Not just Trentino: 7 Christmas markets near Rome to be enchanted by the festive atmosphere

As Christmas approaches, the villages of Lazio begin to transform into small suspended worlds, where lights, wood and the scent of sweets redesign squares and alleys. Alongside city events, the area around Rome offers Christmas markets and villages capable of combining tradition, craftsmanship and entertainment, often in historic contexts of great charm. From Viterbo to the Castelli Romani, passing through Rieti and the coast, here are six stops to mark in your diary.

Viterbo

Viterbo remains one of the most structured centers of the Christmas period. From 15 November 2025 the historic center will host the Viterbo Christmas Village, a route between Piazza San Lorenzo and the medieval streets, with scenography dedicated to the world of Santa Claus, from the Grinch’s house to Rudolph’s stable. Alongside the stalls and shows, there is the Santa Claus House, the Befana House and the nativity scene in Piazza San Carluccio. New this year is the Sleigh Express VR, a very engaging experience with animations and special effects.

Castle of S. Severa

Until January 6, 2026, Santa Severa Castle hosts “The Magic of Christmas”, a free entry event with ice rink, ancient carousel, illuminations and sparkling trees. The rich program includes magic shows, choral concerts, meetings with Santa Claus and the Befana, workshops for children and theatrical performances such as “Welcome to Hogwarts” with Stefano Dragone. Among the cultural events, the “Libri Sotto l’Albero” exhibition with guests such as Federico Palmaroli (Osho) and Angelo Mellone. The offer is completed by the “Natale a Corte” market with typical products and crafts, circus shows, fire shows and visits to the castle museums, for a complete Christmas experience between tradition and entertainment.

Frascati

In the Castelli Romani, Frascati confirms its role as a Christmas destination with markets active from 11 to 14 December. The stands wind through the historic center and the main points of interest, such as St. Peter’s Cathedral, Villa Aldobrandini and the Belvedere balcony, including crafts, decorations and gastronomic products. The ice rink, handcrafted nativity scenes and local wine tastings complete an offer designed for families and passing visitors.

Greccio

In the province of Rieti, the municipality of Greccio renews its deep bond with the Franciscan tradition. From 29 November 2025 to 6 January 2026 the Christmas Village hosts wooden markets, illuminations and the International Craft and Nativity Scene Market Exhibition. The most awaited moment remains the live nativity scene near the Franciscan Sanctuary, which recalls the birth of the first nativity scene wanted by Saint Francis.

Bracciano

North of Rome, the municipality of Bracciano offers a series of intimate and evocative markets at the foot of the Orsini Odescalchi Castle, as part of the Christmas with us project. The stalls are distributed between Piazza IV Novembre and the streets of the historic center, with artisan products, local specialties and activities dedicated to children, framed by the landscape of the lake.

Eur

Remaining in the city, from 22 November 2025 to 6 January 2026, Christmas in Eur animates Viale America with an ice rink, markets, international street food, rides and traveling shows, as well as Santa’s House.

Casal Palocco

Finally, near the coast of Ostia, in the Casal Palocco district, the Solara Christmas Village offers a different experience, more oriented towards shopping and home furnishings. Over 3,000 square meters dedicated to Christmas decorations transform the space into an immersive store, a point of reference for those looking for decorations and inspiration for the home.

Merry Christmas!