Florence Christmas Markets 2024

Florence Christmas Markets 2024

Buon Natale! Welcome to the heart of Tuscany, where the magic of Christmas comes alive in the charming city of Florence.

• Are you visiting Florence for Christmas? Stay at the “Superb” rates Hotel Pendini, Situated in the heart of Florence, providing a classic Italian experience. It’s close to the LGBTQ+ scene and a short stroll from the bustling markets.

The Markets

• Next Edition: From November 20th – January 9th, 2025.
• The Christmas markets of Florence are a festive extravaganza, offering a delightful blend of holiday cheer, artisanal crafts, and mouthwatering treats.
• Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or a first-time explorer, the markets are a feast for the senses, capturing the spirit of the season in this Renaissance city.
• From sipping mulled wine to browsing handcrafted treasures or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, each market promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
• The markets vary in size, but each one offers a unique experience. Piazza Santa Croce and Piazza del Carmine markets are larger, while Fierucola di Natale has a more intimate feel.
• December 8th – Lighting of The Christmas Tre at Piazza Duomo.

Getting Around the Markets

• Florence is a pedestrian-friendly city, so walking is often the best way to navigate the markets.
• If you’re coming from the city centre, most markets are within a 15 to 20-minute walk.
• Upgrade your Florence Christmas Experience at Portrait Firenze, a Travel Proud certified hotel, rated “Exceptional”. Nestled near Ponte Vecchio, this luxury hotel offers unparalleled views of the city and a sophisticated retreat after a day of festive exploration.

Weihnachtsmarkt Piazza Santa Croce Christmas Market:

• Next Edition: November 20th to December 18th –  10 am – 10 pm (11 pm on weekends)
• Weihnachtsmarkt is nestled in the shadow of the magnificent Santa Croce Basilica at Piazza Santa Croce featuring charming German-style wooden houses.
• Weihnachtsmarkt is a cultural fusion featuring traditional German crafts, mouthwatering treats, and, of course, the irresistible aroma of mulled wine.
• Grab some tasty treats, from local jams to savoury sauces, and enjoy the irresistible combo of warm pretzels, wurstel, and mulled wine paired with a heavenly slice of strudel.
• Stay close to the market at the Plaza Hotel Lucchesi, a Travel Proud certified hotel, rated “Fabulous” by guests with stunning views, superb location and highly-rated breakfasts.

Fierucola dell’Immacolata

• December 7th & 8th, 2024, 9 am – 7 pm. For a break from the usual festive fare, make your way to Piazza della Santissima Annunziata for the Fierucola dell’Immacolata market in Florence’s historic centre.
• Explore a treasure trove of stands showcasing organic goodies and handmade crafts, sparking creativity for one-of-a-kind gift options.
• An opportunity for meeting and sharing between people who share the same values, such as sustainability, respect for the environment and for craftsmanship.

Fierucola di Natale

• Sunday 15th December, 2024, 9 am-7 pm – Set against the backdrop of the Santo Spirito Basilica, this market on Piazza Ognissanti exudes a bohemian charm.
• Local artisans showcase their handmade creations, from unique jewellery to organic products.
• You won’t want to miss this one-day event, especially for you last-minute shoppers.

Green Line Festival

• December 8th 2024 – January 9th 2025 – Experience projections of artistic lights on city buildings and monuments during the Green Line Festival. Besides the historic city centre, the festival extends to all five Florentine districts, illuminating various squares and landmarks throughout the city, including the Ponte Vecchio.

Mercatino di Natale Nordico

• December 2, 2024 – December 3, 2024 – Held at the Sala dei Marmi del Parterre, this is the first Nordic Christmas market in Florence.
• Organized by the Italo-Finnish cultural association Firenzen Suomi-Seura, it features Nordic Christmas decorations, vintage Scandinavian design items, and typical Scandinavian treats.

Florence Winter Park

• Late November 2024 – February 2025 (Weekends) – Located at Tuscany Hall on Lungarno Aldo Moro, Florence Winter Park offers ice skating, snow tubing, and alpine skiing. All necessary equipment is available for rent on-site.

Florence Ice Village

• December 2024 – January 6, 2025 – Set up around the fountain in the gardens of Fortezza da Basso, The Florence Ice Village features the longest ice rink in Europe (300 meters), Santa Claus’s house, and food stalls. The rink operates daily from 10:00 to 12:00.

Gay Florence

• Florence is a welcoming city, and the Christmas markets are no exception. Embrace the festive spirit, and feel free to express your individuality.
• While there isn’t a designated “gay district,” you’ll find queer-friendly establishments scattered throughout the city.
• Check out the top hotels closest to the gay bars along Santa Croce.

Popular Gay Bars

• Piccolo Café: Step into a modern, straight-friendly gay bar near Piazza Santa Croce, open and buzzing Tuesday 20:00 – 02:00 and Wednesday-Saturday 17:00 – 02:00, with a diverse crowd making Thursday to Saturday the prime time for a good time.
• Queer: Quench your thirst for fun with drinks and cocktails at Queer, open Monday-Saturday 20:00 – 02:00 and Sunday, 21:00 – 02:00, in the heart of Florence at Borgo Allegri 9/r, promising an exciting evening in the city centre.

Clubs and Parties

• The Shade: – (Pop up party – check Facebook for dates) Join the glitterati at The Shade for a queer extravaganza featuring talks, a drag cabaret show kicking off around 22:00, and a disco party heating up around midnight. Entrance is a steal at 10-18 €, promising an unforgettable night at Limonaia di Villa Strozzi, Via Pisana 77, Florence 50143.
• Icon: Party your heart out at Icon’s weekly pop and commercial shindig every Saturday from 24:00, September–May, 1-2 times a month. Head to Club 21, Via dei Cimatori 13/r, Florence 50122, close to Piazza della Signoria, for a vibrant LGBT+ celebration. Admission, including a drink, ranges from 15-20 €, ensuring a night of music and dancing.
• Fabrik: – Unleash your wild side at Fabrik, a gay cruising and dance club open Wednesday-Friday 22:00 – 03:00, Saturday 22:00/23:00 – 04:00, and Sunday 16:00/21:00 – 01:00. Located about 15 km outside Florence in Calenzano, this club attracts partygoers from Florence to Pisa due to its convenient parking and, well, the promise of a fantastic night. Check the website for events and dress codes, with special Saturday parties like Big Jim and Bear Troops. Find your way to Via del Lavoro 19 (in Calenzano), Florence 50041 Calenzano, and hop off the train at Calenzano station for a night of cruising and dancing.

Recommended Hotels in Florence

Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the gay bars and Attractions

Hotel Bernini Palace,    Hotel Spadai,    Grand Hotel Cavour,  Hotel Balestri