b'ItalyChristmas Markets of Northern ItalyNorthern Italys Alpine frontier offers one of Europes most atmospheric and least-discovered Christmas traditions. In the Italian Alps and Dolomites, Italian warmth blends seamlessly with centuries-old Alpine customs, creating a festive season shaped by dramatic mountain landscapes, medieval towns, and deeply rooted holiday rituals.Beneath snow-dusted peaks, historic towns such as Trento, Bolzano, Merano, Brixen, and Vipiteno glow with twinkling Advent lights and wooden market stalls brimming with hand-crafted ornaments, Alpine specialties, and the aromas of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. This is an Alpine Christmas with a distinctly Italian spiritmore intimate and less crowded than the famed markets of Germany and Austria.Beyond the markets, discover a region rich in history and culture: Renaissance palaces, medieval castles, ancient monasteries, and compelling museums, including the celebrated home of tzi the Iceman. Savor regional cuisine, distinctive mountain wines, and evenings immersed in the festive atmosphere of the season.Conclude your journey in Venice, where softly illuminated canals, historic piazzas, and elegant palazzi provide a graceful Italian finale to this enchanting winter experience.ITINERARY8 nights| Trento, 3 nights; Bolzano, 4 nights; Venice, 1 night; departuresPre-trip Extension in Venice availableHIGHLIGHTSExperience the festive charm of Italys Alpine Christmas markets, set against the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites.Stroll through beautifully illuminated market towns including Trento, Bolzano, Merano, Brixen, and Vipiteno, each offering a distinct Alpine character.Discover Trentos Renaissance heritage, including Castello delBuonconsiglio and the historic old town adorned for the holidays.Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano, home to tzi the Iceman, revealing life in the Alps over 5,000 years ago.Enjoy an excursion to the northern shores of Lake Garda, where thelakeside Christmas market of Riva del Garda blends Italian elegance with Alpine warmth. Prices Starting From Explore Brixen and the Abbey of Novacella, combining Baroque $5,999 per personarchitecture, monastic history, and a tasting of the abbeys renowned wines.Savor regional cuisine reflecting Italian and Austrian influences, from heartyGroup Size: Maximum 20 travelers Alpine dishes to refined seasonal specialties. Season: DecemberConclude in Venice with a guided walk through its iconic landmarks and aAccommodations: Four-Star boutique hotelsfestive farewell dinner amid softly glowing canals.Travel with expert local guides and your Conservancy Travel Trip Leader.ChristmasCulture WineHistory Gastronomy Contact Us|journeys@conservancytravel.org 11'