Christmas Events in Apulia

Slowly but steadily the winter also arrives in Apulia. The temperatures are under 20 degrees (yes, that that is considered cold here) and the shops' windows are festively decorated. The holiday season in the south-eastern Italian region is characterized by neat Christmas markets and spectacular light installations. 

Nearly every city in Apulia has holiday decorations, small Christmas markets and very often showrooms with handmade mangers or even a live "nativity scene". While other regions and countries are focusing more on the commercial part of the holiday season, in Apulia the catholic and religious background is really noticeable. 

Even though you will find the festive spirit in most Apulian towns, there are a few cities which you should really visit around Christmas time.

Matera

Matera has gained a lot of popularity in the last years, that much that it will be the next European capital of culture in 2019.   The historical city organizes a picturesque Christmas market, with a live nativity scene, starting on the 22nd of November. Christmastime is the perfect opportunity to visit the city while enjoying its atmospheric and peaceful lights, before the mass tourism starts in 2019. 

City of Sassi di Matera

75100 Matera, Province of Matera, Italie

Alberobello

The famous Trulli town is part of the UNESCO world heritage and  its uniquely worldwide built houses are obviously a must-visit place. Every day from the 7th of December until the 7th January, there will be Christmas markets and lightshows on the famous Trullis, starting at 17:00. Alberobello is already a spectacular place but the holiday mood and its Christmassy lights guarantee for sure an unforgettable experience.  

I Trulli di Alberobello

Via Pola, 70011 Alberobello BA, Italie

Lecce

This baroque city is the biggest one in the Salento peninsula. The Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the main square of the city, is decorated with a big colorful Christmas tree and shiny stars all over. The dates for the Christmas markets are not officially confirmed yet, but usually start from the 8th and last until the 26th of December. Don’t miss the holiday mood paired with the stunningly beautiful baroque buildings and Lecce's authentic vibes!

Piazza Sant Oronzo

Piazza Sant'Oronzo, 73100 Lecce LE, Italien

Polignano a Mare

The small south-eastern costal town is mainly known for the finale of the Red Bull Cliff diving tour and the "social media craze" cave restaurant, the Grotta Palazzesse. But the scenic town shows its most charming and peaceful side during the holiday season. From the 16th of November until the 6th of January, there will be Christmas markets, events and a light projector on the famous scenic coastal houses of Polignano.

Polignano a Mare

70044 Polignano A Mare BA, Italie

Ristorante Hotel Grotta Palazzese

Via Narciso 59, 70044 Polignano a Mare

Buon Natale!

Did you miss the Christmas time in Apulia? There is one special place, where you can find Christmas all year round. Visit the Christmas shop, “It’s a small world” in Gallipoli on the main street Via Antonietta de Pace. The shop offers only Christmas related products and decorations, while it has two huge gingerbread men hanging outside, as well as an all-year round countdown clock to Christmas.