The Magic of Turin Christmas Market: A Wonderland Of Lights
Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by spritzience
If you’re looking to dive into the holiday spirit, the Turin Christmas market is one of the Best European Christmas Markets! Picture this: twinkling lights strung across beautiful squares, the scent of chocolate wafting through the air, and festive music setting the perfect backdrop for a winter wonderland.
The Turin Christmas market has a charm that’s hard to match, bringing together a delightful blend of history and holiday spirit. For starters, the city’s rich chocolate heritage is on full display, with shops and stalls offering everything from decadent hot chocolate to artisanal gianduiotto that melts in your mouth. You can practically taste the history as you bite into a piece crafted from recipes passed down through generations.
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Turin, Italy – Stunning French & Italian Architecture
Strolling through the streets, you’re surrounded by a blend of stunning French & Italian architecture—think elegant facades, grand arches, hidden squares and covered porticos that provide a picturesque backdrop for your festive shopping spree. The main squares come alive with twinkling lights, cheerful holiday decorations, and window displays deftly made by Italian artisans that pull you in, all making it easy to get lost in the magic of the season.
Italian Christmas Traditions at the Turin Christmas Market
And let’s not forget about Italian Christmas traditions! You might stumble upon nativity scenes (presepi) that showcase beautiful craftsmanship or even taste some regional specialties you won’t find anywhere else. The combination of culture, amazing architecture, and great food, and standout chocolate experiences, makes visiting the Turin Christmas market an unforgettable experience—one that captures not just what it means to celebrate Christmas in Italy but also showcases why this city stands out among others around Europe.
Top Attractions You Can’t Miss When Visiting the Turin Christmas Market
If you’re planning a visit to Turin during the holiday season, be ready for a festive experience that’s truly enchanting. One of the highlights is definitely the Luci D’Artista, where stunning light installations illuminate the streets and create a magical atmosphere.
The Luci D’Artista is spread out around numerous locations in Turin, creating an open air museum of approximately 25 installations from both Italian and International artists. You can access the map here or even take a special bus around in the evening to admire them.
Piazza San Carlo
As you stroll around, don’t forget to check out the Advent Calendar in Piazza San Carlo—it’s not just for counting down days; it’s a work of art in itself! Aperitivo lovers will rejoice at the offering of historical bars and stores offering delicious cocktails, chocolates and other treats in this square.
From steaming cups of mulled wine to mouthwatering panettone and confetti, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Be sure to wander through the Mercatino di Adisco on Via Lagrange 5/D. This pop up Christmas shop is packed with great Christmas decorations, stuffed animals, panettone and wondrous exhibits of Christmas villages (think skiers and moving chairlifts) to historical creches. Buying Christmas gifts here feels even more magical as all profits go to charity so make sure to check it out – open in November and December.
The Borgo Dora Christmas market also makes for an interesting stop, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend. Why? Because in this neighborhood on Saturdays antique dealers and merchants with vintage item flood the streets with up to 200 stalls for what is known as the Ballon (generally from 7am to 3pm).
During the holiday period I’ve picked up some great holiday vintage tins and wooden Christmas trees. Once a month, on the second Sunday of the month the event is known as Grand Ballon, when the event gets even bigger with more vendors. For more information on the Ballon click here.
Palazzo Madama Area during the Turin Christmas Market
Another area to check out is around Palazzo Madama! Nestled right by Piazza Castello, this stunning palace isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also steeped in history. Did you know that it was originally built as a fortress in the 13th century? Talk about a place with stories to tell!
When you stroll through the charming Piazzetta Reale nearby, you can almost hear whispers of the past mingling with laughter from modern-day visitors. And at Christmas time, the area is well decorated.
Many years there is a small Turin Christmas market to the side of Palazzo Madama in the Piazza Castello (at the time of writing this for 2024, the market is still TBC). Should there not be a market, a great alternate choice is to walk across the piazza to Caffe Mulassano, see below.
A Food Lover’s Guide to Delicacies During the Turin Christmas Market Period
When it comes to the Turin Christmas Market, the city transforms into a culinary wonderland that draws food lovers from near and far. Strolling through the bustling streets, you’ll encounter an array of enticing aromas wafting from charming food vendors and chocolate box cafes, each offering a taste of Italian food and drink at its finest.
