Snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, festive markets, and Alpine traditions—San Candido in December is the perfect destination for a magical Christmas in the Dolomites. Whether you’re visiting with family, planning a romantic getaway, or simply seeking a winter escape, there’s no shortage of things to do in San Candido at Christmas.
From charming Christmas markets and traditional Alpine crafts to sledging and live music, the town’s historic centre comes alive with a unique festive atmosphere. Here’s your complete guide to enjoying San Candido at Christmas 2025.
San Candido Christmas markets 2025
Renowned for their authenticity, San Candido’s Christmas markets offer visitors a mix of local traditions, artisanal products, and culinary delights. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, the markets transform the historic centre into a festive wonderland.
Opening dates 2025:
- 28–30 November: 10:30 – 19:00
- 5–8 December: 10:30 – 19:00
- 12–14 December: 10:30 – 19:00
- 19–23 December: 10:30 – 19:00
- 24 December: 10:30 – 15:00
- 26 December – 6 January 2026: 10:30 – 19:00
What to see and taste at the markets:
- Local crafts: Handcrafted decorations, carved wooden items, ceramics, and traditional textiles reflecting South Tyrol’s heritage.
- Delicious treats: Speck dumplings, hearty soups, apple strudel, and festive sweets like Lebkuchen and Zelten.
- Mulled wine & punch: Warm up with a steaming cup as you wander the market stalls, surrounded by the scent of fresh cookies and decorated fir trees.
- Live entertainment: Choir concerts, folk performances, and children’s shows make every visit engaging.
- Creative workshops: Children and adults can join hands-on workshops to make personalised decorations or Christmas crafts.
Exploring San Candido’s historic centre
San Candido, one of the most charming towns in the Upper Puster Valley, combines Alpine elegance with authentic mountain village charm. Even if you’re not skiing, there’s plenty to see and do if you fancy spending Christmas in Italy:
- Collegiate Church of San Candido: A stunning Romanesque church with frescoes, a crypt, and a 12th-century structure.
- Church of San Michele: Elegant Baroque church in the heart of Piazza San Michele.
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A small, intimate spiritual complex with two chapels.
- MIK – Chapter Museum: Explore the town’s religious and cultural history in this historic residence.
- Historic streets & shops: Wander cobbled lanes lined with colourful buildings and traditional Alpine shops.
Family-friendly activities in San Candido
Planning a Christmas visit with children? San Candido offers a variety of activities designed to delight the whole family:
- Sledging slopes: Safe and accessible runs for all ages, many illuminated in the evenings.
- Creative workshops: Children can craft decorations, make small gifts, or enjoy guided creative activities.
- Gnome Village & Dinosaur Market: The Gnome Village creates a fairy-tale experience, while the dinosaur-themed market adds a playful adventure. Access via the four-seater chairlift from San Candido.
Evenings in San Candido
Winter evenings in San Candido are full of charm and offer plenty of ways to relax or have fun:
- Evening sledging & skiing at Monte Baranci: The slopes are lit from Tuesday to Friday, perfect for night sledging or skiing with views of the illuminated town.
- Dinners in mountain huts: Some huts, like Jora, offer snowmobile transfers and traditional menus for a memorable experience.
- Strolling the town: Enjoy a peaceful walk through the historic centre with its traditional houses and soft festive lighting.
- Local cuisine: Sample South Tyrolean dishes and Italian specialties in restaurants, inns, and traditional farms.
Living in San Candido
San Candido isn’t just a winter destination—it’s also a great place to live. The town is small but well organised, with schools, shops, sports facilities, and efficient connections to nearby centres. Daily life combines outdoor activities, relaxing town walks, and quick access to ski slopes, hiking trails, and mountain huts.
Find your home in San Candido:
