Friends looking for Christmas magic, you’ve come to the right place! Today we will take you on a discovery of 10 charming locations near Milan, perfect for immersing yourself in the holiday atmosphere.
Whether you are looking for little markets, twinkling lights or just a unique experience, these places will captivate you.
Ready to embark on an unforgettable Christmas trip to Lombardy? Buckle up, it’s on!
Bergamo
Just 50 km from Milan, Bergamo is transformed into a veritable living nativity scene during the Christmas season. The Upper City, with its UNESCO World Heritage Venetian walls, offers a breathtaking setting for your winter walks. Don’t miss the Christmas market in Piazza Vecchia and the ice skating rink in Piazzale degli Alpini. In Matteotti Square, you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel until January 12, while an Enchanted Forest and the Horse Joust await you in Vittorio Veneto Square.
For culture lovers, the Bergamo Museum of Stories organizes Christmas-themed guided tours.
Como
Como, less than an hour from Milan, becomes a real spectacle during the holidays. The “Como Magic Light Festival” illuminates the town with breathtaking light installations, turning the lakefront into an enchanted promenade. Don’t forget to ride the Ferris wheel for spectacular views of the lake and snow-capped mountains.
And for those with a sweet tooth, the Christmas markets in Piazza Cavour offer mouth-watering local delicacies!
Pavia
Pavia, the ancient capital of the Lombard kingdom, dresses up for Christmas. Just 30 minutes from Milan, this city will surprise you with its medieval charm. Stroll through the illuminated historic center and visit the Castello Visconteo, home to an atmospheric Christmas village. Don’t miss the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, where you can admire a unique artistic nativity scene.
And many local events await you in the province! Here you can check out numerous events in different locations, with dates ranging from November 2024 to January 2025, with a variety of Christmas experiences including craft markets, local food and wine, performances and children’s activities.
Lecco
Lecco, the city of Alessandro Manzoni, offers a Christmas with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. About an hour from Milan, here you can enjoy the “Christmas Village” in Piazza Garibaldi, with its XXL skating rink (a whopping 800 square meters!) and wooden cottages selling typical products. From November 23, the “Lights on Lecco” initiative returns, which will illuminate the city, creating a warm Christmas atmosphere.
In various locations it will be possible to stroll through Christmas markets with local crafts, roasted chestnuts, hobbies and children’s workshops. For adventure lovers, don’t miss the opportunity to take a cable car ride to the Piani d’Erna, where a picture-postcard snowy panorama awaits.
Cremona
Cremona, only an hour and a half from Milan, welcomes you with its “Christmas Market 2024 – The streets of taste of beauty and play” on December 1 in Stradivari Square. You will find handcrafted cribs, handmade wreaths, unique Christmas decorations and creative trees. The market offers typical products, handmade gifts and Christmas decorations. Don’t miss the side events with street performers, Christmas and country music, and charity initiatives.
And on December 7 and 8, in the charming Galleria XXV Aprile, you will find Vanitas’ Market – Christmas Edition, a market that promises to bring the magical atmosphere of Christmas to Cremona’s historic center.
Mantua
Mantua, a Renaissance jewel two hours from Milan, offers a Christmas of art and culture. From November 9 to December 26, Piazza Virgiliana comes alive with magical Christmas markets, where you can stroll among wooden chalets and skate on the large ice rink. On Nov. 29, don’t miss the big luminaries inauguration party with shows and open stores.
The “Mantua Village” will come alive throughout December with themed sets, markets, shows and Santa’s house.
Varese
Just 50 minutes from Milan, Varese welcomes you with its Sacro Monte, a UNESCO heritage site, which during the Christmas season lights up creating a magical atmosphere. In the city center, the Estensi Gardens are transformed into a Christmas village with an ice skating rink and markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a ride on the Christmas train that will take you to discover the beauty of the city.
Also visit all the Christmas markets in the province of Varese.
Monza
Monza, just a stone’s throw from Milan, will amaze you with its regal Christmas. The Villa Reale and its gardens dress up for the holidays, hosting Christmas markets and events. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Duomo, where the Iron Crown is kept, and stroll through the illuminated historic center. For the little ones, the “Santa Claus Village” in Monza Park is an experience not to be missed.
And for sportsmen, the appointment is on December 15 for the Monza Christmas Run.
Vigevano
Vigevano, the “ideal city” of the Renaissance, is just over an hour from Milan and offers a very special Christmas. The beautiful Piazza Ducale is transformed into a Christmas village, with markets and a skating rink. Take the opportunity to visit the illuminated Castello Sforzesco and climb the Bramante Tower for a panoramic view of the decorated city.
Sirmione
We conclude our Christmas tour in Sirmione, pearl of Lake Garda about two hours from Milan. Here you can enjoy a relaxing Christmas at the spa, stroll through the festively decorated streets of the historic center and visit the illuminated Scaliger Castle. The city will be festively lit and at the Bastion of Riva del Garda you will find The Grinch’s House, a unique Christmas attraction that allows visitors to explore the winter home of the famous green character. Open daily from December 20 to January 6, 2025.
Don’t miss the boat ride on the lake to admire the Christmas lights reflected on the water.
A magical Christmas just a stone’s throw from milan
You have just discovered 10 wonderful places to visit at Christmas near Milan. Whether you are looking for history, culture, nature or just a festive atmosphere, Lombardy really has a lot to offer. These villages and towns are perfect for a day trip or a Christmas weekend getaway. Always remember to check opening hours and scheduled events, especially during the holiday season.
And don’t forget to sample local specialties: from Milanese panettone to Cremona nougat, via casoncelli from Bergamo and risotto alla monzese.
So which of these Christmas places near Milan has won you over the most? Get your scarves and gloves ready, and set out to discover the magic of Christmas in Lombardy.
Have a safe journey and happy holidays!