Christmas in Milan 2026: Artigiano in Fiera, Sant'Ambrogio and what to do

December is one of the best months to visit Milan: lights in the centre, markets, the patron saint’s feast and one of the busiest fairs of the year. Here’s what’s on in 2026 and how to plan your weekend.

Artigiano in Fiera: 5–13 December 2026

Artigiano in Fiera returns to Fieramilano Rho from 5 to 13 December 2026, daily from 10 am to 10 pm, with free entry. Thousands of artisans from around the world, regional pavilions and lots of food: the ideal place for Christmas shopping.

Getting there: M1 metro to the Rho Fiera terminus. Weekends are very crowded: go early in the morning or in the evening, when the halls are quieter.

The Sant’Ambrogio and Immaculate Conception long weekend

Monday 7 December is Sant’Ambrogio, Milan’s patron saint, a public holiday in the city, and Tuesday 8 is the Immaculate Conception. With the weekend of the 5th and 6th that makes a four-day break, one of the busiest times of the month.

Around 7 December, at the foot of the Castello Sforzesco, the traditional Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Sant’Ambrogio market usually takes place. Check the 2026 dates on the City of Milan website.

A Christmas weekend in Milan

• The Duomo and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with the Christmas lights.
• Brera and the Castello Sforzesco, for a stroll through the markets.
• CityLife and its shopping district, if you want to shop indoors.
• The Navigli in the evening, for an aperitivo.

Tip: if you’d like to go to La Scala around its opening night, book as early as possible: tickets sell out immediately.

Your Christmas in Milan with Teodorico Apartments Milano

Our one-bedroom apartment in Portello is the right base for December: Rho Fiera about 35 minutes away for Artigiano in Fiera, the Duomo about 30, and CityLife a short walk. It sleeps up to 4 people, has a full kitchen for evenings in and private parking if you’re driving.

Long-weekend dates go fast: check availability.