The markets are small Christmas villages where you can find wooden toys and all kinds of sweets characteristic of this holiday season. They are often quiet suitable even for families with young children and the elderly, ideal for spending a family day surrounded by hot chocolate and classic Christmas music. There is one market, however, where even the most reckless and festive can have a fun-filled day… And it is located less than 2h from Milan!
What to do at the craziest Christmas market of all?
An unusual market designed to keep people entertained and talking about themselves all Christmas long. Sure, there’s no shortage of classic little wooden houses where you can buy a few gifts and a large ice skating rink in the center of the square, but there’s so much more! Definitely, the most unusual activity to be found at a market : a zipper line that takes the brave ones from one side of the square to the other, passing over the various mulled wine stands.
In addition to the zipper line, you can play a winter version of mini golf, where the holes are frozen and getting the ball in on the first shot becomes even more difficult (but certainly exhilarating). For the more outgoing, there is also a dedicated karaoke area, set up in a real gondola decorated with lights and equipped with microphones. Finally, for those who want a slightly more private, chic and unusual dinner, here you can dine on a twentieth-century train, used as an elegant restaurant, with wine glasses and soft lighting.
Other winter activities near the market
For those who want to take advantage of these markets to have a weekend getaway, here are a couple of winter activities to do in or near town:
❄️Una day at Termali Salini & Spa, where you can relax in the heated pools and indulge in a few hours of peace
🛷A ride on the cable car that will take you up to Madonna del Sasso, with spectacular views of the lake
🕯️Un candlelight Christmas concert, ideal for ending a romantic evening or a Christmas weekend
Where is it located and how to get there from Milan?
The Christmas market is located in Locarno, Switzerland. The market can be reached in less than 2 hours by car from Milan, or alternatively, you can take one of the many trains that leave from Milano Centrale about every hour. Even by train, it will take you less than two hours to reach Locarno.