Christmas in Lake Garda: 3 things to do + 1 relaxing escape

Think Lake Garda is just a summer destination? Think again! In December, the lakeside towns and villages sparkle with Christmas lights and decorations, with a packed calendar of events and activities that bring plenty of festive cheer to the region.

One of the season’s highlights is the much-loved Christmas markets, whose traditional wooden chalets appear from late November. In Malcesine, Garda, Bardolino, Lazise and Peschiera, you can browse stalls filled with local specialities, handcrafted gifts and Christmas decorations, alongside exhibitions, nativity scenes and other seasonal attractions.
 

1. Christmas markets 🎄

From late November to 6 January, the towns along Lake Garda’s eastern shore, in the province of Verona, come alive with twinkling lights and traditional wooden chalets. It’s the perfect time to discover local winter traditions and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Explore at your own pace, starting in the north and making your way south.

• Malcesine: browse the market in the historic centre, then visit Scaligero Castle for children’s activities.
• Garda: enjoy festive decorations and family entertainment in the town centre and along the lakeside promenade.
• Bardolino: stroll along the waterfront market for handcrafted gifts, local food and wine, or take a turn on the seasonal ice rink.
• Lazise: explore stalls selling crafts and local specialities in the historic centre, then stop at the little church of San Nicolò to admire its artistic nativity scene.
• Peschiera del Garda: dround off your tour with a wander through the town’s festive streets.

Take your time, linger over a warm drink and enjoy the Christmas magic, one lakeside town at a time.

2. Underwater nativity scenes

Among Lake Garda’s most atmospheric Christmas traditions are its underwater nativity scenes. In Peschiera del Garda, professional divers from the Sub Club have been placing a nativity scene on the bed of the Canale di Mezzo since 1980. View it from Ponte San Giovanni or visit after dark to see it illuminated beneath the water. In Cisano di Bardolino, another underwater nativity scene lights up the small harbour during the festive season, visible directly from the shore.

For more festive inspiration, head to Verona, where the annual Presepi dal Mondo exhibition brings together handcrafted nativity scenes from around the world in the atmospheric galleries of the Arena – a celebration of artistry and tradition in the heart of the city.

3. Christmas tombola

Few traditions bring Italian families together at Christmas quite like tombola, Italy’s version of bingo. Dating back to the 18th century, when it emerged as an alternative to the lottery, this much-loved festive game brings generations around the table, with numbers drawn from a bag, dried beans used to mark the cards and cheers as prizes are won.

You can join in around Lake Garda, too. During the festive season, local tourism and community associations host games open to everyone in theatres, parish halls and town squares. Expect small food prizes, inexpensive cards and a friendly atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Not sure where to start? Try the Christmas tombola at Teatro Corallo in Bardolino, or the Befana tombola in Riva del Garda in early January.

+1. A spa escape at Hotel Caesius

Craving a little warmth as the temperatures drop? Round off your festive adventures on Lake Garda with a relaxing day at the spa.

At l'Hotel Caesius Thermae & SPA Resort, a range of Day Spa options lets you unwind with access to heated indoor pools with hydromassage, thermal baths, a Kneipp path, a Finnish sauna, steam rooms, sensory showers and relaxation areas where you can enjoy a herbal tea.

Prefer to stay a little longer? Celebrate the festive season with one of the hotel’s packages, from "Christmas Magic 2026" to "3, 2, 1... Welcome 2027". All include access to the Thermae & SPA area, along with festive lunches and dinners.