During Advent, the alpine region of Val Gardena transforms into the “Valley of Christmas in the Dolomites,” hosting two distinct holiday markets in the towns of Ortisei and Selva di Val Gardena.
Ortisei’s “Nadel Urtijëi” market runs from 28 November to 6 January
The village of Ortisei creates a fairy-tale setting with meticulously decorated wooden houses.
Stalls sell local artistic crafts, hand-carved nativity figurines, upscale gifts and South-Tyrolean and Ladin culinary specialties, all under warm lighting, Christmas songs and the scent of spices and homemade sweets.
Selva di Val Gardena’s “Mountain Christmas” market operates from 28 November to 3 January. In the town centre a continuous 350-meter strip of lights displays wooden cable-car cabins, producing a unique ambiance. Visitors can wander among booths, sip mulled wine or hot chocolate, and view assorted handcrafted items.
After arriving by train or bus, guests can move freely with the Val Gardena Guest Pass, which is provided at no charge to guests of accommodations linked to the local tourism associations.
It covers all valley bus routes except the Nightbus and the Monte Pana/Saltria line, and includes nearly all public-transport services throughout South Tyrol. Depending on the lodging provider, the pass may also grant access to the Mar Dolomit pool, discounted or free entry to Val Gardena Active activities, local HC Gherdëina hockey games, ice-skating, the tennis centre and other amenities.
Offering a free, all-inclusive mobility card simplifies holiday travel, especially for families and groups who might otherwise need multiple tickets. This approach reflects a regional strategy to promote eco-friendly tourism while easing the logistical burden on visitors during the busy season.
For the first four weekends of the markets, Trenitalia will operate a special Christmas train that links Lombardy directly with South Tyrol, providing a convenient option for holiday-seeking travelers.
The nearest railway stations are Bolzano (40 km), Ponte Gardena (18 km), Chiusa (23 km) and Bressanone (34 km); from any of these points, the public-transport network connects travelers to the valley’s towns and market sites.
A promotional package called Dolomiti SuperPremière, running from 4 to 19 December 2026, offers a complimentary overnight stay, one ski pass and a day of equipment rental for guests who book at least 4 nights.