Christmas Markets, Illuminated Villages, Traditions and Magic for the Whole Family
During the festive season, Tuscany turns into a wonderful Christmas setting filled with lights, aromas, markets, art cities and charming villages. Florence, Arezzo and many other destinations host special Christmas events, making this the perfect time for a day trip, a weekend break or a longer stay dedicated to culture, food and tradition.
The Santa Croce Christmas Market in Florence
In the heart of Florence, Piazza Santa Croce hosts the traditional Weihnachtsmarkt, one of the city’s best-known Christmas events. For the 2026 edition, the market is scheduled to take place from 14 November to 20 December, with more than fifty stalls housed in characteristic wooden chalets.
Handicrafts, Christmas decorations, gift ideas, food specialities and products from different European countries create a charming festive atmosphere just a short walk from Florence’s main historic monuments.
It is the perfect opportunity to combine a guided tour of Florence with a stroll among the Christmas stalls, enjoying a hot drink or looking for an original gift while surrounded by the unmistakable atmosphere of Christmas in the city.
Arezzo Christmas City and the Tyrolean Village
Arezzo has become one of Tuscany’s leading Christmas destinations. From 14 November 2026 to 6 January 2027, the historic centre hosts Arezzo Città del Natale — Arezzo Christmas City — with Christmas markets, light shows, attractions and events for both adults and children.
The magnificent Piazza Grande becomes the heart of the Tyrolean Village, with traditional wooden chalets and stalls inspired by Alpine and Central European Christmas markets. Visitors can discover handcrafted products, Christmas decorations and local and international food specialities. Light projections on the historic buildings and the characteristic “Baitine del Gusto” food chalets add to the magical atmosphere.
In 2026, the markets are scheduled from 14 November to 27 December, initially from Thursday to Sunday and, from 17 December onwards, every day.
Santa Claus’s House
For families with children, one of the most eagerly awaited attractions is Santa Claus’s House. In Arezzo, in 2026, it will be located inside the impressive Medici Fortress, transformed for the festive season into a true “Christmas Fortress”.
The experience includes light installations, entertainment, workshops and, of course, the opportunity to meet Santa Claus.
But the magic of Santa does not stop in Arezzo. Several towns across Tuscany organise Christmas villages, Santa’s houses and creative workshops dedicated to younger visitors.
Among the regional Christmas events are attractions such as Santa’s Workshop in Pisa, hosted at the Arsenali Repubblicani, as well as festive settings and events dedicated to Santa Claus in Castiglion Fiorentino.
Florence and Tuscany Illuminated for Christmas
Beyond the Christmas markets, the festive season is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany’s cities of art. Florence becomes particularly enchanting with illuminated squares, historic monuments, decorated boutiques and an elegant festive atmosphere.
Siena, Lucca, Pisa and the villages of the Tuscan countryside offer a more intimate Christmas experience, with local traditions, artisan shops, regional products and beautiful winter landscapes.
A single day can easily become a complete itinerary combining art, Christmas shopping and food and wine experiences: a guided tour in the morning, lunch featuring Tuscan specialities, a stroll among markets and Christmas lights in the afternoon, followed by a wine tasting or a special dinner in the evening.
New Year’s Eve in Tuscany
Tuscany is also an ideal destination for saying goodbye to the old year and welcoming the new one.
Florence and the region’s main cities traditionally organise events, shows and celebrations for New Year’s Eve, while villas, farmhouses, restaurants and hotels offer special dinners and festive packages.
For those looking for a more intimate experience, New Year’s Eve can be the perfect opportunity to stay in a historic residence or a traditional Tuscan farmhouse, enjoying local wines, regional cuisine and the unique charm of the Tuscan countryside in winter.
Experience the Festive Season in Tuscany with Accord Italy
With Accord Italy Smart Tours & Experiences, the Christmas season can become a journey into the most authentic side of Tuscany.
Guided tours of the region’s art cities, excursions, food and wine experiences and tailor-made itineraries can all be combined with Christmas markets and seasonal events.
Florence, Arezzo and the villages of Tuscany are waiting to welcome you for a Christmas filled with art, flavours and traditions — and to celebrate the beginning of the New Year in one of the most beautiful regions of Italy.
