Event Dates
From: Monday, November 18, 2024
To: Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Milan Christmas Markets 2024
Milan hosts some of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets and a diverse culinary scene.
Milan Christmas Markets 2024
Famous for its glorious Duomo, impeccable sense of fashion and world-class shopping, Milan hosts some of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets and a diverse culinary scene. Events typically begin in late November – awaiting dates for individual markets.
- Are you visiting Milan for Christmas? Stay close to the markets at the Room Mate Giulia, steps from the Piazza del Duomo and rated “Superb” by guests. The hotel features stylish rooms, a modern gym and delicious breakfasts.
The Markets
- Monday 18th November 2024 – Tuesday 7th January, 2025 (Note the main market opens on the 29th November)
- Discover ten markets across Milan, each offering a unique experience and style.
- Milan’s markets offer visitors a big city vibe with great shopping and incredible food and specialities.
- Enjoy world-famous Panettone (a sweet bread-like cake), Saffron Risotto and Barbajada, a hot drink with coffee and chocolate and topped with whipped cream.
- Milan’s illumination of the Christmas Tree takes place on 6th December 2024 to celebrate the feast of Milan’s patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio.
- Here are the most popular markets.
Mercatino di Natale in Piazza Duomo (Piazza Duomo Christmas Market)
- Friday 29th November 2024 – Monday 6th Jaunary, 2025 – Milan’s most picturesque Market is in front of the city’s stunning landmark, The Duomo.
- Visitors can browse from over 50 wooden chalets selling handmade gifts and treats. Open from 9 am to 9 pm.
- The Market is spread out along Corso Vittorio Emmanuele II and around the Duomo and is one of the most extravagant in Europe.
- After shopping, visit the Duomo,admire its splendid hallowed interior, and ascend to the roof terraces to take in breathtaking views over the city.
- Stay close to the Market at the ODSweet Duomo Milano Hotel, rated “Wonderful” by guests with the perfect location, overlooking The Duomo Square.
- The Market is a 9-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the gay bars along Porta Venezia.
Fiera degli Oh Bej! Oh Bej!
- Saturday 7th December 2024 – Monday 9th December, 2025 – The ‘Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Fair‘ held at Sforza Castle is locals’ most popular Milanese Christmas market.
- The fun name translates loosely to ‘Oh so lovely! Oh, so nice! Fair’ and features several stalls selling handicraft items and delicious foodie treats.
- Oh Bej! Oh Bej! is also known as the Fiera di Sant’Ambrogio in honour of Milan’s patron saint, Saint Ambrose and is located in one of the city’s most beautiful locations.
- The Market starts on the day of Saint Ambrose, December 7th, with the official lighting of the Christmas tree and lasts until the following Sunday each year.
- Sforza Castle is a 10-minute walk from the Market at the Duomo.
Villaggio delle Meraviglie (Village of Wonders)
- Monday 18th November 2024 – Tuesday 7th January, 2025 – The Village of Wonders is held at Giardini Pubblici di Indro Montanelli (Indro Montanelli Public Gardens) in Porta Venezia, close to the city’s busy gay bars.
- Village of Wonders is famous for its skating rink, food and festive program of shows.
- The festival is open right through to New Year and to the holidays of the Epiphany (January 6th).
Fiera dell’Artigianato Milano (Milan Artisans Fair)
- Early December (typically 10 days or so) – Milan Artisans Fair is a must-visit Christmas Market in Milan for those who love to shop.
- This indoor Market at Fieramilano Rho-Pero is spread across 150,000 square meters with over 3000 exhibitors.
- Milan Artisans Fair is a 30-minute drive from The Duomo.
Piazza Portello Magic Christmas
- Early December (typically 10 days or so) – Piazza Portello is a cosy Christmas experience offering a German-style Christmas experience.
- The Market is one of the most romantic in Milan, with stalls selling high-end handmade gifts and traditional German and North Italian dishes.
