Embrace the festive spirit...

…AND PAY A VISIT TO SOUTH TYROL’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS

When the scent of cinnamon, biscuits and mulled wine wafts through South Tyrol’s town and village squares, it can only mean one thing… our Christmas markets – apparently some of the oldest and most traditional in the entire Alpine region – have opened! Alongside the classic markets in Bolzano, Bressanone, Merano and Vipiteno, you’ll also find a great deal of smaller ones in our villages – all are well worth a visit as, here, traditional South Tyrolean cuisine and craftsmanship meet in a splendid combination. At the small and cosy stalls, you can sample traditional treats, such as Krapfen (locally made doughnuts), Tirtlan (local pastries) and Schmarren (local pancakes, often shredded and available with various sweet or savoury fillings).

You can also buy traditional Christmas tree decorations and all manner of special South Tyrolean knick-knacks.

The magical Christmas mood around Lago di Carezza is a particular highlight here… the stalls surrounding the frozen lake are shaped like little lanterns, each lighting the path around the lake. You can sample some local delicacies from local inns and purchase genuine South Tyrolean products from local artisans. Lovely!