Holiday Fun for Families at the Florence Ice Village

 

A wintery vibe in the city of the Renaissance can be found at the Florence Ice Village, open daily until January 31 from 10 to midnight on the grounds of the Fortezza da Basso. 

The holiday pop-up also showcases a Christmas Village open through January 6 (open 3 – 8 pm on weekdays, 10 am – 8 pm on weekends and holidays) with its diverse selection of street food and entertainment shows providing great fun for all ages, including Santa’s House, the Post Office, the Chocolate Factory plus refreshments (think hot chocolate and mulled wine) and craft stands for gift shopping. 

If you like being a little active, for €10 (€8 for children under 10) you can go ice skating on the 320-meter rink (a 1,000 ft ice-covered surface), which surrounds the swan pond in the park. No  skates? Rental is only €2 and you’re ready to go. 

The Ice Village also host the “Florence Eye,” a 55 meter (180 ft.) tall Ferris wheel, offering an  extensive birds-eye view of the city. While a regular ticket costs €12, children up to 10 years  only pay €7 and students with ID, €5. Additionally, family packages are available ranging from  €28 to €34, and the handicapped have free entry.  

So if you really want to be enchanted by the wintery Christmas vibe, the Florence Ice Village is  the place to be. Enjoy some time off alone, with friends or with your whole family.  (alina rudolph)