Christmas in Italy is an explosion of traditions, tastes and conviviality. Among the undisputed protagonists of the holiday are Italian Christmas sweets. They vary from region to region and reflect the extraordinary culinary richness of our country. Pandoro, panettone, but also struffoli, cartellate, panforte and many other delicacies make Italian Christmas a unique gastronomic experience. In this article, we take you on a journey through Italian Christmas traditions, discovering the cities and regions where these iconic sweets originated. We will also suggest where to go during Christmas in Italy to taste these delicacies and discover the beauty of Italian cities as they get ready to celebrate.
Panettone is perhaps the best-known Italian Christmas cake in the world. Born in Milan, its origin is said to date back to the 15th century, when an apprentice cook named Toni created a sweet bread enriched with butter, raisins and candied fruit to delight the court of Ludovico il Moro. This would give rise to the name “Pan de Toni” (“the bread of Toni”). Today panettone is a symbol of Christmas not only in Milan, but throughout Italy.
Where to taste it: To taste authentic panettone, there is no better place than Milan. Among the city’s best pastry shops are Pasticceria Marchesi, Cova and Peck, famous for the quality of their artisanal versions.
What to do in Milan: In addition to enjoying panettone, explore Milan with a tour of its main attractions, such as the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and La Scala Theater. Discover the city with Forexchange’s Milan audio guide to delve into the history of the Lombard capital and learn about all its sights.
Pandoro is the symbol of Christmas in Verona. It is star-shaped and has a soft, buttery texture. Its history dates back to the 19th century, but it was inspired by older desserts, such as the “Pan de Oro” (“Bread of gold”) served at the court of the Serene Republic of Venice.
Where to taste it: Verona is the ideal place to taste an authentic pandoro. Try the creations of historic pastry shops such as Flego and Perbellini, which offer traditional and innovative versions of this Christmas classic.
What to do in Verona: During the Christmas season, Verona lights up and hosts atmospheric markets in Piazza dei Signori. Don’t miss Verona’s Arena and Juliet’s house. Download the Verona Audio Guide and explore one of Italy’s most romantic cities.
Struffoli are small balls of sweet dough, fried and covered with honey, typical of Neapolitan Christmas. They are thought to have Greek origins, but today they are one of Campania’s most beloved delicacies.
Where to try them: In Naples, struffoli can be found in almost every pastry shop during the holidays. Some of the best places to try them include Scaturchio, Poppella and Leopoldo.
What to do in Naples: In addition to indulging in struffoli, stroll down Via San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its Nativity scenes, and discover the charm of the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Use the Forexchange audio guide to Naples for a personalized tour of the city and beyond. Explore Naples by following one of the thematic routes offered by Forexchange Experiences.
Panforte is a spiced cake made with honey, almonds, candied fruit, and spices that originated in Siena in the Middle Ages. It was originally prepared by apothecaries and considered a luxury food for nobles and clergy.
Where to taste it: In Siena, you can try panforte at historic pastry shops such as Nannini or small artisan workshops around town.
What to do in Siena: Visit Piazza del Campo, the Duomo and the Museo dell’Opera. To discover other specialties of Siena and Tuscany, choose one of the ExperienceForexchange dedicated to local food and wine such as the “Afternoon in Siena and Chianti Wine Tour with Dinner from Florence” or wine tasting in Siena, San Gimignano, Monteriggioni and Chianti.
Cartellate are a scenic-looking Apulian dessert made of fried dough and honey, often enriched with vincotto. Their origins date back to Greco-Roman times.
Where to taste them: You’ll find cartellate at Christmas markets in Bari, Lecce and many other towns in Puglia. Look for them in local bakeries to enjoy them fresh and handmade.
What to do in Puglia: During Christmas, Apulian villages come alive with lights and living nativity scenes. A visit to Alberobello, with its illuminated trulli, is an experience not to be missed.
Nougat, a sweet made from almonds, honey, and egg whites, is a popular dessert in Italy, historically linked to the city of Cremona, where it is said to have been first served at the wedding of the nobles Francesco Sforza and Bianca Maria Visconti in 1441. As a tribute to the newlyweds, a cake was created that resembled the Torrazzo of Cremona Cathedral, or the tallest masonry bell tower in Europe.
Where to taste it: In Cremona, try nougat at historic pastry shops like Sperlari, or visit the Nougat Festival, held every November in anticipation of the Christmas holidays.
What to do in Cremona: Explore the historic center with the Cathedral and the Torrazzo, and visit the Violin Museum to immerse yourself in the city’s musical tradition.
Travel by train for comfortable and sustainable travel. Thanks to Forexchange, you can book your Trenitalia ticket online and reach the main Italian cities with ease. This will allow you to enjoy the landscape, rest and save time. You will also avoid traffic. Whether you are a lover of gastronomy or culture, Italy at Christmas will offer you unforgettable emotions and delicacies that will win you over at the first taste.
Photo Credits:
Marcelo Verfe, Pexels
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