Meraner Weihnacht / Merano Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt)

Christmas in the spa town of Merano

The Merano Christmas Market, known in German as Meraner Weihnacht or Christkindlmarkt, is one of the most famous Advent markets in South Tyrol. Every winter, from late November until Epiphany, the center of Merano (a municipality in the Province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige region) lights up with festive decorations, scents, and melodies, offering an atmosphere that combines Tyrolean tradition with the mild, Mediterranean climate typical of this spa town.

Over 80 stalls along the Passirio

The heart of the event is the scenic Passirio Promenade (Lungopassirio), where more than 80 wooden stalls line the river. The market also extends to Piazza delle Terme (Thermenplatz) and the charming historic Christmas village of Piazza della Rena (Sandplatz). Exhibitors offer local handicrafts, Christmas decorations, candles, ceramics, traditional textiles, wooden figurines, wool slippers, and typical South Tyrolean products.

Flavors of the South Tyrolean winter

Gastronomy is a key highlight: among the stalls, you can breathe in the aromas of mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. Don't miss the apple strudel, speck, mountain cheese, canederli (bread dumplings), goulash, and traditional Christmas sweets. Choirs and brass bands accompany the evenings, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.

Attractions and family activities

The Merano market is particularly popular with families. Key attractions include:

• A large ice skating rink;
• The famous Alessi spheres, large heated Christmas baubles with seating inside;
• The living nativity scene and the artistic nativity display;
• A carousel for children, pony rides, and puppet shows;
• The "Goldy's House" with games and activities along the Upper Promenade.

Opening hours

Food and drink stalls have extended hours: Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, while on Fridays, Saturdays, and public holidays they remain open until 10:30 PM. Retail and craft stalls close at 7:00 PM from Sunday to Thursday and at 8:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays. The market is closed on December 25th.

A symbol of the Merano winter

Along with the markets of Bolzano, Bressanone, Brunico, and Vipiteno, the Merano market is part of the South Tyrolean Christmas Markets (Original Südtiroler Christkindlmärkte) circuit, which guarantees authenticity and a focus on sustainability. Thanks to the mild climate of the spa town and the romantic setting of the Passirio Promenade, the Meraner Weihnacht is one of the most visited winter destinations in the Trentino-Alto Adige region.