It might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas (somewhere with more snow is probably more likely) but Lucca is a great part of the world to be around the festive season. Between markets, ice-skating, pretty streets made prettier by twinkling lights, food and general good will and joy, it's got everything you could ask for. If you're thinking of spending Christmas away from home, Lucca is a great option as it is so full of Christmas spirit that you won't feel as if you are missing out on anything at all! You just need to find the perfect luxury villa in Lucca for you and yours so that you're nice and cosy and then start exploring the city and everything that is has to offer at this time of year!
The biggest attraction in Lucca during the Christmas period has to be the market at Piazza Napoleone. However, it is much more than a mere market. Beginning early in December and continuing into the start of 2016, it is made up of stalls selling little gifts, trinkets and bits of food as well as an ice-skating rink and a carousel. This will, surely, delight any kids in your party and the generally festive atmosphere will ensure that, even if there aren't any children in the group, you will all be taken in by the energy and have a lovely time. Over a similar period, there is also a traditional Christmas market in Piazza San Michele, where you will find more than fifty stands with handicrafts, food and wine, Christmas decorations, toys and sweets.
In December, another special market is taking place in Lucca. This is the Natale nel Medioevo market, or “Christmas during the Middle Ages”. The festival allows you to shop market stalls, as any other, but these are not the market stalls of our time but those of the distant past! You will be able to taste the traditional and ancient local flavours in the wonderfully preserved setting of Lucca's medieval city centre. If you feel like venturing slightly further afield, there's also a market taking place in Verciano, on the outskirts of the city during the second and third weekends of December. Pregustando il Natale – Arte, Sapori & Co., or “Starting to Taste Christmas – Art, Flavors & Co.”, is dedicated to traditions and delicious products and both Sundays there will even be lunches organised with typical dishes of local Christmas tradition such as matuffi (polenta with meat or mushrooms sauce).
So, if you want to eat, drink, shop and be merry this Christmas, Lucca is more than well-prepared to make that happen!
So, if you want to eat, drink, shop and be merry this Christmas, Lucca is more than well-prepared to make that happen!
