When you think about Christmas Markets you probably think of cold places like London, Edinburgh, or Berlin.
But just because these countries are what spring to mind, doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other options for gorgeous festive markets where the weather is slightly more palatable.
One of the top countries for a Christmas getaway is none other than Rome – teeming tourist metropolis during the summer period, but markedly quieter in the off season.
This capital city has no fewer than 25 Christmas markets, and December temperatures hover around 13C – not quite summer but certainly warmer than the UK.
One of these 25 markets is the hugely popular market at Piazza Navona each year, running from December 9 until January 6 2025.
It’s called the Mercatino della Befana or Festa della Befana (the festival of ‘Befan’, a witch-like folklore character), and is a huge event in Rome.
There you can buy toys, sweets, books, leather goods, Christmas decorations, ceramics, and other gifts, be it for stockings or to put under the tree.
If you’d rather be inside than out experiencing the elements then you’re in luck. Rome’s largest indoor market is a Christmas one too, selling a range of gifts at Piazza Ragusa.
The exact dates of this market are yet to be confirmed, but usually it takes place from mid-December.
For fans of the finer things, there’s the artisanal market in the Museo della Cucina, with its dates still to be confirmed – although like the indoor market, it is likely to be in mid-December.
It’s the perfect place to get your hands on tailored clothes and bags as well as ceramics, candles and books. There’s also all sorts of antique goodies like radios, gramophones, artwork and more.
There’s also the Green Market Festival at Città dell’Altra Economia, which offers a range of crafts, books, and natural products.
If you fancy a trip to Rome for a Christmas with a difference, Skyscanner is currently showing flights from just £50 from London in mid-December or from Manchester for £83.