Winter visits to the northern Italian city of Como take you through the sparkling city streets with a backdrop of the calm, dark Lake Como and snow-capped mountains. From my experience, it’s one of Italy’s most stunning destinations, even in cooler months.
In the city centre, you’ll find Christmas stalls filled with local crafts, tempting local specialties and a unique and vibrant shopping experience.
In this guide to Lake Como Christmas Market, I’ll share all the essential details for your visit, such as this year’s dates, opening hours, locations, the best stalls and regional specialities you shouldn’t miss.
Christmas in Lake Como weaves a charming tableau of twinkling lights, snow-dusted cypress trees and the gentle lapping of the icy lake against the shore.
This serene ambience, intertwined with the scent of roasting chestnuts and live music, creates a truly festive atmosphere.
Lake Como Christmas Market 2023
As you wander through Lake Como’s Christmas Market, you’ll find a myriad of stalls with an array of local crafts, from hand-carved wooden trinkets to bespoke Italian leather goods.
The gastronomic treats are aplenty too. Keep an eye out for stalls selling pandoro, a traditional Italian Christmas cake.
Dates and Location
Lake Como Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 22nd November 2023 to 5th January 2024.
Location: Piazza Cavour, Como.
Opening times: 10am to 8pm. Friday and Saturday: 10am to 9pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: Yes, no switch on date announced.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: Yes, at Piazza Cavour.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, but limited.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Scenic lakeside location; rich history and culture; artisan crafts; Italian treats.
Recommended tour: If this is your first time in Como, you might like this guided walking tour.
Specialities: Panettone; pandoro; torrone; polenta e osei; mostarda di frutta; bresaola; pizzoccheri; amaretti cookies; vin brulé.
Where to stay: DBH Boutique Hotel is located onle 4-minutes’ walk from the Christmas market.
Hotels near Lake Como Christmas Market
The Como city centre is the perfect location for exploring the Christmas market and all the main sights in Como. You’ll find many cafes, shops and historic landmarks in this picturesque area.
DBH Boutique Hotel is a great choice for a cosy yet luxurious stay, as you’ll have a spacious room, comfortable bed, high-end amenities and a prime location near the Christmas market.
Location of Lake Como Christmas Market
City and Christmas Tours
Exploring Como through a city tour presents a brilliant opportunity to soak in the city’s deep-rooted history and vibrant culture. Its enchanting old town, with brightly painted buildings and remarkable architecture, makes Como a destination worthy of a visit, even amidst the frosty charms of winter.
I recommend starting your visit to this area with this tour of Como city centre as you get to see all the highlights of the region or maybe consider a food tour where you can learn about the local culture through their cuisine.
Alternatively, you might want to take this food tour of Lake Como to gain a deeper understanding of local culture through its delicious cuisine. Food tours have been gaining traction in recent years, and having participated in a few during my travels, I can vouch for their value.
On a tour of the rest of Lake Como, you can visit the area’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, including the majestic Villa del Balbianello, the beautiful Villa Carlotta and the picturesque town of Bellagio.
Discover more destinations with my list of the best Christmas markets in Italy. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you plan where to go, what Italian specialties to look out for and ideas of what to buy for Christmas gifts.
What to Expect in Lake Como
Experience a visual treat as this video takes you on a journey through the vibrant and festive Lake Como Christmas Market. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere and witness firsthand the delightful charm that awaits you.
Christmas Specialties in Lake Como
- Panettone: A sweet, fluffy bread loaded with candied fruits and raisins, a staple of Italian Christmas celebrations.
- Pandoro: Similar to panettone, but without fruits or nuts, this golden, star-shaped cake is dusted with powdered sugar.
- Torrone: A delicious nougat confection made from honey, sugar, egg whites and toasted nuts.
- Polenta e Osei: A vegetarian-friendly version of this dish features polenta served with a rich mushroom and cheese sauce.
- Mostarda di Frutta: A vibrant fruit preserve flavoured with mustard oil, ideal for pairing with cheeses and bread.
- Pizzoccheri: A hearty, vegetarian pasta dish made with buckwheat noodles, potatoes, vegetables and melted cheese.
- Amaretti Cookies: Almond-flavored cookies that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfect for enjoying a warm beverage. These are often gluten-free but ask before you buy if that’s of concern.
Food at the Christmas Market
- Arancini: Crispy, fried rice balls filled with ingredients like mozzarella and tomato sauce, a delicious Italian snack.
