The Magic Christmas Markets of Italy

December 16-22, 2025

This immersive study abroad course explores the rich cultural, historical, and folkloric traditions surrounding Christmas in the Italian Alps, with a special focus on the Aosta Valley. Through guided site visits, local market experiences, storytelling sessions, and food tasting, students will gain firsthand knowledge of how Alpine communities celebrate the season. Special attention will be given to Christmas legends (such as La Befana and Saint Nicholas), mountain folklore, regional crafts, seasonal foods, and the role of the Christmas market in Alpine identity and tourism.

LOCATION DESCRIPTION AND ITINERARY

Students will visit several cities in Northern Italy, which are situated very close to the Alps.  There will probably be snow in December.

• Day 1 – December 16
  • Arrival to Milano Malpensa airport and transfer to hotel
• Day 2 – December 17
  • Aosta and its Christmas Markets
• Day 3 – December 18
  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Fenis Castle with guide 
• Day 4 – December 19
  • Forts of Bard
• Day 5 – December 20
  • Skyway Monte Blanco and Courmayeur 
• Day 6 – December 21
  • Cogne, La Thuile, Gressoney or Cervinia
• Day 7- December 22
  • Hotel check and transfer to Milan

HOUSING

During the program students will share double rooms in three-star hotels.

SEMESTER

Mini Fall 2025

DATES

December 16-22, 2025

COURSES & CREDITS

Students register for a total of 3 credits:

• FOL 3930 - Special Topics (3 credits)

PROGRAM COST

The estimated cost of this program is $1,680.00 per person and includes 6 nights in hotels with half board (breakfast and dinner), private bus transportation for the entire length of the program, entrance fees to museums/castles. 

The program cost does not include lunches, round-trip airfare, FIU tuition for three academic credits ($205.57 per credit), and the non-refundable Education abroad fee ($195).  Program fees will be reflected in your Financial Account.  Once they are posted, you will receive an email from Education Abroad (edabroad@fiu.edu). 

Payment Dates

Italy, Magic Christmas Markets Program fee - $1,680.00 (see table for deadlines)

Cancellation and/or Refund Policy

$500 deposit is non-refundable

$195 OEA fee is non-refundable

For cancellation policy of FIU tuition and fees, please click here.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Participants concerned about the level of physical activity should contact the faculty director of the program.

APPLICATION THROUGH THE OFFICE OF STUDY ABROAD

Office of Study Abroad Online Application

Apply here →

Deadline October 15, 2025

Non-FIU students must apply to FIU as a Non-Degree seeking student as well.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

There are many scholarships with different eligibility requirements, which are available to students. We highly encourage students to explore their options and apply to as many scholarships as they qualify for. Learn about scholarships at Funding - Scholarships.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Magda Novelli Pearson  
Faculty Director, Christmas Markets of Italy
Email: pearsonm@fiu.edu

Scholarships available. Contact the FIU Office of Study Abroad for more information:
Email: edabroad@fiu.edu    Phone#: 305-348-1913

Note: FIU is not responsible for delays, changes in itinerary, changes in the content and cost of the program or other matters that are beyond their control.