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Tag: christmas market

  • Foodies Visiting Italy This Fall Will Love Rick Steves’ Recommended Festivals

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    Italy is known for its vibrant dining culture and endless tourist ventures, which is why it comes as no surprise that several food-themed festivals are gearing up to be held during the fall and winter of 2025. Luckily, Rick Steves has already done everyone the favor of listing the upcoming festivals on his website, so travelers can decide which ones appeal to their flavor profile.

    On weekends from October 10 through 19, 2025, the Pistachio Festival, or Sagra del Pistacchio, will be held in the Sicilian town of Bronte. Bronte pistachios, known for their vibrant green shade, attract visitors from all over the world to indulge in pistachio-based candies, sauces, and ice creams, both savory and sweet. The pistachios are almost considered sacred in Sicily, earning the title of “green gold” for their appearance and unparalleled flavor. Because of the unique positioning of the pistachio farms at the bottom of the volcanic Mount Etna, the pistachios taste unlike any other in the world. At the Pistachio Festival, you will not only find the most pistachio-flavored items you’ve ever seen, but also learn about the history and origins behind the green nut craze.

    Read more: The Best Cities In America For Seafood Lovers, According To Foodies

    More Italian foodie festivities

    A woman standing in front of an Italian Christmas Market. – Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock

    Another coveted Italian flavor, truffles, also has its place in the Italian unique food festival scene. The International White Truffle Fair takes place from October 11 to December 8, 2025, in the underrated Italian destination town of Alba. As the name suggests, the fair centers on all things white truffles, with exclusive cooking shows, classes, and tastings. Visitors can bring home enough white truffles to last them a lifetime, and hone their cooking skills in the process. In addition to the delicious truffle flavors, tourists will be able to attend guided tours of the Castle of Roddi, and learn about Italian folklore in their free time.

    During the holiday season, Rome transforms into a wonderland of festive displays and attractions. Particularly, the Christmas Market on Piazza Navona hosts an array of local treats for the whole family. Visitors can sample the local Italian delicacies, like vin brulé, a smoky mulled wine, castagne arrosto (roasted chestnuts), or pandoro, a festively shaped sweet Italian cake. These treats make the perfect snacking companion to the festive fair rides, toy shops, and puppet shows you will want to see in Piazza Navona. Dining near the Christmas Market is also the perfect opportunity to try some authentic pasta carbonara or cacio e pepe, Rome’s regional specialty.

    Read the original article on Explore.

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  • The Best Christmas Markets in Europe: What the Data Reveals

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    According to recent data, 32% of Europeans plan to travel during the Christmas period (December-January) this year, and a growing number of these travelers are expected to include Christmas markets as a part of their itinerary. 

    Cozycozy, the largest vacation accommodation search engine is here to help Christmas enthusiasts choose the holiday destination that meets their needs. Designed to make travel planning simple and convenient, cozycozy.com brings together millions of options from various booking sites, making it easy to find accommodations that fit any style and budget.

    In a 2022 survey, 46% of European respondents said that visiting Christmas markets was an integral part of their holiday festivities, a sentiment that resonates strongly in Germany (where 58% say Christmas markets are essential) and France (44%). 

    A 2024 survey by Statista.com gathered insights from 593,992 respondents across 168 countries to identify the world’s best Christmas markets. Based on this surprising list, cozycozy.com highlighted a selection of European markets that bring unique flavors to the holiday season and showcase the regional diversity of Christmas celebrations.

    Budapest, Hungary

    Budapest’s Christmas market topped Statista’s survey, set against the beautiful backdrop of St. Stephen’s Basilica. Known for its artistic craft vendors, festive food stalls, and light projections on the basilica, the market blends Hungarian folklore with modern charm, offering treats like chimney cakes, goulash, and local wines. With a central ice rink, it attracts families, couples, and solo travelers. Cozycozy helps visitors experience the winter wonderland in Budapest by offering 2728 accommodations per two person visiting between December 13 and 15, and 3143 places to stay between December 20 and 22. This includes a wide variety of hotels, holiday rentals, motels, bed and breakfasts and more.

    Metz, France – Best for Families

    The Metz Christmas Market has earned its reputation as one of the best family-friendly holiday markets in Europe. Located in northeastern France, it features enchanting decorations like a Christmas tree forest, a magical carousel, and Santa’s grotto. Families enjoy children’s workshops, creative stalls, and festive activities, making it perfect for all ages. Cozycozy offers 180 two-bedroom accommodations for families of four from December 13-15, and 139 from December 20-22.

    Riga, Latvia – Most Affordable

    For travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing the holiday experience, Riga is an exceptional choice. According to a report from Post Office Travel Money, Riga ranks as the most budget-friendly Christmas market destination in Europe. Visitors can enjoy Latvian and international crafts, festive treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, and traditional folk music. Dome Square offers an intimate setting where quality meets affordability. Cozycozy has 768 accommodations for two from December 13-15 and 842 from December 20-22.

    Asti-Govone, Italy – Most Romantic

    Italy’s Asti-Govone market in Piedmont offers a romantic holiday escape with its storybook charm. Historic streets turn into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, holiday displays, and a cozy ambiance perfect for couples. Visitors can enjoy Italian treats, handcrafted ornaments, and a Santa Claus village that embraces romance and tradition. Cozycozy lists 243 accommodations for couples in Govone from December 13-15 and 233 for December 20-22.

    Madeira, Portugal – Sunny Christmas Market

    For a sunny twist on holiday traditions, the Madeira Christmas market in Funchal offers a warm, festive experience. Filled with tropical fruits, Madeiran poncha, and traditional decorations, this market is ideal for celebrating Christmas in the sun. Visitors can enjoy island fireworks and light displays for a spectacular season. Those who equally enjoy Christmas markets and sunny weather can choose from 954 available accommodations on cozycozy for December 13-15 and 881 for December 20-22 for two people in Funchal.

    Celebrate Christmas with Europe’s Most Enchanting Holiday Markets

    As Europe’s Christmas market traditions continue to flourish, travelers have more options than ever to experience the magic of the season. This year, cozycozy helps Christmas lovers compare all available accommodations with one click to find the one that suits them the most.

    Source: Cozycozy

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