Now, I know it’s only October, but I want to mention the C word. Christmas really isn’t too far away and it’s a great time to start planning a visit to one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world – the Via San Gregorio Armeno in Naples.

When I say Christmas market, this isn’t strictly true – it is more of a bazaar. This long, winding street hustles and bustles all year round, but I think it is at its best at Christmas. The stalls and shops begin to transform into grottos of festive wonder over the next month or so, and it’s a good time to explore this famous street, not least as it’s a little quieter
than in December.

Celebrate Christmas in Italy

What makes walking the Via San Gregorio Armeno so wonderful is the passion with which the locals celebrate Christmas – it’s all done with so much gusto: family, food, lights and more. Villa Oliviero in Positano, with its views of the Amalfi Coast, makes a great
base for a day trip. To the south, this premier villa on the peninsula of Sorrento, overlooking the island of Capri, is another great place from which to discover the region.

The nativity scene plays a special role at Christmas in Naples and handmade nativity pieces decorate much of the Via San Gregorio Armeno over the festive season. Shoppers have a huge amount to choose from, from the kitsch to the arty – it is impossible not to come back with something!

Of course, I can’t write a blog on Italy without mentioning food and drink – before heading home you should try the local delicacies – my choice would be the spaghetti and clams washed down with a good glass of Falanghina or Greco di Trufo wine.

For more information on Premier Villas and our villa holidays in Italy, contact us on +44 1243 514970 or italy@premiervillas.net.