We all have a favorite holiday tradition. Be it heartfelt, fun, or even a little weird, it is a large part of what keeps us eagerly awaiting the festive season (along with the food, of course).
Every country has its own customs, but if there’s one that really knows how to bring in this time of the year, it’s Italy. This is when its gleaming Renaissance façades find new inspiration. When its most elegant places become immersed in soul-stirring cultural celebration. And, if it’s even possible, when it serves up more delicious culinary treats than ever.
For our Italy by Travelive team, this season represents something truly special. So, let’s join them in celebrating it by finding out which Italian holiday traditions are their favorite.
Deborah – Regional Director
While originally from New York, Italy forever holds a place in Deborah’s heart; and these two festive treats may play a bit part in that. From the effervescent tang of Prosecco to the rich and scrumptious texture of Italy’s famous panettone, this is the perfect way to add some fizz to the season. And you can take Deborah’s word for it.
Prosecco & Panettone
“Everyone knows exactly what to get me for the holidays. There’s just something about the bubbly crispiness of Prosecco that makes everything feel brighter. And ‘panettone,’ with its soft buttery crumb and specks of citrus and raisins, is the one treat that instantly says ‘it’s holidays season’ in Italy. Together, they’re a perfect representation of Italy’s festive spirit. It really doesn’t get jollier than this.”
Oriana – Senior Travel Planner
Oriana knows Italy like the back of her hand; something that comes in very handy (pun not intended) when putting together top-notch cross-country adventures. However, when the festive lights go up, there’s no place she’d rather be than back home in Naples. And here’s why.
The History of the Neapolitan Nativity Scene
“San Gregorio Armeno brings the holiday spirit year-round. But during the festive season, it’s a whole other story. Lined with Nativity scenes and alive with magic, walking through this street leads you into the heart of Italy’s often uncanny traditions. When you see Holy Family figures sit alongside footballers, politicians, even TV stars, you truly feel the heart of Neapolitan culture: a perfect blend of art, humor, and tradition that never fails to make me smile.”
The Game of Tombola
“Tombola (Italian version of Bingo) is pure Christmas joy. Families gather around the table for hours, calling numbers from the ‘Smorfia,’ each carrying its own meaning or story. Laughter, teasing, and playful superstition fill the room. And, of course, it’s never complete without sweet treats like struffoli and roccocò.
George Koumarianos – Senior Operations Manager
Italy always carries a bit of sparkle. But if you really want to see it ignite, then Venice during the holidays is the place to be; as George will eagerly point out.
Venice in Lights: A Festive City on Water
“For me, Italy’s holiday season is synonymous with Venice. That’s when the city and Mestre glow with miles of lights and projections that reflect off canals and stone façades, turning even the quietest calli into something magical. Not to mention the spectacle that is the New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Bacino di San Marco.”
“And then you have the Christmas markets at Campo Santo Stefano or San Polo, where the ice rink adds a playful buzz. Or Murano, where glassmakers celebrate the season in true Venetian style with Natale di Vetro. However, one of my favorite moments is the Santa Water Parade on the Grand Canal. Seeing Santas rowing past historic palazzi, cheered on from the banks, is truly something else.”
Federica – Travel Planner
Think Lake Como can’t get any more enchanting? Think again. Even one of Italy’s most romantic and elegant regions can resist the festive season’s spell. And who better to guide us through its winter magic than Federica? After all, that’s where she’s from!
Holidays on Lake Como
“There’s no place I’d rather be during the holidays than back home, spending time with the people I love. That’s when the smaller villages like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio grow quieter, while the towns of Como and Lecco come alive with glowing lights, creative themes, and a unique festive spirit.
“The Christmas markets too are unmissable. Wooden stalls filled with delicious treats and handmade gifts; a cup of hot chocolate or vin brulé (warm spiced wine) in your hands; pure magic. There’s also ice-skating (no, not on the lake), making everything even more like a winter wonderland.”
Alexandra – Travel Planner
For Alexandra, it’s Rome for the holidays. We’re talking about the Christmas market at Piazza Navona. Spanish Steps decorated by the biggest designer luxury brands. A fun theme park for the younger ones at Villa Borghese. And, of course, delicious panettone (Deborah’s favorite) in some of Italy’s most renowned pasticcerie. But it’s the Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica that holds a particularly special place in her heart.
Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica
“Attending the Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica feels like stepping into the very heart of the season. The hush of the crowd, the swell of the choir, the breathtaking beauty of the Basilica creates an atmosphere unlike any other. You really feel a deep sense of connection looking at the candlelit faces, and the experience becomes even more meaningful when shared with someone dear. Last year, I had the privilege of taking my mother to the Mass, a moment I now hold among the most treasured memories of my life. This festive season, I can only wish that our readers and Travelive clients may experience a similarly unforgettable celebration, filled with joy and togetherness!”
Practical Information for the Midnight Mass at the Vatican:
- Midnight Mass at the Vatican is celebrated by the Pope in St. Peter’s Basilica every Christmas Eve.
- Entry is free, but tickets are required and must be requested well in advance.
- Seating inside the Basilica is limited, so many visitors choose to watch from St. Peter’s Square, where the liturgy is broadcast on large screens.
- Plan to arrive early for security checks and to secure a good viewing spot.
- Expect a moving and unforgettable Christmas Eve experience unlike any other.
Sara Lollo – Travel Planner
A great holiday tradition is like a time machine. It can take you back to the most joyous and significant moments of your life; those which create core memories that last a lifetime. And Sara’s turns back the clocks in the most delicious way possible.
The Epiphany Puff-Pastry Camel of Varese
“One of my favorite holiday traditions has to be the Epiphany puff-pastry camel from my hometown, Varese. Sold in local pastry shops every January 6, this sweet, buttery, and instantly recognizable treat is a must-have on Epiphany morning!”
“The tradition goes back nearly a century, most commonly linked to the Three Wise Men and the Magi’s journey to Bethlehem. As a child, picking up a warm camel from our favorite bakery brought a magical end to the holiday season. Outside Varese, few people have ever heard of this pastry, which makes it even more special to those who grew up with it.”
Dora – Reservations Manager
Tuscany is quintessential Italy. Rolling hills, golden vineyards, rustic allure; it has it all. But that doesn’t stop it from getting quintessential festive during the holidays; which see its authentic charm reveal new, soulful dimensions. And this is what Dora loves about them the most.
The Living Nativity: Tuscany’s Christmas Soul
“One of the traditions that moves me most during the holidays in Tuscany is the Presepe Vivente, the Living Nativity Scene. In small historic villages like Greccio or San Piero a Grado, entire communities come together to recreate the Nativity with candlelit streets, artisan workshops, and locals dressed in period costumes.”
“What makes it special is how real it feels. This isn’t a performance, but a shared moment of heritage and faith, where even visitors are welcomed as part of the village. Walking through these scenes, surrounded by history, warmth, and quiet devotion, truly captures the soul of a Tuscan Christmas.”
Tatiana Deligiannidi – Customer Support Assistant
Tatiana may not hail from Italy, but her passion for it is unrivaled. Having spent a significant amount of time there during her studies, she developed a true fondness for its culture. And it all comes flooding back during the holiday season; or whenever someone brings up Krampus (you’ll see in a minute). Even when home in Greece, Italy continues to fill her memories with some of its most festive moments. And here are some of them.
Epiphany in Venice
“One of my favorite holiday traditions comes from my years of watching Venice celebrate Epiphany on January 6. On the night of January 5, La Befana, a kind old witch, leaves sweets in stockings for the good children and a little coal for the naughty ones.”
“Venice celebrates this with the Regata delle Befane: dozens of ‘befane,’ dressed as old women, row along the Grand Canal toward the Rialto Bridge, finishing at a giant festive stocking. What stayed with me most is the warmth of the people; families cooking, laughing, and somehow always making room for a visitor. Those evenings still make my heart feel at home.”
Winter Traditions in South Tyrol
“South Tyrol is a pure winter wonderland. Nestled in the Dolomites, this region blends Austrian and Italian traditions in the food, the people, and the atmosphere. Christmas markets in Bolzano, Merano, Bressanone, and Vipiteno glow with lights, music, crafts, and the aromas of strudel, pretzels, and mulled wine.”
“And then there’s Krampus! Saint Nicholas brings gifts, but Krampus comes for the naughty. During the parades, thousands of people dressed as fearsome demons race through the streets. It’s thrilling, unforgettable, and full of Alpine folklore. South Tyrol has a way of staying in your heart.”
