Holiday magic in the Mediterranean: Our favourite Christmas markets

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The festive season is fast upon us and we can’t wait for things to shine even more merry and bright. From candy canes and mistletoe to spending time with loved ones and enjoying local winter wonderlands, Christmas is filled with magic and merriment - and one of our favourite things to do this time of year is explore a warm and welcoming Christmas market.
We love festive markets, as they are a great opportunity to experience the very best of the local traditions in the area. And while your first instinct might be that most markets are located in the colder parts of Europe, we have found our favourites in much warmer climates. Some of the most magical Christmas markets can be found across the Mediterranean, in Italy, Greece and France. Here are some of our favourites - which we think you’ll love too.

Italy Christmas markets we love
An Italian Christmas is famous for all the right reasons; there’s nothing better than partaking in Italian traditions, food and the all-around good cheer.Italy is one of the best places to spend the festive period with the people you love. Many of the country’s most beautiful summer destinations become magical winter wonderlands too - even if you are unlikely to see any snow.
Magical Christmas markets in Italy are a lovely part of the festive period and can be found across the country. Here are just a few of our favourites.

Christmas markets in Sicily
Taormina on the east coast of the island is home to some of Sicily's most extravagant Christmas celebrations, and the streets of this magical medieval town come alive in December. Parades, orchestras and nativity plays (presepe vivente) make Christmas particularly special in this Sicilian town.



Christmas markets in Puglia
Lecce in Puglia is home to a vibrant Christmas market that fills the streets of its historic town centre. Around the Piazza Sant'Oronzo and Piazza Duomo, market stalls sell the town’s famous handcrafted nativity scene figurines made of papier-mâché. Alongside streets of colourful stalls, visitors will also find the Fair of Nativity Scenes and Puppets, a tradition dating back many centuries.

Our favourite Christmas markets in Greece
When you think of Greece, you probably think of sandy beaches and clear blue seas - which makes it a beautiful backdrop during the festive season if you’re looking to escape the cold. With traditions as diverse as Greece’s hundreds of islands, you’re sure to have an unforgettable Christmas, whether you spend it near the Ionian or the Aegean.
Christmas markets in Corfu
In the country’s west, take in Christmas on the Ionian island of Corfu. As 25 December approaches, towns and villages come alive with thousands of decorative lights. Head down to Corfu Town where you’ll find the annual Christmas market - you can even pick up local delicacies and everything else you might need for your traditional Corfu Christmas dinner. Just remember that if you want to live like the locals, gifts are exchanged on 1 January, not 25 December, so you’ll need to be patient.Explore our villas in CorfuChristmas markets on the mainland
Some of the biggest Christmas markets in Greece are to be found on the mainland in the major cities. Athens boasts its own Christmas market and fairground, known as the Christmas Factory. You’ll be able to find it at the Technopolis Courtyard in Gazi.

The best Christmas markets in France
While there are fabulous Christmas markets across France, some of our favourites can be found on the Mediterranean island of Corsica, home to one of the most unique blends of cultures in the region. With both French and Italian influences, Christmas in Corsica will be a new and magical experience. For example, did you know that instead of the Christmas trees you might be used to, homes in Corsica are decorated with strawberry trees this time of year?There are two main Christmas markets that are set up to delight locals and visitors each year. The first is in Bonifacio, a city that overlooks stunning white cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea. Located in the port, the market hosts more than 40 stands selling local delicacies. If you’re still shopping for gifts, you’ll be sure to find something for even those with the most discerning tastes.The second is in Ajaccio on the west coast of the island. This isn’t just a market, but a celebration that the entire town joins in with. Expect to see buildings lit up in colourful lights, adding magic to every corner of the squares and streets.