- Piazza Portello is a 25-minute drive from the Market at The Duomo.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Piazza Cordusio
- Known as Milan’s “Grand Drawing Room”, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is home to the famous Swarovski Christmas Tree, decorated with hundreds of Swarovski crystals shimmering under the illuminated vault ceiling.
- Linger a while to admire the luxury brand boutiques, the iconic shops and bookstores, restaurants, pasticcerie and bars that have defined a certain Milanese taste that has always kept in step with the times.
Navigli
- Piazza XXIV Maggio is home to one of Mian’s most beautiful Christmas trees, surrounded by a small winter village with non-stop events and entertainment each evening.
- Take a stroll along the Darsena, Milano’s ancient port, with its covered market, and explore the banks of the Naviglio Grande, illuminated by rows of twinkling lights.
- Navigli is famous for its canals. Take the perfect Instagram pic from one the bridges that cross the canal, complete with Christmas lights reflecting on the water.
A Gay Christmas in Milan
Unsurprisingly, the most festive of markets is located just steps from the city’s gay bars in Porta Venezia. Enjoy some festive fun at the following bars.
- Leccomilano – un Buco di bar is one of the city’s top gay attractions. Its creative cocktails with allusive names are made from biological products by expert bartenders. The bar is a hot spot, especially at weekends when it hosts several theme parties with guest DJs.
- Mono Bar – Retro gay cocktail bar with an international allure as visitors chill on vintage furniture, enjoy excellent cocktails and listen to curated music by local DJs.
- NoLoSo – Located in Northern Loreto, NoLoSo is a colourful gay bar featuring a nightly aperitivo buffet, Sunday brunch & weekend DJs.
- Club Plastic – Iconic gay disco since the 80s known for its posh vibe and alternative artists and stars.
- Bar Basso – The hottest bar in town for everyone. Neither new nor trendy, its pink interior, mirrored walls and chandeliers remain unchanged for decades. Famous for its Negroni Sbagliato, a twist on the classic. In place of gin, though, the Sbagliato version uses sparkling wine.
Where to stay?
Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action
Recommended Hotels
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
Where we stay!
The Senato Hotel Milano It is our
preferred hotel close to the gay bars
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Milan Christmas Markets The Website
Gay Map of Milan
Milan is one of the cities that displays the widest variety of LGBT friendly clubs in Italy. Most of the busiest gay bars and clubs are mostly are in the Porta Venezia District. This central area is close to the gay venues on Via Sammartini and Corso Buenos Aires, Milan’s most important shopping area. Transport links at the Central Station make it easy to get around the city.
Corso Concordia 1, 20129 Milano, Italy
This 5-star boutique hotel is located in Milan's historic centre, an 8-minute walk from Piazza San Babila and the fashion area of Via Montenapoleone. Each room offers elegant parquet floors, an LCD TV, and free Wi-Fi.
Château Monfort is set in a historic building. The rooms are themed after different fairy tales and nursery rhymes. The mix of antique details and modern facilities makes for a unique, glamorous chic style.
Corso Buenos Aires 3, 20124 Milano, Italy
Located on , Worldhotel Cristoforo Colombo is just 20 m from Porta Venezia Metro Station, on Milan's red line. It features a spa, and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.
The hotel is set in a historic building from the late 19th century. The classically furnished rooms feature parquet floors, a work desk with smart TV and internet access. A bathrobe and slippers are at guests' disposal.
Via Lazzaretto 5, 20124 Milano, Italy
NH Milano Machiavelli is a 5-minute walk from Porta Venezia and Repubblica and shopping street. It offers , free Wi-Fi throughout and a varied .
Rooms at the Machiavelli have a contemporary interior design with elegant wooden floors and light colour schemes. Each room comes with a satellite TV with pay-per-view channels, safety-deposit-box and minibar. The bathrooms are complete with free toiletries and hairdryers.
