The Christmas period on Lake Garda isn’t just an event; it’s an experience that unfolds in stages. If you are looking for a trip that combines the wonder of Alpine markets with the beauty of Lake Garda, a concentrated two-day itinerary in the Upper Garda is the key to living an unforgettable magic. Here, the atmosphere becomes intimate and the scents of vin brûlé (mulled wine) mix with the crisp air.
Prepare to discover the most authentic and festive heart of this region, following a route that will take you from ancient medieval villages to glittering city squares, with the lake always acting as the backdrop.
Day 1: The medieval soul and the evening taste
The first day is a journey through time and authenticity, away from the crowded shores.
Morning – Christmas market in Rango: tradition and stalls in the archways
Start your adventure in Rango, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. This market is a true gem, hosted not in anonymous wooden huts, but inside the “volti” (the ancient arches and entrance halls) and old cellars of the village. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a living nativity scene, admiring the local crafts and gastronomic delights in a warm and intimate atmosphere, typical of Alpine villages. Its elevated position will also give you a pleasant breeze.
- Opening dates (Weekend 2025):
- November 2025: 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30.
- December 2025: 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31.
Afternoon – Christmas market in Canale di Tenno: the open-air nativity
From Rango, continue to Canale di Tenno, another medieval village overlooking Lake Tenno, famous for its turquoise waters. Here, the market is a sensory experience: among its cobbled alleyways and stone houses, courtyards and workshops open up, offering unique products. The magic is heightened by the proximity to the sapphire-coloured lake, which you can admire after a short stroll.
- Opening dates (Weekend 2025):
- November 2025: 22, 23, 29, 30.
- December 2025: 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 20, 21.
Dinner – Villaggio del Gusto a Riva del Garda: from hut to hut of “Taste by Taste”
After the immersion in history, head down to Riva del Garda, the capital of North Garda. Its “Di Gusto in Gusto” market is the perfect place to end the day. Here, the focus is on Trentino food and wine: you can dine directly among the stalls offering typical specialities, from canederli (dumplings) to polenta, accompanied by the scent of vin brûlé and the unique flavours of the region, experiencing the festive atmosphere of the lakeside promenade.
- Opening dates (Weekend and Holidays 2025):
- November 2025: 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30.
- December 2025: 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31.
- January 2026: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Day 2: adrenaline, history, and the big celebration
The second day is dedicated to the elegance, magnificence, and permanent attractions of the area.
Christmas market in Arco: shopping at the foot of the castle
Start the day in Arco, just a few kilometres from Riva. Its Christmas market is one of the largest and most spectacular in the Upper Garda. Wooden stalls fill the squares of the historic centre, and the atmosphere is made fairytale-like by the majestic Castle that dominates the scene from atop the rock. You can spend time shopping among quality crafts and gastronomic delights. Arco is ideal for those seeking a scenic backdrop, and on festive days, you might be lucky enough to witness the famous fireworks display, traditionally scheduled on the Immaculate Conception weekend.
- Opening dates (Weekend and Holidays 2025):
- November 2025: 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30.
- December 2025: 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31.
- January 2026: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
The historical heritage of Riva del Garda
After the Arco market, return to Riva del Garda to explore its historical and cultural heritage. Take the lift up to the Bastione for a spectacular view over the lake. Visit the Torre Apponale and the Rocca di Riva del Garda, which houses the MAG Museum. You can enjoy one last relaxing stroll along the lake and the promenade, perfect for buying local olive oil.
Tips for your Christmas market weekend on Lake Garda
- Where to sleep: For convenience and to make the most of your time, we recommend staying in Riva del Garda or Arco. Both cities offer a wide choice of accommodation and are excellently connected. By choosing Riva, you’ll have a livelier evening life and be close to the “Villaggio del Gusto.”
- How to get around: We suggest using the car for travel between the mountain villages (Rango, Tenno), although dedicated shuttle buses are often available (especially for Rango). Parking in the villages is usually paid.
Your adventure among the Christmas markets of the Upper Lake Garda awaits you. It’s a trip that combines the warmth of the holidays with the wild beauty of one of Italy’s most fascinating places.
To discover the complete calendar of all the markets, the opening dates for Bardolino, Lazise, and Verona, and the unmissable attractions, we invite you to consult our comprehensive guide on Christmas Markets on Lake Garda and Surroundings.
