Christmas in Bologna.

Christmas time is in the air in Bologna! Nice period to organize a tour of the city and surroundings. In few weeks time many students are going back home for their vacations but the center is still very lively.

A big pine tree stands in Piazza Maggiore, near the symbol of the city, the Neptune's fountain which is still wrapped up but on December 22nd it could be admired again after restoration!

All streets downtown shine bright and people are around to buy Christmas presents. All shops are opened.

In this period there are two important markets downtown Bologna not to be missed! The first one is in Altabella street, near San Peter Cathedral, opened from end of November up to Januray, 8th 2017. You can find here some original ideas for your gifts, handmade toys, handmade jewels, clothes and typical stalls selling food.

If you walk a little bit further, down to Strada Maggiore, you will discover another ancient market called "Santa Lucia". People of Bologna are really fond of this market because they are used to buying here all their figurines for crib and decorations for their Christmas tree.

There is a magical atmosphere: the scent of cooked chestnuts and nougat will enchant you!

If you love Nativity Scene, starting from December, 8th a nice tour of Christmas cribs inside churches and cathedrals of Bologna can be arranged!

Don't forget to buy traditional Christmas food if you are around and you want to eat at home as we usually do during this period. Fish for the Christmas' eve and tortellini with broth, zampone, torta di riso, panettone, pandoro and torrone for the Christmas' lunch .

Merry Christmas 2017 from Bologna!

If you are planning to come to Italy please keep in touch with me by email and I'll be really happy to help you organizing your private escorted tour of Bologna!