Christmas in Puglia: 4 experiences not to be missed

Christmas in Apulia is pure magic.

Feel like traveling during the holidays? Then you can't miss Puglia's Christmas air. The many villages are illuminated and decorated to give its visitors a joyful atmosphere, a bit of healthy relaxation away from the daily routine.

Spending Christmas in Puglia means experiencing a vacation dedicated to discovering a unique and spectacular land among many events, festivals, craft markets, nativity scenes and historical re-enactments.

A suitable destination with family, friends or as a couple. Children will be able to participate in the many events organized by the various municipalities, as is the case in Martina Franca where the little ones have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and his elf helpers. For couples we recommend a romantic walk through the illuminated alleys of the various towns, all accompanied with a good glass of mulled wine.

To find out all the best activities to do at Christmas in Apulia, read on.

Christmas in Puglia: what to do?

Christmas in Apulia means fun and celebration. Here are the four things to do on your vacation.

1. Christmas market

During the Christmas season, many cities in Puglia set up Christmas markets in the main streets and squares. The markets represent the art and craftsmanship of this region's artisan and gastronomic culture. You can buy handmade items and typical local foods, an original idea for gifts for friends and relatives.

Among the many Christmas markets 2022, we suggest you:

• Bari's Christmas market, in the old city, from Dec. 6;

• the market among the trulli in Alberobello always from Dec. 6;

• Santa's village in Martina Franca from Dec. 7. 

2. Living nativity scene

The nativity scene is a cherished ritual, a custom that never goes out of style. The birth of Jesus is celebrated not only with sculptural representations, but also in the flesh. Certainly one of the most famous living nativity scenes in Apulia is the one in Alberobello, a guided tour among the trulli where you can experience firsthand the magic and mystery of the birth. For more information on this event visit www.dabetlemmeagerusalemme.it

 3. Christmas illuminations 

Christmas in Apulia is a riot of lights: trees, led decorations, stars and much more. City streets are filled with a thousand illuminations and ornaments, a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you speechless. Don't miss the light garden in Bari's Piazza Ferrarese, a large installation designed to house the city's Christmas tree. Also worth seeing is the small village of Locorotondo richly decorated with decorations and garlands.    

 4. Christmas cooking

In Apulia at Christmas time many traditional dishes are prepared and shared during the festive days. Throughout December you will have the opportunity to visit many festivals dedicated to good Apulian food. We absolutely recommend you try the following the pettole, trust me they are the end of the world.

Now that you have a clear idea of what Puglia has to offer at Christmas all you have to do is get going.

Have a safe journey and happy holidays!

Book your vacation now, Itria is the right place to experience Puglia all year round.