The 7 stages of your Garda Christmas

During the Christmas period Torbole and Nago are dressed in suggestive lights that, reflected directly in the lake, offer a truly magical atmosphere. But that's not all, at weekends, the streets come alive with shows and live music and there is no shortage of fires and braziers where you can find warm refreshment. On 9 December there is also the Garda Trentino Xmas Trail, a trial running race that starts right from the small port of Torbole. Torbole and Nago offer an intimate but cosy Christmas, a stage that should definitely be included in the unique weekend you are planning.

From 17 November to 7 January, Arco turns into a real Christmas town. Every friday, saturday and sunday, the village offers visitors a special atmosphere with carols, illuminations, mulled wine and charming little houses where you can find sweets, typical dishes and handicrafts. There are also plenty of activities dedicated to families, such as the educational farm, donkey rides, the little train to the North Pole, and the two mascots loved by children, Pom and Lana. And before saying goodbye to Arco, we suggest you try the illuminated walk at dusk, lasting about an hour, to discover the creative nativity scenes set up by families along the streets of the town. An experience that will surprise young and old alike.

A stop in Bezzeca at Christmas time is a must. It is very close to Arco (you can visit both in a day) and is a characteristic little gem that immediately takes you into a very special dimension. Here you will find the "Villaggio di Natale del Gigante" (Christmas Village of the Giant), a market which, as well as offering culinary specialities and handicrafts, also includes a visit to the home of the giant: Bernando Gilli, to be precise, who lived in the Ledro Valley in 1700, nicknamed "El Popo" because he was one of the tallest men of the time, at 2.60 metres in height. The his house will be festively decorated and open to curious visitors to recount anecdotes and curiosities through unpublished objects.

A culinary Xmas activity, "Di Gusto in Gusto" is the event in Riva del Garda that highlights Trentino's food and wine products with interesting Christmas-themed food and drink choices. 

From 17 November, more than 20 small houses/restaurants await you where you can taste strauben, sandwiches with wurstel and sauerkraut, canederli, "Carne Salada" and other specialities, embraced by an unmistakable Christmas atmosphere thanks to lights, music and warmth. For the little ones, we suggest a visit to Santa's House: an enchanted world with elves, sweet installations and the possibility of meeting the real Santa Klaus.

A medieval village dressed in a theme, with truly evocative views, this is what awaits you from 25 November in Canale di Tenno. Included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, the Christmas market in the village offers stalls with food and wine products and local wooden creations, among stone houses, cellars, old stables and characteristic squares. 

You enter a magical place where time seems to stand still, with all the joy and colours of Christmas. In addition to the market, on the night of 24 December there is the Shepherds' Procession, and on Boxing Day the village nativity scene comes to life with the music of pipers, evoking the true rural nativity with all its traditions.

Trento market is one of the most eagerly awaited and appreciated Christmas events in Italy. From Piazza Duomo, with its beautiful Tree, to all the other streets and squares, the capital is a pure wonderment for the eyes and palate at every corner throughout the Christmas period. From 18 November, if you're in the area, even if you've already seen it, you can't help but stop and be amazed by the unique handicrafts, culinary specialities and decorations that make the city so beautiful at this time of year.

At Christmas, Malcesine offers a fairytale setting: you can stroll among the stalls, discover local crafts, handmade Christmas decorations, and regional culinary delights. Every corner of the market tells a story, every stall a tradition. The event runs from December 8th to January 7th, featuring the markets, an ice-skating rink, and rides for the little ones.