Caffe Mulassano and Tremezzini
Start your gastronomic adventure with some delectable tramezzini at Caffe Mulassano—those soft triangular sandwiches filled with anything from tuna to roasted vegetables. However, this isn’t just your typical cafe, it’s part of the Historical Places of Italy. It’s a chocolate box caffe with handcarved wooden walls dating back to 1907, an ever flowing bronze water fountain and an amazing selection of tramezzini.
In fact, in the 1920s the family who owned the Caffe Mulassano invented the tramezzini. At first, they explored making sandwiches with toasted bread – with an imported toaster from the U.S. Further iterations led to the use of soft white bread (untoasted) with gourmet fillings, in a smaller size used to accompany aperitifs. Over time they evolved to a mid-day snack. Today, you can browse the full assortment from a tramezzini cabinet, sampling them as you enjoy an aperitif.
Celebrating at the Turin Christmas Market: Buy a Panettone or Pandoro
As you wander deeper into Turin’s vibrant scene, don’t miss out on seasonal treats like panettone and pandoro. These traditional Italian Christmas cakes are not just desserts; they carry centuries of heritage and flavor that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the season.
Two great places to buy panettone are Rinascente and Galup. Rinescente (above photo on left) stocks numerous brands including the artisanal Sicilian brand Fiasconaro. While they offer traditional flavors you can also find some unusual ones like Rose & Fig, Pineapple & Apricot, Cherry & Strawberry and White Chocolate.
For a Turin based brand try Galup (which means delicious in local dialect); they’ve been making Panettone using IGP Hazelnut Glaze since 1922. Galup also offers a wide variety of flavours, and it’s fun to visit their elaborately decorated holiday shop in Turin.
For those who have a sweet tooth, make sure to stop by one of the many pastry shops where artisan chefs craft exquisite cakes and desserts that reflect both tradition and innovation. From beautiful tiramisu to creamy panna cotta adorned with seasonal fruits, each bite is sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your appetite and get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey through Turin this Christmas!
Great Shops For Admiring Decorations and Buying Gifts
If you’re looking to find some unique items and indulge in a bit of window shopping, these places have you covered. At Floris, you’ll be enchanted by their stunning floral arrangements. They brighten up their vast array of perfumes, cologne, candles and beauty products.
This is one of the first places Spritzience goes to admire decorations each Christmas. Many years there are trees literally hanging from the ceilings. Plus, it’s a great place to buy gifts as the free gift-wrapping is exquisite. You almost don’t want to open the gift. While perusing the aisles you can also stop and enjoy lunch or have a fancy aperitivo break in their cafe.
Marco Segantin offers an array of beautifully crafted home decor items. Their items reflect a perfect blend of modern and traditional designs. Some of my favorite finds I’ve purchased here are candy dishes, flower vases, holiday owls. And of course flowers as this is first and foremost a flower shop.
Buying Chocolate Gifts in The City Center
Don’t miss Stratta, where the atmosphere is as delightful as the products they showcase. When you enter this historical pasticceria (pastry shop) of Turin, you’ll be wowed by the antique wood and dessert cabinets. Stratta is one of the historical shops of Turin, it’s been in business since 1836.
Stratta is an amazing place to buy cakes, panettone and desserts. What stands out is their brightly colored little candies and nut/chocolate confetti. They place them into elegant compartmentalized gift boxes.
An Incredible Candy Stall at the Mercato Centrale
The Candy stall at Mercato Centrale (next to the outdoor Porta Palazzo Mercato) is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to buy candy in bulk. They have prices that will blow you away. This is Spritzience’s go to place to stock up on all types of candies for myself and for gift giving. The price is at least 25% and sometimes up to 50% less than you what you would pay in the center of town at gift shops. You can buy as little as an etto (100 grams) or as many kilos as you want.
Some of my favorites from this stall are licorices, hard candies and chocolate Cri Cri (above center photo). Cri Cri are generally only found in Turin. They are little round chocolates filled with chocolate and a toasted hazelnut at the center. Then they’re covered on the outside with white sugar sprinkles. They taste amazing and as they’re wrapped in colorful foil with cut edges. I like to use them to decorate with around the holidays.
Just be careful not to buy too much, as the Candy Stall has hundreds of options to choose from. We’ve learned the hard way just how much overweight luggage fees are when your suitcase is stuffed to the brim with chocolate.
