The Christmas season is the perfect time to discover villages and towns that are dressed in lights, scents and traditions. If you love the atmosphere of the markets, this year we offer an itinerary that combines the great beauty of Rome with the authentic charm of Abruzzo’s villages, all destinations easily reached by driving along the A24 and A25 highways.
Rome: the capital lights up with magic
- Piazza Navona hosts the famous Befana Market until January 6, including stalls selling sweets, cribs and handicrafts.
- Christmas World in Villa Borghese (Nov. 29-Jan. 11) is a theme park with spectacular sets, musicals and markets.
- EUR Christmas Village (Nov. 22-Jan. 6) gives skating rink, street food and Santa’s House.
- For those who love immersive experiences: Cinecittà World and GiftLand turn Christmas into a movie set.
Abruzzo: tradition among mountains and villages
- L’Aquila transforms into a magical village through Jan. 6, with the Magic School-themed market and wooden cottages along Corso Vittorio Emanuele;
- Roccaraso and Campo di Giove offer markets surrounded by snow, perfect for those who love the mountain atmosphere. Don’t miss the trip on the Historic Train of Italy’s Trans-Siberian Railway, which connects Sulmona to the most picturesque villages.
- Caramanico Terme (Nov. 15-Jan. 6) is the perfect place for families, with events and workshops in its Christmas Village.
- Small towns such as Avezzano, Alba Fucens, Pacentro, Pretoro, Roccascalegna, Sant’Omero, Stiffe, Cappadocia, Campli, Castel Frentano and many others guard markets full of typical products and local crafts.
Abruzzo, with its enchanted villages and snowy landscapes, is the perfect setting to experience the magic of Christmas. The region’s Christmas markets are not just places to shop, but true experiences that combine tradition, crafts and authentic flavors.
Why visit them?
- Tradition and authenticity: each market tells the story of the area through handmade items and typical recipes.
- Unique experiences: in addition to shopping, you can participate in workshops, tastings and performances.
- Fairy tale atmosphere: lights, music and scents that warm the heart.
Parks Road celebrates Christmas and Epiphany traditions
At this special time of year, Strada dei Parchi renews its commitment to highlighting the traditions that make Christmas and Epiphany unique in our regions. With a new campaign dedicated to the typical customs and flavors of Lazio and Abruzzo, we want to help bring the magic of the holidays to the service areas as well, with the presence of a tourist poster that is an invitation to discovery.
From typical sweets such as nougat and ferratelle, to Epiphany markets and living nativity scenes, every detail tells of the richness of a heritage that deserves to be known and passed on. Travel thus becomes an opportunity to discover and experience traditions, even when on the move.
Follow us to find out about all the initiatives and get wrapped up in the authentic holiday atmosphere!
Special Council
Book in advance the Christmas Market Train: a slow journey through mountains and villages, perfect for those seeking authentic thrills.
