Christmas time in Europe is such a magical time. I simply love how the snow on the ground creates a winter wonderland that transforms any European city into a picture perfect snow globe found in tourist shops. Each city has its own traditions to welcome the holiday and I love exploring each one of them. In 2018, we were in Bologna for various reasons and decided to mix it with a trip to one of the smallest countries in Europe: San Marino. Being such a hidden gem and the least visited on the continent, I knew a day trip from Bologna was all we needed to experience this hilltop destination.
From Bologna, it’s an hour and a half drive to San Marino. We had a lovely day driving to the clifftop city looking forward to the smell of mulled wine, sausages and roasted chestnuts. However, when we got to the top, we were sadly welcomed by closed up Christmas stands and deserted streets. The market didn’t open until later that evening and it was a ghost village.
We hiked to the top for the coveted photo from the cliffs. The view was well worth the climb in the ice and sludge before accepted defeat and headed back to Bologna.
Bologna
Back in Bologna, this top 10 Christmas market city did not disappoint. Rows and rows filled with all traditional Italian delicacies, piazza’s decorated with light filled trees were exactly the fix needed to get in the Christmas spirit. Our favorite market was St Lucia market which is the oldest in the city. Instead of being placed out in the open, it is placed in the portico of St Lucia Church. But Piazza Minghetti brings a French touch in case the Italian touch isn’t to your liking.
But being in Bologna wouldn’t be complete without a proper dinner local to the city: Tortellini. It can be served in a broth or cream sauce. I prefer the broth but be sure to try both to make your own decision. There are so many restaurants that offer this traditional plate. This blogger doesn’t promote one over the other because they are all delicious.
Mangia Tutto!
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