Best Places for Aperitivo & Hot Chocolate
If you’re in the mood for some delicious indulgences, these spots really deliver. Caffe Baratti & Milano, founded in 1858, is a classic choice. It’s known not just for its vintage charm but also for their rich hot chocolate.
Hot chocolate here is different than anything you’ve probably tasted. It’s a blend of melted hot chocolate (remember that Baratti & Milano is a famous chocolate maker in their own right) and milk. You’ll want to go for the version with fresh whipped cream (panna) on top.
And then there is the ambience. Think waiters with bow ties, crystal chandeliers, a hand carved wooden bar, a green and yellow inlaid marble floor. On your way out, consider buying a beautifully boxed package of Baratti & Milano chocolates. It’s complete with all the local favorites including cremini & gianduiotto.
Over at Caffe Mulassano, you can enjoy your aperitivo while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Their drinks are as stylish as the wooden café itself.
For something unique, head to Farmacia del Cambio. This place has an interesting twist—(squirrels make candy). Plus it’s set in an old pharmacy and offers creative cocktails alongside their decadent hot chocolate options.
Finally, don’t miss out on Caffe Torino. It’s famous for its historical vibe, georgeous chandeliers and expertly crafted drinks that are perfect any time of day.
How to Get Around Turin
When it comes to transportation in Turin during the holidays, don’t stress too much! The public transport system is pretty reliable. You can hop on trams or buses that run frequently. They’re a great way to get around without worrying about parking. The city center is also very pedestrian friendly, with large sections closed off to car traffic.
There are also electric scooters that you can rent for short trips, seems to have worked well for Santa. And if there’s snow, well maybe you’ll be lucky and see a sleigh driving on by. You never know, we’ve seen the above sleigh multiple times driving past us.
The Best Types of Turinese Chocolates
When it comes to Turinese chocolates, you’re in for a real treat! First up is Gianduiotto, a classic that’s got a rich history. This delicious treat originated in Turin during the Napoleonic era when cocoa was scarce. Creative chocolatiers mixed hazelnuts with chocolate, giving birth to this creamy, melt-in-your-mouth delight that’s still loved today.
Then we have Cri Cri (already discussed above) and Peyrano pralines which take things up a notch with their artisanal approach. They create exquisite treats filled with luscious creams and ganaches. Finally, we can’t forget Cremini. These were invented in the late 1800s by Baratti & Milano. They first used 3 layers of chocolate: Gianduia, Hazelnut paste, Coffee. Today they offer multiple variants of cremini, some with 4 layers.
Another great place to buy chocolates is at the Pasticceria (pastry shop). Here you’ll typically find multiple brands of upscale chocolates along with hand made chocolates made in the shop. Some of my favorites were made my father in law as a holiday decoration last year (see photo above). While he no longer has his shop a few great pasticcerie you can visit in Turin include: Pasticceria Ghigo dal 1870 on Via Po and Pasticceria Venier on Via Monte Di Pieta.
For chocolate lovers, Turin is like heaven on earth. Make sure to stop by some iconic chocolatiers like Guido Gobino or Barrati & Milano or Peyrano for their artisanal treats.
Two Amazing Museums You Won’t Want to Miss
While you’re in town, make sure to check out some amazing spots, like the National Museum of Film and the Museum Egizio. Both of these places provide unique experiences. They allow you to take a deep dive into rich culture and fascinating history.
National Museum of Film
The National Museum of Film showcases the evolution of cinema with its interactive exhibits and rare artifacts. If you’re a film buff or just someone who enjoys a good story, this place is like stepping into a cinematic wonderland. Nestled inside the iconic Mole Antonelliana—seriously, this building looks like it’s straight out of a movie itself—you’ll find a treasure trove of history and exhibits that celebrate the magic of cinema.
Now, let’s talk about that Mole for a second. Did you know it was originally intended to be a synagogue? Talk about an unexpected plot twist! Today, it towers over Turin and offers stunning views from its panoramic terrace. You can even take a ride in a special elevator. It dangles in the center of the building, not for the faint of heart (see photo on left side above).
The museum is packed with fascinating artifacts from film history. You can wander through interactive exhibits featuring everything from silent films to modern masterpieces.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the chance to check out their immersive experiences. Some of them will have you feeling like you’re part of your favorite film scene! And if you’re planning your visit, it’s a good idea to pre-buy your tickets. The elevator and rooftop experience views often sell out, even on weekdays.