Via Santo Spirito 20, 20121 Milano, Italy
The 4-star Hotel Manzoni is located in the fashionable area of Via Montenapoleone, is a 15-minute walk from the the Sforzesco Castle. It offers a well-equipped fitness area, plus elegant rooms with free WiFi.
All decorated with refined wood floors, rooms at Manzoni Hotel feature an LCD TV, along with a minibar and an elegant private bathroom.
Via Vittor Pisani, 13, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
Featuring a spa bath, Beautiful & Relaxing flat includes 2 bedrooms, a living room and a TV, an equipped kitchen with a dining area, and 2 bathrooms with a bidet and Free toiletries. Free WiFi
Via Melzo, 12, 20129 Milano MI, Italy
Located in Milan in the Lombardy region All units are equipped with air conditioning, and some have a flat-screen TV, washing machine, a kettle, completed with a kitchen. Air conditioning and Free WiFi
Galleria Buenos Aires, 11, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
Splendid house is situated in the Stazione Centrale district of Milan, the air-conditioned apartment is composed of 2 separate bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom. A flat-screen TV is offered.
Viale Regina Giovanna, 12, 20129 Milano MI, Italy
The apartment features 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bidet. Air conditioning, a balcony, and city views. Free WiFi
Via Benadir 14, Milan 20132
● A vibrant cruising bar catering to bears, cubs, and chubby guys.
● Features two bars, a dance floor, and a cozy cruising area.
Thursday 21:30 – 03:00; Friday, Saturday 21:30 – 05:00; Sunday 18:00 – 02:00
Via Lecco 5, Milan 20031
● A small, friendly bar for the LGBTQ+ community near Mono bar.
● Hosts DJ nights on weekends for a lively atmosphere.
Monday-Saturday 18:00 – 02:00
Via Alessandro Tadino 6, Milan 20124
● A welcoming cocktail bar with a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
● Perfect spot for casual drinks and socializing.
Tuesday-Thursday 18:00 – 02:00; Friday, Saturday 18:00 – 03:00;
Sunday 17:00 – 01:00
Via Lecco 6, Milan 20124
● An LGBTQ-friendly bar with a retro vibe and artistic flair.
● Offers a delightful Aperitivo with drinks and light snacks.
Tuesday-Sunday 17:00 – 01:00/02:00; Closed from August 5 to September 2
Via Luigi Varanini 5, Milan 20127
● A cozy cafe-bar located in the NoLo neighborhood.
● Offers a variety of drinks, cocktails, and exhibitions.
Daily 18:00 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday till 02:00
Via Lecco/Via Panfilo Castaldi, Milan 20032
● A trendy cocktail bar with a mixed clientele and lively atmosphere.
● Great for socializing and enjoying quality drinks.
Daily 17:00 – 02:00
Via Panfilo Castaldi 31, Milan 20124
● An inviting cocktail bar with a charming street terrace.
● Located in the bustling Porta Venezia quarter.
Daily 18:00 – 02:00
Via Giovanni Battista Sammartini 25, Milan 20125
● A popular gay bar situated close to the central station.
● Known for its lively atmosphere and gogo shows on weekends.
Daily from 21:30
Via Calabria 5, Milan 20158
● A modern cruising club with a vibrant, open atmosphere.
● Features themed nights with dress codes; check their website for details.
● Popular on Friday and Saturday nights, attracting a mixed-age crowd.
Tuesday 22:00 – 02:00; Thursday 22:00 – 02:00; Friday 22:00 – 02:00;
Saturday 22:00 – 03:00 (Closed from 11 August – 9 September)
Via dei Valtorta 19, Milan 20127
● Known for its fetish scene, featuring a bar and an intriguing cruising labyrinth.
● Keep an eye on their website for special theme nights and dress codes.
● Note: ARCO/Anddos cards are not accepted; an additional membership card is required.
Tuesday-Thursday 22:00 – 03:00; Friday 22:00 – 04:00; Saturday 22:00 – 05:00; Sunday 15:00 – 21:00
Via Oropa 3, Milan 20132
● A lively cruising club located in the northeast of Milan, sharing a building with Fenix Sauna.