- Chestnuts: Roasted over an open fire, a classic and warming Christmas market treat.
- Cannoli: Crispy, fried pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta cheese, a Sicilian specialty.
- Vin brulé: An Italian mulled wine infused with spices and citrus, perfect for sipping on chilly evenings.
- Bomboloni: Decadent, sugar-coated Italian doughnuts often filled with jam, custard, or Nutella.
- Gelato: Even in winter, indulge in Italian ice cream, which is often available in special seasonal flavours.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with a mix of tomatoes, basil, garlic and olive oil, a classic Italian appetiser that you can sometimes find as street food.
- Churros: Indulge in these Spanish fried-dough pastries, served hot and coated in sugar, often with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping. A classic Christmas market treat.
What to Buy
- Silk products: Lake Como is renowned for its silk production; discover elegant scarves, ties and accessories.
- Hand-painted ceramics: Beautiful, locally crafted ceramic pieces featuring traditional Italian designs and motifs.
- Olive oil: Savour the taste of high-quality, locally-produced olive oil, perfect for cooking or drizzling over salads.
- Leather goods: Find finely crafted wallets, belts and bags made from premium Italian leather.
- Murano glass: Admire the intricate artistry of Venetian glass jewellery, vases and ornaments.
- Limoncello: Bring home a bottle of this zesty, lemon-infused liqueur, a popular souvenir, typically from Southern Italy.
- Wooden toys: Look out for charming, handcrafted wooden toys and puzzles reminiscent of a bygone era.
- Artisan chocolates: Satisfy your sweet tooth with exquisite, locally-made chocolate creations in a variety of flavours.
Bellagio Christmas Market
Across the lake from Como, the town of Bellagio is home to the Lights Magic Event and Bellagio Christmas Market.
This small market is adorned with sparkling lights and pretty decorations, creating a heartwarming Christmas atmosphere.
You can explore a variety of charming stalls featuring one-of-a-kind gifts, local food specialties and artisanal products, quite similar to what you’ll find in Como, but with a cosier atmosphere.
Lively music and entertainment are at the heart of the Lights Magic Event at Bellagio Christmas Market.
Bellagio Christmas Market dates: December 2023.
Opening times: from 11:30am to 7:30pm.
Location: Piazza della Chiesa, Bellagio.
Bellagio Christmas Market Location
For invaluable information and resources to help you make the most of your visit to Lake Como, Visit Como is the tourist office website is a fantastic starting point, providing everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Sustainable Christmas Tips
Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Lake Como at Christmas.
- Renewable energy: Choose a hotel that prioritises renewable energy sources, like solar or wind power, for a lower-impact stay.
- Energy efficiency: Opt for hotels and establishments with energy-efficient practices, such as LED lighting and energy-saving appliances.
- Reducing food waste: Dine at restaurants that focus on reducing food waste and try only to order as much as you’re sure you can eat.
- Ethical consumption: Support local artisans and small businesses, which often have eco-friendlier practices and contribute to the local economy.
- Sustainable diets: Enjoy plant-based meals at vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, like Feel Como, promoting a more sustainable diet.
- Sustainable transport: Use public transportation, such as ferries or trains, or explore the lakeside towns by bike or on foot to reduce your carbon footprint. There are regular train services if visiting Como from Milan.
FAQ
Lake Como Christmas Market starts on 22nd November 2023 to 5th January 2024.
The Lake Como Christmas Market is located in the heart of Como, at Piazza Cavour, which is situated near the beautiful lakeside. This idyllic setting adds to the magical atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for the festive event.
The Christmas markets are open during the week from 10am to 8pm. Friday and Saturday opening times: 10am to 9pm.
While Lake Como attracts fewer tourists during winter, Christmas brings a moderate influx of visitors, especially during the market event.
Winter temperatures in Lake Como can range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), so it is essential to dress warmly and bring appropriate layers.
Final Thoughts
Discover the charm and beauty of Lake Como this winter, where you’ll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes, delightful towns and festive celebrations.
Immerse yourself in the rich local culture, savour mouthwatering Italian cuisine and uncover unique artisanal gems at the Christmas market.
I’ve visited Lake Como on several occasions, and it will surely leave you with cherished memories to treasure for years to come, as it did with me.
If you would like to leave a review of Lake Como Xmas Market or Bellagio Xmas Market, comment below.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Como, Italy. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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