Museum Egizio
The Museum Egizio is home to one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities outside of Egypt itself. If you’re a history buff or just someone who enjoys a good story, this place is like walking into a time machine that whisks you straight back to ancient Egypt. Seriously, it’s like Indiana Jones meets your favorite history class—minus the boulder chase!
First off, did you know that the Museum Egizio is one of the oldest museums in the world dedicated entirely to Egyptian antiquities? Founded way back in 1824, it’s home to an impressive collection of over 30,000 artifacts. Talk about a treasure trove!
When you step inside, make sure to check out the mummies—yes, actual mummies of people and pets! There’s something both eerie and fascinating about them (just don’t expect them to wake up and start chatting).
The exhibits are incredibly well-curated. They offer insights into daily life in ancient Egypt, from their fashion choices (think shoes) to their burial practices. You’ll even find some stunning statues and exquisite jewelry that would make any modern-day accessory lover swoon.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for something central, Spritzience’s favorite is the NH Collection Piazza Carlina. Set in a historical property, it’s been lovingly restored with terrazzo floors, iron balconies and hand carved wood balanced out with modern touches.
We enjoy the abundant breakfasts reflecting Italian favorites along with German and American staples. Plus it functions as a prosecco brunch with fresh squeezed juices. Piazza Carlina, the square just in front of the hotel, is a great spot for casual restaurants that are just on your door stop.
Another hotel with a great central location is Hotel Victoria. They have an excellent spa with an indoor pool, and unique decor including a super cozy lobby and lounge area.
How to Get To Turin
Getting to Turin is a breeze, especially if you’re coming from Milan! The train ride is not only convenient but also super scenic. You can hop on a high-speed train from Milano Centrale, and in about 1 hour, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Turin.
The trains run frequently throughout the day, so you won’t have to wait long for your journey to begin. Just grab your ticket (you can easily book it online or at the station), settle into your comfy seat, and enjoy the beautiful Italian countryside whizzing by. Once you arrive at Torino Porta Nuova station, you’ll be right in the middle of all the action—perfect for diving straight into exploring this stunning city!
Spritzience Train Tips
To save a little money on your ticket, we recommend booking it in advance via TrenItalia’s Website. Spritzience is all about affordable luxury and so to make your trip a little more comfortable we recommend:
- Booking onto the high speed Frecciarossa train
- Booking a Business Class seat
Spritzience recommends this as the Frecciarossa trains come automatically with a seat reservation so it makes for a more comfortable experience. Traveling in Business Class, you’ll get significantly more comfortable seats and a snacks cart comes by with free snacks and soft drinks or coffee; in the afternoon you might even get lucky to snag a free beer or glass of prosecco.
Another good reason is that the Business Class cars tend to be a little less crowded and have more space for luggage, so if you’re traveling with an American sized suitcase, Business Class is a must.
So grab your friends or family, bundle up in your coziest scarf, and make a plan to visit. With its vibrant atmosphere and enchanting sights, the Turin Christmas Markets promise an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you with warm memories (and maybe a few tasty snacks) to cherish until next year. Happy holidays!
Looking for More Christmas Market Inspiration?
As Italian Christmas markets go they usually don’t rank in the top travel guide must see market destinations. Asti Italy is changing that with the #7 ranking from Best Christmas Markets, along with winning the Most Romantic Christmas Market. So what makes Asti Italy so special? We at Spritzience think it’s the most delicious market in Europe- come along with us to experience.
Or consider heading to Colmar, France. If you’re dreaming of a Christmas wonderland, this charming town in Alsace should be at the top of your list. Visiting Colmar at Christmas is magical; with half timbered houses decked out in twinkling Christmas lights- the historical old town area looks like something out of a storybook. Plus there is the amazing scent of warm french cheese melting from the Christmas market stalls- and spots for tarte flambee – oh french food. Find out more with our Ulimate Guide to Celebrating in Colmar at Christmas.
From half-timbered fairytales in Esslingen to the glittering expanse of Berlin, Germany, at Christmas is a sensory overload in the best possible way. If you love an affordable luxuryexperience that blends history, holiday sparkle, and tasty comfort food, then this list of the best Christmas markets in Germany is your merry must-have.
