the ordinary. With a knowledgeable guide, explore hidden markets and alleys, savoring Christmas-inspired delights like Lampredotto. Dive into Tuscan traditions with dishes such as Ribollita and pappa al pomodoro, and be a part of the festive spirit and rich culinary history influenced by Florence's luminaries.

Top Experiences in Florence

Festivals to attend in Florence around Christmas

Attend Christmas Mass at the Florence Duomo.

Adorned with festive lights, Florence's iconic cathedral hosts a profound Christmas Mass, blending tradition and spirituality in the enchanting ambiance. Due to its popularity, entry operates on a first-come, first-served basis, urging attendees to arrive by 10:30 PM to secure a spot. Other cathedrals in Florence also conduct Christmas Mass, adding to the city's rich holiday traditions.

Where to go to attend Christmas Mass:

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore | Find on Map
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella | Find on Map
Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte | Find on Map
The Basilica of Santa Croce | Find on Map

Attend the Christmas Tree lighting

Embrace the enchantment of the annual Christmas tree lighting on December 7th, orchestrated by La Compagnia di Babbo Natale. Conceived in 2007 by Roberto Giacinti, this foundation unites over 240 volunteers in Santa attire, spreading joy year-round. On this special evening, Santas embark on a festive train, commencing with lights at Palazzo Vecchio, joined by Mayor Dario Nardella. The jovial journey continues to illuminate the city's heart in Piazza del Duomo.

Book Florence museum tickets

Attend the Festival of Lights

From December 7th to January 8th, Florence is aglow with the Festival of Lights – The Green Line, symbolizing the natural elements of life. Christmas trees light up iconic spots like the Duomo and Piazzale Michelangelo. The city transforms nightly with video mapping, projections, and artful displays, creating a luminous tapestry. Explore over 200 trees adorned with 60km of LED lights across the city.

Dates: December 7- January 8

Attend the Epiphany

Celebrate the Epiphany in Florence on January 6th with the enchanting "Cavalcade of the Magi." A grand parade in the historic center reenacts the Magi's journey to deliver gifts to baby Jesus. Experience the spectacle, including the Befane descent at Piazza della Repubblica. Explore the Chapel of the Magi inside Palazzo Medici Riccardi, featuring Benozzo Gozzoli's frescoes tracing the Wise Men's journey. Don't miss this magical day in Florence!

Dates: January 6

Plan Your Christmas in Florence

Essential Information

What to wear

Things to pack

Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) is used in Florence which is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+02:00).

Currency: Euros - EUR - €

Country Code: +39

Emergency Numbers: Integrated Emergency System - 112, Ambulance - 118, Fire brigade - 115, Police - 113

Warm Coat: Bring a sturdy, insulated coat to protect against the cool temperatures.
Waterproof Footwear: Opt for comfortable, waterproof shoes suitable for walking. Florence's streets can be wet, and durable footwear ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Scarf and Gloves: Pack a warm scarf and gloves to shield yourself from the cold wind. These small accessories make a significant difference in maintaining comfort during chilly days and evenings.
Thermal Layers: Consider thermal layers for added warmth without bulk. Thermal tops and bottoms are discreet yet effective in preserving body heat, especially on colder days.

Do carry an umbrella, a poncho, or a raincoat, as Florence is slightly rainy in December.
Spending the day visiting attractions or partying through the night, it's best to make sure your phone has some juice. Don’t forget to carry a power bank. It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it especially while traveling.
While December does feel quite damp, carry some body lotion to prevent getting dry skin in this cold.
Rooms in Florence come with C, L, and F-type sockets which require round tip 2-pin plugs. So do pack a 3-pin to 2-pin adaptor when you travel, if required.
Do not forget a camera as well. Breathtaking sunsets and the twinkly Christmas decorations you’ll see in Florence will truly be postcard-worthy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrating Christmas in Florence

Is Christmas a good time to visit Florence?

Christmas in Florence is a beautiful experience. The public squares are filled with markets, bakeries sell the best treats and sweets, the city is lit with lights and carousels, and the cold weather adds to the festive cheer.

What are some things to do on Christmas in Florence?

You can shop from the local markets set up at the public squares, eat good Italian food from some of the best restaurants, go ice-skating on Lake Arno, visit small towns around Florence or watch displays at Ponte Vecchio.

What is Christmas in Florence like?

Christmas in Florence is a wonderful experience since it is home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The whole city celebrates Christmas in their own unique and wholesome ways.

What is the weather like at Christmas in Florence?

The temperature ranges between 8°C to 11°C at Christmas in Florence. It is generally pleasant, but you should carry a jacket with you.

Is Florence crowded at Christmas?

Christmas is generally a popular time to visit Florence. It is best to book your tickets in advance at the best price.

What's open in Florence on Christmas?

Local Christmas markets are open during Christmas in Florence. Churches also have masses and are open on Christmas day.

What is the most popular Christmas market in Florence?

The Christmas market at Piazza Santa Croce, right outside the Basilica of Santa Croce, is Florence's most famous Christmas market.

Are restaurants open on Christmas in Florence?

Restaurants are closed on Christmas, like everything else in Florence. It is a national holiday, but you can enjoy good food on other days around Christmas.

What are the best places to stay in Florence on Christmas?

If you want to experience Christmas in Florence the best way, you must stay near the City Centre, in the neighborhood of Santa Croce and Santo Spirito, and other places like San Marco, San Lorenzo, and San Frediano.

What should I eat in Florence at Christmas?

You should try traditional Italian delicacies like Florentine Beefsteak, Ribollita, and Tagliatelle and desserts like Panforte, Panpepato, and Copate.

What are the best restaurants for Christmas in Florence?

If you're celebrating Christmas in Florence, you should definitely visit La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant, Restaurant II Vezzo, Ristorante Brandolino and La Giostra. You should also try bakeries like Ginos Bakery, Leonardo, Forno Becagli and Vecchio Forno.

Where can I see the Christmas lights in Florence?

Piazza della Repubblica is lit up with carousels while there are displays at the Ponte Vecchio bridge. The Florence Duomo is also decorated with Christmas lights.

What are some Christmas traditions in Florence?

During Christmas, Florence has local markets set up at public squares. Bakeries also prepare special Christmas treats and sweets, buildings of national importance are lit up, and the streets are decorated with carousels.