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What to see
The tree in Piazza Duomo, the lights in the Galleria, Oh Bej! Oh Bej!, panettone and concerts: Milan in December has a special charm.
When: from late November to Epiphany (6 January)
Don’t miss: Oh Bej! Oh Bej! around 7 December
Tip: book early for the Immaculate Conception long weekend and New Year’s Eve
From late November, the festive lights are switched on in the Galleria, in Piazza Duomo and along the shopping streets, including Corso Buenos Aires. The big tree in Piazza Duomo is the city’s holiday meeting point.
The Milanese tradition is the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! fair, held around the Castello on the days of Sant’Ambrogio. Other Christmas markets pop up in squares in the centre and in the neighbourhoods, and at Artigiano in Fiera you’ll find gifts from all over the world.
Sant’Ambrogio, Milan’s patron saint, is a public holiday in the city: many offices close and in the evening La Scala opens its season. Together with 8 December, it makes one of the most popular long weekends of the year.
Panettone was born in Milan: in pastry shops you’ll find both traditional and creative artisan versions. It’s also the perfect gift to take home.
On 25 and 26 December many museums and shops are closed or have reduced hours, so book restaurants in advance. On New Year’s Eve the centre fills with people and there’s often an event in the piazza; the metro usually runs later than normal, but check the ATM website.
Stay just steps away
Mercadante Suite: two suites at Via Saverio Mercadante 10, 10 minutes from Milano Centrale station. Book on our website and pay 20% less.
