The most wonderful time of the year brings with it a special dose of holiday destinations, perfect for setting the festive cheer. Whether you’re jet-setting to catch pre-Christmas sales or offers or you just want to lay low and take in the festive atmosphere, the Mediterranean is the place to be this Christmas.
These five Mediterranean destinations are a mere taste of what the region has to offer its visitors this Festive Season.
Nice
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The Promenade Des Anglais is always lit up durng the holidays and gives birth to the Village de Noël at Place Masséna. Here, you will find all the Christmas decorations and lights, entertainment, food, and shops you need to make your Christmas getaway extra special.
Corsica
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Thousands flock to Corsican Christmas markets each year, and with good reason. A stroll through Corsica’s stalls and nativity figurines will introduce you to local delicacies which chefs only prepare during Christmas. The most popular Christmas market is in Ajaccio, usually open until Epiphany. Corsica is also a top skiing destination in winter, with Val d’Ese, Monte Renoso, and Col de Vergio being the most popular destinations.
Ibiza
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Christmas markets in Ibiza open a few days before Christmas, but local restaurants offer a wide selection of Christmas dishes and specials, including traditional cuisine. Christmas is also one of the best times to get exquisite meal deals when the island features themed three-course fixed price menus. Some restaurants open exclusively during Christmas, but you’d better hurry- their unique atmosphere means they are always the first to get fully booked.
Salerno
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This Italian city’s streets and squares come to life for Luci d’Artista, a festival of light installations and Christmas activities. Here you can see anything from an LED replication of the night sky, an illuminated zoo, and lemon tree-shaped lights serving as a tribute to the Amalfi Coast. Not to mention the 60-foot ferris wheel which gives you the perfect view of the entire Christmas display.
Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik Christmas Fair is as unique as the city itself. It is held every year in the atrium of the convent of St. Claire, and exposes local craftsmanship, made especially for the holiday season. Traditional cookies and local foods are also sold at the fair, so you can get your hands on some local kontonjatas while you’re there. All this while traditional Croatian Christmas Carols serenade the entire fair.