I will be based in London and would like to spend Christmas week in Italy (or anywhere in europe that isn't too cold and festive for the holiday). Are there any recommendations for somewhere to go? My requirements are somewhere scenic (so there's sightseeing to do when shops are closed), not too big a city (folks seem warmer in smaller towns), and somewhere nice to stay (doesn't have to be a big resort, but as it's the holidays, somewhere with nice facilities or a super friendly B&B). I am travelling with my boyfriend and we are in our mid-forties and fairly well travelled (Japan, Taiwan, China, UK,Lake Como, Florence, Munich, Bruges, Amsterdam). Thanks!
Posted by
Atlanta
3262 posts
This suggestion doesn't exactly fit all of your requirements but it's one option. I like Rome during the holidays--especially the Vatican. To get what you're looking for, you could divide your time between Rome and a smaller city like Orvieto, a short train ride away.
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
I like Audrey Hepburn's line at the end of Roman Holiday: * Rome; by all means, Rome Rome is incredible at Christmas with so much to do and see. Take a look at these pictures and info on XMAS in Rome *** http://tinyurl.com/ycda3w3 ****
Posted by
point pleasant beach, nj, usa
646 posts
How about Sorrento?
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Since Ron has actually lived in Rome, I would really lean toward taking his advice. I have wondered earlier on this board if Assisi might be a place to visit, since that's where the whole Christmas nativity/creche thing was supposedly started by St. Francis. But it's a pretty small town and there might not be that much to do, unlike Rome, where you will never ever run out of amazing things to see and do.
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
Michael, that's a great point. Because we've lived in Rome, we got to experience the many, many XMAS celebrations, concerts, and events. As a result, over the years, we found ourselves headed out to the smaller villages for more "local" events at XMAS. Unfortunately we never made it to Assisi, which is still on my XMAS list - perhaps to stay for just a day during XMAS week. You're correct - it's far more limited in scale and scope - but no less beautiful and inspiring! But for a first time in Italy at XMAS, it would have to be Rome with the history, pagentry, events, and of course, the Vatican influence. For example, last year I took my visiting son to St. Peter's Square on XMAS Day to hear the Pope's Christmas address.