The Christmas markets return to the heart of beautiful Bolzano, filling the city with festive lights, alpine scents and traditional flavours until 6 January. Among the most famous Christmas markets in Italy, the Bolzano markets are known for their soft lighting, cinnamon and pine aromas, quality craftsmanship and delicious local food.
Below, you’ll find all the essential information for visiting the Bolzano Christmas Markets 2025, including dates, opening hours, programme highlights and the best areas to stay.
When do the Bolzano Christmas Markets open?
The Bolzano Christmas Markets, recently named as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe by Condé Nast Traveler, traditionally run from late November to Epiphany. For 2025, the official dates are:
- 27 November 2025 – 6 January 2026
The opening ceremony takes place in Piazza Walther, the heart of the city and one of Italy’s most atmospheric Christmas settings.
Opening times
Market stalls:
- Daily: 10:00–19:00
- 24 December: closes at 16:00
- 25 December: closed
- 31 December: 10:00–18:00
- 1 January: 11:00–19:00
Food & drink area:
- Mon–Wed: 10:00–22:00
- Thu–Sat: 10:00–23:00
- Sun: 11:00–22:00
Reduced hours apply on public holidays. From 27 December onwards, the food area opens daily from 10:00 to 21:00.
How much does it cost to visit?
Entry to the Bolzano Christmas Markets 2025 is completely free. You can explore all 112 stalls and 3 food stands without paying an admission fee.
Your budget will vary depending on food, drinks, gifts and transport.
A guided tour organised by the Tourist Office costs €10, but it’s free with the Bolzano Bozen Card.
Bolzano Christmas Markets 2025 programme
Concerts & music
Weekends at Piazza Walther feature traditional music concerts that enhance the festive atmosphere.
Angelus Loci – contemporary art
From 28 November 2025 to 6 January 2026, Piazza del Grano hosts Angelus Loci, an exhibition of four contemporary art installations by South Tyrolean artists Carla Cardinaletti, Michael Fliri, Elisa Grezzani and Hubert Kostner.
Some activities begin earlier, from 27 November to 23 December.
Solidarity market
Also in Piazza del Grano, the Solidarity Market is open:
- Mon–Thu: 11:00–19:00
- Weekends & bank holidays: 10:00–19:00
Reconciliation – art installation
From 29 November 2025 to 27 January 2026, Piazza Municipio displays Reconciliation by Val Gardena artist Armin Grunt, inspired by the Olympic spirit.
6 December – Saint Nicholas & Krampus Parade
- 15:00–17:00: Saint Nicholas visits Piazza Walther
- Followed by: commemorative postmark
- 17:30–20:00: Krampus parade (one of the most unique traditions in the Alps)
31 December – BOclassic & New Year celebrations
- Historic centre: BOclassic international race
- Piazza Vittoria & Palasport: New Year’s Eve celebrations with entertainment to welcome 2026
How to get to the Bolzano Christmas Markets
The markets are centred around Piazza Walther, just a short walk from Bolzano Cathedral, making them easy to explore on foot.
By plane
The nearest airports for international visitors are:
- Bolzano Airport (approx. 15 minutes by car) – small regional airport with limited connections.
- Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN, approx. 2 hours by car/train) – offers flights across Europe.
- Innsbruck Airport (INN, approx. 1.5 hours by car/train) – convenient for Austrian and European arrivals.
- Milan Airports (Malpensa MXP / Linate LIN, approx. 3.5–4 hours by car/train) – ideal for intercontinental travellers.
From these airports, you can reach Bolzano by train, bus or car. Special Christmas trains run from Milan directly to Bolzano during the festive season.
By train
Bolzano/Bozen Station is just a few minutes’ walk from Piazza Walther. Regular connections are available from:
- Verona (approx. 2 hours)
- Trento (approx. 1 hour)
- Merano (approx. 40 minutes)
- Bressanone/Brixen (approx. 50 minutes)
- Innsbruck, Austria (approx. 2 hours)
High-speed and regional trains make it easy for international visitors to combine Bolzano with other Alpine destinations.
By car
- Take the Bolzano Sud (A22) exit from the motorway.
- Avoid the LTZ (limited traffic zone) in the city centre.
- Follow the “P” signs for parking.
During weekends and peak hours, the Fiera Park & Ride is a convenient option, with onward travel to Piazza Walther by bus or local train.
Where to stay in Bolzano for the Christmas Markets
Historic Centre / Piazza Walther
Perfect if you want to stay right next to the market stalls.
Station Area
Very convenient for travellers arriving by train, with easy walking access to the markets.
Gries–San Quirino
An elegant and quieter residential district, 15–20 minutes from the centre on foot or a short bus ride.
Bolzano Sud / Fiera
A practical location for those arriving by car.
Holiday homes & accommodation in Bolzano
Browse the latest holiday home deals in Bolzano on Rentalia. And if you’re thinking of moving to the city, you can also explore the most recent listings for properties for sale or to rent in Bolzano.