● Admission fee includes one drink, with prices ranging from €12 to €18.
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 21:00 – 04:00
Via Napo Torriani 12, Milan 20124
● A round-the-clock cruising club near the central railway station.
● Features a bar, a cruising labyrinth in the basement, and a dress code area upstairs.
● Always remember to bring your ID along with the membership card.
Daily 24h nonstop
Via Arcangelo Corelli, 62, 20134 Milano MI, Italy
● A vibrant Sunday evening gathering for the LGBTQ+ community and friends.
● Enjoy a lively atmosphere with aperitivo, karaoke, DJs, and a dancefloor.
Sunday 19:00 – 02:00
Via Pietrasanta 16, Milan 20141
● Experience Italian and international pop music alongside spectacular drag shows.
● Mixed clientele creates a welcoming vibe.
Friday 24:00 – 04:00 (mid-September – mid-June)
Via Felice Cavallotti 204, Milan 20099 Sesto San Giovanni MI
● A classic gay discotheque in Sesto San Giovanni since 1980.
● Friendly, lively atmosphere with a fun mix of mainly middle-aged guys.
Saturday 23:00 – 05:00
Via Padova 21, Milan 20127
● An electrifying lesbian and gay party featuring international and Italian pop and dance music.
● Admission includes one drink for a fun night out.
Saturday 24:00 – 05:00 (mid-September – early August)
Website
Via Alfonso Gatto, 20134 Milano MI, Italy
Cool gay club! Big space with 2 floors, drag queen shows, nice facilities and good drink prices
Recommended Hotels in Milan By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Milan that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Château Monfort
5 Star, Luxury
- 5-star, fairy tale-themed rooms, historic center.
- A short walk to the gay bars.
- Elegant parquet floors, LCD TV.
- Enchanting luxury with a unique fairy tale theme, close to Milan’s fashion district.
Hotel Manzoni
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4-star, in fashionable Via Montenapoleone area.
- A short walk to the gay bars.
- Refined wood floors, LCD TV.
- Sophisticated elegance in Milan’s shopping heart, ideal for a stylish and comfortable stay.
Worldhotel Cristoforo
4 Star, Great Value
- 4-star, on Corso Buenos Aires, spa.
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars.
- Air-conditioned, free WiFi, parquet floors.
- Historic charm with modern comforts, conveniently located for shopping and sightseeing.
NH Milano Machiavelli
4 Star, Location
- 4-star, bright red accents, modern rooms.
- A short walk to the gay bars.
- Flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access.
- Contemporary and vibrant, perfectly situated for exploring Milan’s rich cultural landscape.
Video Milan Christmas Markets
Take a tour through the best of Milan’s Christmas Markets
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Milan
Milan, as a global fashion and cultural hub, is known for its open-mindedness and acceptance. While specific LGBTQ+ spaces and events exist, the city’s inclusive attitude means that LGBTQ+ individuals and couples can generally explore and enjoy various areas without feeling out of place.
Porta Venezia | The Guy Hub of Milan
Photo: Porta Venezia is home to some of Milan’s most popular gay bars
- This neighborhood has historically been one of the LGBTQ+ centers in Milan.
- Via Lecco and the surrounding streets have many LGBTQ+-friendly bars, clubs, and restaurants.
- The area is known for its inclusive atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.
- Discover the best things to see and do in Milan
Navigli
Famous for its picturesque canals & a lively nightlife scene. It hosts various gay-friendly venues, bars, & events.
Brera
Brera is known for its artsy and bohemian vibe. You’ll find unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops here.
Isola
A trendy neighborhood known for its artistic street art & alternative vibe. With some gay bars, cafes, & shops.
Quadrilatero della Moda
The heart of Milan’s luxury fashion scene. With flagship stores it’s a paradise for luxury shopping enthusiasts.
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